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Researchers from the University of Houston have developed a method for isolating and cloning stratified epithelial stem cells, which are important for regenerative medicine and the study of diseases like cancer. The method involves culturing dissociated epithelial cells in a specific medium containing inhibitors and growth factors. The goal is to create a scalable and efficient process for isolating and expanding these stem cells for personalized diagnostic and treatment strategies or regenerative medicine purposes. The patent application describes a defined culture medium that supports the growth and proliferation of stratified epithelial stem cells, and can be used for both normal and diseased tissue samples. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study on the role of primary cilia in postnatal neurodevelopment. The researchers found that primary cilia in principal neurons undergo changes in positioning and orientation during postnatal development in the mouse cerebral cortex. They also discovered that the cell bodies of principal neurons in certain brain regions undergo a slow reverse movement for postnatal positioning and lamina refinement. Disruption of cilia function in the forebrain led to altered cortical lamination. This research suggests that primary cilia play a role in neuronal positioning and the refinement of the cerebral cortex. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Southwest Medical University in Luzhou, China, explores the role of extracellular matrix stiffness in guiding neuronal growth and axonal extension. The researchers highlight the potential of stiffness-tunable biomaterials in neural tissue engineering for repairing and regenerating injured nervous tissue. The study discusses the molecular mechanisms behind extracellular matrix stiffness and its impact on axonal growth and regeneration. The development of stiffness-tunable biomaterials has the potential to advance neural tissue engineering, although current limitations and future prospects are also discussed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the MS Center Amsterdam aimed to understand the factors contributing to atrophy in different regions of the thalamus in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study used high-gradient diffusion MRI to evaluate microstructural factors in 41 people with MS and 34 healthy controls. The results showed that volume loss in the thalamus was more pronounced in posterior/medial subregions compared to anterior/ventral subregions. The study also found that intrinsic and extrinsic microstructural measures independently related to subregional volume loss, with heterogeneity across different thalamic nuclei. The researchers concluded that these findings may reflect the involvement of white matter demyelination and cerebrospinal fluid-mediated damage in thalamic volume loss. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the National Research Institute for Family Planning in Beijing, China, explores the relationship between primary cilia abnormalities and spontaneous abortion. The researchers found that the number and length of primary cilia were significantly decreased in cases of spontaneous abortion, accompanied by increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines. They also discovered that shortened cilia impair decidualization in human endometrial stromal cells through the TGF-beta/SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. The study suggests that primary cilia abnormalities contribute to the occurrence of spontaneous abortion. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Toronto provides new insights into central nervous system disorders, specifically experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is a common immune-based model of multiple sclerosis (MS). The severity of EAE is typically measured using a clinical scale, but this scale may not accurately assess recovery from the disease. The report presents a simple protocol for scoring inflammation, demyelination, and axonal injury in the spinal cord and brain sections of mice, as well as a method for measuring overall central nervous system injury in live mice. The research aims to better understand the underlying mechanisms of cellular injury in the central nervous system. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Colorado has investigated the role of a protein called TTLL12 in the formation and stability of primary cilia in polarized renal epithelial cells. Primary cilia are sensory organelles that extend from the apical surface of epithelial cells and play a critical role in cellular function. The researchers found that TTLL12 is required for the formation of primary cilia and regulates microtubule dynamics, stability, and post-translational modifications. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying primary cilia formation and highlights the importance of TTLL12 in maintaining cilia stability. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Yale University School of Medicine discusses research findings on polycystic kidney disease (PKD). The study focuses on the role of primary cilia in cyst growth and identifies Glis2 as a potential therapeutic target for treating PKD. In mouse models, inactivation of Glis2 suppressed the disease, and targeting Glis2 with antisense oligonucleotides slowed disease progression. This research provides valuable insights into the signaling pathways involved in cyst formation and offers potential avenues for therapy in PKD. [Extracted from the article]

New research from the University of Texas Austin explores the role of the motor protein Kif6 in regulating cilia motility and polarity in brain ependymal cells. The study found that Kif6 is a slow processive motor on microtubules and is present in both the apical cytoplasm and the axoneme of ependymal cells. Loss of Kif6 function leads to decreased cilia motility, disrupted fluid flow on the surface of brain ventricular walls, and disruptions in cilia orientation, apical actin networks, and basal body stabilization. This research suggests that Kif6 plays a role in maintaining ciliary homeostasis in ependymal cells. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Driving Axon Regeneration by Activating STAT1 Signaling and cGAS-STING Pathway" has been published online by the US Patent and Trademark Office. The invention aims to promote axon regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS) by altering the coordination mechanism of neural innate immune responses. The methods involve administering IFNg and a Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type 2 (PTPN2) inhibitor, activating the cGAS-STING pathway, or a combination of both. The invention has potential applications in both the CNS and peripheral nervous system (PNS) for promoting axon regeneration and neural repair. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract from biorxiv.org, researchers have found that the protein Numb plays a central role in the repulsion of axons in the central nervous system. The study focused on two specific processes: the repulsion of retinal ganglion cell axons at the optic chiasm and the repulsion of commissural axons in the spinal cord. The researchers discovered that Numb is essential for both of these repulsion processes, positioning it as a key player in the non-canonical Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses the discovery of synaptic nanostructures and their role in the flexibility of synaptic function in the brain. The study used advanced imaging techniques to analyze the organization of glutamatergic synapses in the neocortex. The researchers found that different types of synapses exhibited diverse nano-organization patterns, depending on the afferent input and sub-cellular localization. This research provides valuable insights into the complex organization of synapses in the brain. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study published on biorxiv.org explores the role of FBXO24, a testis-enriched F-box protein, in male infertility. The researchers disrupted FBXO24 in mice and observed the accumulation of abnormal membraneless electron-dense granules in sperm flagella. This accumulation led to malformed flagellar structures, impaired sperm motility, and male infertility. The study suggests that FBXO24 is involved in the degradation of IPO5, a protein, and disruption of this process may result in the accumulation of abnormal granules in sperm flagella. However, it is important to note that this study has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, explores the role of autophagy in ionizing radiation-induced primary ciliogenesis in glioblastoma cells. The study found that treatment with X-rays increased the proportion of ciliated cells in one cell line (M059K) but not in another (M059J). However, both cell lines showed an increase in ciliated cells after serum starvation. Activation of autophagy facilitated ciliogenesis in both cell lines, while suppression of autophagy mitigated cilia formation. These findings suggest that different cellular autophagy responses to radiation contribute to primary ciliogenesis in glioblastoma cells. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a method and system for cryospray treatment of airway tissue. The patent explains the importance of epithelial cells in the respiratory tract and their role in removing particles from the airways. It also discusses the vulnerability of ciliated cells to injury and the potential for goblet cells to produce excessive mucus. The patent explores chronic bronchitis and asthma, which involve inflammation and mucus hyperactivity in the airways, and discusses conventional treatments as well as interventional approaches like bronchial thermoplasty and cryospray. The patent concludes by referencing a study that found promising results with cryospray treatment. The inventors propose an automated and semi-automated cryospray treatment system that could reduce mucous production and trigger tissue regeneration. They claim that their method and device offer improved predictability, consistency, and effectiveness compared to existing cryospray methods. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses the role of primary cilia in the development of cortical neurons in the cerebral cortex. The study focuses on the identification of two genes, Sall3 and Pappa, as direct targets of the Gli3 transcription factor, which is involved in cilia signaling. The researchers found that Gli3 binds to the enhancers of Sall3 and Pappa, suppressing their activity in the dorsal telencephalon. This research provides important insights into the mechanisms by which primary cilia regulate the behavior of neural stem cells and ensure the proper production of neurons during corticogenesis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Connecticut has found that the Nfe2l3 gene promotes neuroprotection and long-distance axon regeneration after central nervous system (CNS) injury. The researchers evaluated the expression of Nfe2l3 in cortical and retinal ganglion cell neurons and found that it is primarily expressed in developing immature neurons and not upregulated after injury. However, when Nfe2l3 was expressed in injured retinal ganglion cells through viral vector delivery, it promoted neuroprotection and axon regeneration. This research suggests that Nfe2l3 could be a potential therapeutic target for treating CNS injury and disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study has challenged traditional models of how the axon guidance cue UNC-6/Netrin functions in dorsal-ventral axon guidance. In vertebrates, it was found that floorplate Netrin1 is largely dispensable for ventral commissural growth, and instead, short-range interactions with Netrin1 on ventricular zone radial glial stem cells guide ventral commissural axon growth. In Caenorhabditis elegans, growth cone polarity of filopodial extension is established by UNC-6/Netrin, and subsequent regulation of protrusion is based on this polarity. The study suggests that UNC-6/Netrin acts as a permissive, not instructive, cue for dorsal-ventral axon guidance. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses the role of point contact-restricted cAMP signaling in controlling axon repulsion induced by ephrin-A5. The study shows that these signaling molecules achieve specificity for each downstream pathway through subcellular compartmentation. In vitro experiments demonstrate that point contact-restricted cAMP signals modulate Focal Adhesion Kinase phosphorylation and the assembly and disassembly rate of point contacts, leading to axon repulsion. In vivo experiments on developing retinal ganglion cells also show that preventing point contact-specific cAMP signals alters the refinement of their terminal axonal arbor in the brain. This study highlights the importance of subcellularly restricted second messenger signals in the wiring of neuronal circuits. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Harvard Medical School discusses the potential prophylactic value of TNF-alpha inhibitors in preventing retinal cell apoptosis and optic nerve axon loss after corneal surgery or trauma. The study found that anti-TNF-alpha antibodies were effective in protecting retinal cells and optic nerves in animals, suggesting they may be useful in preventing secondary glaucoma in patients. The researchers evaluated the toxicity and efficacy of two TNF-alpha inhibitors, adalimumab and infliximab, in rabbits through subconjunctival administration. The results showed that adalimumab provided excellent neuroprotection without eye toxicity in both short-term and long-term evaluations. The researchers suggest that routine administration of anti-TNF-alpha biologics may reduce inflammation and future secondary glaucoma in corneal injuries, including surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Gifu Pharmaceutical University in Japan has found that zinc deficiency during development can inhibit fetal growth and disrupt neural differentiation and brain function later in adulthood. The study aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms behind the effects of low zinc on neuronal differentiation. The researchers discovered that low zinc levels suppressed neurite outgrowth and increased levels of phosphorylated CRMP2, a protein involved in neurite extension. This study provides new insights into the role of zinc in neuronal development and may have implications for understanding infectious diseases and developmental disabilities in children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Nankai University in Tianjin, China, has provided new insights into interfacial engineering for oriented crystal growth in zinc anodes for aqueous zinc metal batteries. The study focused on the deposition of zinc with a surface-preferred crystal plane to inhibit dendrite growth and side reactions. The researchers found that the oriented growth of the Zn(002) crystal plane on an Ag-modified surface resulted in long cycling stability and corrosion-resistant surfaces. This research contributes to the development of high-performance aqueous zinc metal batteries. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at National Cheng Kung University in Tainan, Taiwan, explores the role of microRNA-155-5p (miR-155-5p) in recurrent miscarriage. The study found that miR-155-5p inhibits trophoblast cell proliferation and invasion by disrupting centrosomal function. The centrosome is responsible for coordinating cell cycle progression and is involved in the formation of primary cilia, which play a role in development and growth. The overexpression of miR-155-5p led to centrosome amplification, blocked primary cilia formation, and inhibited trophoblast cell growth and invasion. The study suggests that miR-155-5p may have a novel role in mediating centrosomal function in recurrent miscarriage. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to Takeda Pharmaceutical Company for a heterocyclic compound that inhibits histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6). The compound shows potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. The patent describes the chemical structure of the compound and its effectiveness in inhibiting HDAC6. This compound could be used as a therapeutic drug for various diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Porto has found that the accumulation of alpha-synuclein (aSyn) in the hippocampus, a region of the brain, is linked to cognitive deficits in Lewy Body dementias (LBD). The study discovered that aSyn triggers the formation of cofilin-actin rods, which disrupt synapses and impair cognitive function. The researchers also identified the cellular prion protein (PrPC) and the chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) as key factors in this process. Importantly, the study suggests that inhibiting CCR5 could potentially prevent synaptic impairment and cognitive dysfunction in LBD. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on stroke and the potential use of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells (hiPSC-NPCs) for therapeutic purposes. The study, conducted in Osaka, Japan, evaluated the effects of intracerebral transplantation of hiPSC-NPCs in rat brains affected by ischemic stroke. The results showed that the transplanted cells exhibited neuronal differentiation, extended neurites, and formed synaptic structures in the damaged brain tissues. However, the efficacy of hiPSC-NPC transplantation in improving neurological function was found to be insufficient, indicating the need for further optimization of cell preparation methods and transplantation timing. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, explored the potential of gene therapy in enhancing the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and promoting axon regeneration after optic nerve injury. The researchers found that the expression of certain isoforms of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) significantly increased RGC survival following optic nerve trauma. However, the study also revealed that CaMKII suppressed short-distance RGC axon sprouting and inhibited long-distance axon regeneration. These findings highlight the need for further research to understand the specific activities of CaMKII and develop targeted strategies for the treatment of optic neuropathies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Cologne's CECAD Cluster of Excellence in Aging Research has shed light on the process of neuronal maturation and plasticity in the brain. The study focused on the role of mitochondrial fusion in the development of new neurons in the hippocampus, a region associated with cognition and emotional behavior. The researchers found that mitochondrial fusion plays a crucial role in sustaining the plasticity of new synapses and refining pre-existing brain circuits. These findings have implications for understanding neurological disorders and may guide future interventions to restore cognitive function. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been made available online for a robotic system designed to treat airway disorders such as chronic bronchitis and asthma. The system utilizes a therapeutic catheter with advanced features like a video imager, steerable tip, and lens temperature controller. Treatment planning software is used to optimize the delivery of treatment and expedite the procedure. Positive outcomes have been observed in reducing cough and sputum production in patients with chronic bronchitis. The patent application also includes claims for a steerable catheter and a system that combines a robotically steerable catheter with a console. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Bundeswehr Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology in Munich, Germany, has investigated the effects of the nerve agent VX on motor neurons derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells. The study found that VX exposure led to neuronal cell death and a decline in neurite outgrowth in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, involving the activation of the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis. These findings could potentially contribute to the development of a human neuromuscular test model and patient-specific therapies in the future. The research was supported by the Bundesministerium der Verteidigung. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Nantong University in Jiangsu, China have conducted a study on the regenerative capacities of axons in the central and peripheral nervous systems. They found that while peripheral nerves have a remarkable ability to regenerate after injury, central nerves have limited regenerative capabilities. The study focused on sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and examined the differences between the regeneration of central and peripheral axonal branches. The researchers discovered that peripheral axonal injury stimulates neuronal calcium influx and upregulates the expressions of regeneration-promoting genes, supporting axonal regeneration. In contrast, central axonal injury resulted in modest responses from DRG neurons and diminished injury responses from non-neuronal cells. The study highlights the importance of both intrinsic regenerative capacities of neurons and the surrounding microenvironment in axonal regeneration. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Washington University have conducted a study on the gene dosage of independent dynein arm motor preassembly factors and their influence on cilia assembly in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The study found that disruptions in the DNAAF4 gene can lead to the failure of outer and inner dynein arms to assemble motile cilia. The researchers also discovered that dosage of multiple DNAAFs is an important factor in cilia assembly and regeneration. This research provides valuable insights into the genetic factors that affect cilia assembly and could contribute to a better understanding of primary ciliary dyskinesia in humans. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Colorado have conducted a study on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its association with the accumulation of synaptotoxic amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides in the brain. The study found that Aβ oligomers impair learning and memory, promote dendritic spine loss, and inhibit synaptic plasticity. The researchers identified the role of Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors and the AKAP-CaN signaling pathway in mediating Aβ-induced dendritic spine elimination. Additionally, they discovered that the NFAT transcription factors and the Mdm2 gene are involved in this process. This research provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying AD and potential therapeutic targets. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study analyzed a mouse model with a modified version of the Tbr1 gene, which is associated with autism and brain malformations. The researchers found that mice with one copy of the modified gene had reduced levels of the TBR1 protein and thinning of a brain structure called the anterior commissure. They also discovered that different levels of the TBR1 protein were necessary for normal brain development. The study cautions against interpreting experiments using this modified gene and highlights the importance of considering the sensitivity of brain processes to TBR1 levels. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from National Taiwan University have conducted a study exploring the relationship between dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and tooth innervation. The study utilized immunofluorescence staining and fluorescent dye injections to investigate the distribution of DPSCs, neural stem cells (NSCs), nerve growth cones, and sensory nerves in developing mouse tooth germs at different stages. The findings suggest that DPSCs and NSCs are present in dental pulp tissue before nerves penetrate the pulp, indicating a potential role for these cells in attracting neural growth and/or differentiation within the pulp. The study was supported by the National Science And Technology Council, Ministry of Science And Technology, Taiwan, and National Taiwan University Hospital. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shandong University in Jinan, China have proposed a new nano complex for targeted drug delivery to treat spinal cord injuries (SCI). The complex consists of a mesoporous silica nanoparticle core loaded with microRNA and a cloaking layer of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell membrane modified with rabies virus glycoprotein. This complex is able to cross the blood-spinal cord barrier and accumulate in the injury center, promoting axon sprouting and rehabilitating the inflammatory microenvironment. In experiments with mice, the nano complex showed significant improvement in axon regrowth, microenvironment regulation, and functional restoration. This research presents a novel strategy for noninvasive treatment of SCI using microRNA-loaded nanoparticles. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Baylor College of Medicine has identified an enzyme called Tiam1 as a potential target for reducing morphine tolerance and hyperalgesia. Morphine and other opioids are commonly used to treat severe and chronic pain, but prolonged use can lead to the need for higher doses and increased sensitivity to pain. The researchers found that blocking the activity of Tiam1 in certain spinal neurons in a mouse model prevented the development of morphine tolerance and hyperalgesia. This discovery could potentially enhance the effectiveness of morphine for pain relief. [Extracted from the article]

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. has announced a collaboration with Axovia Therapeutics Ltd. to develop gene therapies for ciliopathies, including Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS). Ciliopathies are a group of complex disorders caused by genetic mutations that result in dysfunctional cilia in various organs of the body. Axovia's lead program, AXV101, is a gene therapy targeting retinal dystrophy associated with BBS. Charles River will manufacture the gene of interest plasmid to support the development of Axovia's gene therapies. This collaboration aims to provide treatment options for patients with ciliopathies, which can cause various health issues such as blindness, deafness, respiratory infections, kidney disease, heart disease, infertility, obesity, and diabetes. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the allocation of resources to flagellar swimming in bacteria, which is a behavior that is not directly required for growth. The researchers found that the ability of bacteria to increase their swimming is limited by the hydrodynamics of propulsion and the fitness cost of flagellar biosynthesis. They also observed that gene expression in Escherichia coli falls within a physiologically relevant range of investment in motility, with many strains maximizing motility under nutrient-rich conditions. The study suggests that the hydrodynamics of swimming may explain the bet-hedging behavior observed at low levels of motility gene expression. Please note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, air pollution has been associated with Alzheimer's disease, which is characterized by decreased cognitive abilities and memory. In this study, researchers used live-cell imaging to examine the effects of particulate matter on neuron-like cells. They found that exposure to certain particles led to a reduction in neurite length and the formation of amyloid beta plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. However, exposure to other particles did not have these detrimental effects. This study suggests that high dose rate in vitro models could serve as an alternative environmentally driven model of Alzheimer's disease. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint study published in Gene Therapy Weekly discusses the potential of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) in preventing SARM1 activation, a process associated with axon degeneration and neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that ASOs targeting SARM1 provided neuroprotection against cellular impairment in human dopamine neurons induced by a neurotoxin. Additionally, the research revealed that mitochondrial dysfunction and axon fragmentation could be reversed using nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3. These findings suggest that ASOs could be a promising therapeutic strategy for blocking SARM1 and highlight the potential reversibility of SARM1 toxicity in human neurons. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the role of the KMN network, which is primarily known for its involvement in chromosome segregation, in neurodevelopment. The study focuses on the C. elegans head nervous system and demonstrates that the KMN network is crucial for establishing proper axonal organization. Specifically, the degradation of the KNL-1 protein leads to disorganized ganglia and abnormal axon placement and organization. The study also highlights the importance of signaling motifs within KNL-1 for recruiting protein phosphatase 1 and activating the spindle assembly checkpoint during neurodevelopment. Additionally, the NDC-80 microtubule-binding mutant is found to play a role in facilitating axon-axon contacts. These findings suggest a non-canonical role for the KMN network in shaping the structure and connectivity of the nervous system during brain development in C. elegans. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]