Salk researchers developed a new imaging technique to study actin's function in mitochondrial division, revealing its accumulation at fission sites. The findings provide insights into mitochondrial dysfunction linked to cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases.
A new study published in Redox Biology shows that the drug CMS121 successfully reversed memory loss in a mouse model of inherited Alzheimer's disease. The drug works by normalizing lipid peroxidation and lowering levels of fatty acid synthetase, suggesting FASN as a potential target for treating Alzheimer's disease.
Salk researchers mapped DNA methylation changes over time in mice to better understand developmental disorders. The data help identify regions of the human genome that play roles in diseases such as schizophrenia and Rett Syndrome.
Salk scientists have developed a new lineup method that reveals the strength of recognition memory for each face and eliminates unconscious biases. This technique, called paired comparisons, estimates the probability of correctly identifying the culprit, offering an unprecedented quantitative index of certainty.
Scientists at Salk Institute have identified a key gene that modifies regulatory T cells, fine-tuning the immune response. By controlling these cells, they may be able to treat both cancer and autoimmune diseases.
A novel microbiome-based diagnostic tool has been developed to quickly and inexpensively identify liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients. The non-invasive method analyzes patient stool samples and achieves an accuracy of over 90% in diagnosing cirrhosis, with potential implications for improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers at Salk Institute discovered that lung-resident killer T cells can recognize second viral infections without relying on dendritic cells, providing a new paradigm for vaccine development. This finding may lead to superior immunity against respiratory viruses.
A team of scientists has provided clarity into how new cells remember their identity after cell division. They found that many genes are activated immediately after cell division, acting in a cascade to send critical signals and allow the cell to 'wake up' from its cellular amnesia.
Researchers discovered a new mechanism for regulating RAS enzyme activity that will inform therapeutic strategies for inhibiting mutated RAS proteins involved in cancer. The study found that close proximity on the cell membrane is required for one RAS protein to interact with other RAS proteins.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover two genes that regulate levels of healthy fats called FAHFAs, which decrease inflammation and increase insulin sensitivity. An experimental drug successfully increases FAHFA levels by blocking the activity of these genes, offering new insights into therapies for metabolic and inflammatory diseases.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover formation of tuft cells during pancreatitis, which secrete IL-25 to promote immune response. The finding may lead to development of new treatments for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
A team of scientists has discovered a complex communication network in plants that responds to the hormone jasmonic acid, allowing them to defend against insects and fungi. The study reveals two key genes, MYC2 and MYC3, which play a crucial role in regulating plant defense responses.
A new study by Salk scientists shows that caloric restriction can protect against aging in cellular pathways, reducing inflammation and increasing life span. The study found that 57% of age-related changes in cell composition were not present in rats on a restricted diet.
A new study by Salk researchers finds that altered potassium levels in neurons may contribute to mood swings in bipolar disorder. The study reveals two distinct types of neurons in people with bipolar disorder who respond to lithium and those who don't, highlighting the need for personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers discovered the structure of HIV intasomes while they were blocked by key drugs, revealing how these medications inhibit viral infection. The study provides valuable information to design and improve future treatments.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a unique pattern of DNA damage that arises in brain cells derived from individuals with macrocephalic form of autism spectrum disorder. The observation helps explain what might go awry in the brain during cell division and development to cause the disorder.
Researchers analyzed ovarian cells from young and old non-human primates to understand ovarian aging. They identified genes that could be used as biomarkers and point to therapeutic targets for diagnosing and treating female infertility and age-associated ovarian diseases.
A combination of two experimental drugs has reversed osteoarthritis in rats, with improved cartilage thickness and reduced cell death. The treatment may potentially translate to human use, offering a promising therapy for millions of adults affected by the disease.
Salk researchers found that mitochondria trigger molecular alarms when cells are stressed, which can lead to increased resistance to chemotherapy. This discovery may pave the way for new cancer treatments that target mitochondrial stress.
A study from the Salk Institute identified over 2,000 previously unknown small open reading frames (smORFs) in human cell lines, expanding the number of human genes by 10%. These tiny genetic sequences may hold key to understanding human biology and developing new treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Researchers found that time-restricted eating can lead to weight loss, reduced abdominal fat, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and more stable blood sugar and insulin levels. The study included 19 participants with metabolic syndrome who experienced improved sleep and a 3-4% reduction in body weight.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in humans, which respond to blue light and help establish healthy day-night cycles. The study's findings may lead to 'smart' lights that prevent depression, foster sleep, and maintain circadian rhythms.
Scientists at Salk Institute discovered that metformin activates multiple biochemical switches, including Protein Kinase D and MAPKAPK2, which may explain its health-span-extending effects. The study identified new targets and cellular processes regulated by AMPK, shedding light on the therapeutic benefits of metformin.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a brain circuit controlling alcohol drinking behavior in mice, which can predict compulsive drinking. The study found that neural communication patterns between two brain regions are related to the development of compulsive drinking.
A team of international scientists has developed a new method for culturing primate embryos in the lab, allowing them to study early developmental processes for the first time. The breakthrough provides valuable insight into embryonic development and potentially informs approaches to advance regenerative medicine in humans.
Salk scientists discovered how microprotein PIGBOS contributes to mitigating cell stress, which can lead to cancer and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that targeting PIGBOS could provide new therapies for human disease.
Researchers at Salk Institute create mouse blastocyst-like structures from single cultured cells, mimicking the natural developmental process. The blastoids can form a ball with an inner and outer layer, accumulating proteins that induce expression of proteins to build what could eventually become a placenta.
Researchers at Salk Institute and UC San Diego developed a novel technique to trace neural connections, enabling them to understand how brain responds to light signals. They found that different time scales affect how neurons communicate with the retina and brain regions.
Researchers used state-of-the-art technology to profile each cell during normal breast development, creating a molecular map to understand how breast tissues are formed and maintained. The team found that cells were already poised to become either basal or luminal cells before birth, with abnormal alterations leading to tumor development.
Researchers develop machine-learning tools to analyze 3D plant shapes, improving high-throughput phenotyping. The software achieves 97.8% accuracy in identifying stems and leaves, helping scientists better understand plant growth and responses to climate change.
Researchers create formula to calculate resolution of protein structures based on viewing angles, enabling better methods for imaging proteins. This new approach helps determine the best setup for experiments to improve cryo-EM imaging.
Researchers discovered the mechanism behind cetuximab's effectiveness in patients with a specific KRAS gene mutation, which enables doctors to prescribe the drug to this patient group. This finding has direct clinical implications and could benefit up to 10,000 colorectal cancer patients per year.
Researchers developed single-nucleus methyl-3C sequencing (sn-m3C-seq) to analyze chromosome structure and epigenetic features in single human brain cells. This approach enables the simultaneous study of two levels of gene regulation, which may help clarify how genetic variations contribute to human disease.
Researchers from the Salk Institute have discovered how a specific enzyme called chalcone isomerase enables plants to manufacture essential compounds, such as flavonoids, through a unique catalytic process. This knowledge could inform the development of new medicines and improved crops.
Scientists have identified a major genetic regulator of iron tolerance, called GSNOR, which enables plants to grow in environments with high iron levels. The discovery could lead to crop species that thrive in soils with excess iron, improving food security and yields.
Researchers have developed a novel genome-editing technology, SATI, that can target a broad range of mutations and cell types in live organisms. This breakthrough could lead to treatments for genetic disorders such as Huntington's disease and progeria by correcting faulty genes without replacing them.
Salk scientists discover that astrocytes are required for long-term memory formation and consolidation in mice. The study found that disabling astrocytes led to significant deficits in remote memory retention after a few weeks.
Researchers have identified a specialized pathway in the spinal cord that transmits mechanical itch signals to the brain. The study, published in Cell Reports, reveals that a specific population of neurons, known as Y1 spinal neurons, play a key role in transmitting these signals.
Researchers identified the molecular mechanism linking a protein mutation with abnormal nervous system development in neurodevelopmental disorders. A complex of proteins called the SWI/SNF complex was found to be affected, leading to changes in gene expression and brain development.
Researchers have discovered that two enzymes, SIK1 and SIK3, play a critical role in driving tumor growth in non-small-cell lung cancer by promoting inflammation. The findings highlight a potential new target for therapies and could lead to improved treatment options for patients with this deadly form of lung cancer.
A new study published in Science Advances reveals that a cellular switch called CREB plays a key role in directing tumor growth in non-small-cell lung cancer. Researchers found that blocking this switch could have therapeutic benefits for patients with this deadly type of cancer.
Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that mammals use a similar 'distributed circuit' approach to distinguish odors, with the size of brain components scaling across species. This finding may have implications for understanding other parts of the brain and developing more efficient machine learning systems.
Researchers at Salk Institute discovered a gene that determines root growth depth in plants, enabling the development of crops with deeper roots to store more carbon. The finding is part of the Harnessing Plants Initiative, which aims to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels through plant-based solutions.
A new Salk study found that neurons selectively respond to particular combinations of color and shape, rather than extracting them separately. This breakthrough challenges the long-held notion that color and shape are processed in the early stages of vision.
Researchers found that mouse brain, liver, and pancreas contain populations of young and old cells, with some as old as neurons. This discovery, known as age mosaicism, suggests complex aging processes in organs beyond the brain.
Researchers discover GUN1 plays a crucial role in regulating chloroplast-to-nucleus communication, enabling plants to respond to stress. This finding may help breed plants that can better withstand environmental stressors and maintain food production.
Researchers at Salk Institute uncover role of signaling protein LIF in pancreatic cancer development and progression, suggesting it may be a useful biomarker for earlier diagnosis and more effective therapies. Elevated LIF levels were significantly correlated with tumor cell status and response to chemotherapy.
Salk scientists discovered a new mechanism of action for the CDK12 protein, revealing its role in regulating gene expression and cell division. This finding suggests that targeting CDK12 could be an effective way to kill cancer cells and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a gene mutation that causes motor axon misrouting, leading to improper connection with muscles. The study reveals how p190 acts as a blinder to guide axons outside of the spinal cord, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms of cell signaling and development.
Salk Institute researchers found altered neuron growth patterns and low levels of key genes in SSRI non-responders, leading to abnormal neuronal communication. This discovery provides new insights into the complex neural circuitry underlying depression.