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p53 cuts off invading cancer cells

Researchers discovered that p53 acts to prevent cancer cell invasion by initiating a chain of events that ultimately prevents the formation of lamellipodia. This process involves the activation of a mitochondrial protease called Omi, which cleaves actin filaments and suppresses the activity of focal adhesion signaling protein p130Cas.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 24, 2014

Sea squirt cells shed light on cancer development

A research team led by Bradley Davidson discovered that specialized structures in sea squirt cells, called invadopodia, may help cancer cells evade elimination processes. In contrast to cancer cells, sea squirt cells use these structures to pick up chemical signals for development, not invasion.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 26, 2011

Targeting toxin trafficking

Researchers discovered that many proteins are required for maximum toxicity of ricin and PE, with differing requirements at multiple levels. Understanding toxin trafficking may lead to designing treatments targeting these toxins and potential synergistic therapies.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 21, 2011

When cancer cells can't let go

FAK coordinates movement of migrating cancer cells by balancing the number of invadopodia that create a path for migration and the number of focal adhesions that hold the cell back. In its absence, breast cancer cells sprout extra invadopodia and form large, sticky focal adhesions.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateApr 13, 2009

Simple equations track Listeria trails

Biologists used simple equations to describe the motion of Listeria monocytogenes, reproducing all observed shapes with just two variables. The equations can help identify bacterial mutants and rule out mechanisms driving the motion.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2007

Several minute intermediate stage in virus-cell fusion discovered; opportunity for drug development

A team of researchers has identified an intermediate stage in virus-cell fusion that lasts several minutes, providing a potential window of opportunity for drug development. This discovery may allow existing drugs to be re-evaluated and fine-tuned to target this critical point in the viral entry process.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2005

Understanding urinary tract infections

E. coli bacteria undergo four distinct developmental stages during UTIs, including a quiescent state that may create reservoirs for recurrent infections. Researchers hope to use these stages as guides for new drug development.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2004

Intrakine blockade of a chemokine receptor

Researchers developed an Intrakine blockade to block a specific chemokine receptor, leading to reduced inflammation and modulated immune responses in various disease models. This breakthrough could provide new therapeutic avenues for treating conditions like asthma, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 11, 2001