A randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study found that NB-UVB phototherapy decreased mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with no adverse events reported. The treatment was effective in both vaccinated and unvaccinated patients, with reduced pathologic inflammation and improved intracellular killing of pathogens.
Researchers studied naked mole-rats' skin using single-cell RNA-seq to understand its remarkable stability against aging. They found no changes in epidermal gene expression with age and a unique keratinocyte differentiation trajectory that remained intact.
A UNIGE team discovered that cells in curved tissues swell by 50% before returning to normal, opening avenues for in vitro organ culture. This active phenomenon can be harnessed to control spontaneous growth of organoids and develop new materials with volume increase upon folding.
Emory University researchers have identified a mechanism for skin cell death that could lead to new treatments for skin infections, alopecia, hives, and potentially melanoma. The study reveals that a protein called gasdermin A induces pyroptosis in skin cells, serving as an early warning system against bacterial attack.
Researchers found phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2) essential for epithelial cell-cell adhesion and maintaining cellular identity. PIP2 regulates epithelial properties by recruiting Par3 to the plasma membrane, facilitating the formation of adherens junctions and preventing epithelial-mesenchymal transformation.
A study published in JCI Insight reveals that epigenetic drugs targeting BRD4 significantly reduce scarring in patients with scleroderma. The findings could lead to repurposing these drugs for faster relief from debilitating symptoms of this chronic disease.
Researchers at Binghamton University have discovered that human skin's unique structure allows it to maximize both durability and flexibility. The team created artificial skin membranes that mimicked the structure of mammalian skin, testing their puncture toughness and deformability.
Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have developed a flexible, antibacterial conductive hydrogel-ePatch that accelerates wound healing with minimal side effects. The e-Patch uses silver nanowires and alginate to promote cell proliferation and migration, resulting in faster wound closure and reduced scarring.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully cultivated human muscle stem cells capable of renewing themselves and repairing muscle tissue damage in mice. The self-renewing stem cells were created by reprogramming laboratory-grown human skin cells, which then differentiated into specific cell types using a nutrient-rich broth.
Researchers at EPFL's School of Life Sciences have identified a critical link between cellular lipids and the determination of cell fate. They found that changes in lipid composition can influence the behavior of cells in response to external stimuli, even if the original cell type is identical.
A new study at the University of Bath found that a key ingredient is missing from all sunscreens, leaving skin vulnerable to damage. The researchers identified iron-trapping extracts that can improve protection against UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of aging and cancer.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed more accurate special aerosol fluorescent dye 'marker' to find touch DNA, and found that some people shed more or less DNA on their thumbs. This new study helps understand the difference between high, intermediate and low skin 'shedders', which will aid in crime scene investigation.
Researchers found that alpha-synuclein aggregates cause skin thinning by triggering inflammation and reducing cell multiplication. This protein accumulation is linked to decreased skin sensoriality, impacting quality of life.
Researchers developed an AI-driven image analysis pipeline that identified novel cellular hallmarks of Parkinson's disease from images of over a million skin cells. The platform can distinguish between patient cells and healthy controls, revealing new signatures for potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers have identified a biomarker, TDP-43, detectable in small skin samples of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), allowing for potentially easier diagnosis and early detection. The presence of this protein in the skin of ALS patients is associated with an increased number of fibroblasts with disease marks.
Researchers have found that autophagy helps form epithelial syncytia during wound healing, a process previously only observed in muscle and placenta development. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding autophagy's role in disease mechanisms.
Researchers analyzed skin cell data to identify gene expression patterns responsible for inflammation in atopic dermatitis. Crustacean-inspired cotton was found to control water flow through a special wicking mechanism. Autonomous water treatment systems were also developed to improve energy efficiency and waste reduction.
Patients with Merkel cell carcinoma face a high risk of recurrence, with 95% of cases occurring within the first three years. The study found that advanced age, male sex, immunosuppression, and known primary lesions are associated with higher recurrence rates, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance efforts.
Researchers at UC San Diego have made a groundbreaking discovery about the role of fibroblasts, or fat cells, in controlling bacteria and developing acne. These findings could lead to more targeted treatment options for acne, which affects up to 50 million Americans each year.
The BRIGHTER project develops a new 3D bioprinting technology that creates complex and accurate human tissues, reducing the need for animal models. The technology uses light-sheet lithography to fabricate human skin and other tissues with high resolution and accuracy.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have identified a cascade of inflammatory signaling that precedes skin ulcers in atopic dermatitis. A mouse model lacking an activator of NF-kB signaling led to the development of skin lesions, shedding light on the early stages of the condition.
Researchers have discovered that p53 protein activates a molecular program turning damaged cells into migratory leader cells for quick epithelial repair. Once repaired, these highly migratory cells are eliminated to restore normal epithelial tissue structure.
Researchers found sublingual immunotherapy with house dust mite extract to be effective in reducing signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. The treatment, administered over 18 months, resulted in significant improvements in pruritus and lesions, with rare side effects.
A team of researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute and ETH Zurich have developed a computational approach to identify genomic safe harbors (GSHs) with high potential for safe insertion of therapeutic genes. The study validated two GSH sites in adoptive T cell therapies and in vivo gene therapies for skin diseases.
Scientists create artificial liver cells that function like real ones, but excrete less urea, until they induce aquaporin 9, enabling them to break down ammonia into urea. The new model is being used to test OTC chaperones for therapies.
A new gene and stem-cell therapy has been proven to be effective in treating Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a genetic skin disorder, without any side effects. The treatment, which involves transplanting genetically modified skin cells, has resulted in stable results after five years, with the patient now 13 years old.
Researchers discovered that wound macrophages undergo different metabolic programs to coordinate tissue repair, including the use of reactive oxygen radicals for blood vessel growth. Macrophages also utilize a different type of mitochondrial exchange for anti-inflammatory and reparative functions in late-stage wound healing.
Researchers at A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology have discovered a novel protein therapy using Agrin to promote wound healing and repair. The study found that timely induction or exogenous supplementation of Agrin accelerates the healing process, preserving the mechanical architecture of injured skin layers.
Researchers developed a method to print skin equivalents with three layers, allowing for complex structures and faster healing. The technique uses suspended layer additive manufacturing and has shown promising results in repairing pig tissue.
Scientists have identified a cascade of four proteins that activate the cancer-causing protein ∆Np63α. By inhibiting these proteins, cancer stem cells can be controlled, and tumor growth slowed. This breakthrough offers new therapeutic options for squamous cell carcinoma.
Researchers have designed a digital camera-based system that can accurately detect jaundice in newborns within one second, sending diagnoses to carers via SMS. The system uses image processing techniques to detect bilirubin levels, triggering blue LED phototherapy and treatment.
Scientists from Japan discover IL-36Ra plays a pivotal role in wound healing, and Cl-amidine normalizes exacerbated I/R injury. The study's findings suggest IL-36Ra as a potential therapeutic target for cutaneous I/R injuries.
Researchers use transgenic worms to study whole-body regeneration and identify critical genes involved. They also gain insights into muscle cell connections and communication during regeneration.
Researchers identified a new cell type in human skin contributing to AD and psoriasis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets. The study revealed CD14+ type 3 dendritic cells co-producing IL1B and IL23A, essential for PSO pathogenesis.
A study found that treating wounds with mesenchymal stromal cell secretions significantly reduced MRSA viability and stimulated the surrounding skin cells to build a defense. The treatment has potential as an alternative to antibiotics, reducing antibiotic resistance in both veterinary and human medicine.
A new study from Cornell University has found that the antimicrobial properties of certain stem cell proteins can effectively reduce the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in skin wounds. The treatment also stimulates the surrounding skin cells to build up a defense against the bacterial invader.
Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft engineered synthetic exosomes that regulate cellular signaling during wound closure, leading to faster healing and improved formation of new blood vessels. The study provides a systematic understanding of extracellular vesicle communication and its potential therapeutic application.
Researchers found a mutation in ELOVL4 enzyme impairs communication between neurons, leading to impaired motor control and coordination. The study provides new insights into the essential role of ELOVL4 in motor function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.
Researchers discovered that skin fibroblasts from FTD patients exhibit pathological RNA foci, p62 protein-containing vesicles, and defective energy metabolism, which could lead to the development of novel biomarkers and treatments. These findings may also be useful in testing drug effects on FTD patients.
Two new molecules have been found to prevent skin aging after being exposed to ultraviolet light, generating minute amounts of hydrogen sulfide to correct energy production and usage in skin cells. This could pave the way for a new way to protect deeper layers of skin using these compounds.
A recent study in Cell Stem Cell describes how cells remember past inflammation and use this memory to respond more efficiently to new threats. The phenomenon, known as trained immunity, allows cells to draw on general memories of inflammation to respond broadly.
Researchers found that cells in specific skin areas develop local memory to contact allergens, leading to faster reactions and a more complex picture of the disease. This discovery may lead to new treatment options for patients with contact allergy.
A new study from USC Stem Cell scientists reveals striking similarities between sensory cells in the inner ear and Merkel cells in the skin. The research identifies a shared mechanism involved in gene regulation or epigenetics that enables differentiation into specialized hair cells and Merkel cells.
Intermediate filaments play a crucial role in maintaining cellular stability, elasticity, and resistance to mechanical stress. The study reveals the physical effects that determine their properties and how they interact with each other in networks.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a molecular switch that can be activated by green light from a smartwatch, producing insulin or other substances. The system uses HEK 293 cells and is linked to a gene network, which can be configured to produce specific substances.
MSU researchers have discovered how the skin's immune cells organize themselves in the epidermis to provide proper protection. The discovery sheds light on the skin's defense system, which was previously misunderstood and thought to be random in its distribution.
Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered two enzymes, histone deacetylases (HDACs), that inhibit the body's inflammatory response in the skin. These enzymes allow the skin to tolerate certain microbes living on its surface while preventing a constant rash from developing elsewhere.
Researchers discovered that immune cells change their behavior in response to a trigger, producing protein signals that cause skin lesions. This finding could lead to better treatment options for the disease by targeting early responder cells.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a novel genetic sensor called CopyCatcher to detect precise CRISPR editing in cells throughout the body. The study shows promise for treating genetic disorders such as blood diseases, vision and hearing problems, and muscular dystrophy.
A new study reveals that skin's epidermis layer is comprised of an army of immune cells that station themselves at regular intervals across the skin. When necessary, these cells reposition themselves to protect vulnerable areas, forming a dynamic surveillance system.
Researchers develop microneedles for immunotherapy, allowing for high efficiency and minimal invasiveness. The devices can improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors and represent an alternative to conventional cancer vaccine designs.
A research team at City University of Hong Kong developed a new microneedle technology to deliver living cells in a minimally invasive manner. The cryomicroneedles showed robust immune responses against tumors in mice, providing a promising alternative to conventional vaccination methods.
Scientists discover a way to repurpose fibroblasts to regenerate wounded skin without scarring. By blocking the YAP pathway, researchers encourage cells to retain their identity as ENFs, enabling regeneration of structures like sweat glands and hair follicles.
An international team of scientists has generated a model of a human embryo from skin cells, called iBlastoids, which can be used to study the biology of early human embryos in the laboratory. The breakthrough allows for extensive study into causes of very early miscarriage and effects of toxins and drugs on early development.
Two types of mouthwash, Listerine and Chlorhexidine, disrupt the COVID-19 virus in laboratory conditions, preventing replication. Other mouthwashes like Betadine and Peroxal show promise but have significant skin cell killing properties.
Researchers found that Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) and Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) maintain the skin-specific gene expression pattern necessary for proper development of the skin. The study suggests that targeting both complexes may be a more effective form of treatment for certain cancers.
A new skin-based vaccine delivery method has shown promising results in preclinical studies, generating potent immune responses and superior lung-specific T cells against respiratory illnesses.
Researchers create detailed map of skin cells, revealing that cellular processes from development are re-activated in cells from patients with inflammatory skin disease. This study offers potential new drug targets for treating eczema and psoriasis.
A new approach to describing shapes uses a network representation called visibility graph, allowing for comparison and reassembly of complex shapes. The tool, GraVis, accurately quantifies shape parameters such as lobe length and cell area.
Researchers at Northwestern University have found evidence deep within the skin about the mechanisms controlling skin repair and renewal. The study revealed that non-coding segments of DNA, previously considered 'genetic junk', play a crucial role in regulating gene expression in epidermal stem cells.