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A knockout resource for mouse genetics

A international consortium has developed a novel method to target specific genes in mouse embryonic stem cells, allowing for the disruption of almost 9,000 genes. This resource will enable researchers to study gene activity in models of human disease, advancing our understanding of gene function and its role in mammalian biology.

Cell Press delivers the news

Cell Press introduces Cell DNA, a free daily news aggregation service covering life sciences topics. Readers can subscribe to receive daily email digests with news summaries and comment on stories.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 12, 2010

Important clue to understanding the pathogenesis of ciliary disorders

Researchers have identified a gene that regulates the disassembly of primary cilia in living organisms, leading to defects in left-right asymmetry and organ function. The study provides new insights into the molecular basis of ciliary diseases, which affect multiple organ systems and can lead to severe clinical symptoms.

Stem cells use GPS to generate proper nerve cells

Researchers at Linköping University discovered a new function that regulates stem cell production of different types of cells in various parts of the nervous system. The study found that Hox genes, similar to a GPS system, guide stem cells to produce specific nerve cells in certain regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 11, 2010

U of T researchers identify protein

Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a protein called nSR100 that controls alternative splicing events in genes critical to nervous system formation. This discovery could provide new insights into brain complexity and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCell·DateSep 4, 2009

A budding role for a cellular dynamo

Researchers discovered protein Bud14 inhibits formin interactions, regulating actin filament length. This discovery advances understanding of cell division and development, with implications for human health conditions such as infertility and deafness.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 18, 2009

First genome-wide expression analysis yields better understanding of how leukemia develops

A genome-wide expression analysis identified 3,005 differentially expressed genes, including a ribosome and T-cell receptor signaling pathway. The study provides critical insight into the differences between leukemic stem cells and normal blood stem cells, potentially leading to targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2009

Umbilical cord blood cell therapy in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cell therapy significantly reduced amyloid-β and β-amyloid plaques in mice with Alzheimer's-like disease. The treatment modulates the immune system by suppressing CD40-CD40L activity, offering potential for targeting inflammatory responses associated with degenerative conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMar 26, 2008

BERT and ERNI proteins control brain development

Research by University College London scientists reveals that BERT and ERNI proteins control brain development timing in vertebrates. By binding to the Sox2 gene, these proteins create a timing mechanism that gives the green light for neural cells to form the brain and nervous system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 7, 2008

Stowers Institute's Xie Lab demonstrates dual intrinsic and extrinsic control of stem cell aging

The Stowers Institute's Xie Lab has discovered that stem cell aging is controlled by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The study found that specific proteins, adhesion between cells, and enzyme activity can influence stem cell lifespan and function, potentially leading to the development of new therapies for age-related diseases.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 10, 2007

Advance helps explain stem cell behavior

Researchers at Oregon State University developed a new method to identify DNA-binding transcription factors that help steer stem cells. The study, announced in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used mouse embryonic spinal cord as a model and identified the subset of genes involved in producing various cell types.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2006

Promoting hair growth

Researchers find that stabilizing a protein called â-catenin drives hair follicle development by reducing the threshold for stem cell activation. Key genes controlling this process are identified, providing new insights into promoting hair growth.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 15, 2005

Safely achieving tolerance to stem cell transplantation

Researchers developed a costimulatory blockade-based protocol to induce peripheral tolerance in stem cell transplantation. This approach combines donor-specific transfusion and anti-CD154 monoclonal antibody administration to achieve functional HSC populations without myeloablation or GVHD induction.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 2, 2003

Oxygen is toxic to stem cells

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that high oxygen levels can be toxic to stem cells, converting muscle cells into fat cells. This discovery has important clinical implications for the treatment of obesity and diabetes, as it may be related to aging and oxidative stress conditions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Cellular Physiology·DateNov 7, 2001

Stem cells guided down blood's developmental pathway

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison successfully directed undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells to become primitive types of blood cells, which later develop into mature blood cells. This breakthrough technology holds promise for creating novel sources of blood cells for transfusion and transplant therapies.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2001

Moving towards a cure for diabetes

Researchers at Harvard University have created a powerful new tool to combat diabetes, identifying crucial genes responsible for pancreatic development. The discovery sheds light on the role of NGN3 and Pdx-1 in pancreatic development, offering hope for potential therapeutic usage.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 15, 2001