Cell Responses

Blocking TGF-β signaling may strengthen efficacy of osteoporosis therapy

Beyond cell death: The hidden drivers of stem cell aging

A recent study reveals that MLKL activation causes direct damage to mitochondria, impairing energy production and leading to functional decline in hematopoietic stem cells. In contrast, deletion or inhibition of MLKL significantly alleviates these defects, suggesting a post-transcriptional mechanism driving HSC aging.

Nearly 30 percent of patients with resistant hypertension have a hormone disorder caused by high cortisol

The MOMENTUM study found that 27% of patients with resistant hypertension have hypercortisolism, a condition characterized by elevated cortisol levels. This finding suggests that hypercortisolism may be an underlying cause of resistant hypertension, which impacts nearly 10 million patients in the US.

Road salt creates more harm to freshwater life than expected, study finds

Research by University of Missouri scientists found that road salt is deadly to freshwater snails when paired with the presence of predators, causing nearly 60% higher mortality rates. The study suggests practical solutions to reduce salt pollution in waterways, such as cutting road salt use by up to 50%.

Muscle protein linked to exercise opens new way to treat Alzheimer’s

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease by targeting muscle protein Cathepsin B. The study found that increasing Ctsb in muscle tissue may offer protection against the effects of AD and promote brain cell growth, restoring protein balance and rebalancing brain activity.

Blocking a cellular switch could prevent lung-scarring disease

UCSF researchers found a key cellular switch driving pulmonary fibrosis and developed a new therapy to block it in mice. The treatment works by preventing healthy lung cells from converting to harmful cell types, reducing scarring and improving lung function.

“Security check” inside the cell: Self-cleavage as built-in quality control

Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) use a self-cleavage process to monitor their function. This process relies on multiple domain-extrinsic factors, ensuring efficient receptor activation and preventing faulty proteins from reaching the cell surface. The discovery provides new insights into how cells maintain quality control.

Better understanding of bitter taste receptors: An AlphaFold3-based structure study

Researchers used AlphaFold3 to predict the structure of human bitter taste receptors, achieving higher accuracy than previous models. The study found similarities and differences in the structures of T2Rs, shedding light on their function and potential role in health and pharmaceutical research.

Uncovering what makes cells picky (self)eaters: uOttawa team maps pathways that determine cellular recycling outputs

A team of researchers from the University of Ottawa has developed a new workflow to study autophagy, a fundamental cellular mechanism that preserves cell health by recycling and degrading worn-out components. The study reveals novel signaling mechanisms regulating autophagy in response to numerous disease-related stress conditions.

Researchers find the key to start to our cells self-cleaning system

A team of researchers from Aarhus University has identified the molecular 'switch' regulating autophagy, a process by which cells recycle unwanted materials. The discovery could lead to new treatments for diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and infection.

From mild to severe hypoxia: How HIF-1α conducts the “survival symphony” of tumor cells?

A study reveals how HIF-1α adapts cells to different levels of oxygen deprivation by activating specific genes, including those involved in glycolysis, immune suppression and angiogenesis. The research provides a framework for understanding hypoxia-induced cellular responses and identifying precision targets for therapeutic strategies.

Study shows tissues’ pliability depends on watery fluid between cells

Researchers found that intercellular flow plays a major role in tissue response to deformation, affecting organs' adaptability to conditions like aging and cancer. The study's findings could inform the design of artificial tissues and organs.

Stress genes clear dead cells, offering disease insights

Researchers have discovered a novel cell-clearance pathway linked to diseases such as Chediak-Higashi Syndrome, which affects immune system function. The study used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology and live imaging to characterize this pathway and identify key genes involved.

The risk of death or complications from broken heart syndrome was high from 2016 to 2020

A new analysis of health records from 2016 to 2020 found that takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as broken heart syndrome, is associated with a high risk of death and complications. Researchers highlight the importance of careful monitoring and prompt treatment for patients with this condition.

Breakthrough study reveals key to preserving immune tissue that fights infections

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have discovered a crucial pathway to preserve thymic function as we age. The study found that increasing fibroblast growth factor FGF21 can help maintain thymus size and function, allowing for a broader range of T-cells to develop.

University of Cincinnati Cancer Center presents research at AACR 2025

Researchers from the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center presented abstracts highlighting contrasting effects of a protein on head and neck, breast, and lung cancers. The study found increased levels of IL-9 in patients with head and neck cancer correlated with decreased survival, while elevated IL-9 was associated with smaller tumo...

Your cells can hear

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has found that cells can hear and respond to sound waves, leading to potential applications in medicine and healthcare. The study used acoustic pressure to induce cellular responses, revealing the suppression of fat cell formation and activation of mechanosensitive genes.

New bat cell lines and reagents help to study bat antiviral immune responses against hantaviruses and coronaviruses

Researchers have developed new bat cell lines and reagents to study the bat's antiviral immune response, providing insights into susceptibility to hantaviruses and coronaviruses. The study aims to improve our understanding of viral infections in bats.

Researchers discover way to predict treatment success for parasitic skin disease

Researchers at the University of Maryland discovered a way to predict treatment success for cutaneous leishmaniasis, a devastating skin infection. By analyzing a patient's immune system, they identified a distinctive pattern that distinguishes responders from non-responders, with 90% accuracy.

MIT scientists engineer starfish cells to shape-shift in response to light

Researchers at MIT successfully triggered a key enzyme in starfish egg cells using different patterns of light, prompting predictable movements and contractions. The study provides a new optical tool for controlling cell shape in its earliest developmental stages.

The relationship between gut microbiota, immunoglobulin A, and vaccine efficacy

A study has established the importance of immunoglobulin A in generating a response to pneumonia vaccines. The research found that poor regulation of gut microbiota can lead to an inadequate immune response, leaving individuals vulnerable to respiratory infections.

Platelet-rich plasma may support ovarian function in women with poor ovarian response

Researchers found that PRP treatment increased gene expression related to metabolism, cell survival, and communication between cells in cumulus cells. This suggests that PRP may help support egg development and fertility in women with poor ovarian response.

Cold sore discovery IDs unknown trigger for those annoying flare-ups

Scientists have identified a new target to prevent cold sores by understanding how the herpes virus triggers its own immune response. The discovery has important implications for genital herpes caused by the same virus, with potential treatments in development.

Massive data analysis advances the understanding of how immunotherapy works

A recent study has identified that the neuronal subtype responds best to immunotherapy, while other subtypes exhibit lower response rates. The researchers developed a machine-learning algorithm using large public data sets to predict treatment response based on tumor mutational burden and immune cell infiltration.

Immunotherapy against melanoma: efficacy can be predicted with a chip

Researchers have developed a 'gut-on-chip' model that replicates intestinal inflammation and predicts response to immunotherapy in melanoma patients. The device differentiates between major intestinal populations and reproduces realistic environments.

Ziapin2 effectiveness in restoring retinal function in preclinical models of retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration

Researchers demonstrate the effectiveness of Ziapin2 in restoring ON, OFF, and ON-OFF responses induced by light stimuli in retinas with retinitis pigmentosa. The molecule restores light-induced behavior and visual acuteness for up to two weeks without toxic or inflammatory effects.

Study shows role of cells’ own RNA in antiviral defense

Researchers found that cellular RNA molecules help regulate antiviral signaling by activating the MAVS signalosome. This signaling pathway is crucial for coordinating immune responses against virus invasion. The study's findings suggest a potential role for RNA-based therapeutics in combating infections and autoimmune diseases.

Bioengineered yeast microbes as targeted drug delivery systems

Engineered yeast cells can form cooperative groups that perform complex tasks and self-regulate in response to external signals. This approach enables precise production of therapeutic compounds, reducing waste and increasing treatment efficacy.

SPACe: A new open-source platform that supports large imaging data analysis on standard computers

SPACe enables researchers to analyze large datasets in an efficient way, capturing the full diversity of cellular responses. The platform provides a more nuanced understanding of how drugs interact with cells, revealing insights into mechanisms beyond cell death.

Study: Tumors grow larger in female fruit flies than males. Here’s what that could mean for humans

A study by Tulane University researchers found that tumors in female fruit flies grew 2.5 times larger than those in male fruit flies due to sex-based differences in immune response. The stronger innate immune response in females accelerated tumor growth.

Imaging technique allows rapid assessment of ovarian cancer subtypes and their response to treatment

A new MRI-based imaging technique can rapidly assess ovarian cancer subtypes and their response to treatment, allowing for personalized treatment planning. The technique, called hyperpolarised carbon-13 imaging, distinguishes between two different subtypes of ovarian cancer and reveals their sensitivities to treatment.

How the liver remembers: the science behind intermittent fasting

A new study reveals that alternate-day fasting sensitizes key genes and liver enhancers, leading to enhanced ketogenesis during subsequent fasting bouts. The liver adapts to recurring nutritional challenges through a cellular memory mechanism, highlighting the benefits of intermittent fasting for metabolic health.

Sea anemone study shows how animals stay ‘in shape’

Researchers discovered that sea anemones reshape their entire bodies to maintain the same overall form after injury, contrary to other regenerating animals. This process involves molecular changes across the body, including the activation of metalloproteases, to restore proportionate shape and function.

Study reveals how deadly brain tumor evades treatment; identifies potential new treatment strategy

A new study from UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center introduces a combined genetic and functional profiling approach to predict how glioblastoma will respond to therapy. The approach helps identify new ways to target and treat the tumors more effectively, including using an experimental drug called ABBV-155.

Lab-grown human immune system uncovers weakened response in cancer patients

Researchers created tiny lab-grown models of human immune systems to study immune function in cancer and predict disease treatment response. The miniature models support longer cell function, allowing processes like antibody formation to occur similar to the human body.

Deep-sea corals are home to previously unknown bacteria with extremely small genomes

Researchers have discovered two previously unknown bacterial species in deep-sea corals from the Gulf of Mexico. These bacteria have extremely reduced genomes and lack the ability to break down carbohydrates, surviving on amino acids instead. The discovery provides insights into the unique adaptations of deep-sea organisms.

Long-lasting immunotherapy response in stage IV lung cancer with brain metastasis

Researchers reported a complete and long-lasting response to immunotherapy in a stage IV non-small cell lung cancer patient with brain metastases. The patient achieved overall survival of 87 months and progression-free survival of 73 months after treatment sequencing.

Gut instincts: Intestinal nutrient sensors

A team of researchers has developed strategies to identify regulators of intestinal hormone secretion, which could lead to new treatments for metabolic and gut motility disorders. They used human organoids to study the function of 'nutrient sensors' on hormone-producing cells in the gut.

Study shows that Rett syndrome in females is not just less severe, but different

Researchers found that female mouse models of Rett syndrome have a mosaic-like distribution of cells expressing wild-type and mutant MeCP2 protein, leading to dysregulated genes. The study also discovered an unusual disease progression, with females having more dysregulated genes at the pre-symptomatic stage than later on.

Cell death types and their relations to host immune pathways

Researchers have proposed a framework encompassing all discovered host immunological pathways, including TH1, TH2a, TH2b, TH3, TH9, TH17, TH22, TH1-like, and THαβ immune reactions. These relationships can help understand host defense mechanisms against invading pathogens and provide insights for developing better therapeutic strategies.

Response of BRAF-mutated spindle cell sarcoma to BRAF/MEK inhibitors

Researchers report a case of undifferentiated spindle cell sarcoma with primary insensitivity to standard chemotherapy, but a pronounced response to BRAF/MEK inhibitors at recurrence. The tumor was found to be BRAF exon 15 double-mutated: c.1799T>A p.V600E and c.1819T>A p.S607T.

Mini lungs make major COVID-19 discoveries possible

Researchers have discovered that SARS-CoV-2 can infect more types of lung cells than previously thought, including those without known viral receptors. The study also found that the lung can independently muster an inflammatory antiviral response without immune system help when exposed to the virus.

Finding a solution for long COVID, one cell type at a time

Researchers at Ohio State University are exploring the role of caspase 11 in SARS-CoV-2 infection, aiming to prevent inflammation and tissue injury. They will use human cell samples and experimental inhibitors to develop new treatment strategies for long COVID.

Improved efficacy of pembrolizumab when combined with sEphB4-HSA in HPV-negative EphrinB2-positive HNSCC

A phase II clinical trial found that combining sEphB4-HSA with pembrolizumab improved outcomes in HPV-negative, EphrinB2-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. The combination showed a favorable toxicity profile and activity, particularly among those with HNSCC.

Mechanobiomaterials: A rising field using mechanobiology principles to program the functional biomaterials

Researchers develop mechanobiomaterials inspired by biomechanics to modulate biological responses with material-tissue mechanical interactions. This approach aims to create biomaterials that can adapt to changing mechanical environments in vivo, enhancing the body's regenerative potential and repairing various tissues.

New global research aims to improve survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients

A new study found that nearly five percent of pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients achieve a pathological complete response (pCR) after treatment, leading to a 63% 5-year survival rate. The research highlights the importance of tailoring treatment based on factors such as chemotherapy regimens and radiation therapy.

Research identifies possible new pathway to treatment of colorectal cancer

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a possible new pathway to treat colorectal cancer by targeting the NF-kB-inducing kinase (NIK) protein. The study, led by Irving Coy Allen, identifies changes in a significant signaling pathway in human patients and presents potential targets for therapeutics.

Advancing cancer tracking: DiFC detects rare cells noninvasively

Researchers developed DiFC, a two-color diffuse flow cytometry system that detects rare cancer cells in the bloodstream without invasive methods. The technology provides insights into cancer progression and response to treatments by studying different subpopulations of cancer cells simultaneously.

Unveiling secrets of aging beta cells and their ability to secrete insulin

Aging human pancreatic beta cells display features of senescence but maintain elevated levels of genes crucial for function and exhibit an ability to release insulin in response to glucose. This sheds light on the potential role of aging beta cells in immune regulation and their relevance to autoimmune reactions in type 1 diabetes.

New avenues to developing personalized treatments for schizophrenia

A new study has identified two proteins that play a vital role in modulating cell responses in schizophrenia. The researchers found that these proteins can be targeted to develop drugs that address specific symptoms of the disease, potentially leading to more effective and personalized treatments.

Extremely rare immune cells predict how well treatments work for recurrent hives

A study by Trinity College Dublin researchers has linked rare mast cell types to treatment response in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a common skin condition characterized by recurring hives. The findings suggest that these cells may help predict who will respond well to anti-IgE therapies.

Dartmouth-led study provides new insights into phage therapy design

A new Dartmouth-led study has provided new insights into the therapeutic potential of bacteriophage therapy for treating diseases like cystic fibrosis. Researchers found that respiratory epithelial cells sense and respond to therapeutic phages, and interactions between phages and epithelial cells are heterogenous in nature.

Seeking medical insights in the physics of mucus

Researchers developed a system to grow mucus-producing intestinal cells for in vitro testing, allowing for the exploration of mucus behavior under different conditions. The platform simulates infections and tests drug effects on mucus without affecting its properties.

Artificial sweetener has potential to damage gut

Neotame has been shown to cause previously healthy gut bacteria to become diseased and invade the gut wall, potentially leading to irritable bowel syndrome and sepsis. The study also found a breakdown of the epithelial barrier, which forms part of the gut wall.

Phage therapy is being explored to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, but what are the direct effects of phages on the human host?

Therapeutic phages can detect epithelial cells of the human respiratory tract, eliciting proinflammatory responses. Specific phage properties and airway microenvironment influence these responses.

“Zombie neurons” shed light on how the brain learns

Researchers discovered a class of cerebellar inputs, called climbing fibres, are essential for associative learning to occur. These

Enhanced melanoma vaccine offers improved survival for men

A second-generation melanoma vaccine has shown improved survival rates for male patients compared to female patients, particularly those who are younger and have earlier-stage cancer. The vaccine targets helper T cells to recognize melanoma proteins, leading to boosted patient survival and reduced cancer reoccurrences.

Initial SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations prime immune cells to respond to subsequent variants

Researchers found that initial vaccinations against the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 strain shape immune responses to newer variants BA.5 and XBB, with higher B cell repertoire leading to more effective cross-reactive immunity. This 'immunological imprinting' effect could impact future vaccine designs.

Vac to the future

A competition among researchers predicted B. pertussis vaccine responses based on a simple correlation between calendar age and antibody responses. The result highlights the need for further research to understand variability in vaccination outcomes.

The liver immune system eats up ‘bad cholesterol’

Researchers found that Kupffer cells in liver respond to high cholesterol by removing excess, revealing the liver's role in regulating cholesterol levels. This discovery suggests atherosclerosis is a systemic disease affecting multiple organs.