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Marine animals could hold the key to looking young

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered genes in sea urchins and sea cucumbers that can change collagen elasticity, potentially leading to new ways to keep skin looking young and healthy. The study found peptides that cause rapid stiffening or softening of collagen, which could be used to combat aging-related wrinkles.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalGeneral and Comparative Endocrinology·DateOct 1, 2012

Rice University lab encodes collagen

Rice scientists created a computer program that predicts the most stable structures of nanometer-sized collagen, a crucial step toward synthesizing custom collagen. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating diseases and designing drugs, as collagen plays a vital role in holding cells together.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2012

It's all in the wrapping

A new device, designed to mimic the periosteum, has shown promising results in healing critical-sized bone defects in sheep. The device delivers stem cells, growth factors, and natural components of the periosteum to promote bone growth, and can be used for a range of applications beyond bone healing.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2011

Synthetic collagen from maize has human properties

Researchers have successfully produced synthetic collagen in maize with similar levels of proline hydroxylation to human collagen. This breakthrough enables the production of a protein with human-like modifications, making it suitable for various applications in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, as well as the food industry.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biotechnology·DateJun 23, 2011

Citrate key in bone's nanostructure

Researchers at Ames Laboratory discovered citrate plays a crucial role in the nanostructure of bones, providing stiffness and preventing crack propagation. Higher citrate concentrations result in thinner apatite nanocrystals, which are more resistant to brittleness.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJun 8, 2011

West Runton Elephant helps unlock the past

Researchers from the University of York and Manchester have extracted protein from a 600,000 year old mammoth fossil, providing a near complete collagen sequence. This breakthrough enables the identification of ancient fossils and opens up new possibilities for studying extinct animals.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateMar 30, 2011

The Achilles' heel of tendons

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered the weakest link in tendons, a crucial connection between bones and muscles. The discovery focuses on collagen fibrils, which are five times stronger than tendons but may hold the key to increasing flexibility and healing damage.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 21, 2010

Chicken capsules good for aching joints

Researchers found that chicken type II collagen (CCII) capsules improved joint function in RA patients with fewer side effects compared to the established antirheumatic drug methotrexate. Oral tolerance induction via dietary exposure is believed to contribute to this finding.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateNov 30, 2009

Collagen-deficient mice show signs of osteoarthritis

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that mice deficient in Type IX collagen develop osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, leading to impaired physical abilities and increased pain sensitivity. The study provides valuable insights into the effects of collagen deficiency on musculoskeletal disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 27, 2009

UK leading the way in corneal research

Researchers at Cardiff University are making discoveries about the eye using X-ray scattering techniques at Diamond Light Source, shedding light on keratoconus and its effects. The study aims to advance laser surgeries like LASIK and develop artificial corneas to improve the quality of life for those affected by serious eye diseases.

American Chemical Society's Weekly Press Pac

The American Chemical Society presents groundbreaking research on the biotechnology of health and wellness, including a study that reveals 'good' cholesterol can be bad for the heart. Additionally, scientists uncover new information about HDL cholesterol's protein composition, which could lead to more accurate lab tests and life-saving...

Pimp my meatballs -- collagen injections safeguard nutrients

A new study by researchers from the Agricultural University of Poznan in Poland found that collagen injections can help retain important nutrients like iodine and thiamine in meatballs. Thiamine is essential for energy conversion, while iodine deficiency can lead to severe health issues such as goiter and impaired mental development.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 16, 2007