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Stopping the spread: Targeting tumor metastasis

A study from Tokyo Medical and Dental University reveals that the TGF-β signaling molecule can induce EMT in oral cancer cells, leading to high motility and metastatic potential. KRTAP2-3 expression is associated with poorer overall survival, suggesting its role as a prognostic biomarker.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 18, 2022

Breast cancer cells use forces to open up channels through tissue

Researchers have developed a new method for 3D cell culture that accurately quantifies how breast cancer cells generate forces to spread within tissue. This study provides more accurate computational data on cellular forces during invasion by breast cancer cells, which may lead to more efficient and personalized drug development.

SourceAalto University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 31, 2022

"Sticky" stem cells make for better transplants

A KAUST-led research team identified two drug treatments that boost the activity of molecules involved in cell adhesion, enhancing the ability of blood-forming stem cells to enter the bloodstream and produce new blood. This breakthrough could lead to improved bone marrow transplant success for leukemia patients.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalBlood Advances·DateAug 25, 2022

SUTD researchers unravel cell biology through artificial intelligence

Researchers used artificial intelligence to demonstrate the correlation between cytoskeleton organisation and nuclear position in eukaryotic cells. The study successfully predicted the presence and location of nuclei in over 8,000 cells with high accuracy, transforming the way scientists approach complex biological systems.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 16, 2022
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.

U of T researchers identify how cells move faster through mucus than blood

A study published in Nature Physics reveals that specialized cell movement may explain the progression of cancer and cystic fibrosis. Cells with ruffled edges sense viscosity and adapt to increase their speed, moving faster through mucus than blood. This discovery sheds light on disease mechanisms and potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022
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.

Scientists find trigger that sets off metastasis in pancreatic cancer

Researchers found that suppressing an enzyme called MSRA, which fixes oxidative damage to proteins, sparks the metastatic spread of pancreatic cancer cells. The discovery suggests that similar switches may exist in other cancers and lays the groundwork for redox-based targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2022

Unlocking the mysteries of cell migration

Researchers led by Atsuo Sasaki aim to identify mechanisms behind cell movement and energy allocation in cancer cells, with potential applications beyond cancer treatment. They will use scanning ion-conductance microscopy and machine learning technology to study the role of GTP in cellular migration.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJun 6, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Controlling cells with a laser beam

Researchers at TU Wien develop a method to guide individual cells with laser precision, enabling reproducible production of artificial tissue and testing new drugs without animal testing. The technique involves adding special molecules to hydrogel surrounding cells, which become softer and more permeable when activated by a laser beam.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Designer neurons offer new hope for treatment of Parkinson’s disease

Researchers have developed a process to convert non-neuronal cells into functioning neurons that can take up residence in the brain and restore capacities undermined by Parkinson's destruction of dopaminergic cells. In a proof-of-concept study, one group of experimentally engineered cells performs optimally in terms of survival, growth...

SourceArizona State University·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

Getting sticky with it: Phospholipid found to play a key role in epithelial cell adhesion

Researchers found phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2) essential for epithelial cell-cell adhesion and maintaining cellular identity. PIP2 regulates epithelial properties by recruiting Par3 to the plasma membrane, facilitating the formation of adherens junctions and preventing epithelial-mesenchymal transformation.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Repairing tendons with silk proteins

A team from the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation has created a method to repair tendons using silk fibroin scaffolds, which showed improved healing and regeneration of injured tendons. The scaffold combines silk fibroin with GelMA to promote cell attachment, growth, and differentiation.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2022
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.

Breast cancer: Why metastasis spreads to the bone

A team of biologists identified a protein involved in the spread of breast cancer to bones. The discovery confirms the importance of cellular plasticity during the metastatic process and could lead to new treatments. ZEB1, a protein that increases cell plasticity, was found to direct cells with metastatic characteristics to bones.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateApr 21, 2022

Lockdown for tumour cells

A novel inhibitor has been discovered that stalls a critical enzyme inside tumour cells, locking them in place and preventing invasion into healthy tissue. The findings hold promise for the development of metastasis-blocking agents.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 20, 2022

Lab grown, self-sustainable muscle cells repair muscle injury and disease, mouse study shows

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully cultivated human muscle stem cells capable of renewing themselves and repairing muscle tissue damage in mice. The self-renewing stem cells were created by reprogramming laboratory-grown human skin cells, which then differentiated into specific cell types using a nutrient-rich broth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 20, 2022

Flexible printable electrical patches for accelerated wound healing

Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have developed a flexible, antibacterial conductive hydrogel-ePatch that accelerates wound healing with minimal side effects. The e-Patch uses silver nanowires and alginate to promote cell proliferation and migration, resulting in faster wound closure and reduced scarring.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022
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.

Novel therapeutic agents may reduce the oncogenesis of metastatic prostate cancer

Researchers have found that treating prostate cancer cells with novel CDK8 and CDK19 inhibitors reduces their potential to migrate into surrounding structures. This suggests a promising approach to overcome resistance against anti-androgenic therapy, offering new therapeutic options for patients with advanced disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2022

Microscaffolds – a new strategy in tissue engineering

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new approach to produce artificial tissue using micro-scaffolds with a diameter of less than a third of a millimetre. These scaffolds can accommodate thousands of cells and enable high cell density and control over mechanical properties.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Biomaterialia·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

Burst of rapid cell motion in 3D tumor model

A new phenomenon was discovered where increased pressure leads to a sudden burst of rapid and coordinated cellular motion, spraying outwards from the tumour. This fluid-like pushing mechanism can kill cancer cells but also enables them to survive and multiply in new environments.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Scientists discover the origins of metastasis

Researchers at UNIGE find that near-death experience in primary tumors triggers pro-metastatic states in cells, leading to metastasis. These 'PAME' cells reprogram themselves and trigger a cytokine storm, forming new tumors.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Reports·TypeNews article·DateMar 9, 2022

Run (and tumble) to dinner

Scientists from the Institute of Industrial Science have developed a theoretical model for optimal search strategy in biological systems, which may help design new drones or nanobots. The model uses stochastic optimal control theory to analyze chemotaxis, a process of attraction to chemical gradients.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateFeb 16, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

P53 protein plays a key role in tissue repair, study finds

Researchers have discovered that p53 protein activates a molecular program turning damaged cells into migratory leader cells for quick epithelial repair. Once repaired, these highly migratory cells are eliminated to restore normal epithelial tissue structure.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Story tips: DNA in a drop, printing in the wind, drier air, revealing hidden biology and calculating better batteries

Researchers use environmental DNA to monitor aquatic species near hydropower facilities, while also developing a novel method for printing full-strength steel components using additive manufacturing. These advancements could lead to more efficient and cost-effective monitoring and renewable energy production.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

Embryonic cells sense stiffness in order to form the face

Researchers at University College London discovered that embryonic cells can navigate towards harder regions using chemical and mechanical signals, guiding the formation of facial features. This breakthrough could help prevent birth defects and infant mortality by improving understanding of cell migration mechanisms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 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.

New review highlights cancer-crushing viruses

A recent review article describes a class of viruses known as oncolytic viruses, which have the remarkable ability to target and destroy cancer cells. Researchers are exploring these viruses for cancer therapy, with some showing promising results in stimulating an immune response against cancer.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCancers·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 2021

Cells move by controlling the stiffness of their neighbours

Researchers discovered cells can regulate neighboring cell stiffness to facilitate movement, a finding that could aid in understanding developmental disorders and cancer metastasis. This novel mechanism may provide a strategy for slowing or preventing cancer spread by altering tissue stiffness.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Under arrest: Using nanofibers to stop brain tumor cells from spreading

A team of researchers from Japan has developed a platform using nanofibers to capture and control the migration of brain tumor cells, including glioblastoma multiforme. The study found that varying fiber densities can slow or speed up cell movement, leading to the creation of 'cell traps' that can restrict tumor cell growth.

SourceUniversity of Fukui·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The complex dynamics of stem cell tethers and slings

Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanisms behind stem cell rolling in blood vessels, a complex process that slows down cells using long tethers. The findings offer new insights into improving stem cell transplantations and developing treatments for metastasizing cancers.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2021

How pruning the cytoskeleton moves the cell

Actin filaments generate pushing forces to move the cell membrane. The capping protein regulates filament growth, promoting branching near the membrane through the Arp2/3 complex. A high-resolution structure reveals that capping protein blocks nucleation-promoting factors via a tiny 'tentacle' extension.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Singapore researchers develop novel 3D model to study vascular diseases

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a 3D model of the human artery blood vessel wall to study atherosclerosis. The model, called an 'arterial wall-on-a-chip', helps understand how cholesterol and inflammatory cells contribute to the disease.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researchers take step toward using cellular motion to help wound healing

Scientists at Princeton University have created a novel approach to directing skin cells using an electrical field. By breaking molecular connections between cells and applying an electric field, researchers were able to improve the controllability of tissues and potentially optimize wound healing through electrical stimulation.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021

Synthetic tissue model with blood vessels

Scientists create a cell culture system where blood vessels can grow within a framework made of synthetic materials. The team investigates material properties that promote blood vessel formation and refines the model to improve its performance, paving the way for growing implantable tissues.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021

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
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.

Cell couriers deliver clue to cancer metastasis

Researchers have discovered that increased levels of protein Tumour Protein D54 can increase and decrease the movement of cancer cells, suggesting its potential role in tumour spread. The study found that reducing or increasing this protein's expression affects cell migration, with higher levels leading to more metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 21, 2021

The molecular underpinnings of immune cell migration

Researchers at Osaka University identified a molecular mechanism governing immune cell motility, involving the lysosomal Ragulator complex. This process enables immune cells to migrate and elicit an immune response, with implications for treating autoimmune disorders and cancer.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 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.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Researchers dig deeper into how migrating cells interact in the body

Cells migrating along networks of fibers exhibit different behavior than in a flat environment, with increased speed and altered interactions when encountering other cells or dividing. This study provides new understanding into cellular behavior and its relevance to drug delivery and wound healing.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2021

It takes two to tango: When cells interact

Researchers studied cell interactions in a microscopic 'cell collider' and found that normal cells repel each other's protrusions, while cancer cells try to squeeze past each other. The study suggests new approaches for understanding cancer cell behavior and identifying molecular bases for these differences.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 2021

How cells recycle the machinery that drives their motility?

Researchers at University of Helsinki discovered a molecular mechanism that promotes cell migration by recycling actin filaments. Twinfilin efficiently removes Capping Protein from filament plus-ends, leading to depolymerization and slower cell migration in its absence.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 9, 2021

Chloroplasts on the move

Researchers have discovered a new pathway for intercellular exchange of large cell structures, enabling genetic material to be transferred between plants. This process allows for the creation of new plant species and has implications for crops like bread and durum wheat.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 11, 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.

Patterns in primordial germ cell migration

A team of biologists and mathematicians developed a new software tool to analyze cell migration processes in zebrafish embryos. The study identified physical barriers that influence cell migration and found a tissue-specific expression of green fluorescent protein, which serves as a reference structure for image registration.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateJan 7, 2021

Frozen: Cutting-edge technology reveals structures within cells

Researchers have developed a new method to visualize protein complexes in their natural environment, revealing the structure of the Arp2/3 complex and its role in cell motility. The study provides insights into the regulation and activity of this important protein complex, which could lead to better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 22, 2020

Stem cell treatment for vascular diseases can be predicted through real-time observation

Researchers developed a method to predict therapeutic efficacy of stem cell treatment for vascular diseases based on initial distribution and migration of transplanted cells. The method enabled predicting superior therapeutic efficacy when treatment cells form into condensed 'round shape' during initial treatment.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalBiomaterials·DateDec 18, 2020