Signaling Pathways

Drug reverses autism-like brain changes in adult mice within hours, study finds

Researchers found that a single dose of rapamycin rapidly improved symptoms in adult mice with autism-like changes, reversing abnormal brain signaling and behavior within two hours. The study suggests the adult brain's functional circuitry, not just its physical structure, as a target for future treatment approaches.

Could this enzyme help remove “zombie” cells from our tissues?

Aging cells become more susceptible to ferroptosis due to elevated levels of acid ceramidase, a previously targeted therapeutic candidate. This vulnerability can be passed to neighboring cells, impacting overall tissue health. The discovery offers new hope for supporting healthy aging and treating age-related diseases.

Researchers advance understanding of RNA-guided transposon mechanics

A new study reveals that IS110 elements use two RNA-guided pathways to insert donor DNA into target sites, challenging the classical 'cut-out-paste-in' model. The researchers identified a figure-eight DNA intermediate in one pathway and a direct-transfer pathway without forming a conventional intermediate.

Commonly prescribed medication for sleep problems raises alarm bells

A clinical trial found that low-dose quetiapine improved sleep quality and reduced obstructive sleep apnea severity, but significantly impaired alertness and driving performance. The study highlights the need for caution when using sedating medications for insomnia in people with known or possible sleep apnea.

Molecular bases and genetic improvement of rice grain size and quality for optimized yield and human health

This review synthesizes recent progress in rice grain size and nutritional quality, identifying key signaling pathways and regulatory mechanisms. Strategic approaches, including genome editing and precision design, can improve yield while enhancing nutritional value for human health.

Plant stress and unique cAMP signaling

Researchers have discovered that plants utilize two forms of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) to regulate normal cellular functions and respond to stress, while maintaining cross-talk between the pathways. This redundancy enables plants to adapt more robustly to a wider range of environmental factors.

Information processing in cells at the edge of jamming

Here’s why your face doesn’t perceive itchiness the same way your body does

A new study reveals that facial itch sensations differ from those on the body due to distinct trigeminal and spinal pain pathways. The researchers found a functional divergence in neuropeptide signaling and central circuit engagement between the two systems, which was independent of peripheral innervation density.

Scientists discover a new way to make drug-resistant cancer treatable again

Researchers discovered a small molecule, UNI418, that destabilizes key DNA repair proteins, making drug-resistant cancer cells vulnerable to PARP inhibitor therapy. This approach restores tumor sensitivity and improves treatment outcomes.

A single enzyme keeps neuroblastoma alive. Researchers just learned how to shut it off

Researchers discovered that neuronal nitric oxide synthase drives neuroblastoma through the mTOR signaling cascade. Treating cancer cells with a selective inhibitor called BA-101 collapsed tumor growth in mice with striking force, and silencing the nNOS gene also led to significant results.

Exploring preterm baby brain development

Researchers discovered that mild hypoxia shortly after birth hinders learning and memory into adulthood through altered neuron-to-neuron communication in the hippocampus. The study also found a second protein involved in hypoxia's effects on this channel's functioning, which was restored when targeted.

FAU discovery of tiny cell ‘tunnels’ finds new path to slow Huntington’s disease

Huntington's disease is caused by a toxic protein that builds in brain cells and spreads to other cells through tunneling nanotubes. Disrupting this pathway reduces the spread of the disease-causing protein, suggesting a new target for therapy.

Taking pressure off the lungs

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered that targeting the CNP/GC-B signal pathway may provide a promising approach for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). The study reveals that CNP/GC-B signaling plays a protective role against PAH, and administration of CNP ameliorates experimental pulmonary hypertension.

The Power of twins: decoding the unseen information flow

Researchers propose a novel computational method to quantify information flow in biological systems, enabling accurate analysis without measuring input signals. The method, using a dual reporter system, accurately analyzed information flow leading to bacterial motor output in response to chemical signals.

Team explores role of the mannose pathway in regulating cell fate decisions

A team of scientists discovered that the mannose pathway plays a crucial role in regulating cell fate decisions in low glucose environments, particularly in cancer cells. They found that reducing mannose pathway activity led to impaired N-glycan biosynthesis and activated pro-survival signals, which can contribute to cancer progression.

Yes! The role of YAP and CTGF as potential therapeutic targets for preventing severe liver disease

A study from The University of Osaka reveals a molecular pathway connecting liver congestion to liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, and liver tumorigenesis. Researchers identified increased activity of YAP and CTGF in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells as key molecules involved in this signaling pathway.

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.

Understanding GLP-1 signaling: A path to better therapies

A new study finds that a novel GLP-1 receptor agonist, Exendin-4-Phe (Ex-Phe-1), preserves glycemic control while reducing malaise and vomiting behaviors in preclinical models. The compound uses biased agonism to selectively activate certain signaling pathways, achieving desired effects without triggering others.

New blood test offers clearer picture of “clotting risk” in heart disease patients

Researchers developed a highly sensitive blood test that can detect initial thrombin generation, a key trigger in blood clot formation. The test distinguishes between pathway-specific clotting abnormalities and suggests personalized treatment strategies, potentially predicting clinical outcomes.

Researchers discover how stomach cancer learns to grow on its own

Early gastric cancer cells become self-sufficient by producing WNT7B, creating a self-sustaining loop and activating WNT signaling internally. This mechanism is triggered by MAPK signaling activation and has been validated in genetically engineered mouse models and human patient-derived organoids.

Why monkey studies may mislead research on cancer immunotherapy drugs targeting TIGIT

Researchers have discovered that rhesus macaques shed TIGIT from immune cell surfaces when exposed to plasmin, a natural enzyme involved in blood clot breakdown. This creates a soluble form of TIGIT that can still bind anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibodies, potentially leading to misleading safety and efficacy data for human trials.

Discovery in RNA therapy for mutated cancer gene

Researchers developed an RNA-based therapeutic strategy targeting mutant KRAS genes, stimulating the immune system to attack tumours. The treatment, combining antisense oligonucleotides and immunomodulatory RNA, effectively killed cancer cells in laboratory studies, reducing tumour burden and extending survival.

Infants born with hearing loss show disruptions in brain design, underscoring the urgency of intervention

Research finds infants with sensorineural hearing loss lack normal left-hemisphere language specialization. Early auditory stimulation and language exposure can help preserve brain development.

New computational process could help condense decades of disease biology research into days

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame developed a modular, computational pipeline to predict pH-sensitive protein structures. The new process enables screening hundreds of proteins in a few days, which can help design treatments for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's.

Decoding sepsis: Unraveling key signaling pathways for targeted therapies

Researchers focus on unraveling immunoregulatory mechanisms in sepsis, exploring the NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Emerging treatments aim to mitigate hyperinflammation and prevent organ failure through personalized, multi-target modulatory approaches.

Beyond traditional treatment: Scientists explore integrating stress management into cancer care

Chronic stress reprograms tumor microenvironment, fueling cancer development and metastasis through stress-activated signaling pathways. Stress management may now be part of precision oncology, suggesting potential interventions like beta-blockers and behavioral approaches.

Researchers uncover potential mechanism driving treatment resistance in common breast cancer

A study at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research found that inactivation of a stress pathway makes ER+ breast cancer cells ignore stress signals, allowing them to evade treatment. The JNK pathway acts as a cellular alarm system, and its disruption leads to treatment resistance.

New study reveals body’s cells change shape to deal with wounds

A new study reveals that body cells change their shape to close gaps such as wounds, using a combination of crawling movements and 'purse-string' contractions. The researchers discovered that the endoplasmic reticulum's ability to reorganize in response to edge curvature plays a crucial role in epithelial cell movement.

The eye’s secret clockwork

Researchers at the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel discovered that differences in nerve signal speed and distance are actively balanced within the human eye to support a unified visual experience. This mechanism helps align signal arrival times to just a few milliseconds, contributing to synchronization.

Researchers harness AI-powered protein design to enhance T-cell based immunotherapies

Researchers have developed a novel synthetic ligand using AI-based computational protein design, activating the Notch signaling pathway in T-cells. This breakthrough enables broadened clinical T-cell production and advances immunotherapy development.

Taking the sting out of ulcerative colitis

A study reveals that a combination of dysbiosis, OTUD3 gene mutations, and STING signaling aggravate ulcerative colitis. The intestinal flora plays a vital role in UC, but an unbalanced microbiome with fewer beneficial microbes and more harmful ones contributes to the disease.

New research uncovers link between cancer pathway and blood-retina barrier function

Researchers discovered a cancer signaling pathway's role in regulating the blood-retina barrier, potentially damaging protective mechanisms. The study also identified a new gene linked to inherited eye condition FEVR, highlighting the need for further investigation into vascular disorders.

Genetics helps untangle the causes behind a rare and complex vascular disorder

A study from The University of Osaka reveals nearly half of patients with extracranial arteriovenous malformations carry mutations in the RAS/RAF/MAPK signaling pathway. These mutations were linked to abnormal vascular morphology and were frequently detected in younger female patients.

New bispecific antibody exploits immune receptor proximity to control autoimmunity

Researchers discovered LAG-3 inhibits T cell activity through spatial proximity to TCR, not ligand binding. This discovery enables precise modulation of autoreactive T cells in autoimmune diseases.

Sleep data from wearable device may help predict preterm birth

A research team at Washington University in St. Louis used machine learning to analyze sleep data from pregnant participants and found that variability in sleep patterns can predict preterm birth. The study aims to provide accurate prediction of preterm birth, which is the primary cause of death among children under age 5.

Discovery of a cellular communication network that accelerates liver fibrosis

A study by Toho University researchers reveals a cellular communication network that promotes liver fibrosis. FGF18 and osteopontin enhance the production of OPN, which activates quiescent stellate cells to propagate fibrotic activity. This discovery highlights the critical roles of these molecules in driving liver fibrosis.

Preventing chronic inflammation from turning into cancer

Charité researchers identified a therapeutic target that significantly contributes to halting ongoing inflammatory processes. They found that interleukin-22 and oncostatin M drive inflammation by amplifying the immune response. Targeted treatments may help high-risk patients, but chronic diseases remain complex and difficult to predict.

Inhibition of postmenopausal osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice by Huo Xue Tong Luo capsule using network pharmacology-based mechanism prediction and pharmacological validation

The study shows that Huo Xue Tong Luo capsule inhibits osteoclast formation and protects bone mass in ovariectomized mice. The PI3K-AKT signaling pathway is targeted to prevent bone loss induced by ovariectomy.

Exploring the mutational landscape of colorectal cancer

Researchers analyzed CRC tumors with high tumor mutation burden to characterize BRAF-associated mutations and decipher their role in carcinogenesis. They found TMB-high tumors likely arise from a heterogeneous population of cells harboring numerous gene mutations distinct from driver oncogenes.

In pancreatic cancer, a race against time

Scientists have found a way to effectively 'intercept' pancreatic cancer by targeting the KRAS and FGFR2 genes. This approach slows tumor formation and reduces the number of 'early versions' of cancer in the pancreas. Researchers believe this therapy could be a game-changer for patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer.

Equally effective pain relief without opioids in bariatric surgery

A randomized clinical study found that an opioid-free treatment pathway is both safe and effective for bariatric surgery patients. The alternative method, which combines three different medicines, significantly reduces the need for opioids during treatment.

Cyanobacterial circadian clock uses an AM radio-like mechanism to control cellular processes

Researchers found that cyanobacteria use variations in pulse amplitude to convey information in single cells, regulating genes and controlling cellular processes. This discovery sheds light on how biological rhythms work together to coordinate cellular functions.

New pathway for sensing cold temperatures identified in rice

A gene called COLD6 contributes to cold tolerance in rice by triggering 2',3'-cAMP signaling to initiate a defense reaction against low temperature. This pathway may also apply to other crops, improving their cold tolerance.

Immune cell discovery offers new potential for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at Winship Cancer Institute have identified a novel type of immune cell that plays a pivotal role in anti-tumor immunity. The stem-like CD4 T cells can be activated to fight tumors more effectively, offering new hope for broader treatment success.

New avenues for treating heart failure: uncovering a protective mechanism in the cardiac myocytes

A study published in Nature Communications reveals a cellular signaling pathway that promotes heart cell survival. The Mst1-FoxO1-C/EBP-β interaction stimulates protective mechanisms in cardiac myocytes, potentially paving the way for new therapies.

Study pierces a mystery of healthy skin barrier formation

Researchers have identified a crucial molecular signaling pathway in maintaining the skin barrier, which could lead to new treatments for inflammatory skin diseases. The study's findings also suggest that this pathway may contribute to certain types of cancer.

Advancing health disparities science through social epigenomics research

This special issue of JAMA Network Open highlights scientific progress in combining social determinants and health outcomes to understand mechanisms underlying health disparities. The studies demonstrate the importance of interdisciplinary integration in transforming health disparities research.

Prenatal exposure to ambient air pollution and cerebral palsy

A large cohort study in Canada found an association between prenatal ambient PM2.5 exposure and increased cerebral palsy risk in offspring. Further research is needed to understand this association and potential biological pathways.

Researchers identify unknown signalling pathway in the brain responsible for migraine with aura

A previously unknown mechanism in the brain causes migraine attacks by carrying proteins to specific nerve cells, explaining one-sided headaches. The discovery may lead to new treatment options and help understand other headache diseases.

University of Cincinnati study: Signaling pathway in brain helps maintain balance, prevent cognitive deficit

A new University of Cincinnati study reveals that a signaling pathway in the brain helps maintain health and prevent inflammation and cognitive deficits. Microglia cells produce their own TGF-β ligand to regulate local states of inflammation.

ALS: Newly discovered subtypes and sex differences create new approaches for drugs

A study by TUM researchers discovered four subtypes of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) with different molecular processes, including sex differences. The findings suggest repurposing an approved cancer drug targeting the MAPK pathway as a promising therapeutic approach for ALS.

Research identifies possible new pathway to treatment of colorectal cancer

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a possible new pathway to treat colorectal cancer by targeting the NF-kB-inducing kinase (NIK) protein. The study, led by Irving Coy Allen, identifies changes in a significant signaling pathway in human patients and presents potential targets for therapeutics.

Ancient medicine blends with modern-day research in new tissue regeneration method

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a new technique for tissue regeneration using mineral-based nanomaterials inspired by ancient medical practices. The approach aims to induce natural bone formation, reducing the need for invasive procedures and long-term medication, and promoting improved quality of life.

Clarifying the cellular mechanisms underlying periodontitis with an improved animal model

A new animal model has been developed to study periodontitis, allowing researchers to analyze tissue components simultaneously. The study found that the expression of the Il1rl1 gene was higher in peri-root tissue five days after ligation, highlighting its role in inflammation and osteoclast differentiation.

New study links autism spectrum disorder to disrupted developmental dopamine

Researchers discovered a link between disrupted developmental dopamine signaling and autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the importance of studying neural development pathways. The study found that dopaminergic signaling disruptions led to neural circuit abnormalities and behavioral phenotypes reminiscent of autism in zebrafish larvae.

Liver cancer: Molecular signaling pathway of tumor development decoded

A study from Medical University of Vienna reveals a new molecular signaling pathway crucial to liver cancer development, offering potential new therapeutic targets. The research also identifies the c-Jun/Fra-2 complex as essential in triggering tumour growth.

Sleep-wake rhythm: Fish change our understanding of sleep regulation

Researchers have discovered that clown loaches and zebrafish can control their sleep-wake rhythm without relying on orexin, contradicting the long-held assumption that vertebrates share similar mechanisms. This finding reshapes our understanding of sleep and wake regulation in vertebrates.

Targeting the microenvironment rather than a specific cell type could be the key to healing injured hearts

A study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research reveals that a dynamic synergy between cell types facilitates cardiac renewal, challenging existing paradigms. Targeting the microenvironment rather than specific cell types is key to healing injured hearts.

Gaps in the vision screening pathway for school-aged children

Gaps in vision screening pathways disproportionately affect historically marginalized groups, leading to poor outcomes and inadequate care. The study highlights the need for improved strategies to address these disparities.

New therapeutic approach for the treatment of sarcoidosis

Researchers identify successful treatment of granulomas in the skin with mTOR inhibitor sirolimus, which showed partial complete remission of symptoms in 7 out of 10 patients. The study suggests targeting both immune and non-immune cells in granulomas may prevent recurrence.