Extracellular Matrix News Volume 3.40 | Oct 11 2012

A Combinatorial Extracellular Matrix Platform Identifies Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions that Correlate with Metastasis
Scientists report a novel-screening platform capable of measuring phenotypic responses to combinations of extracellular matrix molecules. Using a genetic mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma, they measured the extracellular matrix-dependent adhesion of tumor-derived cells. [Nat Commun] Abstract | Press Release

Collagen-Based Layer-by-Layer Coating on Electrospun Polymer Scaffolds
Researchers demonstrated the production of collagen-based microfiber constructs by use of a layer-by-layer coating process onto a preformed synthetic polymer microfiber base. [Biomaterials] Abstract

In Situ Forming Hydrogels Composed of Oxidized High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid and Gelatin for Nucleus Pulposus Regeneration
Investigators developed an injectable oxidized hyaluronic acid-gelatin-adipic acid dihydrazide hydrogel. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid was crosslinked with various concentrations of gelatin to synthesize the hydrogels and their viscoelastic properties were analyzed. Interactions between the hydrogels, nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, and the extracellular matrix were also evaluated, as were the effects of the hydrogels on NP cell gene expression. [Acta Biomater] Abstract

A Chondroitinase-ABC and TGF-β1 Treatment Regimen for Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Tissue Engineered Fibrocartilage
Scientists aimed to engineer a spectrum of biomimetic fibrocartilages representative of the distinct functional properties found in native tissues. Using the self-assembly process, different co-cultures of meniscus cells and articular chondrocytes were seeded into agarose wells and treated with the catabolic agent chondroitinase-ABC and the anabolic agent transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) via a two-factor, full factorial study design. [Acta Biomater] Abstract

Enalapril Reduces Proliferation and Hyaluronic Acid Release in Orbital Fibroblasts
Researchers investigated enalapril's effects in primary cultures of orbital fibroblasts from Graves’ Ophthalmopathy (GO) patients and control subjects. Primary cultures of GO and control fibroblasts were treated with enalapril or with a control compound. Cell proliferation assays, lactate dehydrogenase release assays, apoptosis assays and measurement of hyaluronic acid in the cell media were performed. [Thyroid] Abstract

Adhesion of Trypanosoma cruzi Trypomastigotes to Fibronectin or Laminin Modifies Tubulin and Paraflagellar Rod Protein Phosphorylation
Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagaś disease in humans. Adherence of the infective stage to elements of the extracellular matrix, as in laminin and fibronectin, is an essential step in host cell invasion. Researchers explored the signaling events triggered on the parasite upon binding to members of the gp85/TS, as Tc85, identified as laminin and fibronectin ligands. [PLoS One] Full Article

Interferon-γ Inhibits Integrin-Mediated Adhesion to Fibronectin and Survival Signaling in Thyroid Cells
Scientists aimed to determine the effect of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) stimulation on integrin expression and signaling in the thyroid cell. Cytotoxicity, integrin expression, cell adhesion to fibronectin (FN) and FN-stimulated ERK and AKT phosphorylation were determined in a normal human thyroid cell line treated with IFN-γ. [J Endocrinol] Abstract

Treatment of Penetrating Brain Injury in a Rat Model Using Collagen Scaffolds Incorporating Soluble Nogo Receptor
Cavitary defects in the brain may afford the possibility of treatment with biomaterials that fill the lesion site while delivering therapeutic agents. Investigators examined the treatment of penetrating brain injury in a rat model with collagen biomaterials and a soluble Nogo receptor molecule. [J Tissue Eng Regen Med] Abstract

Controlled Delivery of Thymosin β4 for Tissue Engineering and Cardiac Regenerative Medicine
The authors discuss the role of thymosin β4 (Tβ4) in vascularization, and review their studies of the controlled delivery of Tβ4 through its incorporation in biomaterials. A collagen-chitosan hydrogel was developed for the controlled release of Tβ4 over 28 days. [Ann N Y Acad Sci] Abstract

Enhancement of Neurite Outgrowth in Neuron Cancer Stem Cells by Growth on 3-D Collagen Scaffolds
Researchers investigated proliferation and differentiation of neuron cancer stem cells on a 3-D porous collagen scaffold that mimics the natural extracellular matrix. [Biochem Biophys Res Commun] Abstract

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2012: Sir John B. Gurdon, Shinya Yamanaka
Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet has decided to award The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2012 jointly to John B. Gurdon and Shinya Yamanaka for the discovery that mature cells can be reprogrammed to become pluripotent. [Nobel Media AB] Press Release

Pioneering iPS Cell Scientist Kazutoshi Takahashi Receives NYSCF - Robertson Prize in Stem Cell Research
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) will award a Japanese scientist with the NYSCF - Robertson Prize for his extraordinary achievements in translational stem cell research. This award will go to Kazutoshi Takahashi, PhD, Lecturer, Center for induced pluripotent stem  (iPS) Cell Research and Application at Kyoto University, for his vital contribution to iPS cell derivation. [The New York Stem Cell Foundation] 
Press Release

Audeo Oncology Announces New Board Appointments
Audeo Oncology, Inc. announces the appointment of Leigh Bonney, Susan Kelley and David U’Prichard to its Board of Directors. [Audeo Oncology, Inc.] Press Release

Australian Panel Calls for Major Changes in Nation's Biomedical Research
An Australian advisory panel is suggesting sweeping changes to the nation's biomedical research programs in order to better link science to health care - along with a hefty spending boost. But the recommendations come as the Australian government is reportedly considering a freeze on research grants as part of austerity plans. [Strategic Review of Health and Medical Research in Australia, Australia] 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)

NEW Stem Cells, Small Molecules and Therapeutics
New York, United States
November 14, 2012

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