Researchers developed a new antimalarial agent, DIF-1(+3), effective against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. The compound showed stronger growth inhibitory effects than previous derivatives and significantly increased survival time in infected mice, suggesting it may offer more treatment options for malaria-endemic areas.
The study reveals that hiPS-CMs induce a limited immune response but are rejected around 17-24 days after transplantation due to CD8+ T cells. Depletion of CD8+ T cells or treatment with tacrolimus prolongs sheet survival, highlighting the pivotal role of these immune cells.
A novel light sheet fluorescence microscope, descSPIM, has been developed to facilitate 3D visualization of cleared tissues at a lower cost and with simplified design. The system successfully imaged various organs and tissues, including whole-brain samples and cancer models.
Researchers from Juntendo University discover that canagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, eliminates senescent cells and improves glucose metabolism in mice with dietary obesity. The study highlights the potential of this novel senolytic strategy for managing aging-related disorders.
Researchers discovered that KMT2C haploinsufficiency leads to ASD-related symptoms, with genes associated with increased risk showing higher expression. Vafidemstat, a brain penetrant inhibitor of LSD1, improved social deficits and rescued expression levels in mutant mice.
Researchers found associations between proteins involved in fibrinolysis and the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Biomarkers, such as PAI-1 and uPA/PAI-1 complex levels, can identify patients at risk of severe COVID-19.
Researchers developed gene-edited lymphocytes that target HPV-specific antigens in cervical cancer cells, evading immune responses and achieving strong cytotoxicity. These 'off-the-shelf' therapies offer a promising approach to treating cervical cancer.
Researchers identified a novel bicarbonate-sensing GPCR, GPR30, that regulates reperfusion injury in ischemic stroke. GPR30 deficiency showed significant protection against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Researchers investigated the paradoxical prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis, finding that isolated heart condition patients have poorer outcomes due to history of atrial fibrillation and impaired heart function. Steroid treatment responds equally well in both groups.
Researchers from Juntendo University discovered that pollen shells trigger the rapid formation of goblet cell-associated antigen passages, which enable swift allergen transport to the conjunctiva. The study highlights the complex interplay between sensory nerves and the immune response in allergic conjunctivitis.
A novel ACE2 receptor decoy, 3N39v4-Fc, effectively neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 variants in monkeys, offering a potential therapeutic option. Inhalation administration demonstrates significant dose-sparing benefits and exceptional efficacy.
Researchers have identified the molecular mechanisms underlying gastric carcinogenesis induced by H. pylori infections, highlighting the disruption of the Wnt/PCP signaling pathway. This study provides insights into the potential target for clinical interventions against H. pylori cagA+ infections.
A study by Juntendo University researchers reveals that p62 bodies control redox-independent NRF2 activation through phosphorylation of ULK1, enabling the antioxidative stress response. The finding provides new insights into the role of phase separation in stress responses and its physiological significance.
Researchers found a link between bipolar disorder and potentially pathogenic mosaic mutations in genes associated with developmental disorders and autism spectrum disorder. Mosaic variants were also discovered in mitochondrial tRNA genes of patients with BD, suggesting a compromised contribution to the disease's molecular mechanisms.
Researchers developed a novel blood serum assay to diagnose neurodegenerative diseases by detecting abnormal α-synuclein. The assay, IP/RT-QuIC, can efficiently detect low concentrations of α-synuclein seeds and distinguish between Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy.
A novel assay system has been developed to validate ECHS1 gene variants, enabling rapid diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases. The assay quickly pinpointed a new synonymous substitution causing a splicing abnormality in ECHS1 variants, providing a robust platform for variant interpretation.
Researchers discovered a novel technique to identify p62-body constituents, revealing a major subunit of the supramolecular protein complex vault. Vault-phagy, the degradation of vault through selective autophagy, regulates homeostatic vault levels and may be associated with liver cancer.
Researchers from Juntendo University found that sialylated mucins secreted by conjunctival goblet cells encapsulate allergens, protecting the eye from allergic conjunctivitis. Mice with intact St6galnac1 gene showed reduced antigen response and better protection against allergies.
Mutant mice lacking FADS1/2 genes exhibit bipolar swings in behavior, featuring phases of abnormally low activity and hyperactivity. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements and a mood stabilizer reverse behavioral changes, suggesting these mice as a valuable model for studying BD.
A community-integrated intermediary care (CIIC) model in Thailand reduces caregiver burden by 39.4% and improves seniors' functional ability, while also providing formal care and technical training for family caregivers.
A new study found that impaired glymphatic system function is associated with Alzheimer's disease progression. Noninvasive MRI measures of the glymphatic system's volume and diffusivity were linked to amyloid beta deposition, neuronal damage, and cognitive impairment in patients with Alzheimer's.
Researchers used transcranial ultrasound stimulation to confirm the anterior prefrontal-putamen circuit's role in stopping inappropriate responses. The circuit involves the right hemisphere's inferior frontal cortex, presupplementary motor area, and subthalamic nucleus.
A team of researchers at Juntendo University has identified a biomolecule called human-β-defensin-3 (hBD-3) that can mitigate eczema in mice by regulating autophagy and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling pathway. This discovery provides new insights into the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and potential therapeutic solutions.
A new smartphone application, DryEyeRhythm, uses cameras to measure blink characteristics and administer questionnaires for diagnosing dry eye disease. The app has been validated in a study, showing high reliability and validity in assessing DED, with promising implications for early diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers identified key predictors of cardiac sarcoidosis outcomes, including tachycardia, BNP levels, LVEF, and RFCA use. The study found a high risk of fatal ventricular arrhythmia events and heart failure hospitalizations, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment strategies.
A recent study published in Clinical Nutrition Journal has established a strong link between sarcopenic obesity and dementia in elderly patients. The research found that individuals with sarcopenic obesity were more likely to experience cognitive impairment and dementia compared to those without muscle loss or obesity.