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Study: Damaged liver cells undergo reprogramming to regenerate

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered how damaged liver cells repair themselves by reprogramming into an early stage of postnatal organ development. The findings reveal that injured liver cells undergo partial reprogramming, which is regulated by a specific RNA-binding protein called ESRP2.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 26, 2018

What makes a neuron a neuron?

Researchers have identified the functions of two sibling RNA-binding proteins in neural stem cells and neurons. PTBP1 and PTBP2 serve both redundant and unique roles in brain development, contributing to neuronal differentiation. This discovery has implications for fine-tuning stem cell therapeutic strategies for neurologic disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 6, 2016

Major support for cataract study

Researchers led by Salil Lachke are investigating cellular processes controlling protein production in eye lenses to prevent cataracts. The team aims to build a biological gene regulatory circuit and understand the role of RNA-binding proteins in lens development.

The importance of resting phases in B cell development

Researchers discovered that B cells rely on RNA binding proteins ZFP36L1 and ZFP36L2 to induce quiescence, allowing them to 'rest up' between developmental events. This mechanism is crucial for proper B cell development, as seen in mice where a 98% reduction of mature B cells was observed when these proteins were absent.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 21, 2016

Possible new explanation for ALS

Researchers discovered a new way in which ALS kills nerve cells by disrupting protein synthesis, highlighting the importance of RNA-binding proteins in disease progression. The study provides a potential key to treating both ALS and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNeuron·DateOct 29, 2015

RNA-binding protein influences key mediator of cellular inflammation and stress responses

Researchers have discovered that RNA-binding protein ROQUIN regulates the stability of thousands of mRNA molecules, including those involved in cellular inflammation and stress responses. By binding to these mRNAs, ROQUIN influences the activity of the key mediator NF-kappaB, which is essential for regulating gene expression.

Un-junking junk DNA

A study led by UC San Diego scientists reveals a new way in which RNA-binding proteins govern regulated gene expression, expanding potential targets for therapies. The discovery challenges existing models and has implications for the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders and certain cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 10, 2013

Scientists decode mystery sequences involved in gene regulation

A team of researchers has created the first-ever compendium of RNA-binding sequences, which will become a valuable resource for researchers studying human genetics. The study reveals similarities between humans and fruit flies in terms of binding sequences, suggesting that many proteins bind to similar sequences across species.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature·DateJul 10, 2013

Molecular code cracked

Researchers cracked the molecular code for pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, which recognize and bind specific RNA molecules. This discovery enables the potential for new treatments of genetic diseases and precise control over gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Western Australia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 18, 2012

How nerve cells stay in shape

Researchers identified Staufen2 as essential for maintaining synapses in nerve cells. The absence of Staufen2 leads to impaired signal transmission and altered synapse structure, suggesting mRNA transport is crucial for their maintenance.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Biology·DateJan 17, 2006

Research reveals how cells protect against stress

Scientists have discovered a chain of cellular events that occurs in plant cells when exposed to environmental stress, ultimately leading to the production of protective proteins. The research, led by Sarah M. Assmann, found that a hormone called abscisic acid regulates the processing of RNA molecules involved in stress response.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002