A scanner for hereditary defects
Researchers discovered XPD protein's role in locating damaged DNA, which aids cancer treatment development. The protein works like a scanner that glides along the DNA double helix, marking damaged spots for repair.
Tissue Repair
Articles tagged with Tissue Repair
3-D biomimetic scaffolds support regeneration of complex tissues from stem cells
Researchers developed a method to create stretched polymer scaffolds that support the growth of human mesenchymal stem cells, promoting consistent alignment and elongation into tissues. This innovative approach has potential applications in regenerating damaged or diseased tissue.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTissue Engineering Part C Methods·DateJan 10, 2013
Unlocking the secrets of DNA repair
Researchers discover a protein that recognizes damaged DNA bases, which could lead to cancer. The discovery may help identify individual susceptibility to certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.
SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2012
Duke researchers engineer cartilage from pluripotent stem cells
Researchers successfully grew and sorted induced pluripotent stem cells for use in cartilage repair and studying osteoarthritis. The breakthrough uses adult stem cells converted into embryonic-like stem cells to produce cartilage tissue.
SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2012
New bio-adhesive polymer demonstrated in JoVE
Researchers have developed a new laser-activated bio-adhesive polymer called SurgiLux, which forms low-energy bonds with tissues when activated by light. This technology has the potential to replace traditional sutures in clinical settings, particularly for delicate tissues like neurons or blood vessels.
SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateOct 25, 2012
Exposure to 'Prestige' fuel causes short-term damage to rat DNA
A new study on rats exposed to fuel similar to that of the Prestige tanker oil spill shows a direct link between respiratory exposure to compounds discharged by the fuel and damage to genetic material. The research suggests that people who carry out industrial cleaning of coasts or are involved in cleanup efforts may be at risk.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Toxicology and Environmental Health·DateOct 15, 2012
First evidence of fetal DNA persisting in human brain tissue
Researchers have detected male DNA in female brain tissue, a phenomenon known as microchimerism, which is common and affects multiple brain regions. The findings suggest that this long-lasting fetal DNA may be associated with altered risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Protecting genes, one molecule at a time
An international team of scientists has shown at an unprecedented level of detail how cells prioritize the repair of genes containing potentially dangerous damage. Cells use proteins to detect and replace damaged DNA, with critical steps at individual protein reads likely critical for successful repair.
Success of engineered tissue depends on where it's grown
Researchers found that cells grown on different types of scaffolds vary in their ability to repair damaged blood vessels and suppress inflammation. Cells grown on porous surfaces tend to be more effective at repairing damage.
Spinal cord, heal thyself
Researchers found that a diet enriched with DHA and curcumin preserved walking ability in rats with spinal-cord injury, while a Western diet caused measurable walking problems. The study suggests that dietary supplements may help repair nerve cells and maintain neurological function after degenerative damage to the neck.
Preventing cellular aging and aging-related degenerative diseases
DNA damage drives aging by activating NF-κB, a transcription factor that responds to cellular stress; inhibiting NF-κB reduces oxidative stress and senescence in mice.
3D X-ray reveals fibers that control heart rhythm
Scientists at the University of Liverpool developed a new X-ray technique to identify tissue fibers in the heart that ensure regular heartbeat. The 3D images could help medics develop ways to reduce the risk of fibrillation, a condition where heart muscle contracts chaotically.
Materials inspired by Mother Nature: A 1-pound boat that could float 1,000 pounds
Scientists have created a new buoyant material inspired by the water strider's ability to walk on water. The material, made from nanocellulose aerogel, can absorb huge amounts of oil and float on its surface, making it potentially useful for cleaning up oil spills.
Injectable gel could repair tissue damaged by heart attack
Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed an injectable hydrogel that could repair cardiac tissue damaged by heart attacks. The gel promotes positive remodeling-type response and is compatible with catheter delivery, offering a minimally invasive treatment option.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 22, 2012
Rice's Grande-Allen wins AHA Established Investigator Award
Jane Grande-Allen, Rice University's first faculty member to win the award, will receive a five-year research grant to study the unique biological properties of heart valves. Her goal is to develop novel therapies for valve disease and create living, healing heart-valve replacements.
Bioengineering yields new approaches for diagnosing and treating traumatic brain injury
The article discusses innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for traumatic brain injury, including novel biomaterials, biomechanics, and simulation technology. Leading research articles explore the effects of brain trauma, nerve regeneration, and neuroprotection.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateNov 22, 2011
Molecular corkscrew
Researchers have discovered that the protein p97/VCP aids DNA repair by unwinding proteins at damaged sites. This mechanism holds potential for improving radio- and chemotherapy effects on cancer cells.
Biochemists identify how tissue cells detect and perfect
Researchers have discovered how cells detect and respond to tissue damage, a process triggered by the molecule syndecan-4. This understanding could lead to improved tissue repair treatments for patients following illness or surgery.
Rebooting the system: Immune cells repair damaged lung tissues after flu infection
Researchers discovered that a previously unrecognized population of immune cells in the lungs orchestrate the body's repair response following flu infection. The activation of these cells is central to tissue repair at lung surfaces and could promote wound healing following other respiratory infections.
Researchers identify protein that improves DNA repair under stress
Researchers have discovered a protein called SIRT6 that improves DNA repair efficiency under oxidative stress, potentially leading to treatments for premature aging and cancer. The study found that increasing SIRT6 levels primed the cells to respond to DNA damage, allowing for faster repair of double strand breaks.
Progress in tissue engineering to repair joint damage in osteoarthritis
Researchers have developed new tissue engineering methods to treat joint damage in osteoarthritis, including implantation of biomaterial scaffolds that guide cell growth and regeneration. The technology has shown promise in promoting cartilage tissue repair and regeneration.
Nanoengineers invent new biomaterial that more closely mimics human tissue
A new biomaterial more closely mimics native human tissue, exhibiting negative Poisson's ratio and maintaining its shape when stretched. The breakthrough enables the creation of biocompatible tissue patches for repairing damaged heart walls, blood vessels, and skin.
Heads or tails?
Planarian flatworms can regenerate their entire body from a small piece of tissue due to the critical role of an ancient gene called notum. Notum determines whether a head or tail will regrow at amputation sites, enabling the worms to restore missing body parts.
Columbia engineers patch a heart
Researchers at Columbia University have established a new method to repair damaged hearts using a tissue-engineering platform. This breakthrough enables heart tissue to repair itself and has the potential to combat cardiovascular disease, one of the most serious health problems today.
Researchers inject nanofiber spheres carrying cells into wounds to grow tissue
Scientists have created star-shaped, biodegradable polymers that can self-assemble into hollow nanofiber spheres. When injected with cells into wounds, these spheres biodegrade, but the cells thrive and form new tissue. The technique shows promise for repairing complex or oddly shaped tissue defects.
Tufts biologists find another clue to the origins of degenerative diseases
Researchers found that the process of repairing damaged DNA repeats can lead to cell death in yeast, providing insight into neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests that expanded DNA repeats can be toxic to cells, contributing to disease progression.
Iowa State engineer studies damage caused by New Zealand earthquake
An Iowa State University engineer studied the devastating impact of a February earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, which killed over 160 people. The research highlighted the importance of regular building shape and structure symmetry in resisting earthquakes.
RevaTen platelet-rich plasma shows promise as potential treatment for heart attacks
Researchers have found that RevaTen platelet-rich plasma stimulates cell repair via growth factor release, attracting reparative cells. Studies indicate significant improvements in cardiac function and reductions in scar tissue after treatment with RevaTen PRP.
Sporadic breast cancers start with ineffective DNA repair systems, Pitt researchers find
Breast cancers that arise sporadically likely start with defects of DNA repair mechanisms, allowing environmentally triggered mutations to accumulate. This deficiency could set the stage for cancer development, increasing risk with age as DNA damage accumulates.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2010
Newly discovered DNA repair mechanism
Researchers have discovered a new way that DNA-repair enzymes detect and fix damage to the chemical bases in the genetic code. The newly discovered mechanism detects and repairs a common form of DNA damage called alkylation, which is caused by environmental toxins and chemotherapy drugs.
USGI medical tissue anchors show durability beyond 1 year
The USGI medical tissue anchors have demonstrated long-term durability beyond 1 year in various incisionless gastrointestinal procedures. The anchors enable surgeons to perform scarless surgeries through the mouth, reducing pain and hospital stays. No serious adverse events were reported during the 24-month follow-up endoscopies.
Study identifies factors which predict alcohol use after liver transplantation
A new study found that those at highest risk to drink alcohol post-transplant can be identified, potentially preventing relapse. The length of sobriety prior to surgery is the most powerful predictor of return to alcohol use, with shorter sobriety conferring higher risk.
Researchers discover how key enzyme repairs sun-damaged DNA
Researchers have witnessed how a key enzyme called photolyase works at the atomic level to repair sun-damaged DNA in a few billionths of a second. The discovery holds promise for future sunburn remedies and skin cancer prevention by allowing scientists to design drugs or lotions that heal sun damage.
A new generation of biological scaffolds
A new generation of biological scaffolds enables the development of off-the-shelf tissue transplants that can be repaired and renewed like normal tissue. The technique removes cells from natural tissues to leave a biocompatible scaffold made of collagen, allowing patients' own cells to populate and bind to it.
Amniotic membrane used to repair human articular cartilage
Researchers found that cryo-preserved amniotic membrane is useful as a scaffold for growing human chondrocytes and repairing human cartilage injuries. The membrane bonds well with native cartilage, forming tissue with high cellular density.
Could regulating intestinal inflammation prevent colon cancer?
A new study reveals that regulating intestinal inflammation can prevent colon cancer by controlling the activity of two proteins, Caspase-1 and Caspase-12. Caspase-1 plays a crucial role in maintaining the intestinal barrier, while its absence leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation and increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Scientists discover molecular pathway for organ tissue regeneration and repair
Researchers identified a molecular repair pathway that involves white blood cells called macrophages responding to tissue injury by producing Wnt7b, leading to tissue regeneration and repair in injured kidneys. The study suggests the pathway may be important for tissue repair in other organs.
SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010
Researchers find new way to study how enzymes repair DNA damage
Researchers have found a new way to study how enzymes repair DNA damage caused by UV light, which could lead to new therapies for sunburned skin. By using ultra-fast laser pulses, they were able to observe the motion of photolyases at the atomic scale, revealing unprecedented detail about the repair process.
Lime mortars in conservation -- traditional materials and craft for the future
Researchers are developing methods for conservation and repair of architectural heritage using traditional lime plaster, improving the sustainability of historic buildings. The Nordic Building Limes Forum conference aims to promote the use of lime mortar and traditional craftsmanship in both historic and new builds.
LSUHSC's Bazan awarded ARRA grant to preserve vision
Dr. Haydee Bazan received a $710,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health to explore potential therapeutic approaches to heal corneal injuries. The research focuses on finding balance between signaling mechanisms that promote cellular damage or repair in the cornea.
New clue into how brain stem cells develop into cells which repair damaged tissue
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and UCSF have identified the Wnt pathway as a crucial determinant of brain stem cells' ability to repair damaged tissue. The study's findings open up new avenues for developing therapies that block the Wnt pathway, potentially enhancing remyelination in MS patients.
New center at Georgia Tech aims to improve recovery of soldiers with severe injuries
Researchers are developing models to test strategies for treating complex combat injuries, including segmental bone defects and massive soft tissue defects. The center is also investigating ways to protect stem cells during insertion and enhance their healing properties.
MIT: Mending broken hearts with tissue engineering
MIT researchers have created a novel scaffold that can aid in the repair of damaged heart tissue and potentially treat congenital heart defects. The biodegradable scaffold has directionally dependent structural and mechanical properties, allowing it to mimic native heart muscle structure and behavior.
Closing the gap: Journal launch brings together wound-healing knowledge
A new open access journal, Fibrogenesis & Tissue Repair, has launched to address key issues in tissue fibrosis and repair. The first paper published in the journal reveals that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in skin correlates with myofibroblast induction.
Stem cell regeneration repairs congenital heart defect
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have successfully used stem cells to regenerate heart tissue and repair dilated cardiomyopathy, a genetic defect. The treatment improved heart performance, synchronized electrical impulses, and halted deterioration in genetically altered mice with heritable dilated cardiomyopathy.
Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan plays a pivotal role in the repair of spinal cord injury
Researchers found that chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan helps repair injured spinal cord tissue, promoting motor function recovery during the acute phase. The study also highlights its role in microglia/macrophage activation, a crucial step in the healing process.
Cartilage regeneration '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'
Bioengineers at Rice University have developed a method to stimulate cartilage cell growth using intense pressure, resulting in tissue with nearly all properties of natural cartilage. The new process has potential for treating arthritis and repairing damaged tissues, but further testing is needed.
Brain cells help neighboring nerves regenerate
Astrocytes have been found to produce a protective protein called metallothionein (MT), which is secreted to surrounding nerves and helps prevent damage from free radicals and metal ions. The level of MT uptake by nearby nerves correlates with the extent of nerve repair.
SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2008
Protein key to neuro-regeneration
Researchers at Peninsula Medical School have identified a protein called c-Jun that plays a vital role in the regeneration of damage in the peripheral nervous system. This discovery could lead to understanding and treating diseases such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Guillain-Barre disease.
SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMay 20, 2008
Scientists uncover the potential to control adult stem cells
Researchers have uncovered a complex signaling system that instructs adult stem cells to contribute to tissue repair in response to chemical signals. The study, funded by the Medical Research Council, holds promise for developing techniques to control adult stem cells for therapeutic use.
Skin care: new research into scar-free healing
Research from the University of Bristol shows that osteopontin is a key gene in scarring, and suppressing its activity can speed up wound healing and reduce scarring. The study's findings have major implications for treating wounds, organ tissue damage, and fibrosis.
Meniscal damage and the development of persistent knee pain
A study of over 3,000 adults found that meniscal damage is often present in knees with osteoarthritis, but not directly responsible for pain. The researchers suggest that treating OA as a whole-joint disorder may help clarify the relationship between meniscal damage and knee symptoms.
Sea cucumbers fast track organ regrowth by healing their wounds
Researchers studying Holothuria glaberrima found that sea cucumbers can rapidly regenerate lost body parts by healing wounds with similar cellular mechanisms. This discovery may lead to new insights into repairing human tissues.
Radiation therapy combined with microsurgery shows promise for curing injured spinal cord
Researchers found that combining radiation therapy and microsurgery can significantly increase the body's ability to repair damaged spinal cords, leading to permanent recovery. The treatment, which involves draining excess fluids and eliminating damaging cells, showed a nearly two-fold improvement in wound healing compared to untreated...
Protein averts cell suicide but might contribute to cancer
Scientists discovered a protein that enables cells to bypass damaged DNA during replication, averting cell suicide. However, this protein also makes errors that may contribute to the development of cancer.
Aging boosts chances that a family line will be long-lived
A new study suggests that aging has evolved as a strategy to allow family lines to persist longer. By concentrating cellular damage in one individual, the rest of the line can continue to reproduce without harm. This asymmetric reproduction method may be favored by evolution due to its potential to increase longevity.
Enabling nerve regeneration means evicting the cleanup crew
Macrophages play a critical role in clearing debris after nerve damage, but their continued presence can damage tissue and compromise repair. Now, researchers have identified a process that allows macrophages to be cleared, enabling nerve regeneration.
Woven scaffolds could improve cartilage repair
Duke University researchers developed a three-dimensional fabric scaffold for cartilage repair using patient stem cells. The new technology could treat larger areas of cartilage damage and provide more effective results than current therapies.
Age-related changes in DNA repair illuminate the connection between age and genetic damage
Researchers discovered that cells in young fruit flies use simpler DNA repair mechanisms compared to older flies. The findings suggest that these simpler methods may contribute to genetic damage and aging, but also leave behind residual damage from earlier years.
Wounds may one day heal better, faster, due to new NIH-funded wound healing centers
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) will award $13 million to create four centers to develop new treatments for various types of wounds, including burns, diabetic ulcers, and bedsores. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of wound healing and apply knowledge to enhance treatment.