Cell biologists from the University of Zurich have identified the infection mechanism for type-5 adenoviruses, revealing that viruses use scavenger cells to trigger an immune response and expose shielded receptors on lung epithelial cells. This discovery has implications for both gene therapy and cancer treatment.
Researchers discovered that ghrelin is required for prolonged psychosocial stress to promote preference for high-fat food in mice. A ketogenic diet also suppresses seizures by reducing adenosine levels, while HDL from patients with coronary artery disease has different effects on blood vessel lining cells compared to healthy individuals.
A recent Penn study discovered that microbes open and pass through the initial cellular barrier in a programmed and efficient way, suggesting a normal physiological event. This finding supports a general mechanism for epithelial opening exploited by invasive pathogens.
Breast cancer stem cells can be induced to transition into a mesenchymal and stem cell-like state by signals from breast epithelial cells. Blocking these autocrine signals inhibits the growth of tumors in animal models. The study suggests that targeting these signals could lead to effective treatment for breast cancer.
Researchers discovered a protein isolated from beneficial bacteria, called p40, that supports intestinal epithelial cell growth and function, reducing inflammatory responses. Oral consumption of p40 prevented and treated colitis in animal models, providing a potential new therapeutic option for IBD.
Researchers identify epithelial cells as key to sponge movement, contradicting long-held assumption about muscle cell origins. The study uses 3D imaging to visualize sponges' contracted and expanded states, revealing a new understanding of the evolutionary development of musculature.
Researchers found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus promotes healing of the intestinal lining in mice by inducing reactive oxygen species. This discovery could guide doctors to improved treatments for intestinal diseases.
A team of researchers identified TIM-1 as the cellular protein that acts as a receptor for Ebola and Marburg viruses. An antibody targeting TIM-1 blocks infection by both viruses, potentially providing a way to prevent initial infection and limit outbreak spread.
Researchers found that PUMA protein induces apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, leading to inflammation and UC development. Increased PUMA levels were detected in diseased tissues of UC patients, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles have discovered Eya1 protein phosphatase as a crucial regulator of embryonic lung epithelial stem cells. The correct functioning of these stem cells is essential for healthy lung development, and dysregulation has been linked to developmental disorders and cancer.
Researchers studied avian embryos to understand mechanisms of epiboly, a developmental process linked to wound healing and cancer. They discovered new molecules and protein expression patterns that may be unique to the avian embryo.
Researchers discovered that slime mold cells organize into an epithelial layer with a structure and function similar to those in some animals. The layer secretes proteins, coating the fruiting body stalk with rigidity.
A newly discovered activity of the p53 gene activates microRNA miR-200c to reverse epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells. The study offers a potential therapeutic strategy for targeting tumor-initiating cells with stem cell characteristics.
Scientists found that commensal species like Neisseria lactamica induce lower levels of human airway epithelial cell activation compared to pathogenic species. The study highlights the differential role of a bacterial surface component, PorB, in interacting with host cells and triggering inflammatory responses.
Scientists at Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine identified a key transcription factor, Grhl2, that regulates the expression of cell junctional molecules E-cadherin and claudin 4. This discovery sheds light on the development of diseases such as spina bifida and potentially impacts kidney function.
Rensselaer researcher Lee Ligon has won a $720,000 Research Scholar Grant from the American Cancer Society to investigate interactions between breast cancer cells and their surroundings. Her research focuses on how cancerous and non-cancerous cells communicate with each other, potentially shedding light on new treatments.
Researchers discovered a reservoir of rapidly replicating Salmonella inside epithelial cells, which are then pushed out into the gut cavity, triggering an inflammatory response. This understanding may lead to a treatment that prevents the spread of infection and sheds light on the mechanisms behind acute intestinal inflammation.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered the underlying mechanisms that activate gamma delta T cells in the skin and other organs. These cells play a unique role in recognizing damage or disease in epithelial tissues, and their activation is crucial for wound healing.
CDX2 is an identity gene that tells a cell it is in the epithelial tissue of the intestine, enabling it to perform its job correctly. Cancer cells deactivate this gene, leading researchers to identify five anti-cancer genes and discover CDX2's role in suppressing colon cancer.
Researchers found that CD74 is expressed on colon epithelial cells, increasing their survival upon MIF stimulation. Stimulation of CD74 led to Akt phophorylation and Bcl-2 expression, resulting in elevated cell survival. This discovery may open a new target for colorectal cancer research.
A CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100, decreases epithelial apoptosis and gut permeability in experimental colitis, enhancing epithelial barrier function. This study suggests a pivotal role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 chemokine axis in ulcerative colitis pathogenesis.
Researchers used clinical-grade human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to treat ALI, restoring normal function of alveolar epithelial cells and reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study found that intravenous delivery of hMSCs was as effective as intrabronchial administration in repairing damaged lung tissue.
A study published in PLoS Pathogens reveals that Listeria exploits transiently exposed molecules on intestinal cells to gain access. The pathogen uses a two-step mechanism involving internalin A and internalin B, which activate cell-surface molecules, allowing it to evade the body's defenses.
Researchers found that a protein called hemagglutinin (HA) plays a crucial role in allowing the toxic protein to pass through the intestinal epithelial barrier. The study reveals a species-specific interaction between HA and E-cadherin, which disrupts cell-to-cell adhesion and allows the toxin to enter circulation.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new mechanism by which HIV infects women, exploiting the breakdown of the mucosal barrier in the intestinal and female genital tract. This breakthrough understanding could lead to the development of more effective prevention strategies, such as microbicides and vaccines.
A study published in Immunity reveals that immune cells' signals can interfere with the ability of intestinal cells to regenerate, leading to hyper-activation of growth and increasing the risk of colon cancer. Interfering with a protein called dickkopf 1 may aid in controlling inflammatory bowel diseases.
Researchers report that OSCC cells produce high levels of VEGF, promoting proliferation and invasion. A subpopulation of OSCC cells may undergo an epithelial-to-endothelial transition, facilitating tumor progression and metastases.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found a strong relationship between healthy eating and prolonged ovarian cancer survival. Higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, and healthier grains was associated with improved survival rates.
Scientists at NYU Langone Medical Center have discovered a new pathway that protects epithelial and endothelial cells from uncontrolled tuberculosis infection by producing an enzyme that inhibits Th17 cell production.
Researchers in Belgium successfully differentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESC) into major cell types of lung epithelial tissue using an air-liquid interface. The technique could provide an alternative to lung transplants for patients with chronic pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis.
Researchers find that antioxidants can prevent the flu virus from damaging lung cells, opening the door for new treatments. The study identified a segment of the M2 protein responsible for the damage, which can be inhibited by drugs known to remove oxidants.
Researchers found that SPAK silencing may promote cancer progression in B-cell lymphomas by crippling genotoxic stress signaling. In contrast, macrophage migration contributes to impaired peritoneal fluid drainage and lymphatic dysfunction in the diaphragm. Additionally, urokine plasminogen activator (uPA) is instrumental in the early ...
A phase III randomised controlled trial found that dose-dense weekly paclitaxel plus carboplatin improved survival in women with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer, with a median progression-free survival of 28 months compared to 17 months. Overall survival at 3 years was also higher in the dose-dense regimen group.
Researchers found that a disruption in the spectrin-actin network leads to irregularities in lens cell packing and shape. The study suggests that mechanical stresses during lens growth and eye movements cause this disorganization.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center identified the 15-LOX-1 enzyme, which produces neuroprotectin D1, a molecule that protects retinal cells key to vision. This discovery has potential applications in treating retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease.
Researchers studied dorsal closure in fruit flies to gain insights into human wound healing, discovering that the actin cable acts as a ratchet to guide epithelial cells over gaps. This mechanism could apply to developing tissues beyond dorsal closure and wound healing.
Researchers from Caltech found that contact inhibition is a tunable system influenced by growth factors like EGF. They discovered a threshold of sensitivity to EGF that can be manipulated to control cell division and tissue growth.
Researchers used organotypic skin cultures to study PPAR-beta/delta's role in skin cell communication. They found that PPAR-beta/delta regulates crosstalk between skin layers, controlling proliferation rates and preventing excessive growth.
Researchers have identified a master protein that maintains epithelial cell normality and prevents cancer cells from metastasizing. The Epithelial Splicing Regulatory Protein (ESRP) plays a crucial role in regulating gene splicing, and its dysregulation can lead to cancer cell migration and tissue fibrosis.
Researchers found that mice lacking Smad3 are acutely sensitive to bacterially-induced inflammation and cancer. Chronic inflammation stimulates cancer development.
Research team investigates Campylobacter jejuni pathogenesis, finding two distinct patterns of interaction with epithelial cells. Strains that invade epithelial cells destroy them, while those that don't affect barrier properties or increase mediator production.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered Paneth cells, which line the gut and secrete antimicrobial proteins to keep harmful bacteria from invading tissues. These cells serve as a defense mechanism to prevent disease and illnesses such as food poisoning.
Researchers have developed a new approach to modulate gene expression using miRNA natural gene repressors for therapeutic purposes, effectively treating cancer in mice. Additionally, the study has provided insight into the molecular mechanisms controlling epithelial fluid and HCO3– secretion, which may help understand cystic fibrosis.
A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that the protein Scribble regulates breast cancer by controlling cell polarity. In normal cells, Scribble allows duct-like structures to form and resist cancer formation.
Research reveals NOD2's importance in regulating colonic epithelial cell growth and survival, highlighting its role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelial cell barrier. This function is crucial for protection against pathogenic and opportunistic bacterial infections.
Researchers have identified a molecular defect underlying male infertility and its link to melanoma development. The discovery highlights the potential for targeting specific signaling pathways to develop new treatments.
Gastrointestinal polyps can arise from mutations in smooth muscle cells surrounding epithelial tissue, not just the epithelium itself. This discovery opens new avenues for treatment strategies targeting intercellular signaling.
Researchers found that inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activation promotes mutagenic changes in DNA, leading to biliary carcinogenesis. NO generation was increased by inflammatory cytokines and suppressed by an iNOS inhibitor.
A team of researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College discovered a molecular 'switch' that selects specific kinesin motor proteins to transport surface markers to their ultimate destinations on the cell's surface. This finding holds promise for developing targeted therapies with fewer side effects for diseases like cystic fibrosis and...
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a new type of programmed cell death called entosis, where cells bore into their neighbors and died. This process, known as entosis, was found to be more common in cancerous cells than previously thought, and its role in tumor progression is still unclear.
A rare stomach cancer case report highlights histochemistry's diagnostic value for carcinosarcomas. The study finds epithelial components expressing cytokeratin 18, EMA, and CEA positivity, while mesenchymal components show vimentin staining without muscular or neural differentiation.
Researchers at Dr. Liu et al. successfully differentiated primary pancreatic ductal epithelial cells into insulin-producing cells using the transfection of PDX-1, a promising approach to enhance islet cell output and meet clinical needs. This study suggests a future for many diabetic patients who need islets transplantation.
Exogenous sphingomyelinase was found to increase intestinal permeability in vitro by altering the composition of tight junctions. This is achieved through the localized accumulation of ceramide at cell-cell contacts, leading to increased permeability and changes in the epithelial barrier.
Research at the Medical College of Georgia found that regular brushing can cause minor cell damage, leading to increased calcium influx and triggering internal membrane repair. This process may promote gum health by stimulating collagen growth and strengthening tissue response to mechanical stress.
Scientists at LSU Health Sciences Center have discovered that NPD1 protects against RPE cell damage by triggering its synthesis and regulating its release. The research also found that NPD1 can counteract the effects of A2E, a toxic component that accumulates in the retina during aging and retinal degenerations.
Researchers have discovered that cell surface mucin 1 (Muc1) is a key component of the gut's defense against bacterial infections. Mice infected with Campylobacter jejuni were found to be more susceptible to intestinal damage without Muc1, highlighting its critical role in preventing infection spread.
Research by UCF Professor Keith Ireton and colleagues reveals Listeria protein InlB induces internalization of human receptor Met, implicated in some cancers. Understanding this mechanism may lead to drug development targeting Met-related cancers.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have discovered a crucial link between epithelial cells and immune system function at mucosal surfaces. The study found that epithelial cells produce a key antigen called IgA2 to keep bacteria in check, and that this process is critical for preventing infections such as HIV and rotavirus.
Researchers discovered that CEACAM6 facilitates adhesion of adherent-invasive E. coli (AIEC) bacteria to the intestinal epithelial cells' brush border in patients with Crohn's disease. This adhesion is dependent on CEACAM6 expression, which is increased in Crohn's disease patients after infection.
Research suggests that TRPM8 is overexpressed in prostate cancer cells, indicating its potential as a therapeutic target. The study also found that endoplasmic reticulum TRPM8 retains functional activity regardless of cell differentiation status, which may contribute to cancer cell growth.