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Brain stem cells divide over months

Researchers have discovered that brain stem cells in the hippocampus of mice can divide repeatedly over several months, leading to new insights into the formation of nerve cells. This finding has significant implications for future therapeutic approaches to conditions such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 21, 2020

Mapping out the mystery of blood stem cells

Researchers used genome-wide profiling to study the epigenetic landscape of human stem cells, revealing important information about gene regulation. They found differences in chromatin structures between long-term and short-term stem cells, which could improve understanding of cancer cell behavior and stem cell therapy.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateNov 25, 2020

Terahertz zaps alter gene activity in stem cells

Researchers from Kyoto University and Tokai University have developed a new apparatus to study terahertz radiation's effects on human stem cells. The findings reveal that terahertz pulses activate genes involved in motor neuron survival and mitochondrial function, while deactivating those involved in cell differentiation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 8, 2020

A new discovery in regenerative medicine

A new discovery in regenerative medicine may lead to new treatments for placenta complications during pregnancy. Researchers at Monash University and Duke-NUS have developed a method to create induced trophoblast stem cells (iTSCs) that can be used to make placenta cells.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020

UC Davis researchers find a way to help stem cells work for the heart

Researchers at UC Davis Health have made a breakthrough in using stem cell treatments for heart disease. By blocking an enzyme linked with inflammation, they were able to increase the survival of transplanted stem cells and improve cardiac function. This discovery could lead to a cellular-based treatment for heart failure.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateSep 9, 2020

Identification of distinct loci for de novo DNA methylation by DNMT3A and DNMT3B during mammalian development

Scientists have identified unique de novo DNA methylation targets for DNMT3 enzymes during mammalian development. Dnmt3a exclusively regulates differentiation-related genes, while dnmT3b regulates X-chromosome genes. The study's findings may lead to a novel therapeutic approach for patients with DNMT3 mutations.

Skin stem cells shuffle sugars as they age

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that epidermal stem cells undergo a change in their complex sugar repertoire with age, which could serve as a biological marker of aging. This 'glycome shift' is characterized by an increase in sialylated complex type N-glycans and a decrease in mannose-type N-glycans.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAging Cell·DateJul 21, 2020

How to repair your gut

A strong cellular lining is essential for a healthy gut, and damage to it can cause painful symptoms. Monash University researchers have identified a key biomolecule, Neuregulin-1, that accelerates the repair of damaged tissue by prompting stem cells to regenerate.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 20, 2020

The real reason behind goosebumps

Researchers found that the sympathetic nerve connects to hair follicle stem cells, bridging the gap between nervous system control and hair regeneration. The muscle facilitates this connection, allowing the nerve to directly regulate stem cell behavior and promote new hair growth in response to temperature changes.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateJul 20, 2020

New hope for kidney revival for transplant

Researchers at Newcastle University have discovered a new technique that can improve the function of 'marginal' kidneys, increasing urine production and improving blood flow to damaged cells. The treatment uses a type of stem cell called MultiStem to deliver anti-inflammatory molecules.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJul 14, 2020

Turning off 'junk DNA' may free stem cells to become neurons

A new NIH study suggests that deactivating certain genes in the human genome may play a role in controlling the differentiation of stem cells into neurons. The research found that these genes, which were once thought to be inactive 'junk DNA', may help regulate the maturation process of stem cells, leading to improved understanding of ...

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 13, 2020

A simpler way to make sensory hearing cells

Researchers have successfully reprogrammed three types of mouse cells into induced hair cell-like cells, offering a potential solution for identifying causes and treatments of hearing loss. The new cells possess characteristics similar to naturally occurring hair cells and are vulnerable to an antibiotic known to cause hearing loss.