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Scientists describe new model to enhance Zika virus research

A new mouse model developed by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine enables the study of Zika virus infection and its effects on the brain. The model, which lacks key immune system components, allows for the testing of vaccines and antivirals against the virus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 19, 2016

Trophoblasts resistant to Zika/Zika in the mouse

Human placental trophoblasts resistant to Zika virus proliferation and release an antiviral molecule called type III interferon to stop viral replication. Mouse models show high virus levels in brain, spinal cord, and testes after inoculation through skin.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 5, 2016

Odor biomarker for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers discovered a distinctive odor signature in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease that appears before significant brain pathology development, suggesting a non-invasive tool for early diagnosis. The odor profile may be related to the presence of an underlying gene rather than actual brain changes.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 2016

In defense of mouse models for studying human disorders

Recent studies reanalyze gene expression patterns in mouse models, finding greater similarities with human disease conditions, contrary to a 2013 study that suggested poor correlation. The new research highlights the potential of mouse models for studying human disorders and developing treatments.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2014

JCI early table of contents for Dec. 20, 2013

Researchers identified a fungal surface protein that promotes host cell invasion in mucormycosis, while others found that melanocytes from light-skinned humans secrete a molecule promoting angiogenesis. These findings could lead to new treatments and biomarkers for diseases associated with increased vascularization.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 20, 2013

How mice teach us about disease

A large new resource of mouse lines has been created to study human diseases, revealing new functions for well-known genes and unexpected associations with traits like body weight. The project provides a wealth of freely available clinical and biological information to aid in the development of new therapies.

New mouse model confirms how type 2 diabetes develops

Researchers created a new mouse model to study the development of type 2 diabetes, using middle-aged mice fed fatty food until old age. The study confirmed that inflammation in pancreatic islets leads to the disease, while DPP-4 inhibitors maintain good insulin production and prevent inflammation.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetologia·DateMay 3, 2013

Searching for therapeutic synergy in primary effusion lymphoma

Researchers found that a Bortezomib/Vorinostat combination therapy reactivated virus-induced cell lysis and induced PEL cell death, increasing the lifespan of mice with PEL tumors. This treatment combination could potentially be beneficial for immunocompromised patients with KSHV-associated malignancies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 1, 2013