Extracellular Matrix News Volume 4.36 | Sep 12 2013

Capillary Morphogenesis in PEG-Collagen Hydrogels
Scientists developed a biosynthetic hydrogel consisting of polyethylene glycol diacrylamide conjugated to macromolecular type-I collagen. Through their acrylamide-based crosslinks, these materials allow for independent control of physical properties and bulk ligand concentration. [Biomaterials] Abstract

Functional Ultrasound Imaging for Assessment of Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds Used for Liver Organoid Formation
A method of 3D functional ultrasound imaging has been developed to enable non-destructive assessment of extracellular matrix scaffolds that have been prepared by decellularization protocols and are intended for recellularization to create organoids. [Biomaterials] Abstract

Interdigital Cell Death in the Embryonic Limb Is Associated with Depletion of Reelin in the Extracellular Matrix
Scientists showed that Reelin is present in the extracellular matrix of the interdigital mesoderm of chick and mouse embryos during the developmental stages of digit formation. They showed that reelin expression becomes intensely downregulated in both the chick and mouse interdigits preceding the establishment of the areas of interdigital cell death. [Cell Death Dis] Abstract

Escherichia coli Biofilms Have an Organized and Complex Extracellular Matrix Structure
Investigators showed that uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains produce a biofilm with a highly ordered and complex extracellular matrix. They used electron microscopy techniques to image floating biofilms formed by UPEC. [MBio] Abstract

Specific Extracellular Matrix Remodeling Signature of Colon Hepatic Metastases
To identify genes implicated in metastatic colonization of the liver in colorectal cancer, the authors collected pairs of primary tumors and hepatic metastases before chemotherapy in 13 patients. Gene Ontology term analysis showed that 50% of the genes are implicated in extracellular matrix remodeling, and more precisely in cell adhesion, extracellular matrix organization and angiogenesis. [PLoS One] Full Article

Pivotal Role of Matrix Metalloproteinase 13 in Extracellular Matrix Turnover in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Researchers investigated the regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) in lung fibrosis. MMP and TIMP expression, collagenolytic activity and collagen content was assessed in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis versus donor lung homogenates and accomplished by in-situ-zymography for gelatinolytic and collagenolytic activities, combined with MMP antigen detection. [PLoS One] Full Article

Extracellular Matrix-Mediated Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells: Differentiation to Insulin-Secreting Beta Cells
The authors investigated an alternative strategy for directed differentiation of human embryonic stem cells – extracellular-matrix (ECM) mediated differentiation. Decellularized ECM and conditioned media from the appropriate committed cell lines were used to differentiate stem cells to the required phenotype. [Tissue Eng Part A] Abstract

The Role of MicroRNAs in Skin Fibrosis
The authors present an overview of the biogenesis, maturation and function of microRNAs (miRNAs). They highlight miRNA’s role in key skin fibrotic processes including: transforming growth factor-beta signaling, extracellular matrix deposition, and fibroblast proliferation and differentiation. [Arch Dermatol Res] Abstract

Visit our reviews page to see a complete list of reviews in the extracellular matrix research field.

New Hub Forms Part of ‘Industrial Revolution’ in Regenerative Medicine
Scientists at the Universities of Sheffield, Loughborough and Cambridge are set to lead a new £4.5 million ‘Hub’ aimed at translating lab discoveries into regenerative treatment to help sufferers of Parkinson’s disease and deafness. The Hub forms part of a £25 million investment from three UK Research Councils in research and equipment to support the development of regenerative medicine therapies for a range of applications, including Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease, wound and musculoskeletal repair, eye disorders and deafness. [The University of Sheffield] Press Release

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PhD Position – Biomaterial Imaging (Uppsala University)

Research Fellow – Biomaterial Surface Functionalization (Nanyang Technological University)

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PhD Student – Coronary Artery Research (Erasmus MC)

Postdoctoral Position – Tissue Engineering (Weizmann Institute of Science)

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

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