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JCI Journals


JCI table of contents August 1, 2005

Researchers uncover HIV fusion peptide's dual role in mediating immunity and downregulating T cell responses. Additionally, a novel connection is made between fat cells, cholesterol metabolism, and PPAR gamma regulation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 7, 2005

Eliminating bacterial infections out of thin air

Researchers show that HIF-1 alpha regulates bactericidal agents and enhances expression of bacteria-killing cells. Increasing HIF-1 activity increases the killing capacity of phagocytes, providing a novel approach to treating bacterial infections.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2005

JCI table of contents July 1, 2005

Researchers discovered that induction of the HIF-1 pathway can act as a 'super-antibiotic', increasing bacterial killing in low-oxygen environments. Additionally, studies on skeletal muscle and kidney regeneration found that these organs' natural repair mechanisms play a crucial role in maintaining function and tissue health.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2005

JCI table of contents, July 1, 2005

A new study reveals that transplantation of healthy germ cells can restore fertility in males who have undergone chemotherapy for childhood leukemia. Additionally, researchers identified a potential biomarker, claudin-1, which may be exploited to detect colon cancer progression and inform therapeutic strategies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 16, 2005

JCI table of contents July 1, 2005

Researchers induce indefinite organ allograft survival in rhesus monkeys by stimulating recipient T cells with donor cells, generating immunosuppressive anergic T cells. These cells suppress renal allograft rejection without additional immunosuppressive agents.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 9, 2005

Monkeying around to improve organ transplantation

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation shows that reinfusing anergic T cells into rhesus monkeys after kidney transplantation leads to prolonged and potentially indefinite graft survival without additional immunosuppressive agents. This approach has shown promise for improving organ transplantation outcomes in humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 9, 2005

Protease inhibitors reach beyond HIV

Researchers found that HIV protease inhibitors (PIs) can inhibit programmed cell death in mouse models with hepatitis, shock, and stroke. PIs maintain mitochondrial integrity to prevent apoptosis, suggesting potential uses for related compounds in non-HIV disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2005

Vaccine targets tumors where they live

Researchers developed a vaccine targeting the local tumor environment to improve systemic anti-tumor immunity in melanoma patients. The study showed that the vaccine was safe and feasible, with partial responses and stable lesions observed in some patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2005

JCI table of contents July 1, 2005

Researchers develop vaccine targeting the local tumor microenvironment to improve systemic anti-tumor immunity in metastatic melanoma patients. The study shows promising results with partial responses and improved survival rates in some patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2005

Eleven gene 'signature' reliably predicts cancer prognosis

Researchers identified an 11-gene BMI-1-pathway signature that consistently predicts disease recurrence, metastasis, and death after therapy in cancer patients. The presence of this gene expression pathway is associated with a high probability of poor therapy outcome and metastasis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 1, 2005

JCI table of contents June 1, 2005

A new study found that phenotypic and functional qualities of T cells are associated with the ability to regress large tumors. Naïve and early effector T cells were more effective for tumor treatment than more differentiated T cells. This discovery is important for developing improved adoptive immunotherapy approaches.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 1, 2005

JCI table of contents June 1, 2005

A new protein called SPARC is involved in tumor therapy resistance, while complement component C5 contributes to airway inflammation in asthma. BMP signaling pathways may also be therapeutic targets for treating spondyloarthropathies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 12, 2005

SPARCing chemotherapy success

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation has identified a new protein called SPARC that plays a crucial role in tumor therapy resistance. The researchers found that restoring SPARC expression in resistant cells improved their sensitivity to chemotherapy, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 12, 2005

Finding the function of fish ferroportin

Researchers have identified ferroportin 1 as essential for normal iron cycling in zebrafish. This discovery sheds light on the importance of ferroportin 1 in maintaining iron homeostasis in humans. Understanding its function is crucial for developing effective treatments for iron-related disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 5, 2005

Seeing what protein C is all about

Researchers used a novel transgenic strategy to create ProC mice with low protein C levels, which spontaneously developed thrombosis and inflammation. The study found that maternal ProC is required for sustaining pregnancy, highlighting the role of protein C in development and disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 5, 2005

Liver metabolism goes to pot

Researchers found that liver cells express CB1 receptors, which activate a signaling pathway increasing fatty acid synthesis. This activation is similar to brain and may be a target for metabolic regulation and appetite control.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 2, 2005

FGF-21 finds itself as a new therapy for type 2 diabetes

Researchers discovered that FGF-21 regulates glucose uptake in human fat cells, significantly reducing plasma glucose levels and triglycerides. FGF-21 also protected animals from diet-induced obesity, providing evidence for its therapeutic potential in treating type 2 diabetes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 2, 2005

JCI table of contents June 1, 2005

Researchers discovered FGF-21 regulates glucose uptake in human fat cells, decreasing plasma glucose levels and triglycerides in diabetic animals. Additionally, FGF-21 protected animals from diet-induced obesity, defining a functional role for FGF-21 in vivo.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 2, 2005

JCI table of contents May 2, 2005

New research reveals that accumulated liver lipids originate from serum fatty acids, newly produced fatty acids within the liver, and dietary fatty acids. The study also highlights the potential role of endocannabinoids in regulating liver metabolism and appetite control. Additionally, a companion paper explores the relationship betwee...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 2, 2005

With a complement, the sperm gets the egg

Researchers found that a novel form of restricted complement activation occurs on viable sperm upon exposure to follicular fluid, aiding in the fusion process between sperm and egg. This targeted activation may have implications for other cell-cell interactions.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 21, 2005

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

Research reveals that nitrite is a potent inhibitor of ischemia/reperfusion injury in the liver and heart, limiting cell death and preserving organ function. Additionally, adipocyte-derived collagen VI promotes early tumor growth in breast cancer, while EBV proteins drive immune responses in multiple sclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

Nitrite says NO to ischemia/reperfusion injury

Researchers found that nitrite therapy reduces cell death and preserves organ function in mouse models of I/R injury. Nitrite may serve as a therapeutic treatment for I/R disease, particularly in preventing organ dysfunction following surgery or transplantation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

A big fat contribution to breast tumor growth

Researchers found that collagen VI from adipocytes stimulates the proliferation and survival of malignant cells in breast tumors. The study suggests a potential link between increased adiposity and breast cancer risk, highlighting the role of extracellular matrix proteins in tumor behavior.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

Researchers identify renalase as a novel protein regulating cardiac function and blood pressure. WNK1/4 interaction is also crucial for controlling human blood pressure and familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHHt) risk.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 7, 2005

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

A novel vaccine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been successfully tested in mice, inducing antibody production and protection against the deadly bacteria. The vaccine uses a modified adenovirus vector expressing a region of the bacteria's outer membrane, which was previously recognized as a promising vaccine candidate.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2005

How lupus T cells lose IL-2

Researchers found that sera from lupus patients contain antibodies that bind to T cells and suppress IL-2 production through CaMKIV. This deficiency in IL-2 contributes to the autoantibody production seen in lupus, highlighting a new understanding of how microenvironment influences defective T cell function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2005

JCI table of contents April 1, 2005

Researchers found no causative MEF2A mutations in patients with premature coronary heart disease, contradicting previous findings. The study suggests that another gene may be responsible for the heart disease, casting doubt on the role of MEF2A in CAD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2005

New vaccine means bye-bye to bacteria in the lung

A novel genetic vaccine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been developed using a modified adenovirus vector expressing a region of the outer membrane called OprF. Immunization with this vaccine induces antibody production and protects mice from deadly doses of the bacteria, even after repeated exposure.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2005

New insights into skin blistering disease pop up

Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding pemphigus, a deadly skin blistering disease. Researchers engineered antibodies that reproduce the disease in vitro and in mice, offering a new opportunity for targeted therapy development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 24, 2005

How HDL keeps the heart healthy

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that HDL (high-density lipoprotein) activates an enzyme called eNOS, leading to a cellular signal that depends on cholesterol efflux. The activation of eNOS is mediated by two intact domains of SR-BI, which act as 'cholesterol sensors' triggering cellular events.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 24, 2005

JCI table of contents April 1, 2005

Researchers developed a new mouse model that mimics the effects of low-dose aspirin therapy, exploring its impact on blood clotting and reproductive functions. The study suggests that low-dose aspirin treatment may prevent preeclampsia without compromising reproductive function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 17, 2005

JCI table of contents, April 1, 2005

Researchers develop small interfering RNA technology to silence a gene involved in cancer progression, reducing cell proliferation and killing cancer cells. Additionally, inhibiting stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 decreases body fat and prevents obesity, validating SCD1 as a potential target for pharmacological intervention.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 10, 2005

Blocking PLK-1 to beat bladder cancer

Researchers investigated polo like kinase-1 (PLK-1) siRNA in mice with bladder cancer, finding that intravesical administration of the inhibitor reduced cell proliferation and killed cancer cells. PLK-1 siRNA also prevented growth of bladder cancer in mouse models.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 10, 2005

Preventing SCD1 expression prevents obesity

Researchers found that inhibiting SCD1 decreased body fat and prevented obesity and metabolic syndrome in mice. Blocking SCD1 also increased expression of genes involved in energy expenditure, providing insights into its role in metabolism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 10, 2005

New ways to ease liver disease

Research reveals that IL-6 activates a pathway in liver cells that triggers protection against hepatitis and immune-mediated liver damage. Two proteins, KC and SAA2, play a crucial role in this protective effect.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2005

JCI table of contents April 1, 2005

Researchers identify new therapeutic targets for immune-mediated liver diseases and explore the role of IL-6 in protecting liver cells. Osteopontin is also found to play a central role in amplifying rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting potential new treatments for this inflammatory condition.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2005

Boosting blood vessels with BDNF

Researchers found BDNF is as effective as VEGF in inducing growth of tiny blood vessels in organs with TrkB-expressing cells. It recruits blood stem cells that contribute to neo-angiogenesis, providing a novel therapeutic protein for organ-specific angiogenesis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2005

Licorice licks herpes virus infection

Researchers found that glycyrrhizic acid from licorice can kill cells infected with the Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus. The compound targets genes required to maintain the virus in a latent state, potentially leading to novel anti-herpesvirus agents.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2005

A new route for treatment of IBD

Researchers found that TLR9-induced protection is mediated through type I IFN induction, which suppresses inflammation. Type I IFN has a protective role in colon injury and protects against colonic inflammation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2005

JCI table of contents March 1, 2005

Researchers at NYU School of Medicine discovered that glycyrrhizic acid can kill cells infected with Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, triggering apoptosis in transformed B lymphocytes. This finding suggests a potential new treatment approach for latent viral infections.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2005

JCI table of contents March 1, 2005

Researchers uncover how alpha-defensin-1 inhibits HIV infection in CD4+ T cells and how lubricin protects cartilage surfaces. These findings provide insights into innate immunity against HIV and may lead to the development of defensin-like drugs for prevention and treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 17, 2005

Defensins ward off HIV in two ways

Researchers found that alpha-defensin-1 directly inactivates HIV when serum levels are low, while also acting on vulnerable cells to block infection. The study provides a basis for developing defensin-like drugs to prevent and treat HIV.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 17, 2005