Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Scientists learn how stem cell implants help heal traumatic brain injury

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston identified key molecular mechanisms by which implanted human neural stem cells aid recovery from traumatic axonal injury. The study found that stem cell transplantation prevents further axonal injury and promotes axonal regrowth through the secretion of glial derived ne...

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateJan 12, 2012

The architects of the brain

Researchers found that specific receptor variants determine the development of nerve cells' dendrites, a crucial mechanism for communication. Different cell classes use these variants to grow dendrites in unique ways.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateOct 26, 2011

Immune peacekeepers discovered

Centenary Institute researchers have identified a set of immune cells in the outer layer of the skin that prevent the immune system from attacking friendly bacteria. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating inflammatory bowel disease and other immune-mediated disorders.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2011

Serendipity leads to lifesaving discovery

A McGill research team identified two distinct disease-causing mutations in the IRF8 gene, which causes severe immunodeficiency and disseminated BCG infection. These findings led to a successful stem cell transplant that saved the life of a three-month-old baby girl.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 11, 2011

UCLA scientists discover new way to wake up the immune system using nano vaults to deliver drugs

UCLA researchers have discovered a novel method to stimulate the immune system against lung cancer by delivering an immune-stimulating protein via nanoscale containers called vaults. The approach showed potent inhibition of cancer growth in pre-clinical studies and has the potential to be a game-changer in cancer immunotherapy.

New microscope decodes complex eye circuitry

Researchers have discovered that retinal ganglion cells receive visual information from amacrine cell dendrites running along the null-direction, allowing for directional selectivity. This mechanism relies on asymmetric synapses and inhibitory influences between neighbouring amacrine cells.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 9, 2011

Process leading to protein diversity in cells important for proper neuron firing

A novel form of splicing in the cytoplasm of nerve cells dictates a special form of a potassium channel protein in the outer membrane, essential for coordinating electrical firing of nerve cells. This discovery highlights the importance of introns in regulating protein diversity and has implications for brain diseases such as epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2010

Rare hybrid cell key to regulating the immune system

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have identified a rare hybrid cell that can switch the immune system on or off, expressing indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase to turn off T cells. This unique cell has properties of both dendritic and B cells, with potential implications for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis therapies.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2010

How nerve cells grow

Researchers have discovered a molecular process that controls the growth of nerve cells, allowing them to form complex extensions for signal transmission. The study highlights the importance of Nedd4-1 enzyme in regulating cytoskeleton structure and ensuring normal dendrite growth.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 19, 2010

Microscopic 'beads' could help create 'designer' immune cells that ignore transplanted organs

Researchers have discovered a method to deliver a natural suppressor of the immune response, HLA-G, directly to dendritic cells using microscopic beads. This approach shows promise in creating 'designer' immune cells that can tolerate transplanted organs. The therapy could potentially replace current anti-rejection drugs and improve pa...

Novel discovery in dendritic cell signalling pathways pave the way for new therapeutic targets

Scientists have discovered a novel signaling pathway in dendritic cells that can be activated by bacterial fragments, leading to the activation of NFAT and triggering an immune response. This discovery has identified potential new therapeutic targets for diseases such as sepsis and chronic heart failure.

Scientists show how a neuron gets its shape

Researchers used microscopy to study neuron growth in Caenorhabditis elegans and found that certain neurons work backward from their destination. The discovery suggests that the brain is wired based on connectivity rather than absolute distance, providing an explanation for how the brain grows in proportion to the organism.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateApr 3, 2009

Dendritic cells ensure immune tolerance

Research suggests that dendritic cells are essential for generating and maintaining immunological tolerance. Without these cells, the immune system fails to distinguish between self and foreign substances, leading to autoimmune responses. This study highlights the critical role of dendritic cells in protecting against autoimmune diseases.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 16, 2009

Vitamin A signals offer clues to treating autoimmunity

Scientists have discovered a compound called zymosan that can respond to two different receptors in dendritic cells, sending both stimulatory and calming messages. This finding could guide the development of vaccines against infectious agents and potentially boost the immune system's ability to fight chronic infections.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 1, 2009