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A bio patch that can regrow bone

Researchers at the University of Iowa have created a bio patch that can regrow bone by delivering DNA instructions to cells. The patch successfully regenerated bone in test animals and stimulated new growth in human bone marrow stromal cells. This breakthrough technology has potential uses in dentistry, including rebuilding bone for de...

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalBiomaterials·DateNov 7, 2013

Transplanted genetically-modified adipose cells offer potential therapy for liver diseases

Researchers have successfully transplanted genetically modified adipose cells into mice with liver disease, demonstrating their potential as a therapy. The study used bioluminescent imaging to track the cells' migration and engraftment in the liver, revealing their ability to persist for up to two months.

Pre-transplant umbilical cord blood expansion speeds establishment of new blood supply in patients

Researchers have developed a method to expand umbilical cord blood cells on mesenchymal precursor cells, speeding up the establishment of a new blood supply in patients. This approach has shown faster engraftment of white blood cells and platelets, resulting in improved patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 12, 2012

A stem cell target for expanding waistlines?

Scientists have discovered a protein marker on the surface of adipose stromal cells (ASCs), which drive fat expansion in the body. The finding may lead to developing a method to inactivate these cells, potentially treating obesity and improving regenerative therapies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 16, 2011

Survival niche for cancer cells

Researchers have discovered that cancer cells use specific chemokines to create a survival niche in the lymph nodes and spleen, allowing them to grow and develop. This niche is created by the interaction between cancer cells and stromal cells, which secrete increased quantities of chemokines CCL19/CCL21.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalBlood·DateJun 6, 2011

Breakthrough in cancer vaccine research

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that a type of stromal cell found in many cancers expresses fibroblast activation protein alpha, which suppresses the immune response. Destroying these cells allows the immune system to control tumours, paving the way for improved immunological therapies.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateNov 4, 2010

Chronic infection persists by targeting stromal cell network in lymphoid organs

A recent study found that chronic viral infections can persist by targeting fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC) in lymphoid organs, disrupting the function of these cells. The researchers discovered a potential link between this mechanism and the PD-1 pathway, which may inhibit immune responses to chronic infections.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2007

Uncovering how bone marrow stromal cells can potentially regenerate brain tissue

Researchers discovered that bone marrow stromal cells can improve brain receptor function in patients with cerebral stroke, showing potential for neural tissue regeneration. The study may provide a 'missing link' needed in understanding receptor function, possibly leading to safe and ethical cell transplantation therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

A possible new phase for rheumatoid arthritis treatment

Researchers discover distinct phase of rheumatoid arthritis immediately after symptom onset, enabling early treatment and potentially halting disease progression. The study proposes a new therapeutic window for potent anti-inflammatory therapies during the first few months of clinically apparent disease.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateApr 6, 2005

Indiana University researchers closer to helping hearing-impaired using stem cells

Researchers at Indiana University have successfully transformed adult bone marrow stem cells into auditory neurons, offering new hope for treating deaf patients. The breakthrough involves the use of Sonic hedgehog and retinoic acid molecules to stimulate the growth of nerve cells in patients with profound hearing loss.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2005

The Lancet Neurology press release

Researchers explore the role of dopamine in the placebo effect, which shows promise for treating Parkinson's disease, depression, and pain. Meanwhile, preclinical studies on bone-marrow stromal cells suggest potential therapeutic benefits for neural injury treatments like stroke.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 15, 2002