Breaking the mucus barrier unveils cancer cell secrets
Measuring mechanical strength of cancer cell mucus layers provides clues about treating cancer. Cancer cells produce excessive mucus, forming a barrier that prevents drugs from reaching them.
Mucus
Articles tagged with Mucus
A study reveals the keys to the locomotion of snails
Researchers characterize snail locomotion and find that mucus properties are not crucial for movement. The study's findings have potential applications in designing biomimetic robots that can move on fluid surfaces.
Algal antifreeze makes inroads into ice
Researchers found that algal secretions can increase ice salinity and create channels in ice, allowing algae to live and grow. This adaptation may help sea-ice algae thrive in a warmer climate.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2011
Cigarette smoking increases production of mucus in patients with bronchitis
Researchers found that cigarette smoke suppresses protein Bik, leading to sustained mucus cell growth and airway obstruction. The study's findings suggest a potential therapeutic target for reducing excess mucus secretion in chronic bronchitis patients.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2011
Discus fish parent young like mammalian mothers
Discus fish exhibit unusual parental care by secreting a nutrient-rich mucus that their young feed on. After three weeks, the parents stop providing food and let the fry fend for themselves.
The jellyfish-like salp: Most efficient filter-feeder in the deep, scientists discover
Researchers find salps capture food particles as small as bacteria and phytoplankton, making them hardier and more plentiful than thought. This allows them to play a crucial role in carbon cycling by consuming the entire 'microbial loop' and sinking large amounts of carbon to the ocean bottom.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2010
Biodegradable particles can bypass mucus, release drugs over time
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have created biodegradable nanosized particles that can deliver sustained-release medication to patients with diseases like cystic fibrosis and cancer. The nanoparticles degrade over time into harmless components, overcoming a major barrier to aerosolized drug delivery.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010
JCI online early table of contents: Sept. 14, 2009
Researchers have found that T cells from individuals with X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) are resistant to cell death triggered by repeated stimulation of a cell surface protein complex, leading to uncontrolled expansion upon infection. Additionally, a molecular regulatory network controlled by the protein SPDEF governs alle...
The making of mucus in common lung diseases
Research reveals that SPDEF regulates mucus hyperproduction in common lung diseases through goblet cell differentiation. The study found that this network is active in patients with chronic lung diseases, suggesting new therapeutic targets.
Scientists identify gene for short-circuiting excess mucus in lung disease, common colds
Researchers have identified a genetic switch that causes excessive mucus in the lungs, shedding light on a medical mystery. The study found that a transcription factor called SPDEF regulates a chain of genes involved in mucus production, and blocking its influence may be a potential pathway for new treatments.
SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 2009
JCI table of contents: Aug. 24, 2009
Researchers found that Six1 protein is central to tumor development in breast cancer, linked to EMT, stem/progenitor cells, and poor prognosis. Overexpression of Six1 also enhanced ability to metastasize, indicating its role as a key player in aggressive breast cancer.
Cystic fibrosis treatments may have unseen long-term benefits
Research suggests that breaking down lung mucus with cystic fibrosis medicines can reduce the severity of bacterial infections. The study's findings have important implications for managing long-term infections in patients with cystic fibrosis.
Superbug complicates treatment of infections in cystic fibrosis
The Burkholderia cepacia complex's ability to produce exopolysaccharide slime complicates cystic fibrosis treatment, as it can form biofilms that protect bacteria against antibiotics and natural defenses. This superbug's potential for causing serious infections may have been underestimated due to its lab-grown behavior.
A better mesh: Researchers 'tighten' body's protective coating
Scientists have discovered a way to shrink the holes in the mucus layer's netting, allowing it to keep out smaller particles. The technique uses a detergent commonly found in personal care products and has potential applications for protecting against airborne pathogens and nanoparticles.
Clearing the airways in cystic fibrosis
Researchers discovered a way to restore function of CF airway cells by manipulating cellular quality control machinery. This technique could significantly reduce sticky mucus that clogs lungs and leads to life-threatening infections.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 28, 2008
Breaking the 'mucus barrier' with a new drug delivery system
Researchers have engineered the first drug-delivery particles capable of passing through human mucus, which could treat a range of diseases. The new system uses a polymer coating to allow drugs to penetrate mucus layers in minutes.
Carbocisteine can reduce worsening of COPD
A randomized controlled trial found carbocisteine significantly reduced yearly exacerbation rates in Chinese patients with COPD by 25% compared to placebo. This mucolytic drug may be a worthwhile treatment for prevention of exacerbations, particularly in developing countries.
Cystic fibrosis foundation lays out new treatment guidelines
The American Thoracic Society has released new clinical standards for treating cystic fibrosis, focusing on aerosolized antibiotics and DNase for patients with moderate to severe lung disease. The guidelines aim to improve lung function, reduce exacerbations, and increase life expectancy.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 15, 2007
Cystic fibrosis patients may breathe easier, thanks to bioengineered antimicrobials
Cystic fibrosis patients may benefit from a new therapeutic strategy that targets deadly bacterial infections by manipulating the binding of antimicrobials in mucus. By reducing the charge on lysozyme, researchers found it could float independently in the mucus and kill bacteria effectively.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2007
Artificial snot enhances electronic nose
Using an artificial snot coating mimics natural nose mucus to improve odour discrimination, allowing electronic noses to detect a wider range of smells. The device is compact, affordable, and faster than conventional methods.
Smelling for first time results from knowing abnormalities in congenital loss of smell
Researchers have discovered the biochemical basis of congenital loss of smell, enabling new treatments. Patients' nasal mucus was found to lack growth factors essential for olfactory receptor cell function, leading to premature cell death. Treatment with PDE inhibitors restored smell in some patients.
Breathing for better lung health
A study by UNC researchers found that normal breathing's rhythmic motion regulates mucus clearance, promoting lung health in CF patients. This rhythm also re-hydrates airways, accelerating mucus removal.
Spiders: Chastity belts stop cuckoos in the nest
Researchers discovered that male wasp spiders use a 'chastity belt' mechanism to block their female partner's sexual orifice during copulation, preventing offspring from other males. The detached genital tip plugs the orifice securely, impeding further copulation.
Coated nanoparticles solve sticky drug-delivery problem
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a way to coat nanoparticles with a chemical that helps them slip through the body's protective mucus barrier. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for diseases like cancer and infections, delivered directly to affected areas without unwanted side effects.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2007
UVA researchers find that hotel guests with colds can leave their germs behind after checkout
Researchers found that adults infected with rhinovirus, the cause of half of all colds, can contaminate hotel room objects, leaving an infectious gift for others. The study, conducted in hotel rooms, shows that viruses can survive on surfaces for at least a day.
Scientists learn more about how roughage keeps you 'regular'
A high-fiber diet helps keep the gut healthy by increasing mucus production in gut cells. The new research reveals that roughage damages cell membranes, triggering a natural repair response that exudes lubricating mucus, easing digestion and reducing discomfort.
UCSD research may lead to targeted treatment for asthma sufferers
Researchers at UCSD found that selectively inactivating the IKK beta gene in airway membrane-lining cells significantly reduces inflammation, mucus production, and scarring. This discovery suggests a potential targeted treatment for asthma sufferers.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2005
K-State researchers designing better drug to treat cystic fibrosis
K-State researchers are working on a new drug to treat cystic fibrosis by designing chloride-selective pores that can help ions travel across cell membranes. Their goal is to create a medication that works efficiently and effectively at low doses, improving the lives of those affected by the disease.
Chronic sinus infection thought to be tissue issue, Mayo Clinic scientists show it's snot
Researchers discover that toxic proteins are released into nasal and sinus mucus, not the diseased airway tissue, leading to a radical change in treatment for chronic sinus infections. This finding has far-reaching implications for treatment targeting inflammation and bacterial infection.
Research with red tide toxin yields potential therapies for cystic fibrosis
Researchers discovered two compounds that block red tide toxin effects on respiratory systems, showing promise in treating cystic fibrosis. The compounds improved mucus clearance and may work at concentrations without side effects.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 12, 2004
Surprising finding could lead to new treatment for cystic fibrosis
A team of researchers has discovered that people with cystic fibrosis (CF) actually have very little mucus in their airways, contradicting long-held assumptions. The study suggests that the substance clogging CF patients' lungs is pus and that mucus may protect the airway from infection.
SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateJul 1, 2004
Scientists Discover Molecular Trigger Of Mucus Production, Suggesting First Treatment For Deadly Bronchitis, Other Diseases
Researchers at UCSF discovered a molecular trigger that initiates uncontrolled mucus production, affecting millions worldwide. They suggest targeting this messenger to develop strategies to control mucus production and prevent airway blockage.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 1999