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Unveiling the intricate mechanisms behind oxysterol-induced cell death

Researchers at Doshisha University reveal that 25-hydroxycholesterol causes a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis, which could contribute to various diseases. The study identifies two key mechanisms by which 25-OHC induces ferroptosis, including inhibition of cellular pathways and disruption of antioxidant systems.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Palmitic acid promotes cancer metastasis and leaves a more aggressive “memory” in tumour cells

A diet rich in palmitic acid makes tumor cells more aggressive and increases their metastatic capacity, a process that is responsible for 90% of cancer deaths. Exposure to palmitic acid leads to permanent epigenetic modifications in tumor cells, allowing them to conserve metastatic capacity even after the fatty acid is removed.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Nerve repair, with help from stem cells

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers uses human gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells to guide nerve growth and regeneration, achieving similar results as traditional autograft procedures. The approach has potential for treating larger nerve gaps, including those resulting from oral cancer surgery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2021

Unique Schwann cells: the eyes have it

Researchers have identified a new class of glial cells in the cornea, known as Schwann cells, with unique genetic properties that could help improve wound healing and nerve regeneration after surgeries and corneal transplants. The study's findings may also provide insights into conditions like dry eye and LASIK-related side effects.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Research·DateNov 23, 2020

Enzyme ensures thick insulation

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered that Schwann cells produce fatty acids through an enzyme called FASN, which is essential for myelin layer formation and maintenance. This breakthrough has implications for understanding the development of rare childhood diseases and potential treatments.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 8, 2018

Safety of autologous Schwann cell transplantation demonstrated following SCI

A Phase I clinical trial demonstrates the safety of transplanting autologous Schwann cells into a spinal cord lesion, showing no negative effects after 1 year. The study successfully determined safety and feasibility for performing peripheral nerve harvests within 5-30 days followed by intra-spinal transplantation within 4-7 weeks.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateMar 22, 2017

Co-transplanted cells and treadmill training aids rats with spinal cord injury

Researchers found that co-transplanting Schwann cells and olfactory ensheathing cells, combined with daily treadmill training, promotes functional recovery in rats with spinal cord injuries. The study reveals a synergistic benefit of the combined therapy on axonal regeneration and motor function improvement.

Pinning down the pain

A key protein in Schwann cells is essential for normal interactions between nerve cells and Schwann cells, regulating the steps that lead to nerve regeneration. Deficiency of this protein may lead to chronic neuropathic pain, motivating the development of a small molecule drug to mimic its function.

New clues to causes of peripheral nerve damage

Researchers discovered that crippled mitochondria in Schwann cells lead to a toxic substance build-up, causing nerve damage and symptoms like numbness and pain. This finding may lead to new therapeutic strategies to treat peripheral neuropathies, including drugs that block toxin buildup.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMar 6, 2013