Extracellular Matrix News Volume 2.45 | Nov 17 2011

Cell Adhesion on an Artificial Extracellular Matrix Using Aptamer-Functionalized PEG Hydrogels
In this study, nucleic acid aptamers were applied to functionalize hydrogels for mimicking the adhesion sites of the extracellular matrix. [Biomaterials] Abstract

The Extracellular Matrix Molecule Tenascin C Modulates Expression Levels and Territories of Key Patterning Genes during Spinal Cord Astrocyte Specification
Here, researchers demonstrate for the first time that the extracellular matrix glycoprotein tenascin C regulates the expression of key patterning genes during late embryonic spinal cord development, leading to a timely maturation of gliogenic neural precursor cells. [Development] Abstract

Thromboxane Receptor Signaling Is Required for Fibronectin-Induced Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Production by Human and Murine Macrophages and Is Attenuated by Arhgef1
In this study, researchers have extended the characterization of the fibronectin-induced Arhgef1-regulated signaling pathway in both human and murine myeloid cells. [J Biol Chem] Abstract

Transferable Cell-Secreted Extracellular Matrices Enhance Osteogenic Differentiation
Researchers hypothesized that decellularized extracellular matrices created in monolayer culture could be collected and then transferred to a secondary substrate while retaining their instructive potential. [Acta Biomater] Abstract

Metal Mesh Scaffold for Tissue Engineering of Membranes
Researchers have developed a novel hybrid scaffold made of an extra thin layer of metal mesh tightly enclosed by biological matrix components. [Tissue Eng Part C Methods] Abstract

Tandem Modular Protein-Based Hydrogels Constructed Using a Novel Two-Component Approach
Researchers provide a new approach to tune the topology and physical properties of protein hydrogels via genetic engineering, and open the possibility to systematically explore the use of large native extracellular proteins to engineer extracellular matrix-mimetic hydrogels. [Langmuir] Abstract

Extracellular Matrix Ligand and Stiffness Modulate Immature Nucleus Pulposus Cell-Cell Interactions
Researchers hypothesized that a soft, laminin-rich extracellular matrix environment would promote nucleus pulposus (NP) cell-cell interactions and phenotypes similar to those found in immature NP tissues. [PLoS One] Abstract

Tufts University Researcher Develops Living Tissue To Study Orthopedic Birth Defects
A new approach to studying tissue development has earned Catherine K. Kuo, Ph.D., an assistant professor of biomedical engineering in Tufts University’s School of Engineering, the Basil O’Connor Starter Scholar Award from the March of Dimes Foundation. [Tufts University] Press Release

$100 Million Gift Establishes Belfer Research Building at Weill Cornell Medical College
In the presence of U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Weill Cornell Medical College dedicated the Belfer Research Building, a state-of-the-art facility that will more than double the Medical College’s existing research space and position Weill Cornell at the vanguard of new medical research and discoveries. [Weill Cornell Medical College] Press Release

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Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (United States)
 
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Lab Technologist – Tissue Culture (STEMCELL Technologies)

Research and Development Technologist, hPSC Media (STEMCELL Technologies)

Lab Technologist – Pluripotent Stem Cells (STEMCELL Technologies)

Scientist – Pluripotent Stem Cells (STEMCELL Technologies)

Post-Doctoral/Research Scientist – (Mount Sinai School of Medicine)

Post-Doctoral Positions (Finnish Centre of Excellence in Cell-Extracellular Matrix Research) 

Post-Doctoral – Extracellular Matrix Laboratory (University of Pennsylvania)

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