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Researchers at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University elucidate mechanism behind cardiac fibrosis, opening way for new heart failure treatments

Scientists have identified a critical genetic mechanism driving cardiac fibrosis and found a novel target for its reversal. The discovery sheds light on the role of transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) and ATP-citrate lyase (ACLY) in promoting excessive tissue scarring, providing hope for new heart failure treatments.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateJul 10, 2024

3D maps of diseased tissues at subcellular precision

A platform called Open-ST enables scientists to reconstruct gene expression in cells within a tissue in three dimensions, capturing molecular and (sub)cellular structures. The platform was used to study cell types at subcellular resolution in tissues from mice brains, tumor tissue, and healthy lymph nodes, providing insights into cance...

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 24, 2024

Association for Molecular Pathology publishes evidence-based recommendations for tumor mutational burden testing

The Association for Molecular Pathology has published guidelines for tumor mutational burden (TMB) testing, aiming to standardize calculation and reporting of TMB as a predictive biomarker for immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies. These recommendations emphasize the importance of comprehensive methodological descriptions in publications.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 6, 2024

The use of new technologies expands understanding of brain tumors in children

A new study using next-generation molecular sequencing and DNA methylation profile analysis identified a rare type of pediatric brain tumor with specific genetic alterations. The tumors were found to be clinically aggressive but some responded well to chemotherapy, highlighting the need for personalized treatment strategies.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateMay 29, 2024

First effective treatment found for spitting cobra snakebite

Scientists have found an effective treatment for spitting cobra snakebites by blocking one of the major dermonecrosis-causing toxins with varespladib. The study suggests that this repurposed drug can prevent tissue damage and may become a valuable treatment against black-necked and red spitting cobra venoms.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal review article highlights the potential and promise of CAR-T cell therapy in autoimmune diseases

Researchers have identified CAR-T cell therapy as a potential treatment for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, and type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. Early studies have shown promising results in reducing disease activity and improving patients' quality of life, but long-term data on safety and efficacy is limited.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 22, 2024

The genesis of our cellular skeleton, image by image

Researchers at the University of Geneva have successfully visualized and reconstructed the assembly of the human centriole, a critical structure in the cell skeleton. By combining high-resolution microscopy and kinematic reconstruction techniques, they were able to model the first 4D assembly of the centriole, providing new insights in...

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell·DateApr 10, 2024

New data show pembrolizumab improves breast cancer outcomes regardless of age or menopausal status

New data show that adding pembrolizumab to chemotherapy before and after surgery for breast cancer leads to better outcomes, with significant increases in pathological complete response rates across all age groups. The study also found similar rates of breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, as well as lower residual cancer burdens.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 19, 2024

Breakthrough discovery will improve medical monitoring, preventive care for elephants

Researchers at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance have made a groundbreaking discovery that establishes individual baseline values for African elephant blood cell counts, enabling earlier detection and intervention of clinical EEHV infection. This study provides a tool for elephant care facilities to improve preventive medicine and lifesa...

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalJournal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024

Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles provide novel insights into previously unknown disease mechanisms

Researchers decode underlying mechanisms of DCM, hippocampal neurotoxicity, and dysbiosis mediated AD progression using mass spectrometry imaging. The studies found metabolic changes in DCM rat hearts and regulation of CYPs in the hippocampus, providing new perspectives on treatment strategies.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Small RNAs take on the big task of helping skin wounds heal better and faster with minimal scarring

Researchers discovered that microRNA-29 can restore normal skin structure rather than producing a scar, promoting faster and more efficient wound healing. The release of microRNA-29 targets, particularly LAMC2, is crucial in this process, suggesting a potential new approach for treating large-area or deep wounds.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2024

Novel test holds promise for detecting Parkinson’s disease early

Researchers developed a novel test that detects single ⍺-synuclein fibrils in patient samples to identify patients with Parkinson's disease earlier. This breakthrough has the potential to create early applicable molecular diagnostics, improve clinical trials, and facilitate drug screening for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

Pioneering study indicates a potential treatment for corneal endothelial disease, reducing the need for corneal transplants

A pioneering study published in The American Journal of Pathology reveals the cytoprotective and proregenerative effects of neuropeptide α-MSH in promoting corneal healing after eye injury. The treatment has shown impressive therapeutic potential in reducing the need for corneal transplants.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 2, 2024

Scientists plead to be heard in pesticide debate: Exposure linked to risk of developing parkinson's disease via changes in gut microbiome

A review article links pesticide exposure to an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease through alterations in the gut microbiota. The authors recommend reducing or replacing agrochemicals and implementing coordinated efforts to develop standardized biomarkers for gut integrity and microbiome changes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Parkinson’s Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 6, 2023

New research shows how important protein keeps our cell membranes in balance

A study published in Nature Communications sheds light on the critical role of P4-ATPases, particularly ATP8B1-CDC50A, in maintaining lipid asymmetry in cell membranes. The research team used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the structure and function of the human flippase complex, revealing its regulation by phosphoinositides.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Possible cause of male infertility

Researchers from Universitatsklinikum Bonn have found that a loss of the structural protein ACTL7B blocks spermatogenesis in male mice, leading to infertility. The study suggests that mutations in the Actl7b gene could be a cause of male infertility in humans.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 27, 2023

Contributions to white matter injury in Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers highlight microvascular contributions to white matter injury in Alzheimer's disease, sparking calls for exploration of connections between AD, WM injury and cerebral small vessel disease. The study emphasizes the critical need to define mechanisms and diagnostic features of mixed vascular and AD neuropathological change.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 12, 2023

Copy number variation implements pregnancy as an aging model

Researchers found that pregnant mice experiencing copy number variation (CNV) showed similarities to aging, with biomarkers and genetic effects appearing during pregnancy and reversing after delivery. This study aims to revolutionize aging treatment by investigating the mechanisms behind post-labor rejuvenation.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023

Pitt researchers to study Alzheimer’s disease in marmosets

Researchers developed a new model of hereditary Alzheimer's disease in marmosets by introducing mutations into the PSEN1 gene, which causes early-onset disease in humans. The study aims to characterize and validate genetic, molecular, functional, and cognitive features of aging and Alzheimer's disease in these animals.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions·DateSep 6, 2023

Aging alters pancreatic circadian rhythm

Researchers discovered that aging alters the pancreas's circadian rhythm by reorganizing its transcriptome. The study found that fibroblasts play a crucial role in regulating this reorganization, which affects the organ's resilience to aging-related pathologies.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Editorial: Epigenetic aging in oocytes

The editorial discusses epigenetic mechanisms leading to oocyte quality loss, a significant factor in age-related fertility decline. Researchers highlight the importance of understanding this process to address the growing issue of advanced maternal age and its impact on reproduction.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 30, 2023

Catheter ablation in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

A new study found that catheter ablation significantly lowers the incidence of cardiovascular events and death in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The researchers compared 208 patients who underwent AF ablation with those who received medical therapy only, finding a lower risk of both cardiovascular events and de...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Nobel-winning bodily ‘pressure sensors’ filmed for first time at Imperial

Imperial researchers have imaged Piezo1 channels in human cells and organs, revealing their role in regulating blood pressure, respiration, bladder control, and the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of their role in fundamental physiological processes and potentially new drug targets for diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023