Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for December 30, 2021


UCSF-led study uncovers unique stem cell trajectory in lungs damaged by COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers discovered that human lung stem cells can undergo abnormal differentiation in response to injury from diseases like COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis. This aberrant process prevents the restoration of normal lung function, but the study also identified a potential therapeutic target for reversing damage.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

Possible chemical leftovers from early Earth sit near the core

New research suggests that ultra-low velocity zones in the deep mantle may be regions made of different rocks than the rest of the mantle, with compositions potentially linked to the early Earth. The study's findings imply the presence of layered structures within these zones, shedding light on their origin and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 30, 2021

From the past to the present: How do irregular oceans close? How do curved orogenic belts develop?

Researchers propose a new plate tectonic model explaining the closure of irregular oceans and formation of curved orogenic belts through rollback subduction and rotation of convergent blocks. The study provides critical constraints on the Central Asian Orogenic Belt using digital mapping and giant 'tightly folded' magmatic belts.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 30, 2021

Reasons for missing medical care during pandemic

A survey study investigated the prevalence of missing medical care among Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that the gap in healthcare access has persisted and worsened over time, highlighting ongoing concerns about social determinants of health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 30, 2021

‘Cryobioprinting’ serves up towers of frozen cells

Researchers have developed a technique called cryobioprinting that combines bioprinting with cryopreservation to create frozen, complex structures. The technology allows for the fabrication of anisotropic tissues with microscale pores aligned in specific directions, opening up new possibilities for muscular tissue engineering and beyond.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

High-resolution lab experiments show how cells ‘eat’

A new study published in Developmental Cell reveals the mechanism of membrane curvature that allows cells to form pockets to capture substances. The researchers used high-resolution fluorescence imaging to watch these pockets form within live cells, providing a clearer understanding of how cells 'eat' and consume substances.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 30, 2021

Sloan Kettering Institute Scientists retool CAR T cells to serve as ‘micropharmacies’ for cancer drugs

Researchers have developed SEAKER cells, which combine target-seeking power with the ability to locally generate potent anticancer drug for double effect. The cells use an enzyme to release active prodrug at tumor site, killing both cancer cells and those nearby that do not contain the marker.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

Association of gestational weight gain with infant illness, death

A large US-based study found that optimal gestational weight gain ranges associated with lower infant illness and death risks exist for different maternal weight categories. The study used birth data to identify these ranges and provide insights into the relationship between maternal weight gain and infant health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 2021