Stem cells derived from fat tissue can now be used to produce functioning platelets in just 12 days. This breakthrough could provide a reliable and safe supply of platelets for patients with cancer and other disorders, reducing the reliance on donated platelets.
SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateNov 28, 2018
A new delivery system combines blood platelets with stem cells to guide drugs into the bone marrow, where leukemia begins. In mice with acute myeloid leukemia, this therapy halted disease progression and achieved a cure rate of 87.5%.
SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 31, 2018
A Swedish-US study found that premature babies with low platelet levels have a fourfold increased risk of severe retinopathy of prematurity, a condition that can cause permanent vision impairment and blindness. Injections of platelets may provide new therapeutic possibilities for treating this disease.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 10, 2018
UAB researchers develop potential therapy for TTP, a rare and deadly blood-clotting disorder, by delivering ADAMTS13 enzyme via platelets. The treatment inhibits thrombus formation in human and mouse blood, showing therapeutic benefit.
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The authors explore clopidogrel's use in stable ischemic heart disease, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. They evaluate the data behind its use in patients on oral anticoagulation, aiming to better understand its role in cardiovascular disease.
SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateSep 10, 2018
Apolipoprotein A-IV increases after consuming foods high in unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, and is associated with lower cardiovascular disease rates. It acts as an inhibitory factor for platelets, reducing thrombosis risk by blocking platelet aggregation.
SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2018
Researchers found that an antioxidant called apocynin can cut plaque buildup in half and lower inflammation to pre-attack levels. This treatment could help reduce the risk of a second heart attack or stroke, particularly in mice that have experienced a first attack or stroke.
SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 4, 2018
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Researchers at Scripps Research have found an enzyme, YRSACT, that increases megakaryocyte production, the precursors to platelets. This discovery offers a new therapeutic option for treating thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet counts and increased risk of internal bleeding.
SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2018
Researchers in Japan have developed a new method to produce functional platelets from human induced pluripotent stem cells using turbulence, enabling clinical-scale production. The discovery has the potential to address the shortage of platelets and reduce reliance on blood donations.
A Kyoto University study reveals that turbulence enhances platelet generation in the blood, potentially resolving global shortages of these cells. The discovery could enable mass production of platelets using iPS cell technology.
Researchers used intravital correlative light-electron microscopy to visualize platelet production in vivo. They found that megakaryocytes form large protrusions rather than extruding fine proplatelet extensions, revising the understanding of fundamental biology of platelet formation.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateJun 22, 2018
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A new Collaborative Research Center will investigate complex interactions between platelets and inflammatory processes. The project aims to develop novel treatment concepts for diseases associated with platelet dysfunction, such as stroke and acute respiratory failure.
Researchers found that IgG antibodies play a key role in the severity of anaphylactic shock by activating blood platelets. Platelet activation may be behind the process, leading to a drop in body temperature and reduced circulating platelet count.
SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience Immunology·DateMay 15, 2018
Scientists have developed high-strength, super-tough carbon sheets by chemically stitching together platelets of graphitic carbon at low temperatures. The material's mechanical properties exceed those of current carbon fiber composites, offering potential cost savings and improved performance for various applications.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018
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A University of British Columbia bioengineer has created platelets with extra powers to aid in the coagulation process, potentially rescuing blood from massive bleeding. The modified platelets showed improved clotting times and stronger clots in various blood samples.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateApr 12, 2018
Scientists at Iowa State University have used leftover blood donor cells to gain insights into how natural killer cells interact with antibodies. They found that the carbohydrate modifications on these cells result in higher affinity, potentially leading to improved antibody therapies.
SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 9, 2018
Platelets have been found to act as the immune system's first responders when a virus, bacterium, or allergen enters the bloodstream. They release serotonin, which triggers an inflammatory response in mice with antigen-antibody complexes, leading to septic or anaphylactic shock.
SourceUniversité Laval·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2018
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Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new approach to improve cardiac stem cell therapy, which shows promise in targeting heart attack injuries and enhancing treatment effectiveness.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 10, 2018
A new blood stabilization method developed at Massachusetts General Hospital significantly prolongs the lifespan of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in whole blood samples. This approach allows for the preservation of high-quality RNA suitable for demanding molecular assays, opening up potential for personalized drug testing and expandin...
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2018
Researchers have measured and mapped the key molecular forces on platelets that trigger blood clotting. The findings suggest that platelets care about the direction of forces applied to them, requiring a lateral force signal to prevent unnecessary clotting.
SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 19, 2017
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A new study reveals that platelets actively migrate to sites of infection, collecting bacteria into aggregates and facilitating the activation of neutrophils. This active function has significant implications for our understanding of immune defense and potential therapeutic targets for inflammation reactions.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell·DateDec 18, 2017
Researchers decode interactions between materials and structures in nature-inspired composites like nacre and tooth enamel. The model reveals key factors influencing composite properties and provides insights into designing lightweight, multifunctional structural composites.
SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateDec 4, 2017
Researchers at UCR and UPenn used microscopy to study blood clot contraction, revealing a novel function for filopodia in clot shrinkage. The findings could aid in the development of new therapies for clotting disorders.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2017
A new statistical model uses hospital patient data to predict platelet transfusion needs, enabling optimal inventory management and reducing waste. The approach could save healthcare systems up to $80 million annually if adopted nationwide.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2017
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A new study presents evidence that taking aspirin twice daily could provide more cardiovascular benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The research found that platelet aggregation increased over the standard 24-hour dosing interval when aspirin was only taken once daily, suggesting a need for antiplatelet treatment that covers ...
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have discovered the role of matrix protein Pif80 in nacre formation, a biomineral with exceptional fracture resistance. The study sheds light on the biomimetic materials that can be created using nacre properties.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 3, 2017
Research suggests PCSK9 plays a role in platelet activation and aggregation, with higher levels linked to increased platelet reactivity. PCSK9 inhibitors may also reduce thrombosis by interfering with platelet function.
Researchers have developed a novel blood biopsy test that reads platelets to detect human lung cancer with high accuracy. The thromboSeq test analyzes tumor RNA absorbed by circulating platelets and has shown promising results in diagnosing non-small cell lung cancer, achieving up to 90% accuracy.
Researchers found that glucose metabolism is critical for platelet production, function, and clearance. The absence of glucose metabolism leads to lower platelet counts, defective megakaryocyte generation, and increased platelet clearance.
SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 4, 2017
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Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have discovered a molecule that plays a role in thrombus development but not initial clot formation, offering a new avenue for developing more specific and protective blood thinners. This could reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke without increasing bleeding risk.
SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 2017
Researchers at UVA School of Medicine have identified a 'master switch' that controls platelet production in the bone marrow, offering new hope for treating platelet shortages and neonatal thrombocytopenia. The discovery may lead to the development of new treatments using existing compounds with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 19, 2017
Hyperglycemia triggers platelet production through the RAGE pathway, increasing atherosclerosis risk in diabetes. A study found that blocking RAGE receptor signaling reduced platelet production and atherogenesis.
SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 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.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have solved the mystery of producing nanoplatelets, which are flat, uniform crystals with striking colors. The team developed a theoretical model and experimentally confirmed its predictions, paving the way for alternative materials to quantum dots in displays and solar cells.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 4, 2017
Researchers found that mouse lungs produce over half of the body's platelets and contain a pool of stem cells capable of restoring blood production. This discovery suggests the lungs may also play a key role in human blood formation, with implications for treating diseases like thrombocytopenia.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2017
Researchers have developed a new method to analyze the carbon content of ancient coccolithophore shells, providing insights into past CO2 levels and climate sensitivity. The study uses mathematical modeling and laboratory experiments to understand the biology of ancient creatures and their impact on the environment.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2017
Researchers have grown a new type of titanium surface that repels blood, potentially reducing the risk of rejection and complications in medical implants. The 'superhemophobic' material is made by altering the surface chemistry of titanium, which normally attracts blood.
SourceColorado State University·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJan 18, 2017
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that drone transportation of large bags of blood products can maintain their temperature and cellular integrity. The study suggests drones are an effective way to transport blood products to remote areas or time-sensitive destinations.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalTransfusion·DateDec 7, 2016
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Researchers at Emory and Georgia Tech developed a microfluidic testing ground to measure individual platelets' strength by squeezing protein dots together. This could help diagnose bleeding disorders and develop blood thinning drugs.
SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 10, 2016
Researchers found that platelet α6β1 integrin promotes interactions between tumor cells and platelets, leading to decreased lung metastasis in mice. Antibody-mediated blockade of α6β1 integrin inhibited tumor metastasis in murine models of breast cancer and melanoma.
The ANTARCTIC trial found that elderly patients who underwent coronary stenting did not experience improved outcomes with platelet function testing compared to standard, unmonitored approach. Monitoring led to treatment adjustments in nearly half of the patients, yet it didn't improve ischemic or safety outcomes.
A research team has developed a clearer understanding of how platelets sense mechanical forces to initiate the cascading process leading to blood clotting. The study reveals that mechanoreceptor molecules like GPIbα play a crucial role in transducing forces into biochemical signals.
Researchers at Université de Genève discovered that a protein called CCN1 produced by platelets and blood vessels is essential for the recruitment of immune cells during viral infections. Without CCN1, the immune response is impaired, highlighting a new potential target for antiviral treatments.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2016
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A low-intensity type of laser treatment has been shown to increase platelet production in animals with thrombocytopenia, a potentially life-threatening shortage of blood cells. The therapy also restored platelet levels in mice with autoimmune disorders and chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 27, 2016
Researchers developed a more effective, comprehensive and cheaper panel of genetic tests to detect bleeding or clotting disorders in patients. The new tests use genome sequencing technology to provide faster diagnoses and improve patient outcomes.
SourceDon Powell Associates Ltd·JournalBlood·DateJun 8, 2016
Researchers found that treatment with an anti-platelet drug reduces amyloid plaques in cerebral vessels, improving brain perfusion. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the formation of protein agglutination and deposits of amyloid in the brain, leading to progressive cognitive decline.
SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalScience Signaling·DateMay 31, 2016
Research reveals gut microbes produce compound TMAO, which encourages over-reactive platelet function, increasing thrombosis risk. Higher TMAO levels linked to heart attacks and strokes in humans.
A proof-of-concept study demonstrates a new method using super-resolution microscopy can accurately diagnose rare platelet disorders, offering an alternative to costly and resource-intensive electron microscopy. This innovative approach provides personalized treatment options, saving the NHS money and improving patient outcomes.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateFeb 4, 2016
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Researchers discovered a novel pathway involved in blood vessel occlusion by increasing LOX activity in platelets. This led to reduced clotting time and increased blood clot formation, pointing to the specific receptor responsible for platelet adhesion.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBlood·DateJan 14, 2016
Scientists at the Wyss Institute developed a bioinspired blood coagulation assay that can detect abnormal platelet function in patients with rare bleeding disorders. The device uses microfluidic technology to mimic blood flow dynamics, enabling real-time monitoring of clotting and preventing life-threatening events.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 7, 2016
A short peptide, SKY peptide, has been developed by researchers at LMU to inhibit the activation of a signal pathway in monocytes, which enables their adhesion to endothelial cells and penetration into sites of acute inflammation. This can lead to chronic inflammatory reactions and tissue damage.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 10, 2015
Researchers created a one-dimensional model of thrombus formation, similar to Tetris, and later expanded to a two-dimensional model. This allows them to study the dynamics of thrombus growth under various conditions, including damage to the vascular wall.
SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 1, 2015
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Researchers at UBC created a supercharged blood cell called a 'Franken-platelet' by injecting platelets with DNA and other ingredients. The resulting cells produced RNA, which performed as predicted and showed promise for treating bleeding disorders and inflammatory diseases.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 4, 2015
Researchers found that tumor RNA carried in platelets can distinguish among healthy individuals and those with six types of cancer, determine the primary tumor location and identify therapeutic approaches. Platelet RNA signatures provide valuable information on tumor type and guide treatment selection.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 30, 2015
Bingbang Xiang discovered that platelets play a protective role in severe sepsis by producing anti-inflammatory agents to prevent immune cells from becoming too active. His findings suggest that platelet transfusions may be effective for treating severely septic patients.
A CWRU researcher has received a $1.9 million grant to transform synthetic platelet technology into devices that dissolve clots to prevent serious health risks like stroke and heart attack. The technology, called SynthoPlate, has already shown promising results in treating bleeding disorders.
Researchers have developed a technique to coat anticancer drugs in membranes made from a patient's own platelets, allowing the drugs to target both primary tumors and circulating tumor cells. This method can prolong drug circulation time up to 30 hours, increasing effectiveness.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 29, 2015
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A team of ETH Zurich researchers has created a biomimetic dental prosthesis that replicates the structure and properties of teeth and seashells. The material, produced using magnetically assisted slip casting, exhibits improved durability and complexity, with potential applications in dentistry and beyond.
Nanoparticles wrapped in human platelet membranes deliver drugs to targeted sites, increasing therapeutic effects for diseased rats and mice. The platelet-membrane-coated nanoparticles selectively bind to damaged blood vessels and certain pathogens, minimizing the spread of bacteria and enhancing antibiotic efficacy.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2015
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that certain antibodies targeting specific proteins on platelets lead to destruction in the liver or spleen. Researchers discovered that drugs like Tamiflu may inhibit liver's immune response, offering a potential new approach for treating the autoimmune disease.
SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 17, 2015
Researchers have compared two novel ways of inhibiting atherosclerotic plaque-induced platelet activation, finding that one strategy is more effective at higher flow rates. The study suggests a new GPVI inhibitor may be used specifically to block thrombus formation at high-risk plaques.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 3, 2015