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Turbulence is good for the blood

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.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2018

Targeting platelets

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.

Improved blood stabilization should expand use of circulating tumor cell profiling

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

The body's street sweepers

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.

Nature's toughest substances decoded

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

Small study suggests twice-daily aspirin dosing could lead to more cardiovascular benefits for people with type 2 diabetes

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 ...

Blood discovery could benefit preemies, help end platelet shortages

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

Platelets instead of quantum dots

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

Secrets of the calcerous ooze revealed

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

Flexing while clotting

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

No platelets, no immune response

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

Diagnosis of rare bleeding disorder improved with super-resolution microscopy

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

Heart disease: Jamming the signal

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

Biomimetic dental prosthesis

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.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 27, 2015