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Molecular beacons light up stem cell transformation

Researchers designed molecular beacons that bind to mRNA of three genes expressed only when stem cells transform into bone cells, allowing for real-time monitoring of gene expression. The technology provides a tool for discovering optimal conditions for stem cell differentiation and identifying desired tissue cells.

SourceBrown University·JournalTissue Engineering Part A·DateSep 11, 2012

University of Maryland study: Neonatal heart stem cells may help mend kids' broken hearts

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have found that cardiac stem cells from newborns have a three-fold ability to restore heart function compared to adult-derived cells. This discovery may lead to new treatment options for congenital heart syndrome and improve heart function in children by up to 15 percent.

Turning skin cells into brain cells

Scientists successfully converted skin cells from a patient with severe Huntington's disease into neurons that degenerate like those affected by the fatal disorder. This breakthrough enables researchers to test potential drug therapies on human brain cells in a dish.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 28, 2012

A better way to grow bone: Fresh, purified fat stem cells grow bone faster and better

Researchers at UCLA discovered that purified human perivascular stem cells can form bone faster and with higher quality than traditional methods, potentially eliminating the need for invasive bone grafts. The study uses a fresh cell composition called stromal vascular fraction to isolate and purify the stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJun 11, 2012

Mystery to the origin of long-lived, skin-deep immune cells uncovered

Researchers at A*STAR's Singapore Immunology Network discovered that long-lived, skin-deep immune cells called Langerhans cells originate from two distinct embryonic sites - the early yolk sac and the foetal liver. These cells play a critical role in initiating protective responses against harmful foreign invaders.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Researchers find a way to delay aging of stem cells

Stem cells, essential building blocks of life, gradually lose their ability to maintain tissues and organs as they age. Researchers at the Salk Institute found that the stem cell niche's biological events contribute to this decline, but also discovered a mechanism to reverse it by increasing expression of Imp.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 23, 2012

Stem cell research paves way for progress on dealing with Fragile X retardation

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem have successfully generated neuronal cells from stem cells of Fragile X patients, paving the way for restoration of normal gene expression. The study identified a chemical compound, 5-azaC, that can clear methyl groups and reactivate FMR1 gene expression in both stem and neuronal brain cells.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Molecular Cell Biology·DateMay 22, 2012

2 Cell Transplantation studies impact dental stem cell research for therapeutic purposes

Researchers from Brazil and Korea used human immature dental pulp stem cells to create induced pluripotent stem cells, showing promising characteristics for therapeutic applications. The studies suggest that dental stem cells may be a valuable alternative source for regenerative medicine, including tooth regeneration and repair.

U of M researchers develop new muscular dystrophy treatment approach using human stem cells

Researchers from the University of Minnesota have effectively treated muscular dystrophy in mice using human stem cells derived from a new process that makes the production of human muscle cells efficient and effective. The study outlines a strategy for developing a rapidly dividing population of skeletal myogenic progenitor cells, set...

New stem cell found in the brain

Scientists at Lund University have identified a new stem cell type in the adult brain that can form various cell types, including neuronal cells. The discovery holds promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases and stroke by harnessing the stem cell's repair mechanisms.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 23, 2012

New stem cell found in the brain

Researchers at Lund University have identified a new stem cell in the adult brain that can proliferate and form several different cell types, including new brain cells. The discovery has great potential for developing methods to heal and repair brain injury and disease.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 19, 2012