Extracellular Matrix News Volume 3.04 | Feb 2 2012

Invasive Matrix Degradation at Focal Adhesions Occurs via Protease Recruitment by a FAK-p130Cas Complex
In this study, researchers report that multiple cancer cell lines display degradation of extracellular matrix at focal adhesion sites that requires the targeted action of MT1-MMP. [J Cell Biol] Abstract

Extracellular Matrix Protein CCN1 Limits Oncolytic Efficacy in Glioma
Researchers’ findings reveal how an integrin signaling pathway mediates activation of a type-I antiviral interferon response that can limit the efficacy of oncolytic viral therapy. [Cancer Res] Abstract

The Use of Hyaluronan to Regulate Protein Adsorption and Cell Infiltration in Nanofibrous Scaffolds
In this study, researchers developed a protein resistant and porous nanofibrous scaffold composed of hyaluronan, silk fibroin, and polycaprolactone blends via one-step emulsion electrospinning. [Biomaterials] Abstract

The Regulation of Focal Adhesion Complex Formation and Salivary Gland Epithelial Cell Organization by Nanofibrous PLGA Scaffolds
Researchers find polymer, poly-l-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanofiber scaffolds could support the spontaneous self-organization and branching of dissociated embryonic salivary gland cells. [Biomaterials] Abstract

Extracellular Leucine-Rich Repeat Proteins Are Required to Organize the Apical Extracellular Matrix and Maintain Epithelial Junction Integrity in C. elegans
This work identifies epithelial extracellular leucine-rich repeat only proteins as important components and organizers of the pre-cuticular and cuticular apical extracellular matrix (ECM), and adds to the small but growing body of evidence linking the apical ECM to epithelial junction stability. [Development] Abstract

Quantification of Local Matrix Deformations and Mechanical Properties during Capillary Morphogenesis in Three-Dimensions
By quantifying the dynamic physical properties of the cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interface in both space and time, researchers identified a correlation linking ECM deformation rates and local ECM stiffening at the microscale with capillary morphogenesis at the macroscale. [Integr Biol] Abstract

Formation of Atypical Podosomes in Extravillous Trophoblasts Regulates Extracellular Matrix Degradation
The role of specialized invasive structures in trophoblasts in the degradation of the extracellular matrix was compared with well characterized podosomes and invadopodia in other invasive cells and the trophoblast specific structures were characterized by using a sensitive matrix degradation assay which enabled visualization of the structures and their dynamics. [Eur J Cell Biol] Abstract

Angiotensin-(1-7) Receptor Mas Is an Essential Modulator of Extracellular Matrix Protein Expression in the Heart
In this study researchers investigated the effects of genetic deletion of the angiotensin-(1-7) receptor Mas or the angiotensin II receptor AT₂ on the expression of specific extracellular matrix proteins in atria, right ventricles and atrioventricular valves of neonatal and adult mice. [Regul Pept] Abstract

HTI-501 Data Support Commencement of Phase II Portion of Clinical Trial
Data from the Phase I proof-of-concept and local tolerability study of HTI-501 support commencement of the Phase II portion of the clinical trial. HTI-501 is designed to allow local degradation of the collagenous fibrous components of the extracellular matrix at the injection site by tightly controlling the extent and duration of enzyme activity once injected into the body. [Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.] Press Release

World-Class Scientists Chosen for HHMI’s First International Early Career Award
Top biomedical scientists from 12 countries will receive an important boost at a critical time in their careers from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s (HHMI’s) inaugural International Early Career Scientist awards. [Howard Hughes Medical Institute] Press Release

National Institutes of Health (United States)

Food and Drug Administration (United States)

Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (United States)
 
European Medicines Agency (European Union)

Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (United Kingdom)

Therapeutic Goods Administration (Australia)

Research and Development Technologist, hPSC Media (STEMCELL Technologies)

Scientist – Pluripotent Stem Cells (STEMCELL Technologies)

Research Technologist, Manufacturing Sciences (STEMCELL Technologies)

Business Analyst – Product Management (STEMSOFT Software)

Postdoctoral Fellow (Mount Sinai School of Medicine)

PhD Research Position – Molecular Cell Biology (Weizmann Institute of Science)

Postdoctoral Positions (Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, ACSR) 

PhD and Postdoctoral Positions (Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology) 

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