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How do cells acquire their shapes? A new mechanism identified

A multidisciplinary team discovers a new mechanism by which fission yeast cells acquire their tubular shape through secretion-induced plasma membrane flows. This process involves the coupling of exocytosis and protein motion, creating a self-sustaining pattern that establishes cell polarity.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Engineers grow pancreatic “organoids” that mimic the real thing

Researchers at MIT developed a new way to grow pancreatic organoids using synthetic gel, allowing for study of interactions between tumors and environment. The gel can also be used to grow other types of tissue, including intestinal and endometrial tissue.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 13, 2021

The first cells might have used temperature to divide

A new study proposes that protocells, the putative ancestors of modern living cells, used temperature differences to divide. This simple mechanism could underlie the growth and self-replication of these early cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 3, 2021

Getting cell culture research right

A study analyzing 810 papers found that most cell culture experiments neglected environmental conditions, affecting the accuracy of results. The team recommends standard reporting procedures and instruments for better monitoring and control of culture environments.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 13, 2021

Taking microscopic shape without a microscope

Scientists from Nara Institute of Science and Technology have created a simple and fast method for detecting cell shape as they pass through a microfluidic channel. The team used changes in electrical impedance to measure the asymmetry of individual cells, which may greatly accelerate biological experiments.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateAug 9, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

AI knows where your proteins go

Researchers from Nara Institute of Science and Technology developed a machine learning program that accurately predicts the location of proteins related to actin in cells. The program achieved a high degree of similarity with actual images, showing promise for future applications in cell analysis and artificial cell staining.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateAug 5, 2021

Computer-assisted biology: Decoding noisy data to predict cell growth

Scientists developed a machine learning algorithm that uses artificial neural networks to accurately forecast cell size as it grows and divides. By recognizing patterns in the data, the computer can make more complex predictions than conventional methods, which rely on simplifying assumptions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 9, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Extracellular matrix guides growth and function of epithelial cells

Scientists at the University of Helsinki discovered that ECM protein Lama5 guides the growth and differentiation of epithelial cells in breast tissue, especially during pregnancy. The production of Lama5 strengthens the functionality of hormone-sensitive cells, allowing them to relay signals and support tissue growth.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalDevelopment·DateJul 1, 2021

Cancer-promoting Ras protein exists in a pair within cells

The Ras protein, involved in cancer development, is found to exist in a pair at the cell membrane. This pairing enhances signal transmission for cell growth, making it a potential target for cancer treatment. Bioinformatic methods and experimental data validate the structure of the interface between the two proteins.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 2, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Hydraulic instability decides who's to die and who's to live

Researchers discovered that hydraulic instability amplifies small volume differences between germ cells, leading to their selection for growth or shrinkage. The study reveals a mechanical mechanism governing the life and death decision in the nematode germline.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 31, 2021

Research team investigates causes of tuberous sclerosis

A research team from the University of Münster has identified a new mechanism regulating cell growth in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), which affects one in 10,000 newborns. The study reveals how mutations can disrupt protein binding through a 'burr effect', leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumour formation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 12, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Biologists discover a new type of placental structure in animals

Biologists have discovered a new type of placental structure in animals, specifically in the group Cyclostomata from the phylum Bryozoa. This unique structure, called coenocytes, is formed through nuclear multiplication and cytoplasmic growth, unlike traditional cell fusion in animals.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 20, 2021

Protein found to control drivers of normal growth and cancer

A new study reveals a long-sought enzyme, AMBRA1, that prevents cancer by controlling proteins driving cell growth. The findings also suggest that an existing drug class may be able to reverse such defects in the future.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 14, 2021

Massey researcher finds new strategy for fighting brain cancer

Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a crucial link between the development and growth of glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The gene YTHDF2 drives increased cholesterol levels in GBM cells, paving the way for potential new treatments targeting this gene.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Deluge of DNA changes drives progression of fatal melanomas

Researchers tracked DNA changes in melanoma samples to understand how the disease progresses and develops resistance to treatment. The study revealed chaotic genetic changes that contribute to aggressive disease growth and treatment resistance, offering potential targets for new therapies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 20, 2021

How to speed up muscle repair

Researchers at UC San Diego discover epigenetic mechanisms to accelerate muscle cell growth using pluripotent stem cells. Triggering specific factors can prime these cells for rapid regeneration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 17, 2021

Can I squeeze through here? How some fungi can grow through tiny gaps

A University of Tsukuba research team discovered that certain fungi can grow through narrow channels by altering their growth rate. This process allows them to maintain cell polarity and continue growing, whereas slower-growing species are impeded, resulting in defective cellular processes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalmBio·DateMar 16, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

How sperm remember

A new study at McGill University identifies a non-DNA based means by which sperm remember a father's environment and transmit that information to the embryo, affecting gene expression and leading to birth defects. The discovery opens new avenues for studying disease transmission and prevention.

SourceMcGill University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 16, 2021

Researchers use silkworm silk to model muscle tissue

USU researchers developed a three-dimensional cell culture surface using silkworm silk to grow skeletal muscle cells, outperforming traditional methods. Cells grown on silkworm silk showed increased mechanical flexibility and proper muscle fiber alignment, mimicking human skeletal muscle more closely.

SourceUtah State University·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateMar 9, 2021

Study offers an explanation for why the APOE4 gene enhances Alzheimer's risk

A study from MIT reveals the APOE4 gene variant causes widespread disruptions in brain cells' ability to metabolize lipids and respond to stress. Supplementing with choline may reverse these effects, offering a potential new approach to treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021

The jaws of life - how hypoxia exposure affects jaw cartilage growth

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that intermittent hypoxia inhibits mandibular cartilage growth in newborn rats. The study also showed decreased expression levels of genes TGF-β and SOX9 in jaw cartilage, while collagen X displayed increased expression.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 1, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Membrane building blocks play decisive role in controlling cell growth

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) controls various aspects of cell growth in pollen tubes by influencing the distribution of enzymes and resulting effects on cytoskeleton stabilization and pectin secretion.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateFeb 15, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Preserving stem cells and tissue without the freezer burn

Researchers developed ice recrystallization inhibitors to halt ice growth in frozen samples, improving cell recovery and function. The technology prevents cellular damage caused by ice crystals, allowing for more efficient storage and transport of biological materials.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·DateJan 25, 2021

The physics behind tumor growth

Researchers at Duke University developed a predictive theory for tumor growth that approaches the subject from a new point of view, using thermodynamics and physical space. The results demonstrate how a tumor's growth is directly tied to its need to create greater access to flowing nutrients and conduits for removing refuse.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiosystems·DateJan 20, 2021

UT Southwestern biochemist recognized for pioneering metabolic research

Dr. Benjamin Tu's research on cellular roles of small molecule metabolites has led to the discovery of a unique pathway supporting cancerous cell growth. His work challenges the long-held belief that metabolites are merely passive in their function, unveiling that they may drive key cellular processes.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateJan 13, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Getting it just right - the Goldilocks model of cancer

Researchers discovered that Wnt signalling enables steady cancer growth by balancing RAS-MAPK signalling. Inhibiting Wnt signalling can cause premature ageing and cellular senescence, leading to cancer cell death.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 20, 2020

New insights on a common protein could lead to novel cancer treatments

A new University of Colorado Boulder study sheds light on CDK7's role in controlling cell growth and transcription, potentially leading to new therapies for hard-to-treat cancers and rare developmental disorders. The findings suggest that CDK7 inhibitors could have distinct therapeutic advantages and result in more selective and less d...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 4, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Sensorimotor brain regions and action-specific activity

Research using functional MRI found that brain networks involved in movement planning and execution are activated differently based on the type of movement performed, even when using different body parts. The study suggests that these brain functions emerge from innate constraints in early development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

How bacteria adapt their machinery for optimum growth

Researchers have developed a complex computer model that explains how bacteria optimize their protein production machinery for faster growth rates. The study reveals that the composition of individual components varies with growth conditions, and real E. coli bacteria use the 'cheapest' configuration to minimize resource usage.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 16, 2020

Computational approach to optimise culture conditions required for cell therapy

Researchers have developed a computational approach called EpiMogrify that can predict the molecules needed to keep cells healthy in laboratory cultures. The model successfully identified molecules to maintain healthy nerve cells and heart cells, and predicted molecules that trigger stem cells to turn into specific cell types.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 12, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

IPK scientists discover gene that ensures slim inflorescence shape of barley

The discovery of the COM1 gene reveals its role in controlling cell growth and influencing the properties of cell walls to form spikelets. This finding provides new insights into grass inflorescence architecture and may aid in increasing barley's yield potential.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 12, 2020

Taking sides - factors that influence patterns in protein distribution

Plant proteins exhibit polarity, forming heads and tails in a stack of coins-like arrangement. This patterning is critical for cell orientation and coordination in plant growth. Researchers found that even isolated cells can become polarized, orienting their growth and guiding collective development.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 8, 2020

There's a reason bacteria stay in shape

Bacteria remain roughly the same size and shape due to a theoretical model that links random processes of growth and division, canceling each other out. This discovery may provide new insights into disease mechanisms, including cancer proliferation.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 6, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Newly identified gut cells nurture lymph capillaries

Researchers at Institute for Basic Science have identified new subsets of gut connective cells crucial for lymphatic growth and fat digestion. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms that impair lacteal regeneration and reveal a link between intestinal environment and cell interactions.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 14, 2020

Researchers explore pollen fertilization mechanisms

A study published in Nature Communications reveals how pollen tubes grow up to a thousand-fold to reach the ovule, creating electrical activity at the cell membrane and promoting faster growth. The findings have implications for understanding seed production, fungal growth, and neuronal development, and may lead to improved food crop v...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2020

NSD2 enzyme appears to prevent cellular senescence

Researchers at Kumamoto University discovered that NSD2 enzyme prevents cellular senescence by maintaining cell growth and serum response. Reduced NSD2 leads to increased expression of genes related to cell aging and decreased activity of growth-promoting genes.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAging Cell·DateAug 7, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

How cells keep growing even when under attack

Researchers discovered that stressed bacteria's damage-containment system can become overwhelmed, prompting cells to activate alternative pathways for DNA replication and growth. This response allows cells to maintain normal functions under stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 5, 2020

Cells communicate by doing the 'wave'

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a novel method of communication among cells using 'mechano-chemical' signals. The findings show that the movement of one cell can trigger a cascading reaction resulting in collective cell migration.

SourceKyoto University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 21, 2020

Temple scientists identify key factor regulating abnormal heart growth

A study published in Circulation reveals that FoxO1 plays a crucial role in regulating abnormal heart growth, a condition characterized by cardiac hypertrophy. The research suggests that targeting FoxO1 could lead to the development of novel therapies for cardiac hypertrophy.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCirculation·DateJul 9, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.