Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Genetic variant is associated with higher rate of premature delivery in African-American women

A genetic variant in the SERPINH1 gene has been identified as a potential cause of premature delivery in African-American women. The variant reduces collagen production, making membranes more prone to rupture. This discovery may help physicians identify high-risk patients and prevent serious pregnancy complications.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2006

In 3D, early fat development first requires 'remodeling'

In the absence of MT1-MMP, preadipocytes fail to break through extracellular matrix, disrupting fat cell development. However, MT1-MMP is essential for remodeling the surrounding matrix to facilitate normal fat formation. The enzyme may also regulate collagen in white adipose tissue and act as a protein-degrading rheostat.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMay 4, 2006

Expanding waistlines triggered by your genes

Researchers at U-M's Life Sciences Institute discovered that the MT1-MMP gene regulates fat cell size and metabolic gene expression. In three-dimensional environments, the gene plays a critical role in adipocyte development, potentially leading to novel therapeutics for obesity prevention.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell·DateMay 4, 2006

UF scientists reveal ancient origin of vertebrate skeleton

Researchers found that lampreys, long thought to be evolutionary outliers, use the same essential protein to build cartilage as all other vertebrates, including humans. The discovery sheds light on the early origins of vertebrate skeletal development and challenges traditional views on vertebrate evolution.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2006

Wisconsin scientists find a way to make human collagen in the lab

A team of scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison reports a breakthrough in making human collagen in the lab, opening doors for medical applications and nanotechnology. The new discovery enables the creation of synthetic collagen that can be tailored for specific uses, including wound healing and implantable sensors.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2006

The role of Type II Collagen in rheumatoid arthritis

A study found that chemical modification of Type II Collagen creates a self-antigen, leading to immune system activation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. The modification of this protein contributes significantly to the disease's progression.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateDec 2, 2005

Diamonds are a doctor's best friend

Researchers have developed diamond-like carbon coatings for medical implants, reducing friction and corrosion while providing biocompatibility. The new method of coating plastics, metals, and collagen enables the production of harder-wearing implants and enhances patient outcomes.

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

Research reveals that nitrite is a potent inhibitor of ischemia/reperfusion injury in the liver and heart, limiting cell death and preserving organ function. Additionally, adipocyte-derived collagen VI promotes early tumor growth in breast cancer, while EBV proteins drive immune responses in multiple sclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

A big fat contribution to breast tumor growth

Researchers found that collagen VI from adipocytes stimulates the proliferation and survival of malignant cells in breast tumors. The study suggests a potential link between increased adiposity and breast cancer risk, highlighting the role of extracellular matrix proteins in tumor behavior.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

Getting through the matrix

Researchers used second-harmonic generation to image tumors in mice, revealing that collagen levels correlate with tumor permeability. The study suggests that a hormone called relaxin could selectively break down tumor-matrix collagen, improving drug delivery to cancer cells.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 18, 2003

DDR2 and hepatic fibrosis

Research has identified DDR2 as a key player in the development of hepatic fibrosis, a liver disease characterized by excessive scar tissue buildup. High levels of DDR2 expression have been linked to advanced fibrosis and poor patient outcomes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 31, 2001