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Colorado researcher discovers mechanism for changing adult cells into stem-like cells

University of Colorado Cancer Center researcher Chuan-Yuan Li and his team have discovered that caspase genes, known as 'grim-reaper' genes, are the gatekeepers that allow differentiated adult cells to regress to undifferentiated stem-like cells. This breakthrough discovery could lead to more efficient use of induced pluripotent stem c...

Advance toward earlier detection of melanoma

Scientists have developed a substance to enhance visibility of skin cancer cells during scans, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved survival rates for patients with melanoma. The new technique uses photoacoustic tomography and a bioconjugated gold nanoparticle agent that targets skin cancer cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 11, 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

How the daisy got its spots ... and why

Researchers explore the development and morphology of insect-mimicking spots on the flower petals of a South African beetle daisy. The study found that these spots are composed of three types of epidermal cells, each spanning four fused petal lobes, and are influenced by UV reflectivity and anthocyanin pigment.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateDec 18, 2009

Discovery of new type of immune cells regulating inflammation in chronic diseases

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered Th22 cells, a previously unknown subset of T helper cells that aid in tissue repair and prevent inflammation. The newly found cells hold promise for developing new treatment methods for inflammatory skin diseases and potentially also allergic respiratory diseases.

Liver cells grown from patients' skin cells

Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin successfully produced patient-specific liver cells from skin cells, enabling potential treatment of metabolic liver diseases. The study builds on previous work by James Thomson and colleagues, showing that skin cells can be reprogrammed into embryonic stem cells.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalHepatology·DateOct 8, 2009

Case Western Reserve University discovers Merkel cell originates from skin, not the neural crest

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that Merkel cells, responsible for touch perception, originate from the skin, contradicting previous speculation. The study's results provide significant insights into the development and function of Merkel cells, which may hold implications for understanding Merkel cell carcinoma.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateOct 2, 2009

Green tea component may help preserve stored platelets, tissues

Researchers found that green tea component EGCG can prolong the preservation of stored blood platelets by up to six days via anti-apoptosis properties. Additionally, EGCG was shown to preserve skin tissues by controlling cell division and preventing oxidation, allowing for the storage of skin grafts up to seven weeks.

How stem cells make skin

Researchers identified two proteins, C/EBPα and β, that control the transition from stem cell to skin cell development in mice. Mice lacking these proteins had defective skin formation and died shortly after birth. The study sheds light on the mechanisms involved in skin cancer and other epithelial cancers.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 13, 2009

Mice with skin condition help scientists understand tumor growth

Researchers engineered mice with a persistent wound-like skin condition to study tumor growth. The study found that chronic skin wounds promote skin tumors by secreting molecules that activate dermal cells and increase inflammation. Notch1 signaling plays a critical role in this process, suggesting potential complications for drug design.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 6, 2009

UCLA scientists find molecular differences between embryonic stem cells and reprogrammed skin cells

Researchers found distinct gene expression signatures in embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, indicating they are not perfectly similar despite sharing potential to become all body tissues. The study aims to understand the biological significance of these differences and their impact on iPS cell function.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 2, 2009

Automated tissue engineering on demand

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed a fully automatic production system for two-layer skin models, which can be produced in large quantities with perfect quality. The technique has already proven its use in practice, but was previously too expensive and complicated for mass production.

Red in the face

A study published in PLoS ONE found that people perceive a healthy appearance when looking at faces with more oxygen-rich blood and less pale undertones. Physically fit individuals tend to have healthier-looking skin due to increased blood vessels and higher oxygen levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 31, 2009

How do you mend a broken heart?

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have made a breakthrough in growing functional heart cells from induced pluripotent stem cells, paving the way for potential therapies for heart failure patients. The discovery uses a virus to reprogram skin cells into embryo-like states and could potentially lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCirculation Research·DateFeb 12, 2009

Study uses bone marrow stem cells to regenerate skin

A new study suggests that adult bone marrow stem cells can be used to construct artificial skin, advancing wound healing and potentially pioneering organ reconstruction. The engineered skin containing stem cells showed better healing, less wound contraction, and improved blood vessel development.

SourceWiley·JournalArtificial Organs·DateJan 14, 2009

Absence of CLP protein can be indicative of oral cancer

A new study published in the Journal of Prosthodontics found that the absence of Human calmodulin-like protein (CLP) in oral epithelial cells may indicate oral cancer. The researchers used staining to compare CLP expression in normal and cancerous tissues, revealing a significant decrease or complete lack of CLP in malignant regions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Prosthodontics·DateJan 7, 2009