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Tapping into the way cells communicate

Researchers have developed a platform to record cell messages in depth, uncovering the precise ways cells communicate. This breakthrough enables the creation of 'cell-less' therapies that aid in repairing cardiac tissue without stem cell transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2019

Why too much DNA repair can injure tissue

A recent study by MIT researchers found that overactive DNA-repair enzymes can lead to cell death and severe tissue damage in photoreceptor cells, a condition that may be linked to retinal blindness. The enzyme Aag glycosylase plays a key role in this process, promoting an inflammatory response that produces toxic intermediates.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 12, 2019

A new mechanism in the control of inflammation

Researchers at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC) have discovered a new mechanism that controls tissue infiltration by neutrophils, which are tasked with eliminating the source of infection or inflammation. This regulation prevents excessive tissue injury and is essential to understanding immune system balance.

A heart made of spider silk

Scientists develop an artificial silk protein that can be used to engineer cardiac tissue, demonstrating its suitability for repairing damaged heart cells. The protein, eADF4(κ16), was produced in large quantities and shown to support the growth of cardiac cells, with potential implications for treating cardiac insufficiency.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 18, 2017

Scientists reveal source of human heartbeat in 3-D

A team of scientists has developed a way to produce 3D data showing the cardiac conduction system, enabling more accurate computer models of the heartbeat. This breakthrough will improve our understanding of troublesome heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation and help surgeons design operations with less risk of damaging precious tissue.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2017

The fork in the road to DNA repair

Researchers at Osaka University have discovered a key role for protein SCAI in selecting between DNA repair mechanisms, NHEJ and HR, in response to damage. The study found that SCAI promotes the recruitment of HR proteins by binding to 53BP1.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 11, 2017

Updated AATS guidelines help cardiovascular surgeons navigate the challenges of managing ischemic mitral regurgitation

The updated AATS guidelines offer guidance on managing ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR), a condition associated with increased long-term mortality. For patients with severe IMR, replacement or repair of the mitral valve is considered based on specific criteria.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateApr 17, 2017

Pain in the neck

Researchers have discovered a way to curb chronic pain by modulating genes that reduce tissue- and cell-damaging inflammation. This technique uses the CRISPR system to protect cells from inflammation, preventing tissue degeneration and pain.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalTissue Engineering·DateMar 13, 2017

Molecule shown to repair damaged axons

Researchers have discovered a natural molecule that can repair damaged axons, the thread-like projections carrying electrical signals between cells. The molecule, fusicoccin-A, harnesses 14-3-3 activity to stimulate axon growth, offering a promising strategy for treating brain and spinal cord injuries.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateMar 8, 2017