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Blind mice can 'see' thanks to special retinal cells

A study by Johns Hopkins University found that blind mice can form low-acuity images using special photosensitive cells in their retinas. This discovery suggests that a blind person could be trained to use these cells to perform simple tasks requiring low visual acuity.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 14, 2010
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.

A chemical to make brain cells grow

Researchers discovered a chemical that promotes brain cell growth, potentially leading to new treatments for Alzheimer's and neurodegenerative diseases. The substance protects newborn neurons from dying off, giving them better odds of becoming functional cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 8, 2010

Housing upgrade shrinks tumors in mice with cancer

Researchers found that social interaction and a richer living environment significantly reduced tumor mass and volume in mice with cancer. The study suggests that low-stress, mentally stimulating environments may be beneficial for cancer treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 8, 2010

Researchers demystifying complex cellular communications hubs found in sensory neurons

A Japanese team of scientists has identified a long-elusive enzyme necessary for the proper regulation of primary cilia, which serve as communication hubs in sensory neurons. The discovery may aid in developing therapies for diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and polycystic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 7, 2010

A new opportunity for hepatitis C research

Scientists at TWINCORE have developed a mouse-adapted version of the hepatitis C virus, allowing researchers to study its interaction with the immune system. This breakthrough enables the development of new vaccines and treatments for this chronic infection.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 5, 2010

Our brains are more like birds' than we thought

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that the brains of humans and chickens share comparable regions for analyzing auditory inputs. The study found laminated layers of cells linked by narrow columns in both species, indicating that complex cognitive functions may have evolved from ancient vertebrates.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fly cells flock together, follow the light

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used a laser beam to activate a protein that makes a cluster of fruit fly cells behave like a school of fish, following the lead of one stimulated with light. This study holds potential importance for understanding embryonic development and tumor metastasis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 18, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: June 14, 2010

Research on prion disease found that structural differences affect transmission between species, while gene therapy showed promise in nonhuman primates. Additionally, the protein periostin was discovered to promote heart valve degeneration by inducing angiogenesis and MMP production.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 14, 2010

Making cancer killers

Scientists have created a novel type of immune system cell called Induced T to Natural Killer Cells (ITNK cells) that can kill cancer cells in lab tests and mouse models. These reprogrammed killer cells are more efficient at targeting tumour cells than unmodified Natural Killer cells.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·DateJun 10, 2010
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 create human embryonic stem cells with enhanced pluripotency

Researchers have developed a method to convert human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) and embryonic stem (ES) cells to a more flexible state, similar to mouse ES cells. This breakthrough could improve the efficiency of gene targeting and potentially lead to new therapeutic applications for human ES and iPS cells.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2010

Singapore scientists make breakthrough findings on early embryonic development

Singapore scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding early embryonic development using single cell gene expression analysis. The study resolves debates on cellular differentiation events and highlights the importance of fibroblast growth factor signalling in cell fate decisions.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 20, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: April 1, 2010

Researchers have developed a new approach to treating cancer using viruses to infect and kill cancer cells. In mice, combining this with standard therapy led to substantial tumor regression and cure. Additionally, modulating VEGF signaling allowed the cells lining tumor blood vessels to be targeted by viruses, suggesting a potential wi...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2010
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.

1 gene lost = 1 limb regained?

Researchers from The Wistar Institute demonstrate that mice lacking the p21 gene can regenerate lost tissue, forming a blastema and replacing damaged cells with healthy ones. This discovery provides evidence of a link between cell division control and tissue regeneration, opening up possibilities for accelerating healing in humans.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2010

Study shows potential for using algae to produce human therapeutic proteins

A study published in Plant Biotechnology Journal found that algae can produce human therapeutic proteins such as VEGF, HMGB1, and fibronectin at levels comparable to mammalian cell cultures. This could significantly reduce the cost of expensive treatments for diseases like Multiple Sclerosis and Type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPlant Biotechnology·DateMar 8, 2010
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

OHSU researchers discover cellular mechanism that protects against disease

Researchers at OHSU have discovered a mechanism that detects and destroys faulty G-protein coupled receptors, which can cause disease. The discovery increases understanding of how these receptors work and will lead to better therapeutic development.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010

A study reveals how respiratory tubes and capillaries form

Researchers studied cell-to-tube transformation in Drosophila, revealing the formation of small-diameter respiratory tubes and their link to capillary development. The study identified key genetic machinery and molecular mechanisms involved, providing insights into the development of fine blood vessels.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2010

The battle of the sexes

Researchers at EMBL uncover gene Foxl2 that maintains female traits in adult mice, reversing default pathway. The study has implications for reproductive medicine and may help treat sex differentiation disorders.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateDec 10, 2009
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.

Researchers find brain cell transplants help repair neural damage

A study by the Cell Transplantation Center of Excellence found that autologous brain cell transplants can provide brain protection and repair neural damage in donor primates. The cells survived at an impressive 50% rate for four months post-implantation, offering a promising new approach to treating neurological disorders.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateOct 29, 2009

Scientists discover gene that 'cancer-proofs' rodent's cells

Researchers found a two-tier defense mechanism in the DNA of naked mole rats, which expresses a gene called p16 that stops cell proliferation when too many cells crowd together. This discovery could potentially lead to new cancer treatments for humans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2009

Afib triggered by a cell that resembles a pigment-producing skin cell

A group of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has identified a population of cells resembling pigment-producing skin cells in the atria and pulmonary veins of mice and humans. These melanocyte-like cells may contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 12, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

JCI online early table of contents: Oct. 12, 2009

Researchers have identified a counterbalancing role for the phosphorylation of alpha-synuclein amino acid 125 in nerve cell protection against alpha-synuclein-mediated toxicity. Higher levels of this phosphorylated form were found to decrease toxic soluble oligomers and protect against Parkinson's disease symptoms.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 12, 2009

U-M discovery about biological clocks overturns long-held theory

University of Michigan mathematicians have identified the signal sent by the brain to control biological rhythms, a finding that challenges the long-held theory about our internal clock. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in treating sleep problems and diseases influenced by the internal clock.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2009

UCSF researchers program cells to be remote-controlled by light

Researchers at UCSF have developed a way to control mammalian cells using light, enabling the creation of 'microscopic robots' that can follow light beams or stop on command. This breakthrough offers new possibilities for cancer and cardiovascular research, as well as potential applications in nerve growth and repair.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

JCI online early table of contents: Aug. 10, 2009

Researchers have identified a new gene, PTRF, which causes mutations leading to muscle weakness and lipodystrophy. The study found that these individuals had deficient caveolin-3 protein in their muscles, despite no mutations in the caveolin-3 gene.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2009

UF scientists program blood stem cells to become vision cells

Researchers at the University of Florida successfully programmed bone marrow stem cells to become vision cells by mimicking environmental conditions with chemical compounds. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for age-related macular degeneration, affecting nearly 2 million people in the US. The study's findings have signifi...

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJul 30, 2009

Improving mouse heart function following heart attack

A team of researchers has found that transplanting sheets of clonally expanded heart cells improves heart function after a heart attack in mice. The cells secreted a molecule that induced the migration of endothelial cells and prevented oxidative stress, leading to improved heart function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 13, 2009

In 'reading' a gaze, what we believe changes what we see

Researchers found that when people believe another person cannot see, the effects of adaptation are greatly reduced, suggesting a bi-directional relationship between gaze processing and mental-state attribution. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of what goes wrong in individuals with autism.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 25, 2009
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.

Link between light touch and Merkel cells solves 100-year mystery

Researchers have finally proven the link between Merkel cells and light touch sensation, a discovery that resolves a 100-year-old mystery in neuroscience. The study found that Merkel cells, typically associated with texture and shape perception, play a crucial role in detecting light touch.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2009

Key found to how tumor cells invade the brain in childhood cancer

A new study has identified a key protein receptor responsible for tumor cells invading the brain and spinal cord in childhood leukemia. The finding may lead to new drugs that block this receptor and reduce the risk of relapse in some leukemia patients.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 2009

New insight into primate eye evolution

Researchers discovered that only minor differences in cell proliferation timing explain the anatomical differences between owl and capuchin monkey eyes. This finding sheds light on how complex structures like the eye evolve gradually through evolution without compromising function.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: May 1, 2009

Researchers have identified a protein responsible for regulating branched-chain amino acid catabolism, which may be linked to Maple Syrup Urine Disease. Additionally, immune cells called V-alpha-24-invariant NKT cells can indirectly affect neuroblastoma growth by killing tumor-associated cells that promote its growth.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 1, 2009
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Gene helps protect tumor suppressor in breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have discovered a gene that helps protect PTEN, a major tumor-suppressor protein, from degradation in breast cancer. Rak's protective effect is linked to its ability to stabilize PTEN protein, preventing breast cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 6, 2009
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Protein function and chromatin structure methods featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols

Two new methods are featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols: a rapid, reversible method for studying protein stability using small molecules, and a combined technique for identifying proteins that mediate long-range chromosomal interactions. These methods provide new tools for investigating protein function and chromatin structure.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateMar 3, 2009

Genetic evidence points to potential therapeutic bypass for autoimmune process

A study has discovered two distinct molecular pathways controlling Treg cell formation, which could lead to new treatments for autoimmune disorders and chronic infections. The research suggests that bypassing a molecular breakdown triggering autoimmunity may be possible through the peripheral lymphoid system.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 2, 2009

Self-digestion as a means of survival

A team of scientists has identified two proteins that may act as receptors for autophagosomes, the cell structures responsible for removing misfolded proteins and damaged organelles. This discovery sheds light on how autophagy works and could lead to new drug development.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 27, 2009

Discovery could lead to a new animal model for hepatitis C

Researchers at Rockefeller University identified a human protein, occludin, that makes mouse cells susceptible to the hepatitis C virus. This discovery provides a clear foundation for developing an animal model and tailored treatments for the disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2009
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Bright lights, not-so-big pupils

A team of Johns Hopkins neuroscientists has discovered a new type of light sensor in the eye that detects light and communicates with the brain. These melanopsin-containing cells are insensitive to light, but their signal is large enough to influence the brain when activated by multiple photons.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 2008

Gene therapy corrects sickle cell disease in laboratory study

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a gene therapy that alleviates sickle cell disease pathology by introducing a corrective gene into mouse blood cells. The treated mice showed essentially no difference from normal mice, with improved red blood cell production and organ function.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateDec 3, 2008

Breakthrough in cell-type analysis offers new ways to study development and disease

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a new method for identifying proteins that give a cell type its unique identity, offering a breakthrough in cellular analysis. This technique, translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP), can distinguish between any type of cell in any tissue, with applications for research int...

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateNov 13, 2008

Newly identified cells make fat

Scientists have discovered an important fat precursor cell that may explain how changes in fat cells lead to obesity. The discovery could also shed light on conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateOct 3, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

DNA editing tool flips its target

Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a crucial protein called UHRF1 that acts like a bookmark to maintain the correct pattern of DNA methylation. This process is essential for normal development and preventing cancer, as alterations in methylation patterns can lead to gene silencing at the wrong times.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2008

Chandelier cells unveil human cognition

Researchers discover complex events initiated by individual spikes in the human cerebral cortex, triggered by specific chandelier cells. The study suggests that humans possess different types of cells contributing to higher cognition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 2, 2008
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.

Joslin study identifies protein that produces 'good' fat

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center identified a protein called BMP-7 that induces the formation and function of brown fat cells. This discovery may lead to new treatments or prevention strategies for obesity and its associated diseases.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalNature·DateAug 20, 2008