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Cells in fish's spinal discs repair themselves

Researchers discovered a unique repair mechanism in zebrafish spinal discs that protects fluid-filled cells from mechanical stress and promotes regeneration. The study suggests that this mechanism, triggered by the release of nucleotides, may be present in humans at early stages but is lost over time.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 22, 2017

Solving the mystery of the Tully Monster

A Yale-led team of paleontologists has determined that the Tully Monster, a 300-million-year-old animal with teeth at the end of a narrow head extension and eyes on either side of a long bar, was a vertebrate with gills and a notochord. The discovery sheds light on the creature's likely predatory lifestyle.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 2016

NYU research: Shedding light on genetic switches

A new study by NYU researchers identifies molecular switches that turn on gene expression in the notochord, a precursor to the backbone. The team used a marine organism called Ciona and found that specific transcription factors bind DNA sequences, known as CRMs, to control gene expression.

SourceNew York University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 28, 2016

Events coordination during embryogenesis

Researchers discovered how Brachyury regulates the timing of gene expression in the notochord, a precursor to the backbone, and found that certain mutations can delay or alter this process, potentially leading to birth defects and cancer. The study sheds light on a crucial regulatory mechanism in embryonic development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 29, 2013

New therapeutic hope for degenerative disc disease

Researchers found that embryonic cells from a dog's notochord can regenerate disc cartilage, providing new therapeutic options for degenerative disc disease. The study suggests that CTGF-secreting notochord cells protect non-chondrodystrophic dogs against the condition.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateNov 29, 2006

Study illuminates birth defects caused by copper deficiency

A new study found that copper deficiency in zebrafish leads to birth defects similar to those seen in children with Menkes disease. The researchers discovered a critical role for copper in notochord formation and development, suggesting suboptimal copper metabolism may contribute to structural birth defects.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 8, 2006