Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that disruptions in the basement membrane zone between the epidermis and dermis could make it harder for pigment-producing cells to adhere. An enzyme called matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) may be overexpressed, leading to disturbance of the basement membrane.
Researchers have developed a user-friendly method to analyze the basement membrane in human lungs, which is a crucial factor during metastatic process. The study provides valuable insights into the mechanical properties of the basement membrane and its association with metastasis formation.
Researchers at Stanford University discovered that breast cancer cells use a collective, physical mechanism to break through the basement membrane barrier. In a 3D hydrogel model, cancer cells trapped within duct-like structures swelled and stretched, weakening the basement membrane and allowing escape.
Researchers developed an immunodriven strategy to increase nanoparticle penetration through tumor vascular basement membranes, enhancing therapeutic effect. By breaking through the BM barrier, NPs can deliver drugs more effectively, increasing treatment efficacy.
A new study from Duke University identifies 1,500 genes essential for invasive cell behavior in C. elegans worms. The researchers created a 'parts list' of these genes and proteins, which may help identify effective ways to stop cancer's spread.
Filopodia contribute to building a barrier surrounding breast tumours, blocking their escape. Cancer cells lacking Myosin-10 cannot maintain this barrier, making it easier for them to spread.
Researchers have developed a new method for 3D cell culture that accurately quantifies how breast cancer cells generate forces to spread within tissue. This study provides more accurate computational data on cellular forces during invasion by breast cancer cells, which may lead to more efficient and personalized drug development.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discover how gut barrier cells send secret messages to patrolling T cells, keeping them alive and active. The study sheds light on conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and highlights the importance of HVEM protein in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
The basement membrane surrounding tumors may control their growth and spread by becoming stiffer as it expands. Researchers used a simple technique to isolate the membrane and measure its elasticity, finding it to be nonlinearly elastic, unlike balloons made of linearly elastic materials.
Researchers identified a protein, netrin-4, associated with tumour and vessel softness, which determines cancer spread even before cancer develops in several types. Removing or increasing this protein reduces cancer spread.
Duke University researchers have made time-lapse movies of the sheet-like latticework surrounding animal tissues, revealing dynamic movement within the matrix scaffolding. The study provides a new toolkit for studying basement membrane defects underlying tissue degeneration and diseases such as kidney disease and aging.
Researchers discovered that MMP20, an enzyme essential for tooth development, degrades the basement membrane to initiate enamel formation. The study's findings suggest that MMP20 plays a crucial role in regulating tooth growth and may be involved in various dental disorders.
Chloride plays a critical role in assembling collagen IV scaffolds, a fundamental step in basement membrane formation. Researchers found that chloride binds to NC1 domains, inducing a conformational change that enables scaffold assembly.
Researchers found that cancer cells and fibroblasts collaborate to invade the basement membrane, a process that begins long before the actual movement of cancer cells. CAFs secrete more proteases and matrix proteins than normal fibroblasts, which helps them remodel the basement membrane.
High matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression is associated with increased regional angiogenesis and degradation of collagen IV in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats. This upregulation leads to microvessel density and basement membrane damage after cerebral infarction.
Researchers identified a biochemical chain of events leading to activation of a protein-cleaving enzyme called hepsin on the surface of breast tumor cells. Hepsin breaks down basement membrane proteins, allowing tumor cells to escape and invade surrounding tissues.
A single cell in a nematode worm is providing clues into cancer's ability to invade new tissues. Researchers found that integrin and netrin molecules may be a valuable target in halting cancer's spread via metastasis.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation in people with Alport syndrome prevents normal transformation process in collagen proteins, leading to gradual loss of membrane integrity. The mutation affects production of alpha-5 collagen, resulting in breakdown of critical glomerular basement membrane.