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Our cells take their ease in the curves

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.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeNews article·DateMay 13, 2022

Getting sticky with it: Phospholipid found to play a key role in epithelial cell adhesion

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.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Human skin has evolved to allow maximum durability and flexibility

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.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalSoft Matter·DateApr 27, 2022

Lab grown, self-sustainable muscle cells repair muscle injury and disease, mouse study shows

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.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 20, 2022

Flexible printable electrical patches for accelerated wound healing

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.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022
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.

From cell fat to cell fate

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.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2022

Sunscreen doesn’t protect as well as it could: Here is what is missing

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.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAntioxidants·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 12, 2022

Better crime scene testing

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
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.

Study of skin biopsies offers potential as new diagnostic marker for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

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.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCells·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 24, 2022

The cellular cleaning program autophagy helps in wound healing

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.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022

Story tips: Beneath the skin, crustacean-inspired cotton, automating clean water, samples in space and capturing furnace emissions

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.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022

Patients with rare skin cancer face 40% recurrence rate

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 23, 2022
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.

Pimple secret popped: How fat cells in the skin help fight acne

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 16, 2022

Reducing animal testing with 3D bioprinting

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.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·DateFeb 14, 2022

A serendipitous finding lends new insight into how atopic dermatitis develops

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022
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.

P53 protein plays a key role in tissue repair, study finds

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.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Immunotherapy with house dust mite extract reduces symptoms of atopic dermatitis

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.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

Landing therapeutic genes safely in the human genome

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.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022
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.

Surviving ‘butterfly disease’: long-term success of a new gene and stem-cell therapy for EB verified

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.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 10, 2021

Defense or repair: How immune cells are controlled during wound healing

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.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021

A novel protein therapy for efficient skin 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.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Breaking the chain that culminates in cancer

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 1, 2021

Diagnosing jaundice in the blink of an eye from a digital camera

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.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalDesigns·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021
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.

New cell type in human skin discovered to contribute to inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis

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.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021

Researchers explore promising treatment for MRSA ‘superbug’

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers explore promising new stem cell treatment for MRSA superbug

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.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Programming synthetic exosomes to optimize wound healing

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.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

Mutated enzyme weakens connection between brain cells that help control movement

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.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 17, 2021

Skin cells from frontotemporal dementia patients may prove useful in revealing disease mechanisms and in biomarker and drug research

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.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 12, 2021

New drug molecules could prevent skin ageing caused by sun exposure

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.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateAug 5, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

More complex than we thought: The body's reaction to contact allergens

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.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalAllergy·DateJul 13, 2021

A common ancestor for cells involved in hearing and touch

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.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Multitalented filaments in living 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.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2021

Controlling insulin production with a smartwatch

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.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021
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.

Understanding the skin's defense system

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.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 4, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Skin and immune cells coordinate defenses against assault

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.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 6, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Scientists create model of an early human embryo from skin cells

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.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Mount Sinai researchers identify mechanisms that are essential for proper skin development

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 18, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Developmental origins of eczema and psoriasis discovered

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.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021

Getting shapes into numbers

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.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 20, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Simulations open a new way to reverse cell aging

A KAIST research team used simulations to identify an enzyme that can reverse cellular senescence, a natural process contributing to aging and age-related diseases. By targeting the enzyme PDK1, cells were able to re-enter the cell cycle without proliferating abnormally.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2020