Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a new enzyme required for silencing certain genes, which can lead to cancer. The discovery could lead to new cancer therapies by targeting the enzyme's activity.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) uses a telomere-like system to survive within its host cells. This finding has significant implications for treating EBV-associated cancers, as inhibiting this mechanism could potentially inhibit tumor cell growth.
A new study shows that a vaccine based on a chimpanzee adenovirus possesses the immunological strengths of a human adenovirus vaccine without its drawbacks. The vaccine, developed by researchers at The Wistar Institute, has been shown to be effective in mice against rabies and other viruses.
Researchers found that limiting scar tissue formation enables neurons to regrow and reconnect, leading to substantial recovery of function. This approach suggests potential for therapies to eliminate existing scar tissue at injury sites.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a carefully orchestrated series of molecular modifications to p53 that must occur for it to perform its normal function. This discovery may suggest new ways to combat cancers where p53 is dysfunctional, and could also provide insights into the regulation of other DNA-binding proteins.
The newly detailed structure of PRD1 reveals striking similarities with human adenoviruses, suggesting a conserved icosahedral shape used by viruses across species. This knowledge may inform the development of novel antibiotic strategies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers have found that atherosclerosis is driven by chronic inflammation of vessel walls, which is central to CD44's role. Drugs targeting CD44 may contribute to treating atherosclerosis, especially when combined with existing therapies.
A recent Wistar Institute study identifies an enzyme that modifies histones to activate specific genes in yeast. This discovery supports the 'histone code' theory, suggesting a complex interplay among histone modifications controls gene activity.
In a breakthrough study, researchers at The Wistar Institute demonstrated the remarkable regenerative powers of MRL mice in healing heart tissue without drugs or cell transfer. After two months, damaged heart tissue looked normal and functioned well.
A new study reveals that the BRCA2 gene, linked to breast and ovarian cancers, plays a previously unsuspected role in human cell division. Inactivating the BRCA2 protein delays cells' progress through mitosis, suggesting a potential new target for cancer treatment.
Researchers have identified the three-dimensional atomic structure of a critical gene-regulating molecule, revealing its importance in human diseases such as cancers, autoimmune disorders, and developmental disorders. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments and therapies for these conditions.
A study by The Wistar Institute suggests that infections can trigger autoimmunity through a normal but rare process involving memory B cells. A transgenic mouse with a self-similar influenza gene led to an autoimmune response, showing that the immune system may not eliminate all self-reactive cells.
Scientists found that RNA editing is essential for developing mature red blood cells in mammalian embryos. The study reveals that the ADAR1 gene plays a critical role in this process.
Scientists have identified a common mode of action among gene-activation molecules linked to cancers, according to a study published in Molecular Cell. The researchers found structural similarities among the molecules, suggesting they may share a unified mechanism of action despite chemical dissimilarities.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified an intracellular target for an antimicrobial molecule, which may lead to the development of new antibiotics tailored to specific disease-causing bacteria. The discovery provides hope for combating antibiotic resistance, a growing threat to human health.
A new study shows that drug treatment interruptions can boost HIV-specific immune responses in chronically infected patients, with one patient controlling his viral infection without drugs for at least four months. This approach, known as structured treatment interruption, may provide a sustainable alternative to current treatments.
Scientists at The Wistar Institute identified a new gene called chfr that establishes a previously unknown checkpoint in mitosis, found in half of human cancer cell lines. This discovery holds promise for predicting patient response to Taxol and developing more effective targeted drugs.
The BRCA1 protein is at the catalytic heart of a vital DNA control complex that coordinates physical access to DNA for gene transcription. Mutant BRCA1 can lead to cancer by interfering with this complex.
Dr. Showe's laboratory is conducting research on CTCL, the most common primary T-cell lymphoma of the skin, using state-of-the-art robotic systems. The goal of her work is to give clinicians and pathologists new molecular tools to identify CTCL accurately in its early stage.
Dr. Bruce D. Walker delivers a lecture on immune-mediated control of HIV infection, highlighting the Wistar/Philadelphia FIGHT Collaborative Project. The project combines basic immunotherapy with community-based research involving over 4,000 individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Rafi Ahmed will deliver a lecture on immune memory to viruses as part of the 1999 Tadeusz J. Wiktor Memorial Lecture series at The Wistar Institute. His research focuses on chronic viral infections and immunology, building on his PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Harvard.
Researchers at Wistar Institute find parallels between PRD1 and human adenovirus coat protein structures, suggesting an evolutionary relationship. The discovery may lead to new research areas and therapies.
Wistar Institute scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of a key enzyme involved in gene activation, GCN5. The study reveals details on how the enzyme carries out its function and identifies the structural adjustments needed for proper regulation of gene activation.
The Wistar Institute's Recombinant Protein and Structure Evaluation Center has been admitted to the Ben Franklin Technology PArtners' Center of Excellence Network Program for the second consecutive year. The center provides services to small and medium-sized biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, specializing in baculovirus expres...
Researchers at The Wistar Institute are developing vaccines targeting the mucosal immune system to prevent HIV-1 and human papilloma virus infections. They aim to induce neutralizing antibodies and killer T cells to prevent cancerous transformations in cells, with a focus on cervical cancer caused by HPV.
The Wistar Institute has received a five-year grant from the National Cancer Institute to develop new diagnostic tools and treatments for metastatic melanoma. The goal of this project is to improve patient outcomes by understanding the underlying molecular events that contribute to the development and progression of the disease.
Dr. Daniela Santoli to develop TALL-104 regimen for effective and safe treatment of metastatic melanoma patients; trials expected to start later this year.
The Wistar Institute's Regeneration Symposium will feature talks on epimorphic regeneration, limb regeneration, and the role of ependymal cells in spinal cord regeneration. Experts like David Stocum, Alejandro Sanchez Alvarado, and Susan V. Bryant will share their research findings.
The Wistar Institute hosted a symposium on regenerative biology, featuring experts discussing recent advances in understanding regeneration in metazoans, stem cells, and nervous systems. Key findings included insights into limb regeneration, spinal cord repair, and muscle cell replacement.
Researchers found that FTIs activate features of RHO by stimulating the production of an isoform with altered properties, making it possible for RHO to perform activities it could not previously perform. This understanding will lead to more effective and targeted cancer treatments.
A Wistar scientist has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Cancer Research Foundation of America to develop a vaccine against Human Papilloma Virus-16. The grant will support research aimed at finding a vaccine that uses either the E6 or E7 protein from HPV-16 to activate T-cells.
Luis Montaner, a Wistar Institute scientist, has been awarded a $79,000 grant to support his HIV-1 Patient Partnership for Basic Research project. The project aims to find new treatments and develop vaccines for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) through medical research.
Dr. Francesca Marassi, a Wistar professor, has been awarded a $228,000 grant from The W.W. Smith Charitable Trust to study the molecular structure of PLM, a protein that regulates cardiac muscle contractions. This research aims to understand how mutated amino acids affect PLM functions and develop therapeutic treatments.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a new mechanism of molecular recognition in which proteins regulate DNA transcription through asymmetric binding. This discovery sheds light on how homodimeric transcription factors can recognize their target DNA and has potential implications for drug design.
The Wistar Institute has been awarded a $20,000 grant to support continued research on TALL-104 cells, which show promise in treating breast cancer. The grant allows the Linda Creed Breast Cancer Foundation to be involved in supporting clinical trials for new treatments and perhaps a cure.
The Wistar Institute has received a three-year grant to recruit and equip laboratories of new scientific investigators in regeneration, signal transduction, and brain tumor research. The institute is grateful for the support, which will help transform its programs and attract high-quality scientists.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered two genes, Alphav and Beta3, that play a crucial role in melanoma development. These findings suggest that blocking the activity of the vitronectin receptor could be an effective way to prevent cancer progression.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified multiple regions on five different chromosomes responsible for wound healing and regeneration in mammals. The study, led by Ellen Heber-Katz, reveals the genetic basis of tissue regeneration in mice, with potential applications in human medicine.
The Hilary Koprowski Endowed Professorship will provide long-term support for renowned scientists, setting a precedent for additional endowed professorships at The Wistar Institute. Established in honor of Dr. Koprowski's contributions to medical research, the chair aims to advance vaccine development and cancer research.
Giorgia Gri, a Wistar Institute visiting scientist, has received a $25,000 fellowship award from the American-Italian Cancer Foundation to study the regulation of Interleukin-12 receptor b2 chain expression. Her research aims to develop safer and more effective IL-12 therapies against cancer.
Scientists have discovered that interleukin-12 (IL-12) can trigger the production of a protein called interferon-gamma (IFN-), which blocks tumor-induced angiogenesis. This finding suggests that tumor cells may be able to produce their own antiangiogenic elements, potentially leading to new cancer therapies.
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been shown to reduce atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed rabbits, eliminating some fat already present. The Wistar Institute, established in 1892, is making history through its development of vaccines and discovery of molecules helping the immune system fight diseases.
The Lupus Foundation of America has awarded a summer internship to Yale student Su-jean Seo, who is conducting research on antigens targeted in autoimmune diseases like lupus erythematosus at the Wistar Institute. The fellowship will support her work under the supervision of Dr. Jan Erikson.
Caroline Sokol, a researcher at The Wistar Institute, has been awarded the Goldie Simon Preceptorship Award for her work on autoreactive B-cells in systemic lupus erythematosus. She aims to earn a joint M.D./Ph.D. to conduct clinical research and improve understanding of the chronic autoimmune disease.
Andrew Caton, a Wistar Institute scientist, will receive the Lupus Foundation of Philadelphia's prestigious Sheryl N. Hirsch Award for his work on systemic lupus erythematosus. The award recognizes Dr. Caton's efforts to shed light on the role of infections in lupus initiation and exacerbation.
A new molecule, Bin1, has been identified by Wistar scientists as a potential indicator of malignant prostate cancer. Bin1 interacts with and limits the malignant potential of Myc, a protein found frequently in prostate cancers.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have identified a key role for the GA733 antigen in inhibiting colorectal cancer cell invasion. The discovery has led to the development of an antibody that increases survival rates for CRC patients.
The Wistar Institute's Albert R. Taxin Brain Tumor Research Center has received a $350,000 challenge grant award from The Kresge Foundation to complete funding by January 1, 1999. Over $2.6 million has been raised so far towards the project's overall cost of $3.5 million.
Researchers discovered a new tumor suppressor gene, BAP1, which regulates BRCA1 activity and is associated with breast and lung cancer. The study reveals that BAP1 mutations can lead to the development of non-small-cell lung cancers.
PhD scientist Ellen Heber-Katz presents groundbreaking findings on regenerative biology, using a mouse model to study epimorphic regeneration in humans. Her research may lead to treatments for organ replacement, chronic wounds, and spinal cord injuries.