Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered that the TGF-beta signaling pathway acts as a tumor-suppressor mechanism in the uterus, preventing endometrial overgrowth and transformation into cancer cells. This finding suggests potential new treatments for uterine cancer patients.
A team of researchers used bacteria to identify human proteins that cause DNA damage when overproduced, leading to cancer. The study found 284 human protein relatives linked to cancer more often than random sets of proteins.
Researchers found that Candida albicans can cross the blood-brain barrier, triggering an inflammatory response and forming granuloma-type structures, leading to temporary memory impairments in mice. The findings also suggest a possible link between fungal infections and chronic neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers discovered shared and virus-specific mechanisms used by dengue and Zika viruses to counteract human and mosquito immune defense, hijack host proteins, and disrupt brain development. They found that Zika virus causes microcephaly in fruit flies by disrupting the function of ANKLE2 protein.
Researchers identify DPYSL3 as a molecule whose expression is altered in Claudin-Low triple-negative breast cancer, a highly metastatic and aggressive subtype. The study suggests that targeting the connection between DPYSL3 and vimentin could lead to new treatments for this disease.
A study published in JCI Insight found that a specific subset of immune B cells, CD19+IgM+, can delay the onset of type 1 diabetes in mice. This discovery opens up new possibilities for developing therapies targeting this disease subtype.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers found that when Dna2 is absent, small DNA fragments insert themselves into chromosome breaks, leading to genomic instability. This mechanism may contribute to cancer development and other cellular conditions.
A team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified novel cellular targets and genetic pathways involved in wiring adult-born neurons into existing brain circuits. They found that the brain consists of unique subtypes of cells, many of which are currently uncharacterized.
The study reveals that CK1α is essential for the formation of rotavirus factories by chemically modifying viral component NSP2. This process triggers its localization and assembly into the virus factory, a critical step in new virus production.
Researchers found that administering Lactobacillus reuteri reversed social deficits in ASD mouse models through the vagus nerve and oxytocin-dopamine reward system. The study suggests a novel approach to treating neurological disorders by modulating specific microbes in the gut.
Researchers found that specific sugars in breast milk enhance infection of cells with a particular strain of rotavirus, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms in newborns. The study also identifies maternal components that could improve the performance of live, attenuated rotavirus vaccines.
Researchers found that flunarizine can slow down the growth of triple-negative breast cancer in an animal model, and it promotes N-Ras degradation. This approach is quicker and less expensive than traditional drug development strategies.
A recent study found that the cerebellum plays a crucial role in cognitive functions, including short-term memory. The research team discovered that activity in the cerebellum during periods of stillness was linked to memory activity in both the frontal cortex and other parts of the brain.
A team of researchers developed new strategies to exploit CRISPR technology to target the mutant form of protein NPM1, which is associated with acute myeloid leukemia. By blocking the export of mutant NPM1 from the nucleus, they were able to inhibit leukemic cell growth and induce differentiation or death in cancerous cells.
Researchers have found a potential Achilles' heel in micrometastasis that could be targeted with medications to reduce the risk of full-blown metastasis. Blocking calcium transfer through gap junctions and mTOR pathway results in cancer cell death or growth inhibition.
Researchers developed a novel computational tool called ADmiRE to annotate human microRNA variants and determine their potential contribution to diseases. The tool successfully identified microRNA mutations in miR-142 and miR-21 linked to hematologic cancers and esophageal cancer, respectively.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a new mechanism for neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis 8, a form of Batten disease. The study found that the CLN8 protein plays a crucial role in facilitating the transfer of lysosomal enzymes from the endoplasmic reticulum to the lysosome.
A study published in Cell Stem Cell found that the PPM1D gene confers a survival advantage to blood cells exposed to chemotherapy, potentially favoring the development of secondary leukemia. The research suggests that the presence of this gene and other mutations should be considered when choosing chemotherapies.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have successfully used genome editing to correct a genetic mutation causing a rare and deadly heart condition. The study uses CRISPR/Cas9 technology to selectively disrupt the disease-causing gene, reducing arrhythmia symptoms in mice. This breakthrough could lead to a permanent treatment for p...
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found three distinct phases in infant gut microbiome development from 3-46 months of age. Partial breastfeeding was associated with higher abundance of probiotic bacteria, while cessation accelerated maturation and change in microbial diversity.
Researchers discovered Src activates mTORC1 through amino acid signals, found to be hyperactive in cancer. Src's malfunction leads to continuous signaling for cell growth and cancer progression.
A new study has found evidence that links dynamin-binding protein (DNMBP) to congenital bilateral cataracts and severe vision loss in infants and children. The researchers discovered mutations in the DNMBP gene on chromosome 10, indicating a recessive disorder common in inbred populations.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that reproducing Scn5a missplicing in mice with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) recapitulates cardiac function defects present in patients. The findings highlight a non-mutational mechanism contributing to arrhythmias and open possibilities for novel interventions.
A novel mathematical approach has uncovered 12-hour cycles of genetic activity in animal cells, independent of 24-hour circadian rhythms. Laboratory experiments confirm the existence and independence of these cycles, which have significant implications for understanding gene functions over time and their influence on health and disease.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that smaller sample sizes can greatly exaggerate the magnitude of group differences in multisensory integration studies. Studies with sample sizes of 20 or less are more likely to produce inflated results, which can lead to incorrect conclusions and potential failures in therapy development.
A team of researchers developed a new strategy to overcome the blood-brain barrier's limitations in treating brain cancer. By engineering T cells with a 'homing system' molecule, they enabled these cells to cross the barrier and target tumors effectively.
A new platform called INSiGHT was used to examine over 100 genes in the retina, identifying 16 key retinal regulatory genes. Of these, 15 were previously unknown and nine have been linked to human diseases.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that variability in neural responses is not just random noise, but rather due to fluctuations in internally generated signals like attention. This discovery has significant implications for understanding how our brains work and focus, potentially leading to diagnostic tools for ne...
Researchers discovered that gene regulation is largely digital and stochastic, with genes being on or off for a fraction of time. This finding adds complexity to human diseases, such as neuropsychiatric disorders, and may help better understand dosage-sensitive genes contributing to these conditions.
Scientists discover that expanding subcutaneous white fat tissue can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in obese individuals. A microRNA called miR-30a plays a crucial role in this process, protecting fat cells from inflammation and leading to improved metabolic health.
Researchers developed a novel approach to predict genes susceptible to Alu/Alu-mediated rearrangements, which can cause disease. The model analyzed sequence features of Alu pairs and identified hotspots of genomic instability associated with these elements.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that sugar-binding proteins called lectins are essential for social amoebas and bacteria living together. Lectins protect bacteria from being killed by amoebas and mediate the establishment of a microbiome, allowing bacteria to transfer genetic material to the amoeba.
A new genetic link has been found between the gene IRF2BPL and a previously undiagnosed neurological disorder characterized by progressive neurodevelopmental regression. Mutations in IRF2BPL were identified in seven individuals, including five with severe symptoms and two with milder characteristics.
A study found that ciprofloxacin exposure accelerates the progression of aortic diseases in mouse models. The antibiotic disrupts the extracellular matrix, leading to cell death and tissue damage.
A team of researchers has developed an analytical tool to predict genes that can cause disease due to the production of truncated or altered proteins. The tool identified 252 candidate 'disease genes,' some of which have already been linked to disease in previous studies, supporting its effectiveness.
A new study found that structural rearrangements in regulatory regions can significantly alter gene expression in cancer. Researchers analyzed 1,448 cancer cases and identified hundreds of genes affected by these changes, surprising previous expectations.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that alternative splicing is essential for maintaining adult muscle mass. Knocking out genes Rbfox1 and Rbfox2 in skeletal muscles led to rapid loss of muscle mass within four weeks. The study highlights the critical role of alternative splicing in adult muscle maintenance.
Research reveals that good bacteria interact with epithelial cells and immune system cells to balance immune responses and protect the gut from inflammation. Manipulating the microbiota may offer therapeutic benefits for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Researchers identified four TRAF7 mutations in seven patients with a similar multisystem disorder, associated with developmental delay, congenital heart defects and limb anomalies. The mutations reduced ERK1/2 pathway activity, suggesting a possible genetic link to the condition.
A team of researchers has developed a mouse model of myotonic dystrophy type 1, revealing multiple mechanisms beyond alternative splicing. The study found a clear association between specific signaling pathways and muscle loss, as well as the upregulation of protein AMPK-alpha and the reduction of PDGFR-beta signaling activity.
Researchers found a clear association between the metabolite profile, sugar in diet, and NEC risk. Feeding lactose-containing formula protected piglets from NEC, while corn syrup solids increased risk.
Researchers discovered that trehalose increases cellular waste disposal and improves neurological symptoms in MPS IIIB mice. The study found that trehalose delayed retinal degeneration, vision loss, and improved lifespan by activating a master regulator of the lysosomal system.
A team of scientists developed a high-throughput approach to integrate laboratory experiments, literature data, and network analysis to study Huntington's disease. The approach revealed that changes in inflammation, cell architecture, and calcium signaling drove the disease forward, while counteracting these changes improved health.
A team of researchers used 2-photon microscopy to visualize individual neurons during absence seizures, revealing uncoordinated firing activity instead of the expected rhythmic pattern. The study aims to better understand the underlying causes of absence epilepsy and potentially develop new treatments.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified ceramides as key players in the development of early onset Parkinsonism. The findings propose a mechanism connecting previously identified cellular defects and genes associated with Parkinson's disease, suggesting novel strategies to prevent or treat the condition.
Scientists found a unique feature in the 'antennae' of photoreceptor cells, which helps explain why certain mutations cause blindness. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying human retinal disease.
Researchers develop novel small molecule, PM-43I, that specifically targets STAT6 pathway, reversing preexisting allergic airway disease in mice. This breakthrough approach offers unique advantages over monoclonal antibodies, with potential benefits for patients who may not need steroid treatments.
Researchers have developed a simpler and faster CRISPR method that allows for off-the-shelf genome engineering, reducing the barrier to entry for this powerful technology. The approach targets universal sequences found in gene knockout collections, enabling rapid single nucleotide editing and generating chromosomal mutant collections.
Researchers found a strong link between Tau protein accumulation and genomic instability, which may lead to cell death in Alzheimer's disease. The study identified activated transposable elements as a potential trigger for this process.
Researchers found that activating inflammatory signaling in heart cells can lead to abnormal electrical patterns similar to those observed in atrial fibrillation. This suggests a potential new target for therapies aiming to treat the condition.