Researchers have discovered an enzyme therapy that improves bone growth, mineralization, and strength in a mouse model of neurofibromatosis type-1. The treatment, asfotase-alpha, reduces fractures by clearing accumulated pyrophosphate, a strong inhibitor of bone mineralization.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 14, 2014
Researchers discovered a new water-soluble fluorescent detection system that is extremely sensitive to pyrophosphate, which plays a key role in energy transduction and DNA replication in cancer cells. The discovery may lead to improved cancer diagnostics.
SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 25, 2014
CNIC researchers have identified a possible treatment to block the deposition of calcium in arterial walls, a key symptom of premature aging disease. Chronic treatment with pyrophosphate inhibits calcium deposition, which is accelerated in mice with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.
SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCirculation·DateJun 17, 2013