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Here we grow: chondrocytes’ behavior reveals novel targets for bone growth disorders

A team at The University of Osaka has identified a signaling molecule called FGFR3 and a pathway called CREB as key in regulating bone growth. Cells carrying the genetic mutation associated with achondroplasia accumulate in the resting zone and show abnormal behaviors, which included abnormal patterns of division and migration.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026

New research shows a tiny, regenerative worm could change our understanding of healing

New research from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research reveals planarian stem cells ignore their nearest neighbors and respond to signals further away in the body. This discovery may help explain the flatworm's extraordinary ability to regenerate and offer clues for developing new ways to replace or repair tissues in humans.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2025

The art of wandering in vertebrates: new mapping of neurons involved in locomotion

Researchers have identified a conserved brain region in vertebrates essential for initiating forward movement. The mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR) stimulates reticulospinal neurons to control finer details of movement. Mapping this circuit could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2023

Scientists thought they knew how the nose ‘knows,’ new research suggests otherwise

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discover that nasal cell receptors activate few G protein molecules to produce a signal, contradicting the mainstream idea of high amplification. The study found that the probability of an odorant receptor activating just one G protein is 1 in 10,000, supporting weak signaling.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2022

Converging pathways regulate energy metabolism

Researchers discovered two converging pathways regulated by leptin, which modulate energy expenditure through the TRH promoter. Thyroid hormone also suppresses TRH production, integrating various signals to control energy metabolism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 31, 2000