Add BrightSurf on Google Email

University of California - San Diego


Before there will be blood

Scientists identify tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) as a key player in the emergence of hematopoietic stem cells, a breakthrough that could aid in developing induced pluripotent stem cell replacements for blood disorders. The discovery sheds light on the complexities of HSC genesis and paves the way for further research.

Cell membranes self-assemble

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have developed a new process for self-driving phospholipid membrane assembly, similar to those found in living cells. This non-enzymatic technique can be used for artificial cell studies and potentially for drug delivery packets.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 27, 2014

Viral switches share a shape

Researchers have discovered that multiple viruses share an L-shaped switch in their RNA genomes, which can be flipped to prevent replication. The discovery has implications for developing new drugs to inhibit viral replication, particularly for hepatitis C virus.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2014

Diabetes in a dish

Researchers at UC San Diego aim to bioengineer the irregularly shaped patches of the pancreas called Islets of Langerhans in a dish. This could lead to studying the events that trigger beta cell destruction and developing new drug therapies, as well as understanding the genetic component of the disease.

Disease without borders

Researchers present a bioregional guide that combines place-based city planning and ecosystem management to address wide-ranging human health challenges along the US-Mexico border. The approach aims to promote healthy placemaking, taking into account environmental exposures, stress, diet, urban design, and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGlobal Society·DateSep 26, 2014