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MDI Biological Laboratory scientist identifies process critical to kidney function

A team led by Iain Drummond, Ph.D. has identified the signaling mechanisms underlying podocyte formation, a crucial process in kidney function. The discovery could lead to new therapies to stimulate regeneration of these cells, vital for ridding the body of toxins and treating conditions like chronic kidney disease.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 4, 2021

How chronic stress leads to hair loss

Harvard researchers identify how chronic stress impairs hair follicle stem cells, leading to delayed regeneration and hair loss. The study found that the stress hormone corticosterone delays stem cell activation, while Gas6 pathway activation promotes hair growth.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMar 31, 2021

New drug to regenerate lost teeth

A new study by Kyoto University scientists has shown an antibody for USAG-1 to stimulate tooth growth in mice with congenital tooth agenesis. The antibody, which targets the factor that antagonizes BMP and Wnt signaling, is promising for a potential therapeutic framework for regenerating teeth.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2021

A computational guide to lead cells down desired differentiation paths

A computational guide to lead cells down desired differentiation paths uses a novel computer-guided design tool to predict effective combinations of transcription factors. The approach significantly increases the efficiency of cell conversions, generating higher numbers of immune cells and skin cells than other methods.

Generation of conjunctivae in a dish

Researchers from Osaka University successfully generated functional conjunctival tissue in a dish, enabling the study of conjunctivae and the development of novel drugs for dry eye disease. The newly formed tissue contained goblet cells that produce mucins, mimicking human conjunctival biology.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 2, 2021

Molecules derived from omega-3 can regenerate inflamed periodontal tissue

A recent study by Brazilian researcher Emmanuel Albuquerque de Souza shows that maresin and resolvin produced from omega-3 fatty acids can stimulate periodontal ligament stem cells even in the presence of inflammation. This finding has significant implications for regenerative therapy in treating periodontal disease.

Scientists use bacteria as micro-3D printers

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a technique to guide bacterial colonies into creating highly customized three-dimensional objects made of nanocellulose. The objects show great potential for medical use, including supporting tissue regeneration and replacing damaged organs.

SourceAalto University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 10, 2020

Bacterial toxin with healing effect

A study by the University of Jena found that a toxic substance from Staphylococcus aureus stimulates immune cells to produce anti-inflammatory messenger substances, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing. The researchers also demonstrated that these substances promote tissue regeneration in an animal model.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 13, 2020

Researchers identify 'druggable' signaling pathway that stimulates lung tissue repair

A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers has identified a cellular pathway that can be targeted with a naturally occurring drug to stimulate lung tissue regeneration. The findings could lead to better therapies for patients with lung diseases, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateSep 28, 2020