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Blood levels of ‘free range’ DNA may signal early detection of dementia and frailty

Researchers found that higher levels of cell-free DNA in the blood are associated with increased cognitive decline and worsening frailty over an eight-year period. The study suggests that a simple blood test could detect risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of cognitive decline, potentially leading to early interventions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·DateOct 11, 2022

Study reports potential target and compounds to slow the development of Alzheimer's disease

A study found a shift in the profile of specialized lipid mediators from pro-resolving to pro-inflammatory in patients with cognitive impairment, correlating with severity of cognition impairment. The researchers identified novel mechanisms of brain health and potential therapeutic targets for slowing down Alzheimer's disease onset.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCellular and Molecular Neurobiology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2022

To die or not to die in response to stress, a decision regulated by MK2 protein levels

The study reveals that MK2 protein levels act as a molecular indicator for cell survival or death, with higher levels associated with cell death and lower levels linked to survival. Moderate stress triggers temporary activation of the p38-MK2 pathway, allowing cells to recover.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2021

Normally harmless cell molecule triggers neuron death

Researchers discovered that farnesyl pyrophosphate, an intermediate in normal cell metabolism, causes rapid and extensive cell death when present at high concentrations outside cells. Inhibition of TRPM2 channels or targeting its metabolic pathway may offer new avenues for reducing stroke damage.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 26, 2021

Worm 'cell death' discovery could lead to new drugs for deadly parasite

Researchers from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have identified a 'programmed cell death' pathway in parasitic worms that could one day lead to new treatments for schistosomiasis. The discovery was made by studying programmed cell death in human cells, where the team found similarities with the process in fluke worms.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2011

Defining cancer's genetic 'support network'

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new method to model the genetic pathways underlying cancer, identifying connections between gene sets. The study reveals that specific gene sets work together to support cancer development and progression.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 14, 2008

Unfolded proteins may protect cells from dying

Research from Rockefeller University reveals that unfolded protein response serves a protective role, shielding cells from death. The study focuses on autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, where unfolded proteins accumulate in the endoplasmic reticulum, indicating their protective mechanism.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 22, 2006

Atherosclerosis studied at the cellular level

A recent study found that nitric oxide, normally considered protective against atherosclerosis, can be converted into peroxynitrite, causing cell dysfunction and death. This reaction activates the ER stress response pathway, leading to devastating cytotoxic effects and accelerating atherosclerosis.

Integration of cell survival signals in PTEN-deficient tumors

A study published in Cancer Cell reveals that combining therapies targeting EGFR and Akt can improve treatment outcomes in tumor cells with PTEN mutations. The research demonstrates that BAD acts as a key switch integrating antiapoptotic effects of multiple pathways, providing new insights into combination therapy strategies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 17, 2005