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Healing wounds with cell therapy

Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre discovered a way to modify white blood cells to accelerate cutaneous healing. The treatment uses a special protein called MFG-E8 to control macrophage behavior, promoting anti-inflammatory and pro-reparatory reactions.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateMay 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Immune cells rely on receptor to signal counterattack on parasitic worm

A compound called interleukin 4 helps macrophages kill parasites and promote healing in lung tissue by binding to a receptor called myosin 18A. This discovery could lead to better treatments for common infections, including those caused by parasitic worms that infect hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateMay 12, 2017

Tumor-dwelling immune cells thwart cancer immunotherapy

Researchers discovered that tumor-associated macrophages steal checkpoint blockade antibodies from T cells, leading to improved responses in mouse models. Blocking FcγR receptors allows checkpoint inhibitors to effectively target cancer cells.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 10, 2017

KAIST team identifies the novel molecular signal for triggering septic shock

The KAIST team discovered a new molecular signal triggered by IPMK enzyme in mediating innate immune response to sepsis. This finding suggests a potential therapeutic target for treating serious medical conditions like neuroinflammation and polymicrobial sepsis.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 4, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Cell 'cannibalism' educates our defenses

Phagocytosis not only eliminates useless cells, but also 'educates' macrophages, the immune cells that carry it out. This process helps maintain tissues in a clean and healthy state. Researchers identified specific molecular toolkits for eliminating unwanted cells in each tissue.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 3, 2017

Macrophages conduct electricity, help heart to beat

Researchers discovered that macrophages aggregate around cardiac cells to facilitate electrical conduction, helping the heart beat in rhythm. This finding suggests a new role for immune cells in electrophysiology and may lead to new therapeutics for heart disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017

Macrophages shown to be essential to a healthy heart rhythm

A recent study has discovered that macrophages are essential for the normal functioning of the heart, helping conduct electric signals that coordinate heartbeat. The findings suggest that changes in macrophage numbers or properties may contribute to heart rhythm abnormalities.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

UNC researchers identify a new HIV reservoir

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have found that HIV persists in macrophage cells, a type of white blood cell, which has significant implications for HIV cure research. This discovery demonstrates that two types of cells may be targets for therapeutic intervention to eradicate the virus.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 17, 2017

Newfound signal helps pancreatic cancer cells hide from immune system

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have uncovered a critical pathway by which pancreatic cancer cells evade the immune system, involving high levels of two proteins - dectin-1 and galectin-9. The study found that blocking this interaction can increase survival in mice with pancreatic tumors.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 10, 2017

Immune cell serves as an essential communications link for migrating cells

Researchers discovered that macrophages transmit messages between non-immune cells, such as pigment cells in fish, to facilitate complex patterns like stripes. This unique function of macrophages suggests they may play a broader role in intercellular communication, affecting tissue development, regeneration, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Newfound effect of cancer drug may expand its use

Researchers found a previously unappreciated role for Abraxane in tumor immunology, suggesting ways to improve the drug and develop new combination treatments. Nab-paclitaxel enables macrophages to switch from immune-suppressing M2 cells back into M1 cells that amplify the body's effort to kill cancer cells.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateFeb 10, 2017

A 'release and kill' strategy may aid treatment of tuberculosis

Researchers develop 'release and kill' strategy to target M. tuberculosis in infected macrophages, potentially shortening TB treatment periods. The approach leverages selective apoptosis to release the bacteria from infected cells, making them susceptible to antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 8, 2017

Potential new cancer treatment activates cancer-engulfing cells

A research group at Kobe University has discovered a potential new cancer treatment that activates cancer-engulfing cells. The treatment uses an antibody to activate macrophages, which can effectively eliminate cancer cells. This discovery could lead to the development of new and more effective cancer treatments.

SourceKobe University·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 6, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Turning off asthma attacks

Johns Hopkins researchers have identified a critical cellular switch that turns on the inflammatory immune response contributing to asthma attacks. By inhibiting this pathway, they may be able to prevent continued inflammation and long-term structural changes in the lungs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 2, 2016

Why raising good cholesterol may not always protect against heart disease

A recent study suggests that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may not always protect against heart disease as previously thought. HDL can actually enhance the inflammatory response of immune cells called macrophages, which counteracts its established anti-inflammatory effect in other cell types.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateNov 17, 2016

Immune cells identified as the culprit linking hypertension and dementia

A recent study published in JCI Journals reveals that immune cells, specifically perivascular macrophages, play a crucial role in the development of dementia in individuals with hypertension. The research suggests that targeting these cells may be a potential approach for preventing cognitive decline in high blood pressure patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 14, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Insulin resistance reversed by removal of protein

A team of researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine successfully reversed diabetic insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in mouse models by removing the protein galectin-3 (Gal3). This finding suggests that Gal3 inhibition could be an effective way to treat type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateNov 3, 2016

LJI scientists flip molecular switches to distinguish related immune cells

La Jolla Institute for Immunology researchers have developed a new method to inactivate specific genes in immune cells using enhancer targeting. This approach allows for the precise deletion of genes in one cell type while leaving others intact, opening up new possibilities for targeted therapies.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·DateNov 1, 2016

Missing link between hemolysis and infection found

Scientists discover that heme molecule interferes with macrophage cytoskeleton, immobilizing them and preventing immune cells from eliminating bacteria. Quinine, an existing malaria medication, restores functionality of affected macrophages, paving the way for new treatment possibilities.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 31, 2016

Activation of 2 genes linked to development of atherosclerosis

PARP9 and PARP14 have been identified as regulators of macrophage activation, a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis. The study found that silencing these genes had opposite effects on macrophage activation, with PARP14 increasing and PARP9 decreasing activation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2016

A culprit cell that drives plaque buildup in arteries

Researchers found that removing aging macrophages from atherosclerosis-prone mice reduced plaque buildup by 60%, suggesting a potential cellular target for therapy. The study also showed that suppressing senescence limited disease progression and reduced markers of plaque instability.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Optical and PET/CT probes detect early signs of atherosclerosis

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of activity-based probes in detecting early signs of atherosclerosis. By targeting cysteine cathepsins, the probes image activated macrophage populations using optical and PET/CT methods, providing real-time monitoring of disease progression and therapeutic responses.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 20, 2016

Scientists reveal link between cell metabolism and the spread of cancer

Researchers found that manipulating macrophages' metabolism can prevent tumor cells from spreading by stealing glucose, leading to a structured vessel barrier. The study's findings may lead to new cancer therapies targeting mTOR inhibitors and improving treatment outcomes for patients.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 20, 2016

Embryonic white blood cells needed in adulthood

A significant proportion of macrophages are distributed to tissues before bone marrow function starts, maintaining themselves through stem cell-like renewal. Embryonic-derived macrophages regulate iron metabolism and the growth of the mammary gland in adults.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature·DateOct 17, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Uncovering the mechanisms that support the spread of ovarian cancer

Tumor cells attract macrophages by releasing cytokines, which secrete growth factors that help tumor cells form spheroids and grow. Inhibiting these growth factors reduces tumor cell proliferation in a mouse model of ovarian cancer. This study sheds light on the early stages of ovarian tumor metastasis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 10, 2016

Research opens up new treatment route for inflammatory rheumatism

Macrophages have been shown to play a crucial role in enthesitis, inflammation of tendons. Researchers found that blocking JAK inhibitors can prevent the increase of STAT1 and successfully treat Achilles enthesitis. This discovery may offer new treatment options for patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 23, 2016

Zika infection of placental macrophages in culture

Researchers found that Zika virus productively infects primary human placenta-specific macrophages, with 10-15% of placental macrophages infected. The study suggests that placental macrophages may play a role in maternal-fetal Zika transmission and warrants further investigation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 18, 2016

Heart-resident macrophages call in neutrophils following ischemic injury

A team of researchers found that a subset of macrophage cells in the heart produce molecules attracting neutrophils. Loss of these macrophages or blocking their production reduces neutrophil migration to the injured area. The study suggests resident macrophages provide signals calling neutrophils to the site.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 4, 2016
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages

A recent study reveals that ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages, a key component of the immune system. The toxic effects of these emissions on macrophages can lead to pro-inflammatory reactions and other biological processes, highlighting the need for efficient particle-reducing measures.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 19, 2016

Cell death: How a protein drives immune cells to suicide

Researchers at the University of Basel have identified a protein called gasdermin D that drives immune cells to pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death. This process allows macrophages to burst open and expose pathogens, which can then be targeted by the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJul 14, 2016

Natural metabolite can suppress inflammation

Scientists discovered that itaconate, a natural substance produced by macrophages, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces the activity of immune cells and may be used to treat pathologies caused by excessive inflammation or oxidative stress.

SourceITMO University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 30, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Reclaiming the immune system's assault on tumors

Researchers at EPFL have found a way to reclaim corrupted immune cells and turn them into signals for the immune system to attack tumors. They identified a molecular switch that can convert hijacked macrophages into cells stimulating the immune system to fight cancer growth and spread.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 13, 2016

Finely tuned electrical fields give wound healing a jolt

Researchers found that electrical fields enhanced macrophage migration and phagocytosis, cleaning the wound site and boosting healing ability. This discovery may have wide-reaching implications for diseases where macrophages play a role.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJun 2, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Watch immune cells 'glue' broken blood vessels back together

Researchers discovered that macrophages can grab and repair broken blood vessel ends in zebrafish brains, suggesting a potential natural repair mechanism for microbleeds. This process, observed over three hours, involved adhesion molecules and mechanical traction forces.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateMay 3, 2016

Macrophage population activates repair in murine heart attack model

A study by Ken Suzuki and team found that M2 macrophages play a crucial role in repairing damaged myocardial tissue after a heart attack. Supplementing with these cells or using the cytokine IL-4 can restore repair capabilities and potentially reduce the risk of cardiac rupture.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 3, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New test can predict death in patients with serious liver disease

Researchers have found that CD163 can predict mortality in blood samples from patients with acute on chronic liver failure, a condition with a high four-week mortality rate of 20-30%. Measuring this biomarker may lead to improved diagnostics and treatment towards macrophages via CD163.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateApr 1, 2016
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

HIV-infected young males have higher rates of bone loss than females

Researchers found that HIV-infected adolescent males had increased levels of sCD14, a marker of macrophage activation, leading to lower bone mass and density. This is due to the protective effects of estrogen in females, which represses macrophage function.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateMar 10, 2016

UNC School of Medicine researchers prove HIV targets tissue macrophages

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have demonstrated that HIV infects and replicates in macrophages, a discovery with significant implications for HIV cure research. The study found that macrophages can sustain HIV replication in the absence of T cells and can establish infection in new hosts.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 2016

Autoimmune diseases gonna be defeated

Scientists designed a novel bispecific antibody that selectively blocks overproduction of TNF, a protein harmful when overproduced in autoimmune diseases. The prototype shows promise for treating conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 29, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Immune therapy breaks down wall around pancreatic tumors for chemo to attack

Researchers have discovered a novel role for CD40 antibodies in re-educating macrophages to break down the tumor microenvironment, allowing chemotherapy to target pancreatic cancer more effectively. The optimal timing of delivery is critical, with chemotherapy being most effective when administered five days after CD40 treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer Discovery·DateFeb 29, 2016