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How petals get their shape

Researchers discovered that Arabidopsis petals contain a hidden map that orients growth towards the edge, producing rounded shapes. This finding explains how different shapes are generated in plants and provides insights into evolutionary adaptability.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 30, 2013

A coordinated response to cardiac stress

Researchers at Yale University identified a molecular mechanism by which the growth of new blood vessels and heart muscle are coordinated. Nitric oxide triggers the destruction of RGS4, allowing for physiological changes associated with the relaxation of blood vessels, while promoting cardiac growth.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2013

Flipping the 'off' switch on cell growth

A Johns Hopkins research team has identified a protein called HIF-1α that helps cells slow down their growth in response to low oxygen levels. This process can potentially be used to treat diseases such as cancer and other conditions where cell growth is uncontrolled.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 22, 2013

Pathway controlling cell growth revealed

A Melbourne-based research team has discovered a genetic defect that can halt cell growth and force cells into a death-evading survival state. The finding reveals an important mechanism controlling rapidly-dividing cells, which may lead to the development of new treatments for diseases including cancer.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 18, 2013

From fish to man: Research reveals how fins became legs

Researchers found that the development of hands and feet occurred through the gain of new DNA elements activating specific genes. This discovery helps understand the power of gene expression in shaping bodies and may shed light on genetic diseases associated with limb formation.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 10, 2012

Human brains outpace chimp brains in the womb

A new study tracked brain growth in human and chimpanzee fetuses, finding that human brains begin to show remarkable differences after 22 weeks of gestation. The findings suggest a faster rate of brain growth in humans compared to chimpanzees.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2012

Study finds cancer-fighting goodness in cholesterol

Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that cholesterol-binding proteins called ORPs can control cell growth, potentially slowing down cancer cells. Genetic changes blocked the ability of these proteins to bind cholesterol, but altered ORPs actually stimulated cell growth by activating regulator proteins.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 19, 2012

Salk scientists discover how plants grow to escape shade

Researchers found that phytochrome interacting factor 7 (PIF7) serves as key messenger between plant's cellular light sensors and production of auxins, hormones that stimulate stem growth. This discovery could lead to high-yield crops that gather light more efficiently and make better use of farmland.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 15, 2012

Red wine ingredient resveratrol stops breast cancer growth

Researchers discovered that resveratrol blocks the growth of breast cancer cells by reducing estrogen receptor levels. This finding has significant implications for treating women with breast cancer whose tumors develop resistance to hormonal therapy. Resveratrol may serve as a potential tool to combat hormone-resistant breast cancer.

Lasers light the path to neuron regeneration

A multidisciplinary approach using laser technology has been successfully employed to fabricate tiny scaffolds for cell delivery and growth in damaged neural tissue. This study demonstrates the potential of direct laser writing in tissue engineering, enabling precise control over scaffold design and structure.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateSep 19, 2011