Tumors’ Mechanical Properties Affect Protein Production
Tissues stiffen with age, poor diet, disease and for natural reasons, and when they do, proteins produced by such cells can be altered, which in turn affects downstream processes. The finding provides new ways for scientists to promote or limit the production of certain proteins through a tissue’s softness or firmness, and opens doors to develop tumor-fighting drugs and tissue engineering. [Press release from Cornell University discussing online prepublication in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences] Press Release|Abstract
Adaptive Rheology and Ordering of Cell Cytoskeleton Govern Matrix Rigidity Sensing
Researchers showed that rigidity sensing and adaptation emerge naturally from actin cytoskeleton remodeling. Their in vitro experiments and theoretical modelling demonstrated a biphasic rheology of the actin cytoskeleton, which transitions from fluid on soft substrates to solid on stiffer ones. [Nat Commun] Abstract
Pathophysiological Role of MicroRNA-29 in Pancreatic Cancer Stroma
In an effort to understand the molecular mechanisms associated with tumor-stromal interactions, using in vitro and in vivo models and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patient biopsies, scientists showed that the loss of miR-29 is a common phenomenon of activated pancreatic stellate cells/fibroblasts, the major stromal cells responsible for fibrotic stromal reaction. [Sci Rep] Full Article|Press Release
Clinical Significance of the Integrin α6β4 in Human Malignancies
The authors provide an assessment of integrin α6β4 expression patterns and their prognostic significance in human malignancies, and describe key signaling functions of integrin α6β4 that contribute to tumor progression. [Lab Invest] Full Article
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UCLA Doctors Use 3-D Printed Model to Guide Tricky Heart Valve Replacement
The 3-D model, which was created using a CT scan of the patient’s heart, was made of a silicon-like material with properties similar to tissues and other structures in the heart. The doctors guided a mesh-like stent into place, where it acted as scaffolding to hold the valve, and then guided the tightly packaged valve into the model. [UCLA] Press Release|Video
The Canadian Cancer Society Honors Top Researchers with Awards for Excellence
Five of Canada’s most outstanding cancer scientists received prestigious cancer research awards. The Canadian Cancer Society honored five remarkable researchers with Awards for Excellence for their tremendous contributions to progress in cancer research. [Canadian Cancer Society] Press Release
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