Research on stem cells and regenerative medicine. Covers engineered T cells, scalable manufacturing, blood-cancer research, and stem-cell training programs.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have found a way to better control the preclinical generation of key neurons depleted in Parkinson's disease. They developed an efficient method for stimulating stem cell differentiation to produce neural cells in the midbrain, which closely resemble dopaminergic neurons of natural origin.
The study, published in Cell Stem Cell, improves the growth of nephron progenitor cells (NPCs) using a chemical cocktail, enabling sustained growth in a simple 2-dimensional format. The breakthrough has potential for advancing kidney research and discovering new treatments.
Brain stem cells express genes for both maintaining their identity and differentiating into neurons without conflicts. Researchers found that messenger RNAs of stem cell genes are retained in the nucleus, preventing translation and allowing cells to maintain their status as stem cells.
A Japanese research team from Shinshu University has successfully tested a novel approach to regenerative heart therapy using human induced pluripotent stem cells. The strategy involves injecting cardiac spheroids into damaged hearts, resulting in improved blood pumping capability and minimal arrhythmias in primate models.
Researchers successfully regenerated mouse brain circuits in mice using rat stem cells, offering new opportunities for restoring lost brain function due to disease and aging. The studies found that blastocyst complementation can synchronize the development of stem cells from different species with the host's brain.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have created mice with hybrid brains, allowing them to use rat neurons to sense odors accurately. The study's findings suggest that adding replacement neurons isn't plug-and-play, highlighting the need to remove dysfunctional neurons for functional replacement in neurodegenerativ...
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a microfluidic device that converts skin cells into neural stem cells, speeding up the process and reducing costs. This advance brings personalized cell-based therapies for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's closer to reality.
The study provides a detailed understanding of the progression of sarcopenia and frailty in older adults. Researchers identified key elements that predict susceptibility to sarcopenia, including changes in type 2 muscle fibers and cell metabolism.
A multi-institute clinical trial demonstrated that intravenous therapies made from virus-specific T-cells can effectively treat immunocompromised pediatric patients. The therapy prompted the immune system to fight off potentially life-threatening viruses, including cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr, with a response rate of over 60%.
Researchers found that ~60% of tissues exhibit a significant negative correlation between age and stemness score, indicating a pan-tissue decline in stemness. This study adds weight to the idea that stem cell deterioration contributes to human aging, with hematopoietic stem cells from older individuals showing higher stemness scores.
A comprehensive atlas of ageing human muscle reveals genetic and cellular processes behind muscle deterioration, including new cell populations that may explain age-related differences. The study also identifies compensatory mechanisms to counteract ageing, offering avenues for future therapies.
A team of scientists has created a single-cell atlas for the highly regenerative worm Pristina leidyi, revealing new insights into its regenerative abilities. The study characterizes all major annelid cell types and provides molecular signatures that could inform stem cell technologies and regenerative medicine.
Researchers analyzed blood stem cells in mice with prior sepsis and found they were fully recovered but failed to respond to a second inflammatory stimulus, leading to inefficient immune cell production.
Researchers have developed a method to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into cell populations that form patterns resembling the facial primordium. This allows for the creation of an in vitro model to study early facial development and potential treatments for craniofacial disorders.
A new study reveals that different chromosomes have separate end-specific telomere-length distributions, challenging the scientific consensus. Researchers found that most telomeres were either the shortest or longest across all individuals, suggesting that specific chromosome ends may be the first to trigger stem-cell failure.
Researchers at the University of Montana have found a novel method to generate human cartilage using neural crest cells. This breakthrough could lead to effective treatments for repairing craniofacial cartilage damage and improving the lives of 230,000 children born annually with craniofacial defects.
Researchers highlight the role of post-transcriptional RNA modifications in AML pathogenesis, identifying m6A and m7G regulators as potential therapeutic targets. Targeted therapies, including selective inhibitors and Traditional Chinese Medicine compounds, show promise in promoting cell differentiation and reversing AML phenotypes.
A team of scientists at Scripps Research and Calibr-Skaggs Institute has developed a lung-targeted drug to stimulate the growth of lung stem cells. The new findings provide a biological proof of concept for activating regenerative pathways and restoring damaged lung tissue.
Researchers discovered MIA-602's effectiveness against Doxorubicin-resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML), demonstrating reduced cell viability and tumor volume. The study suggests MIA-602 as a potential alternative treatment approach for AML, potentially circumventing chemotherapy side effects.
Researchers at Hiroshima University explore the ethics of growing brain organoids from human fetal brain cells, highlighting concerns over consciousness, informed consent, and medical applications. The study emphasizes the need for a global regulatory framework to navigate the complex ethical landscape of fetal brain organoid research.
Researchers at NTU Singapore successfully grew 'mini kidneys' in the lab, grafted them into live mice, and found a potential treatment for polycystic kidney disease by boosting autophagy. The study suggests that minoxidil could be used to reduce cysts in the novel mouse model.
A clinical trial with PeriCord, a new tissue engineering product derived from umbilical cord and pericardium stem cells, confirms its feasibility in repairing damaged heart tissues after a heart attack. The therapy has demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory properties.
MD Anderson researchers presented studies on combination therapies for AML and lung cancer, tumor microbiomes in immunity, and improved HPV screening. Genetic markers predict extended survival with KRAS inhibitors and may identify patients who benefit from novel combinations.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have successfully corrected a gene defect causing argininosuccinic aciduria, a severe metabolic disease. The team used CRISPR-Cas9 technique to reprogram patient cells, guiding them to differentiate into liver cells that no longer produced harmful argininosuccinic acid.
A traumatic brain injury quadruples the risk of developing dementia and neurodegenerative diseases like ALS. USC scientists used lab-grown human brain structures called organoids to study TBI's effects. They identified a gene, KCNJ2, that helps protect nerve cells against injury.
JAX researchers develop platform to mimic genetic diversity in humans, allowing for precise modeling of disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets. The platform enables direct comparison between mouse and human cells, providing molecular insights into autism, intellectual disability, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
A Mayo Clinic study found that stem cells derived from patients' own fat are safe and may improve sensation and movement after traumatic spinal cord injuries. Seven participants demonstrated improvements in motor function, including increased strength and voluntary anal contraction.
Researchers successfully transmitted familial Alzheimer's disease to normal lab mice through bone marrow stem cell transplant. The recipients developed cognitive decline and amyloid buildup at an accelerated rate, highlighting the systemic nature of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers developed a new tool to study adult neural stem cells, identifying their dormant state and behavior. By analyzing autofluorescence signatures, they can study the aging process and neurological diseases.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have discovered a way to revitalize the immune system in geriatric animals, significantly improving their ability to fight off new viruses and respond to vaccination. This breakthrough could lead to lifesaving treatments for older adults who struggle with weakened immunity.
Researchers found common underlying mechanisms in different forms of autism that may be addressed with existing medications. By analyzing brain cells, they identified disruptions in the mTOR signaling pathway that can be corrected with drugs, offering new potential treatments for individuals with idiopathic and genetic ASD.
Researchers have discovered that introducing tardigrade proteins into human cells can slow down molecular processes, making them potential candidates for slowing the aging process. This new study provides evidence that these proteins can be used to induce biostasis in cells, enhancing storage and stability.
A study from USC Keck School of Medicine reveals a genetic variant on the IKZF1 gene contributing to increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia among Hispanic/Latino children. The variant increases ALL risk by around 1.4 times and may be linked to Indigenous American ancestry, according to researchers.
Researchers present findings on immunotherapy approaches, a potential biomarker for neuroendocrine carcinomas, and improved treatments for pancreatic cancer and melanoma. A UCLA team identified UCHL1 as a molecular indicator and therapeutic target for aggressive neuroendocrine cancers.
Outcomes for elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HCT) have improved significantly over time. Relapse incidence and non-relapse mortality decreased, while leukemia-free survival and overall survival increased steadily between 2000 and 2021. These improvements wer...
Researchers have found two proteins, SOX17 and FGF2, that can efficiently mature stem cells into endothelial cells, forming tubular-like vessels. This breakthrough could enable the growth of lab-grown vascular tissue to support heart transplants and develop artificial blood brain barriers for neurological drug testing.
A team of UMass Amherst engineers has developed a tissue-like bioelectronic mesh system that can simultaneously measure the electrical signal and physical movement of cells in lab-grown human cardiac tissue. This breakthrough device allows researchers to observe how the heart's mechanical and electrical functions change during developm...
A recent literature review discusses the underlying mechanisms of type 2 diabetes, including insulin resistance and b-cell failure. The review also explores potential therapeutic strategies, such as replenishing and regenerating b-cells, pancreas transplants, and stem cell-derived b-cells.
A study has unveiled that exosomes from adipose mesenchymal stem cells speed up the healing process of skin wounds in diabetic mice. This approach restores autophagy, revitalizes skin cells, and accelerates wound closure. The application of ADSC-Exos represents a promising therapeutic strategy for diabetic wound healing.
Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target for Borjeson-Forssman-Lehman Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by seizures and intellectual disability. The study found that PHF6 gene mutations impair Ephrin receptor regulation, leading to neural stem cell misregulation.
The USC CIRM ASCEND Center will offer organoids, single-cell analysis, and spatial transcriptomics services to the California research community. The center aims to facilitate collaboration, technology transfer, and a competent workforce in personalized medicine.
Researchers have discovered a way to enhance the functionality of CD34-negative hematopoietic stem cells, which could lead to better treatments for blood-related diseases. The treated cells showed improved homing abilities and increased gene activity, suggesting they could be more effective as a treatment option.
Researchers have pioneered a novel approach to heal diabetic wounds faster and more effectively than ever before. Exosomes from hypoxic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells contain the potent molecule miR-4645-5p, which significantly boosts wound healing by targeting the MAPKAPK2 pathway.
Researchers have identified a subset of T-cells that acts like stem cells and continuously generates effector T-cells that attack transplanted organs. Targeting the transcription factor IRF4 may lead to innovative therapies for patients with chronic infections, cancers, autoimmune diseases and transplanted organs.
A study published in Cell Stem Cell found that restricting iron levels in blood stem cells can reverse their decline and improve regenerative capacity. The researchers discovered that excess intracellular iron activates inflammation within HSCs, while restricted iron levels enable them to multiply and respond effectively.
A new study reveals that retinoic acid, the biologically active form of Vitamin A, is essential for stem cells to exit lineage plasticity and differentiate into hair or epidermal cells. The findings shed light on skin and hair disorders, as well as a potential path toward preventing tumor growth.
Researchers developed gene-edited lymphocytes that target HPV-specific antigens in cervical cancer cells, evading immune responses and achieving strong cytotoxicity. These 'off-the-shelf' therapies offer a promising approach to treating cervical cancer.
Researchers have developed a cell culture system that differentiates human pluripotent stem cells to amniotic and surface ectoderm, which are essential for human embryo development. The study found that the degree of cell crowding influences cell identity decision.
Children's Hospital Los Angeles will develop innovative stem cell approaches to treat children and adolescents with recurrent solid tumors using CAR T-cell therapy. The new approach targets B7H3, an immune marker on cancer cells, to identify and destroy them.
Researchers discovered a new type of stem cell that can regenerate cartilage in arthritic mice, offering potential for treating osteoarthritis. The stem cells, derived from human pluripotent stem cells, were found to efficiently generate new cartilage when transplanted into the knees of OA mice.
Scientists have identified the 'gene of prejudice' GTF2I as crucial in regulating social behavior. The gene's deletion or duplication leads to variations in personality, with individuals having either a 'cocktail party personality' or autistic traits. This research may lead to new treatments for autism and shed light on human sociality.
A new study has identified a strategy used by early-stage cancer cells to evade the immune system. By turning on the gene SOX17, these cells create an immunosuppressive environment that prevents them from being detected. This gene helps cancer cells ignore immune messages and grow in the presence of an immune system.
A new study reveals distinct transcriptional programs and molecular features in right-sided colon stem cells, which may help explain the differences in colon cancer development. The research also highlights the importance of CDX2 in regulating stem cell differentiation and tumor initiation.
Researchers discovered that the vitamin D/vitamin D receptor pathway protects enterocytes during aging, reducing ISC proliferation and centrosome amplification. This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying healthy aging in Drosophila.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified PRMT5 as a key regulator of suppressive activity in immune cells, which can be trained to correct overzealous immune responses. This discovery may lay the foundation for drug-free, side-effect-free treatments for patients with autoimmune disorders such as aplastic anemia.
The University of California, Irvine has received a $4 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to establish a shared resources lab for stem cell research. The facility will offer essential technologies and training for novel in vitro stem cell-based modeling and regenerative medicine research.
Researchers found that e-liquids containing propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin enhance COVID-19 infection, while those with benzoic acid prevent it. Vapers are advised to quit or switch to e-liquids with acidic pH for better protection.
Neural stem cells developed into nerve cells when adhering to hydrogels with high positive charge, while those on lower positively charged gels became glial cells. The ability to influence differentiation could aid in nerve and glial cell regeneration and treatment of diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Researchers at Salk Institute find a new method to interrupt sperm production using an HDAC inhibitor, which blocks fertility without affecting libido. The treatment's reversibility is attributed to its ability to modulate gene expression downstream of retinoic acid.
Researchers developed a new epigenetic clock that predicts biological age from DNA structure, distinguishing between genetic differences that slow and accelerate aging. The model, called CausAge, includes only damaging or protective changes, allowing for more accurate evaluation of anti-aging interventions.