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HKUST scientists make breakthrough discovery of new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's

Researchers at HKUST have identified novel molecular targets for Alzheimer's drug development, focusing on endothelial cells and microglia. The study reveals a link between blood vessel dysregulation and AD pathogenesis, as well as potential therapeutic interventions through the cytokine IL-33.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Developing a new strategy to selectively deliver therapies to the brain

Researchers developed a novel two-step targeting strategy to selectively deliver therapies to the brain by exploiting the high impermeability of the BBB. This approach allows for specific brain targeting with minimal accumulation in peripheral organs, paving the way for increased clinical translation of nanoparticle-based therapies.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2020

Researchers capture cell-level details of curved cornea

A new optical coherence tomography (OCT) instrument has been developed to image the curved layers of the cornea with cell-level detail, enabling improved monitoring of eye diseases and general health conditions. The device provides a large viewing area, allowing for more precise counting of cells and nerves.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 23, 2020

Vascular development may be at risk in autism

Researchers found that mice with a common genetic mutation in autism spectrum disorder had delayed and weaker blood vessel responses, which led to neuronal dysfunction and autistic traits. The study suggests that problems with blood vessels begin early in life and can contribute to the development of autism.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 13, 2020

CNIC scientists identify an immunological regulatory circuit that may play a central role in ocular diseases

Researchers at CNIC have identified an inflammatory regulatory circuit controlled by endothelial cells in the eye, which may regulate retinal vascular diseases and inflammatory disorders. The discovery provides new perspectives on treating conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

New remote-controlled 'smart' platform helps in cardiovascular disease treatment

Researchers developed a remote-controlled 'smart' platform to mimic natural extracellular matrix-mediated endothelialization. The platform uses shape-memory polymers and gold nanorods to direct programmed vascular endothelium remodeling in a temporally controllable manner, offering new possibilities for treating cardiovascular disease.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 3, 2019

Enhanced human Blood-Brain Barrier Chip performs in vivo-like drug and antibody transport

A new microfluidic organ chip model of the human blood-brain barrier has been developed, allowing for in vivo-like transport of drugs and therapeutic antibodies. The model recapitulates the physical barrier functions and transport abilities of the human BBB, offering a significant advance in drug development.

First-of-its-kind study in endothelial stem cells finds exposure to flavored e-cigarette liquids, e-cigarette use exacerbates cell dysfunction

A new study found that exposure to flavored e-cigarette liquids and e-cigarette use exacerbate endothelial cell dysfunction, a key risk factor for heart disease. The researchers observed pro-inflammatory markers and toxic effects on cells from various e-liquids.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 27, 2019

FSU research sheds light on spinal cord injuries

Researchers at Florida State University have discovered that a natural immune system response can cause further harm after a spinal cord injury. The study found that the process of clearing myelin debris from the injury site can lead to inflammation and the formation of abnormal blood vessels, inhibiting recovery.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 21, 2019

Resist! TAK1 enables endothelial cells to avoid apoptosis

A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that TAK1 preserves endothelial cell survival in an inflammatory environment, suggesting its potential as a target for anti-angiogenic therapy. The researchers used a unique mouse model to show that TAK1 is essential for endothelial cell survival during inflammation and injury.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 17, 2019