Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Protein pairs make cells remember

Researchers discovered that protein pairs form feedback loops to store information in a cell's memory. The formation of these pairs is crucial for the cell's sensitivity to environmental stimuli and its ability to differentiate into specialized cells.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 14, 2016

Discovery of insulin-producing beta cell subtypes may impact diabetes treatment

Researchers have discovered at least four separate subtypes of human insulin-producing beta cells, which could lead to a better understanding of the disease process and the development of new treatments for type 2 diabetes. The study found that these cell subtypes produce different amounts of insulin and may regenerate at varying rates.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 11, 2016

Mystery solved?

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified a new type of filament-forming protein in fruit flies that shares similarities with intermediate filaments in human cells. This discovery may provide insights into how insects survive without traditional IF proteins.

A new bio-ink for 3-D printing with stem cells

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a new bio-ink containing stem cells that can be printed using 3D technology. The bio-ink allows for the creation of complex living tissue structures with microscopic pores, providing effective nutrient access for stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJun 23, 2016

Beta cells from love handles

Scientists have successfully extracted stem cells from a 50-year-old test subject's fatty tissue, applied genetic reprogramming, and produced mature, insulin-producing beta cells. The researchers' technique has the potential to treat diabetes by implanting new functional beta cells made from the patient's own adipose tissue.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 11, 2016

Scaling up tissue engineering

Researchers at the Wyss Institute developed a method for bioprinting thick vascularized tissue constructs composed of human stem cells and extracellular matrix. The resulting tissues can sustain and function as living architectures for upwards of six weeks, enabling controlled perfusion of fluids, nutrients, and cell growth factors.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2016

New discovery opens doors to manipulating fat production in the body

Scientists have discovered that some human fat cells originate from stem cells in bone marrow, which could lead to new strategies for preventing and reversing fat-related chronic diseases. By manipulating the production of these cells, researchers hope to reduce the risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease and obesity.

Engineered mini-stomachs produce insulin in mice

Researchers have discovered that tissue from the lower stomach has the greatest potential to be reprogrammed into beta-cell state. Engineered mini-organs produced insulin and refreshed themselves with stem cells, giving the tissue a sustainable regenerative boost.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 18, 2016

Testing the power of stem cell-derived heart muscle cells

A recent study published in the Journal of Cell Biology reveals that stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes have weaker contractile strength than their biological counterparts, which could explain shortcomings in clinical trials. The findings suggest that novel assays are needed to better understand the basic science behind stem cell therapy.

Xistential crisis: Discovery shows there's more to the story in silencing X chromosomes

Scientists discover that Xist RNA is insufficient to silence one of the two X chromosomes in every female cell, suggesting a complex interplay between molecules. This finding could lead to new ways to fight X-linked diseases in females, including those linked to autism, hemophilia, and muscular dystrophy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2016