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Checking how cells grow

Conlon and Raff's study found that mammalian cells do not use cell-size checkpoints to determine when to divide, unlike yeast cells. Instead, they rely on extracellular signalling from other cells to coordinate growth and division.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateApr 24, 2003

Physics tip sheet #34 - April 1, 2003

Researchers are investigating new methods to combat cancer growth through computer models and cytotoxic treatments. They also discovered that a process called Auger emission can cause electrons to be emitted in well-defined directions by single molecules, leading to potential breakthroughs in physics research.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 1, 2003

Jefferson scientists find calcium is key to slowing colorectal cancer growth

Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University found that a bacterial toxin opens a cellular door, allowing calcium to flow into tumor cells, which slows cell division and may lead to new methods of treating colorectal cancer. The discovery could also enable the use of the toxin as an intravenous infusion to treat metastatic tumors.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2003

Making embryos male

Researchers identify DHH as key player in fetal Leydig cell differentiation, enabling testosterone production. The discovery provides insights into human reproductive disorders resulting from faulty sex determination pathways.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 31, 2002

Findings give insight into how colon cells transform into precancerous polyps

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a key signaling pathway involved in the development of precancerous polyps. The study found that blocking this pathway can prevent polyp formation and potentially colon cancer. By understanding how this pathway works, scientists hope to develop targeted treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2002

University of Pittsburgh discovers gene mutation responsible for hereditary gingival fibromatosis

A team of researchers at the University of Pittsburgh has discovered a gene mutation responsible for hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF), a rare condition characterized by gum overgrowth. The discovery may lead to new therapies, including tissue engineering, and could have implications for treating common dental problems like period...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 1, 2002

Hyperactive Cdc42 causes malignant growth

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered how a hyperactive form of the molecular switch Cdc42 disrupts orderly cell growth, leading to cancer. The team found that Cdc42 increases protein shuttling, overstimulating cellular activities and causing hallmarks of cancer cells.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateJun 13, 2000

Growth Factor Contributes To Angiogenesis

A University of Michigan team discovered that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) helps blood vessels survive and proliferate in the face of nutrient depletion. This mechanism is thought to support tumor growth, leading researchers to explore strategies for inhibiting VEGF to starve tumors.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 2, 1999

Retinoic Acid Used In Cancer Treatment

Cornell University researchers found that retinoic acid reverses the growth-promoting effects of oncogenes, which induce cancer. The study suggests enhanced therapies for leukemia and highlights the cancer-prevention role of carotenes in a diet rich in yellow-orange vegetables.

SourceCornell University·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 13, 1998