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UMD researcher discovers mechanisms and epigenetic markers with implications for diseases ranging from cancers to infertility

A UMD researcher has discovered mechanisms dictating germline stem cell development and epigenetic markers associated with diseases such as cancers, viral infections, and male infertility. These findings provide insight into treatments for these conditions and unlock future animal and human health research.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 30, 2018

Timing is everything: Researchers describe genetic clockwork in germ cell development

Geneticists at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg deciphered a central signalling pathway that encodes and controls the synchronisation of multiple processes during germ cell development in C. elegans. This process involves RNA-binding proteins and a MAP kinase signalling pathway, optimising germ cell production.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2018

Hairy skin grown from mouse stem cells

Indy University researchers created lab-grown skin tissue with hair follicles using mouse stem cells. The skin model closely resembles natural hair growth, making it useful for testing drugs and understanding hair development. The team discovered that the two layers of skin cells must grow together to form hair follicles.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 2, 2018

Auxin tells the stem cells to stop growing and the gynoecium to start forming in flowers

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology identified CRABS CLAW as a key molecule that controls the termination of stem cell growth and the formation of gynoecium in flowers, promoting floral reproduction. The study also shows auxin homeostasis is regulated by TORNADO2, providing insight into flower development.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 24, 2017

Clear view on stem cell development

Researchers developed an algorithm to correct images and make hitherto hidden development steps visible, allowing for more accurate detection of regulatory proteins active during stem cell development. The 'BaSiC' software can correct changes in the background of time-lapse videos, making it a valuable tool for stem cell researchers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017

Deep Learning predicts hematopoietic stem cell development

Researchers developed an algorithm that uses Deep Learning to predict the decision of hematopoietic stem cells to become a certain cell type. This enables earlier detection and analysis of blood cell development, paving the way for new treatments and insights into developmental traits.

NIH scientists repair gene defect in stem cells from patients with rare immunodeficiency

Researchers successfully repaired a defective gene in blood-forming stem cells from patients with X-linked chronic granulomatous disease, suggesting a potential treatment approach. The study used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to correct a specific mutation in the CYBB gene, restoring normal functioning of white blood cells.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 11, 2017

Researchers describe how tumors recruit and use stem cells to support tumor growth and progression

Researchers have identified a mechanism by which tumors recruit bone mesenchymal stem cells and convert them into cancer-associated fibroblasts, facilitating tumor progression. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) signaling plays a crucial role in this process, suggesting new therapeutic targets for suppressing tumor growth.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateOct 20, 2016

Does freeze-thawing and IV delivery affect the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells?

A study found that freeze-thawing and intravenous infusion affect mesenchymal stromal cell gene expression, which may impact their therapeutic use in reducing inflammatory responses. The lung microenvironment also influences MSC gene expression, highlighting the need for careful characterization.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMay 2, 2016

Researchers create insulin-producing beta cells in a dish

Scientists have discovered a nuclear receptor protein, estrogen-related receptor γ (ERRγ), that enables the maturation of human beta cells in vitro. This breakthrough overcomes a major challenge in diabetes research and holds promise for creating functional insulin-producing cells at will.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 12, 2016

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) shown to form multiple types of functional lymphocytes in vivo

Researchers demonstrate that iPSCs can differentiate into multiple types of functional lymphocytes, including CD4+ T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. The ability to generate functional lymphocytes from somatic cell-derived hematopoietic stem cells supports the clinical application of iPSC technology.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMar 28, 2016

Squeezing cells into stem cells

EPFL scientists have developed a gel that boosts the ability of normal cells to revert into stem cells by simply squeezing them into shape. This method paves the way for large-scale production of stem cells for medical purposes, offering new ways to treat injuries and diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 11, 2016

Switching mouse neural stem cells to a primate-like behavior

By expressing Pax6 in mouse basal progenitor cells, researchers mimicked the behavior of human brain cells, leading to increased cell division and a larger neocortex. This study contributes to understanding the molecular mechanisms behind brain expansion and cognitive functions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 7, 2015

New techniques for reprogramming stem cells target neurological disease models

Emerging model systems of reprogrammed human neurons will drive discovery of new patient-specific therapies, accelerating research on understanding neuronal activity, brain development, and neurological diseases. The article discusses recent technological advances, current challenges, and future clinical applications.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMay 19, 2015