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Real-time imaging of contact between cells and between a single neuron’s extensions

Scientists from The University of Osaka have created two new fluorescent markers, Gachapin and Gachapin-C, that can visualize dynamic cell-to-cell contacts and connections within a single neuron's extensions. These indicators allow for the monitoring of complex patterns of connectivity in various cell types, including neurons.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2026

The mouse eye as a window to spotting systemic disease

A new technology allows for clear observation of living retina and microglia's behavior, revealing their increased activity before tissue damage in diabetic mice. The study found that the diabetes drug liraglutide reduced microglia's activity in healthy mice too, suggesting a direct modulation mechanism.

SourceKobe University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2025

Researchers overcome stem cell delivery barrier, paving the way for regenerative medicine

Scientists have developed a new method to deliver genetic information to stem cells using nanoparticles coated with a specific polymer, enabling more efficient control over cellular differentiation. This innovation has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of regenerative medicine treatments.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Just wait a femtosecond

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba created a scanning tunneling microscopy system that captures images as fast as 30 femtoseconds, allowing for faster study of rapid processes in materials. This advancement enables researchers to understand ultrafast dynamics and behavior of materials more accurately.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Photonics·DateSep 7, 2022

Getting fuel to an invading cell's front line

Researchers have identified two glucose transporters that disrupt the energy supply to invading worm cells and stop them in their tracks. By deactivating these genes, glucose and ATP levels dropped, and worm cells stalled their spread. This discovery could lead to new ways to cut off cancer cells' fuel lines and prevent metastasis.

SourceDuke University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2022

Clear view on stem cell development

Researchers developed an algorithm to correct images and make hitherto hidden development steps visible, allowing for more accurate detection of regulatory proteins active during stem cell development. The 'BaSiC' software can correct changes in the background of time-lapse videos, making it a valuable tool for stem cell researchers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017

Intelligent microscopy

The Micropilot software brings machine learning to microscopy, analyzing low-resolution images and automatically performing complex experiments when cells with interesting features are detected. It has been used to uncover the roles of proteins in cell division and will be a key tool for European systems biology projects.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 24, 2011

'Virtual' mouse brains now available online

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new method for creating ultra-high resolution 3D images of tiny mouse brains using magnetic resonance imaging. The technology allows for the detailed visualization of brain structures and their relationship to genetics, enabling scientists to study gene-brain connections.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuroImage·DateJul 9, 2007