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Thomas Jefferson University


Bone cells suppress cancer metastases

Researchers discovered a type of bone cell that can subdue cancer cells, slowing their growth in breast cancer patients. Osteoblasts release factors that halt cancer cell growth, restoring production of the cell-cycle checkpoint protein p21 and putting cancer cells to sleep.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateMay 13, 2019

Potential treatment for cancer in butterfly disease

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for cancer in patients with epidermolysis bullosa, a severe skin disease also known as butterfly disease. The new drug, rigosertib, was shown to be highly effective at killing cancer cells in preclinical studies and may target the cancer without harming healthy cells.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 7, 2019

New role for death molecule

A team of researchers has found a novel function for the signaling molecule TRADD, which was previously considered dispensable. Without RIPK1 protein, having two copies of the TRADD gene or no copies results in cell death, while one copy promotes survival. This discovery sheds light on regulating cell death and survival pathways.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2019

Distance helps re-fuel the heart

Mitochondria use one-way doors called mitochondrial calcium uniporter channel complexes (MCUCs) to control access, but the exit door proteins are abundant only in areas far from the entrances. This separation allows mitochondria to operate at maximum efficiency even when stressed.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 18, 2018

What learning looks like in the brain

Using advanced imaging technology, researchers found structural changes in the connections between neurons that strengthen to enable learning. The molecules involved in sending and receiving signals appeared to be organized in clumps or 'nanomodules' that both dance and multiply when stimulated by learning-like signals.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 23, 2018

The eye is not immune to immunity

A recent study published in Scientific Reports suggests that the eye is not as immune as previously thought, with some components being accessible to immune cells. This discovery has implications for wound healing and changes in vision such as cataracts, and may change the way we think about eye disorders.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2018