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What cells does the novel coronavirus attack?

Scientists have discovered that the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 primarily infects progenitor cells in the lungs and bronchi, which are responsible for producing cilia that sweep mucus and bacteria out of the lungs. The virus acts in a highly selective manner, dependent on certain human cells to spread and replicate.

SourceBIH at Charité·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateApr 7, 2020

Developing next-generation biologic pacemakers

Researchers have developed biologic pacemaker-like cells using stem cells from fat, offering an alternative treatment for conduction system disorders and cardiac repair after a heart attack. The new cell type can adapt to the body and respond to physiological changes, eliminating the need for regular maintenance by a physician.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·DateDec 16, 2019

Cells that make bone marrow also travel to the womb to help pregnancy

Researchers discovered that bone marrow-derived cells contribute to embryo implantation and pregnancy by differentiating into decidual cells in the uterine environment. The study suggests a potential role of these cells in human implantation and pregnancy, potentially leading to new treatments for recurrent implantation failure and pre...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 12, 2019

The birth of vision, from the retina to the brain

Researchers at UNIGE identified key genes regulating retinal cell differentiation and axon guidance, offering insights into the construction of vision and potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. The study's findings have significant implications for regenerative medicine and could lead to new therapies for optic nerve damage.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDevelopment·DateSep 9, 2019

Brain stem cells have a good memory

Researchers at UNIGE have discovered that brain progenitor cells can recover their past skills and rejuvenate when transplanted into a young mouse embryo. This finding sheds light on how the brain constructs itself and opens up new possibilities for cortical neuroregeneration.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateAug 28, 2019

Transformer cells: Shaping cellular 'behaviour'

Researchers have identified the key challenges and breakthrough technologies for applying skeletal muscle progenitor cells in cell therapy. The study highlights the importance of suitable scaffolds and extracellular matrices in regulating progenitor cell behavior, which is crucial for successful tissue regeneration.

SourceSechenov University·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateJul 1, 2019

Discovery of how organs form helps researchers to develop future diabetes treatments

A new study reveals that the development of progenitor cells depends on protein quantity and interaction with other cells. Cells with high P120ctn expression remain in the central part of the pancreas, while those with low expression migrate to the peripheral area, where they acquire their final fate.

New mechanism of bone growth discovered

A study published in Nature reveals that bone growth in mice follows the same principles as cell production in blood and other tissues. The discovery suggests that bone growth may be more dynamic than previously thought, with cells generated from a stem-cell like progenitor cell.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 2019

Fat cells control fat cell growth

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered a new type of regulatory fat cell called Aregs that inhibits the formation of new fat cells. This discovery opens up promising avenues for future therapies to protect obese people from diabetes and other secondary illnesses.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJun 21, 2018

Less is more when it comes to developing bigger brains

Researchers used mathematical models to re-enact brain development in humans, monkeys, and mice, finding that the human brain requires fewer initial cells to grow. The study suggests that humans may have adopted a different developmental program to produce neurons efficiently within a longer gestational period.

SourceCardiff University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMay 4, 2018

Better understanding of 'one of the most complex organs' for better lung treatments

A study published by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified two distinct cell types in the lungs, one promoting regeneration and the other forming scar tissue. This discovery could lead to targeted therapies for conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary...