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Gladstone Institutes


Dragon heart

The study provides insight into how the Komodo dragon's DNA encodes its astounding characteristics, including its ability to detect prey from far away. The team discovered changes in genes that increase the lizard's aerobic capacity, allowing it to achieve near-mammalian metabolism.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 29, 2019

A new framework to study congenital heart defects

A new study published in Nature reveals the full spectrum of cells involved in congenital heart defect formation, identifying key cell types and their functions. The research uses single-cell RNA sequencing to uncover the molecular drivers of different cell types, shedding light on genetic mutations and disease mechanisms.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2019

Proteins use a lock and key system to bind to DNA

Researchers discovered that proteins use the DNA's three-dimensional structure as a type of keyhole to select specific binding sites, rather than just patterns in the genome's code. Over 80% of proteins bind to a specific shape pattern in the genome, which helps explain how they avoid confusing different sequences.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Systems·DateJan 16, 2019

New insights into the aging brain

A new study reveals that klotho acts as a shield between the brain and immune system, protecting against age-related cognitive decline. The research found that low levels of klotho in the choroid plexus lead to increased brain inflammation, which can impair brain functions.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2018

New immunotherapy targeting blood-clotting protein

Scientists have developed an antibody that blocks the inflammatory and oxidative activity of fibrin, a blood protein that contributes to neurodegeneration in the brain. The treatment has shown promise in reducing inflammation and neurodegeneration in both mouse models of multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 15, 2018

Unearthing the secrets of cellular energy

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes identify 156 genes affecting ATP levels in cells, shedding light on cellular energy production. The findings could lead to the development of new therapies for diseases such as mitochondrial disorders, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 27, 2018

Growing human brain cells in the lab

Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Cancer drug can reactivate HIV

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have discovered that a cancer drug called JQ1 can reactivate latent HIV, a critical barrier to a cure. By targeting the BRD4 protein, JQ1 allows the virus to make copies of itself, providing new insights into an 'old' cellular defense mechanism against invading viruses.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 24, 2017

HIV hijacks common cells to spread infection

Scientists discovered that fibroblasts, a type of connective tissue cell, increase HIV infection in immune cells through trans-infection and make them more prone to infection. Epithelial cells, on the other hand, secrete high levels of antiviral proteins that inhibit infection.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 16, 2017