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Potential therapeutic strategy for obesity

Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic strategy for obesity by discovering the signalling pathways responsible for the development of adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) in obesity. ATMs play a key role in preventing lipotoxicity, where fat molecules are deposited in non-adipose tissues.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNature Metabolism·DateNov 17, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study pinpoints target for managing inflammation, promoting tissue repair

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that targeting the BCAP protein could help control overactive immune responses and promote tissue repair in inflammatory diseases. The researchers suggest that modulating BCAP activity could be used to dampen inflammation and accelerate response against tumors.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2020

Chronic inflammation causes a reduction in NAD+

Researchers at the Buck Institute have identified chronic inflammation as a driver of NAD+ decline, a key metabolite central to an efficient and healthy metabolism. Senescent cells activate CD38, which degrades NAD+, leading to age-related diseases. Blocking CD38 activity may offer a new target for therapeutic interventions.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Metabolism·DateNov 16, 2020

Pharmacology - An unconventional ion channel

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München identified a mechanosensitive ion channel in an endolysosomal system of macrophages. This channel is activated by mechanical stimuli and alterations in osmolarity, regulating the secretion of signaling molecules that control the immune system.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Imaging macrophages in human eyes

A label-free imaging technique has been developed to examine immune cells called macrophages in the retina of healthy humans and patients with glaucoma. Cell density decreased with age in healthy participants, while cell processes moved more quickly and covered a smaller area in patients.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2020

New technology tracks role of macrophages in cancer spread

A new study reveals that macrophages play a complex role in cancer spread, with two types - M1 and M2 - exhibiting different behaviors. The research uses advanced technologies to identify a distinct population of macrophage cells that migrate towards cancer cells, promoting tumor growth.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 26, 2020

Protein that keeps immune system from freaking out could form basis for new therapeutics

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine discovered a molecule called Girdin (GIV) that acts as a brake on macrophages. The GIV-mimic peptide can shut down immune cells' overreaction, supporting a mechanism critical for survival in mouse models of sepsis and colitis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 14, 2020

CNIC researchers discover a mechanism allowing immune cells to regulate obesity

Researchers at CNIC have discovered a mechanism explaining how macrophages regulate obesity and related diseases like fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes. The study shows that oxidative stress leads to mitochondrial metabolism changes in macrophages, fostering inflammation and obesity.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Metabolism·DateSep 17, 2020
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.

CNIC researchers discover a cell-cleaning system that keeps hearts healthy

A study published in Cell reveals a previously unknown mechanism for the heart's waste removal, highlighting the critical role of macrophages in maintaining cardiac health. The discovery suggests that cardiac dysfunction may arise from defects in immune cells rather than cardiomyocytes.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCell·DateSep 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fat crystals trigger chronic inflammation

Researchers at the University of Bonn identify a disease mechanism where fat crystals cause immune system hyperreaction, leading to chronic inflammation. The study reveals that deoxysphingolipid crystals disrupt mitochondrial function and activate an inflammatory response in immune cells.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAutophagy·DateAug 24, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Assembly within the tumor center

Scientists discovered that identifying tumor-associated macrophage patterns in lung tumor tissue enables the prediction of disease progression. The study found that a higher number of tumor-promoting macrophages near the invasive margin is associated with lower patient survival rates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 4, 2020

Combating drug resistance in age-related macular degeneration

A team of researchers has developed a potential approach to overcome anti-VEGF resistance in patients with age-related macular degeneration. By combining apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP) with anti-VEGF, the strategy effectively suppresses choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and reduces drug resistance.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 16, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

How smooth muscle cells promote atherosclerosis

A study reveals that smooth muscle cells near necrotic cores of atherosclerotic plaques produce complement protein C3, stimulating macrophage activation and driving clonal expansion. The cells' ability to evade immune surveillance is restored by inhibiting CD47, suggesting these cells as viable therapeutic targets.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2020

UB investigators uncover cellular mechanism involved in Krabbe disease

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered that hematopoietic stem cell transplantation improves Krabbe disease outcomes through a mechanism independent of cross-correction. The study found that macrophages expressing GALC enzyme aid in myelin debris degradation, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNeuron·DateMay 5, 2020

'Backpacks' boost immune cells' ability to kill cancer

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have created disc-shaped particles that control macrophage behavior to slow tumor growth and metastasis in mice. The 'backpacks' keep macrophages in their tumor-killing state for up to five days, reducing the size of tumors and metastatic nodules.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 29, 2020
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.

High ferritin levels may indicate severe COVID-19

Researchers have found that elevated ferritin concentrations are associated with increased production of special signalling molecules, leading to complications and death in COVID-19 patients. Marker CD163 is also an important indicator of macrophage activation and high risk of complications.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalAutoimmunity Reviews·DateApr 22, 2020

New type of immunotherapy hinders the spread of ovarian cancer

Researchers develop new type of immunotherapy targeting macrophages in omental fat, which appears to reduce ovarian cancer spread and tumour growth. The study shows promise for improving treatment outcomes, but further testing is needed.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 26, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

CAR macrophages go beyond T cells to fight solid tumors

Scientists have successfully engineered CAR macrophages to target and kill solid tumors, using a novel approach that could lead to more effective cancer treatments. The discovery centers around harnessing the immune-boosting properties of macrophages, which are often co-opted by tumors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 23, 2020

A new strategy for the management of inflammatory pain

Researchers have found a new mechanism for long-lasting pain relief through the production of endogenous opioids by immune cells. The discovery uses cytokine interleukin-4 to induce M2 macrophages, which produce opioids and reduce pain, offering potential alternative pain management options.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 16, 2020

Stroke: Macrophages migrate from the blood

Researchers discovered that shortly after a stroke, macrophages from the blood attack dead and adjacent healthy brain tissue. This process was hindered by inactivating the Cxcr4 gene, which acts like an antenna for inflammatory processes in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 11, 2020

Abnormal bone formation after trauma explained and reversed in mice

Researchers have discovered that heterotopic ossification, a painful complication of trauma, is caused by macrophages sending errant signals to bone-forming stem cells. A new study suggests that targeting TGF-beta expressing macrophages may prevent this abnormal bone formation

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 6, 2020
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.

Targeting the cancer microenvironment

A new biochemical switch involved in M2 macrophage polarization and proliferation has been identified, which can be targeted to inhibit cancer growth. The discovery was made by a research team from the University of Vienna and could lead to novel therapies against systemic diseases and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 5, 2020

Double X-ray vision helps tuberculosis and osteoporosis research

Scientists at DESY used an advanced X-ray combination technique to trace nanocarriers for tuberculosis drugs within cells with high precision. The method also revealed the calcium content in human bone, benefiting osteoporosis research.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 2020

New target identified for repairing the heart after heart attack

Researchers at University of Oxford have identified a new target for repairing the heart after a heart attack by modulating the immune response. Macrophages play a key role in forming cardiac scars, and modifying their behavior could lead to more efficient repair and potentially avoid heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2020
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.

Putrid compound may have a sweet side gig as atherosclerosis treatment

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found putrescine, a compound responsible for the foul smell of decomposing flesh, may help treat atherosclerosis. The study suggests putrescine's role in removing dead cells through efferocytosis could improve plaques and prevent chronic inflammation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 30, 2020

Nanoparticle chomps away plaques that cause heart attacks

Researchers have invented a Trojan Horse nanoparticle that selectively targets and eats away at plaque-causing cells, reducing plaque size and stabilizing it. This approach shows promise as a potential treatment for atherosclerosis, the leading cause of death in the US.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 27, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

High-protein diets boost artery-clogging plaque, mouse study shows

A new study reveals that high-protein diets can lead to increased plaque buildup in arteries, particularly unstable plaque prone to rupture. This can increase the risk of heart attacks. Researchers found that excess amino acids from a high-protein diet activate macrophages, leading to cell death and worsening plaque complexity.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Researchers identify a possible cause and treatment for inflammatory bowel disease

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that extracellular matrix protein-1 (ECM1) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. The researchers found that ECM1 is highly expressed in macrophages and regulates their polarization through the GM-CSF/STAT5 signaling pathway.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

Scientists examine how a gut infection may produce chronic symptoms

Researchers study how gut infections damage the nervous system, leading to chronic inflammation and conditions like IBS. They find that specific genes contribute to cell death and propose potential treatments by boosting polyamine production or restoring gut microbial communities.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJan 10, 2020

Removing body clock gene protects mice against pneumonia

Researchers have found that deleting the BMAL1 clock gene makes immune cells more effective at fighting off pneumonia-causing bacteria. The study reveals that strengthening the actin skeleton of these cells is key to their increased effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020

Finding a new way to fight late-stage sepsis

Scientists at Ohio State University have created a treatment for late-stage sepsis using nanotechnology to transform donated immune cells into a powerful antibacterial drug. The therapy demonstrated significant improvements in survival rates and bacteria clearance in mouse models of sepsis.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 6, 2020
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.

How immune cells switch to attack mode

Macrophages change their metabolism drastically after coming into contact with bacteria, triggering an inflammatory response. This process involves the activation of Toll-like receptors, which leads to histone acetylation and changes in gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateDec 17, 2019

How Crohn's disease-associated bacteria tolerate antibiotics

Researchers discovered that Crohn's disease-associated bacteria can switch between replicating and non-growing states within macrophages to tolerate antibiotics. This stress response allows a reservoir of antibiotic-tolerant bacteria to survive in the host and cause long-term inflammation and irritation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 14, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New method identifies aggressive breast cancer

A new method has been developed to identify aggressive breast cancer by analyzing tumor tissue signatures, showing a correlation with poor outcome in patients. The study used mouse models and bioinformatics expert to isolate macrophages from mice affected by breast cancer and compared them with those from healthy breast tissue.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 29, 2019

GAS7 protein allows cells to eat

The study reveals that the GAS7 protein's BAR domain is essential for phagocytic cup formation, enabling macrophages to efficiently consume debris. The protein's oligomerization and membrane binding are critical for this process.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2019

Texas Biomed awarded $2.8 Million NIH grant for novel TB research

Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute are studying lung macrophages and their role in TB infection, with the goal of developing a new set of biological pathways critical to the body's response. The findings could lead to a new strategy for host-directed therapy and potentially cure TB.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateOct 1, 2019

Mysterious vaping illness characterized by fat-laden cells in the lung

Researchers at University of Utah Health identified large immune cells containing oily droplets in the lungs of vaping patients, enabling faster diagnoses and shedding light on the mysterious condition. The discovery may lead to better treatment options and a deeper understanding of the illness's causes.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 6, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Identification of new populations of immune cells in the lungs

Researchers discovered two distinct sub-populations of interstitial macrophages in the lung, which play a crucial role in preventing asthma development. These sub-populations exhibit different functions, origins, and morphologies, and have distinct local precursors.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 3, 2019

Researchers discover a new form of immunotherapy

Researchers have discovered a new form of immunotherapy that targets and removes specific immune cells called macrophages, which support cancer growth. The technique has shown promising results in treating malignant melanoma, with tumors shrinking after the removal of these cells.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 27, 2019
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.