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New computational models to understand colon cancer

The study identified several cellular pathways that change when a tumor becomes aggressive, and developed a simple system to model their effect. The model integrated different types of experimental data, including transcription factors, to predict which targets are important for colorectal cancer aggressiveness.

Dormant threat: Abnormal proteins unleash latent toxicity in neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers have discovered a mechanism of action by which abnormal proteins cause indirect damage to neurons, leading to dendrite defects in fly models of neurodegenerative diseases. The study identifies a problematic transcription factor called NF-κB, which becomes improperly regulated due to the presence of abnormal proteins.

'Only the stressed die young'

Research on Drosophila reveals that Ets21c promotes intestinal epithelial renewal, but its loss accelerates tissue turnover and makes flies vulnerable to stress. The study contributes to understanding regenerative processes under favourable and stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 4, 2019

Engineering cellular function without living cells

Researchers at EPFL's LBNC have developed a quantitative, replicable method for studying gene expression using a cell-free system in combination with high-throughput microfluidic devices. This approach allows them to build synthetic biological logic gates that can be used to modify cellular functions and introduce new therapeutic purpo...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

Clues for drugging the 'undruggable'

Researchers have identified a new way to target and degrade a class of proteins called zinc finger transcription factors, which play critical roles in health and disease. By modifying thalidomide analogs, scientists can selectively degrade specific zinc fingers, offering a promising lead for developing new cancer treatments.

SourceFriedrich Miescher Institute·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2018