Articles tagged with Stem Cells
Researchers have made significant progress in developing tolerance to transplanted organs through innovative approaches. Studies show that patients can be weaned off immunosuppressive drugs within months after receiving living donor kidney or small bowel transplants, with some patients achieving complete drug-free status.
Muscle stem cells have shown potential in treating muscular dystrophy by differentiating into other cell types and resisting rejection, overcoming major obstacles such as low survival rates and immune system rejection. The study's findings could lead to more effective treatments for MD and other muscle-related diseases.
A new gene therapy protocol has successfully treated a child born without an immune system, reversing severe combined immunodeficiency. The procedure improved genetically altered stem cells, giving them a biological advantage and allowing them to prevail over the abnormal cells.
Scientists have identified a crucial protein called DE-cadherin-mediated cell adhesion, or 'cell glue', which enables stem cells to locate their niche and receive essential instructions for survival. The discovery sheds light on the importance of microenvironment in determining stem cell fate.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a gene that controls the growth of stomatal cells in plants, which could lead to enhanced crop plant development. The TMM gene is involved in the formation and distribution of stomatal cells on leaf surfaces, and its discovery may provide new insights into stem cell biology.
Dr. Stephen B. Trippel's research involves articular cartilage repair through the use of a naturally occurring growth factor, with laboratory results encouraging for repairing musculo-skeletal tissue. The technique combines gene therapy and tissue engineering to stimulate cartilage-cell growth.
A groundbreaking study by Stanford University Medical Center has discovered a way to transplant kidneys without lifelong use of immune-suppressing drugs, improving patient quality of life. The innovative approach uses radiation and stem cells to create a hybrid immune system that recognizes the donor organ as 'friend' rather than foe.
A team of researchers at UC Davis has developed a method to freeze-dry platelets, which can be stored for at least a year without refrigeration. The innovation uses trehalose, a natural protectant found in certain animals and plants, to preserve the structure of proteins and other large molecules.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified nearly all the genes responsible for vision in mice, which could lead to new methods for preserving and restoring vision. The discovery provides a genetic data base that can help identify genes mutated in inherited diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and cone-rod dystrophy.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania successfully inserted a foreign gene into male mouse spermatogonial stem cells, achieving high efficiency and expression. The breakthrough enables the creation of transgenic individuals in various species, paving the way for studying human diseases.