MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Cell and Tissue Research' source. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:48:51 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5665141&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft8751549x348w04x%2F Abstract  In human glioblastoma, the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is disturbed. According to our concept, the glio-vascular relationships and thus the control of the BBB are essentially dependent on the polarity of astroglial cells. This polarity is characterized by the uneven distribution of the water channel protein aquaporin-4 (AQP4), dystroglycan and other molecules. Recently, we were able to show that the extracellular matrix component agrin is important for the construction and localization of the so-called orthogonal arrays of particles (OAPs), which consist in AQP4. Here, combining freeze-fracture electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, we describe alterations of expression and distribution of AQP4, dystroglycan, agrin and the matrix metallopr... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5665141 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:53:17 +0100 5665141 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5665142&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F51528k23w8pn433h%2F Abstract  Zona pellucida (ZP) is a glycoproteinaceous translucent matrix that surrounds the mammalian oocyte and plays a critical role in the accomplishment of fertilization. In humans, it is composed of 4 glycoproteins designated as ZP1, ZP2, ZP3 and ZP4, whereas mouse ZP is composed of ZP1, ZP2 and ZP3 (Zp4 being a pseudogene). In addition to a variable sequence identity of a given zona protein among various species, human ZP1 and ZP4 are paralogs and mature polypeptide chains share an identity of 47%. Employing either affinity purified native or recombinant human zona proteins, it has been demonstrated that ZP1, ZP3 and ZP4 bind to the capacitated human spermatozoa and induce an acrosome reaction, whereas in mice, ZP3 acts as the putative primary sperm receptor. Human ZP2... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5665142 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:56:40 +0100 5665142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5665143&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl13r59067401w0n0%2F Abstract  Endometriosis is a gynecological disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glandular epithelial and stromal cells growing in the extra-uterine environment. The disease afflicts 10%–15% of menstruating women causing debilitating pain and infertility. Endometriosis appears to affect every part of a woman’s reproductive system including ovarian function, oocyte quality, embryo development and implantation, uterine function and the endocrine system choreographing the reproductive process and results in infertility or spontaneous pregnancy loss. Current treatments are laden with menopausal-like side effects and many cause cessation or chemical alteration of the reproductive cycle, neither of which is conducive to achieving a pregnancy. However, despite t... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5665143 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:56:39 +0100 5665143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5657995&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv375119021875337%2F Abstract  Like other neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are normally unable to regenerate injured axons and instead undergo apoptotic cell death. This regenerative failure leads to lifelong visual deficits after optic nerve damage and is partially attributable to factors located in the inhibitory environment of the forming glial scar and myelin as well as to an insufficient intrinsic ability for axonal regrowth. In addition to its ophthalmological relevance, the optic nerve has long been used as a favorable paradigm for studying regenerative failure in the CNS as a whole. Findings over the last 15 years have shown that, under certain circumstances, mature RGCs can be transformed into an active regenerative state enabling these ne... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5657995 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:34 +0100 5657995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5657997&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk4026673651541l2%2F Abstract  Described here is a simple, high-throughput process to fabricate pellets with regular size and shape and the assembly of pre-cultured pellets in a controlled manner into specifically designed 3D plotted porous scaffolds. Culture of cartilage pellets is a well-established process for inducing re-differentiation in expanded chondrocytes. Commonly adopted pellet culture methods using conical tubes are inconvenient, time-consuming and space-intensive. We compared the conventional 15-mL tube pellet culture method with 96-well plate-based methods, examining two different well geometries (round- and v-bottom plates). The high-throughput production method was then used to demonstrate guided placement of pellets within a scaffold of defined pore size and geometry for the 3... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5657997 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:33 +0100 5657997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5657996&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu105127w72712lx5%2F Abstract  Mice carrying a deletion of the adhesive extracellular domain of the desmosomal cadherin desmoglein 2 develop an arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy-like phenotype with ventricular dilation, fibrosis and arrhythmia. To unravel the sequence of myocardial alterations and to identify potential pathomechanisms, histological analyses were performed on mutant hearts from the juvenile to the adult state, i.e., between 2 and 13 weeks. At an age of 2 weeks 30% of mutants presented lesions, which were visible as white plaques on the heart surface or in the septum. From 4 weeks onwards, all mutants displayed a cardiac phenotype. Dying cardiomyocytes with calcification were found in lesions of all ages. But lesions of young mutant animals contained ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5657996 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:33 +0100 5657996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5658001&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F578j579676633763%2F In conclusion, HADSCs showed in vitro the upregulation of markers for differentiation towards urothelial cells by culturing in an urothelial-conditioned medium, which provides an alternative cell source for potential use in urinary tract tissue engineering. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Regular ArticlePages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1317-0Authors Jian-Guo Shi, Department of Urology, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Military Postgraduate Medical College, No.28 Fuxing Road, Hai dian District, Beijing, 100853 People’s Republic of ChinaWei-Jun Fu, Department of Urology, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Military Postgraduate Medical College, No.28 Fuxing Road, Hai dian District, Beijing, 100853 People’s Republic of ChinaXiao-Xiong Wan... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5658001 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:12:12 +0100 5658001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5658000&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd6j2u4343k4x5505%2F Abstract  The interstitial cells of cardiac valves represent one of the most frequent cell types in the mammalian heart. In order to provide a cell and molecular biological basis for the growth of isolated valvular interstitial cells (VICs) in cell culture and for the use in re-implantation surgery we have examined VICs in situ and in culture, in fetal, postnatal and adult hearts, in re-associations with scaffolds of extracellular matrix (ECM) material and decellularized heart valves. In all four mammalian species examined (human, bovine, porcine and ovine), the typical mesenchymal-type cell-cell adherens junctions (AJs) connecting VICs appear as normal N-cadherin based puncta adhaerentia. Their molecular ensemble, however, changes under various growth conditions insofar as... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5658000 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:12:12 +0100 5658000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5657998&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw26t8516546x2360%2F Abstract  Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) associated with the submucosal (submucous) plexus (ICC-SP) in the proximal colon of the guinea pig were studied by immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Whole-mount stretch preparations with c-Kit immunohistochemistry revealed that a number of ICC-SP constituted a dense cellular network around the submucosal plexus. Some of these ICC-SP were observed in the vicinity of the muscularis mucosae in sections immunostained for c-Kit and α-smooth muscle actin. Ultrastructural observation demonstrated, for the first time, that ICC-SP of the proximal colon of the guinea pig retained typical ultrastructural characteristics of ICC repeatedly reported in association with the tunica muscularis of the gastrointestinal tract: a basal la... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5657998 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:12:12 +0100 5657998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645124&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft556w5304u63r275%2F Abstract  Electrospun scaffolds hold promise for the regeneration of dense connective tissues, given their nanoscale topographies, provision of directional cues for infiltrating cells and versatile composition. Synthetic slow-degrading scaffolds provide long-term mechanical support and nanoscale instructional cues; however, these scaffolds suffer from a poor infiltration rate. Alternatively, nanofibrous constructs formed from natural biomimetic materials (such as collagen) rapidly infiltrate but provide little mechanical support. To take advantage of the positive features of these constructs, we have developed a composite scaffold consisting in both a biomimetic fiber fraction (i.e., Type I collagen nanofibers) together with a traditional synthetic (i.e., poly-[ε-caprolacto... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645124 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:30 +0100 5645124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645123&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb65027819ul862h1%2F Abstract  Human hair keratins have a strong potential for development as clinically relevant biomaterials because they are abundant and bioactive and are a realistic source of autologous proteins. Specifically, keratins have the propensity to polymerize in an aqueous environment to form hydrogels. In order to evaluate the suitability of keratin hydrogels as substrates for cell culture, we have fabricated hydrogels using keratins extracted from human hair by inducing polymerization with Ca2+; these hydrogels exhibit highly branched and porous micro-architectures. L929 murine fibroblasts have been used in a preliminary cell culture study to compare the in vitro biocompatibility of the keratin hydrogels with collagen type 1 hydrogels of similar viscoelastic properties. Our resu... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645123 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:30 +0100 5645123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645127&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F973j7840m6u81p46%2F This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of the cells involved in the root elongation. Octamer-binding factor 3/4 (Oct3/4) is known as one of the key regulators in maintaining the pluripotency and self-renewal properties of embryonic stem cells. Bmi1, the polycomb-group transcriptional repressor, has emerged as a key regulator in several cellular processes including stem cell self-renewal and cancer cell proliferation. At the beginning of root formation, ameloblasts expressed Oct3/4 in the nucleus, except in the apex of the cervical loop, in which Bmi1and cyclinD were expressed. At PN6, the expression of Oct3/4 in the ameloblasts shifted from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, whereas ameloblastin-negative Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath (HERS) cells expressed Bmi1 and cycli... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645127 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:29 +0100 5645127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645126&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh2137275657h191v%2F Abstract  Regenerative medicine is one of the most intensively researched medical branches, with enormous progress every year. When it comes to translating research from bench to bedside, many of the pioneering innovations are achieved by cooperating teams of human and veterinary medical scientists. The veterinary profession has an important role to play in this new and evolving technology, holding a great scientific potential, because animals serve widely as models for human medicine and results obtained from animals may serve as preclinical results for human medicine. Regenerative veterinary medicine utilizing mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) for the treatment of acute injuries as well as chronic disorders is gradually turning into clinical routine. As orthopaedic disorder... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645126 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:29 +0100 5645126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645125&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F24453w6842874qj0%2F Abstract  Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold promise for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine. To date, MSCs have been obtained from conventional bone marrow via a highly invasive procedure. Therefore, MSCs are now also isolated from sources such as adipose tissue, cord blood and cord stroma, a subject of growing interest. As the characterization and differentiation potential of adipose-derived MSCs (AD-MSCs) and bone-marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) have not been documented, we have evaluated and compared the characteristics of both MSC types by qualitative and quantitative analyses. Both cell types show similar morphology and surface protein expression, being positive for stromal-associated markers and negative for hematopoietic and endothelial markers. The colony-for... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645125 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:29 +0100 5645125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645129&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg374v248g5642v38%2F Abstract  Electrospun scaffolds manufactured using conventional electrospinning configurations have an intrinsic thickness limitation, due to a charge build-up at the collector. To overcome this limitation, an electrostatic lens has been developed that, at the same relative rate of deposition, focuses the polymer jet onto a smaller area of the collector, resulting in the fabrication of thick scaffolds within a shorter period of time. We also observed that a longer deposition time (up to 13 h, without the intervention of the operator) could be achieved when the electrostatic lens was utilised, compared to 9–10 h with a conventional processing set-up and also showed that fibre fusion was less likely to occur in the modified method. This had a significant impact on... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645129 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:28 +0100 5645129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645128&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqg4776t576438k5p%2F Abstract  This is the first detailed report about the collar enamel of the teeth of Polypterus senegalus. We have examined the fine structure of the collar enamel and enamel organ of Polypterus during amelogenesis by light and transmission electron microscopy. An immunohistochemical analysis with an antibody against bovine amelogenin, an antiserum against porcine amelogenin and region-specific antibodies or antiserum against the C-terminus, middle region and N-terminus of porcine amelogenin has also been performed to examine the collar enamel matrix present in these teeth. Their ameloblasts contain fully developed Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum and secretory granules. During collar enamel formation, an amorphous fine enamel matrix containing no collagen fibrils ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645128 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:28 +0100 5645128 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645130&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl5535158153g8625%2F Abstract  Within the characteristic ensemble of desmosomal plaque proteins, the armadillo protein plakophilin-2 (Pkp2) is known as a particularly important regulatory component in the cytoplasmic plaques of various other cell–cell junctions, such as the composite junctions (areae compositae) of the myocardiac intercalated disks and in the variously-sized and -shaped complex junctions of permanent cell culture lines derived therefrom. In addition, Pkp2 has been detected in certain protein complexes in the nucleoplasm of diverse kinds of cells. Using a novel set of highly sensitive and specific antibodies, both kinds of Pkp2, the junctional plaque-bound and the nuclear ones, can also be localized to the cytoplasmic plaques of diverse non-desmosomal cell–cell junction struct... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645130 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:53:49 +0100 5645130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645132&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc6570m0801wv7lv7%2F This article describes over 20 years of research on antagonists of the cell adhesion molecule, N-cadherin. Four types of antagonists are discussed: synthetic linear peptides, synthetic cyclic peptides, non-peptidyl peptidomimetics of the disulfide linked cyclic peptide N-Ac-CHAVC-NH2 and monoclonal antibodies directed against the N-cadherin ectodomain. The biological activities of these antagonists are also discussed. In particular, the ability of N-cadherin antagonists to act as anti-cancer drugs is considered. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Mini ReviewPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1320-5Authors Orest W. Blaschuk, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Journal Cell and Tissue ResearchOnline ISSN 1432-0878Print ISSN 0302... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645132 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:44:15 +0100 5645132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645131&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl30503gn7n2552w8%2F Abstract  9,10-Phenanthrenequinone (9,10-PQ), a major quinone in diesel exhaust particles, induces apoptosis via the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) because of 9,10-PQ redox cycling. We have found that intratracheal infusion of 9,10-PQ facilitates the secretion of surfactant into rat alveolus. In the cultured rat lung, treatment with 9,10-PQ results in an increase in a lower-density surfactant by ROS generation through redox cycling of the quinone. The surfactant contains aldo-keto reductase (AKR) 1C15, which reduces 9,10-PQ and the enzyme level in the surfactant increases on treatment with 9,10-PQ suggesting an involvement of AKR1C15 in the redox cycling of the quinone. In six human cell types (A549, MKN45, Caco2, Hela, Molt4 and U937) only type II epithelial A... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645131 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:44:15 +0100 5645131 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645133&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4552ug35u5331717%2F Abstract  Although lentiviruses such as human, feline and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV, FIV, SIV) rapidly gain access to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the mechanisms that control this entry are not well understood. One possibility is that the virus may be carried into the brain by immune cells that traffic across the blood–CSF barrier in the choroid plexus. Since few studies have directly examined macrophage trafficking across the blood–CSF barrier, we established transwell and explant cultures of feline choroid plexus epithelium and measured trafficking in the presence or absence of FIV. Macrophages in co-culture with the epithelium showed significant proliferation and robust trafficking that was dependent on the presence of epithelium. Macrophage migration to the... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645133 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:44:14 +0100 5645133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645134&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe7351p3vr85035p4%2F In conclusion, BMP-7 delivery via PRP enhanced functional bone defect regeneration, and together these data support the use of BMP-7 in the treatment of critical sized defects. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ReviewPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1298-zAuthors A. Berner, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, 4059 Brisbane, Queensland, AustraliaJ. D. Boerckel, School of Mechanical Engineering, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, USAS. Saifzadeh, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, 4059 Brisbane, Queensland, AustraliaR. Steck, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innov... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645134 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:12:36 +0100 5645134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645136&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm791gm6262155488%2F Abstract  CNS lesions generally result in impaired function because regeneration of the adult CNS of mammals is poor. A variety of lesion models has been described that serve to further the understanding of the pathophysiology of the damaged tissue. A central cause of aborted regeneration is the glial scar that expresses a plethora of extracellular matrix molecules. Some of these are considered inhibitors of axon growth and regeneration. The laser lesion of the cortex offers the advantage that a circumscribed lesion of defined energy can be delivered to the cortex non-invasively through the intact dura mater and a thinly drilled wet translucent remnant of the skull. Previously, we have shown that distinct ECM is up-regulated in the penumbra of laser lesions in the rat visua... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645136 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:12:35 +0100 5645136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645135&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw74j3965161m1635%2F Abstract  Non-viral transfection is a promising technique that could be used to increase the therapeutic potential of stem cells. The purpose of this study was to explore practical culture parameters of relevance in potential human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) clinical and tissue engineering applications, including type of polycationic transfection reagent, N/P ratio and dose of polycation/pDNA polyplexes, cell passage number, cell density and cell proliferation. The non-viral transfection efficiency was significantly influenced by N/P ratio, polyplex dose, cell density and cell passage number. hMSC culture conditions that inhibited cell division also decreased transfection efficiency, suggesting that strategies to promote hMSC proliferation may be useful to enhance transfe... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645135 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:12:35 +0100 5645135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5636831&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn5vm3u740l4124l3%2F Abstract  Calcitonin receptor-immunoreactivity (CTR-ir) was found in enteric neurons of the mouse gastrointestinal tract from embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) to post-natal day 28 (P28). CTR-ir occurred in cell bodies in ganglia of the myenteric plexus extending from the esophagus to the colon and in nerve cells of the submucosal ganglia of the small and large intestines. CTR-ir was also found in vagal nerve trunks and mesenteric nerves. Counts in the ileal myenteric plexus revealed CTR-ir in 80% of neurons. CTR-ir was clearly evident in the cell bodies of enteric neurons by E15.5. The immunoreactivity reached maximum intensity between P1.5 and P12 but was weaker at P18 and barely detectable at P28. The receptor was detected in nerve processes in the intestine for only a brief pe... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5636831 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:15:57 +0100 5636831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5636832&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F665n035327t26325%2F Abstract  The tumor suppressor p53 is a multifunctional sensor of a number of cellular signals and pathways essential for cell biology, including DNA damage, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and cell metabolism. In the last few years, a novel role for p53 in neurobiology has emerged, which includes a role in the regulation of neurite outgrowth and axonal regeneration. p53 integrates a number of extracellular signals that involve neurotrophins and axon guidance cues to modulate the cytoskeletal response associated with neurite outgrowth at both the transcriptional and post-translational level. Here, we review our current knowledge of this topic and speculate about future research directions that involve p53 and related molecular pathways and that might advance ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5636832 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:15:53 +0100 5636832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5595110&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp8u2wn3616401t41%2F This study describes the successful establishment and characterization of two SV40-transformed rabbit tracheal epithelial cell lines. These cell lines, 5RTEo- and 9RTEo-, express the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, retain epithelial-specific differentiated morphology and show CFTR-based cAMP-dependent Cl− ion transport across the apical membrane of a confluent monolayer. Immunocytochemical analysis indicates the presence of airway cytokeratins and tight-junction proteins in the 9RTEo- cell line after multiple generations. However, the tight junctions appear to diminish in their efficacy in both cell lines after at  least 100 generations. Initial SCNT studies with the 9RTEo- cells have revealed that SV40-transformed rabbit airway epithelial donor cells can be ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5595110 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:56:09 +0100 5595110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5542926&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx4657625g3715p38%2F Abstract  For over 100 years, scientists have tried to understand the mechanisms that lead to the axonal growth seen during development or the lack thereof during regeneration failure after spinal cord injury (SCI). Deoxyribozyme technology as a potential therapeutic to treat SCIs or other insults to the brain, combined with a bioinformatics approach to comprehend the complex protein-protein interactions that occur after such trauma, is the focus of this review. The reader will be provided with information on the selection process of deoxyribozymes and their catalytic sequences, on the mechanism of target digestion, on modifications, on cellular uptake and on therapeutic applications and deoxyribozymes are compared with ribozymes, siRNAs and antisense technology. This ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5542926 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:05:03 +0100 5542926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5535481&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F734k1278522175q3%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1278-3Authors K. Krieglstein, Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 17, 79104 Freiburg, GermanyK. Miyazono, Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033 JapanP. ten Dijke, Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Centre for Biomedical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Postbus 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The NetherlandsK. Unsicker, Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Freiburg, Albertstrasse 17, 79104 Freiburg, Germany Journal Cell and Tissue ResearchOnline ISSN 1432-0878Print ISSN 0302-766X (Source: Cell and Tissue Res... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5535481 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:52:54 +0100 5535481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502618&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8503812487667j2j%2F Abstract  Protein kinase C (PKC) is overexpressed in cancer, including pancreatic cancer, compared with normal tissue. Moreover, PKCα is considered one of the biomarkers for the diagnosis of cancers. In several human cancers, the claudin tight junction molecules are abnormally regulated and are thus promising molecular targets for diagnosis and therapy with Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE). In order to investigate the changes of tight junction functions of claudins via PKCα activation in pancreatic cancer cells, the well-differentiated human pancreatic cancer cell line HPAC, with its highly expressed tight junction molecules and well-developed barrier function, was treated with the PKC activator 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA). Treatment with TPA modifi... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502618 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:14:04 +0100 5502618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502619&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg824g4147n051684%2F Abstract  Visceral leishmaniasis is a multisystemic zoonotic disease that can manifest with several symptoms, including neurological disorders. Because glial cells are extensively associated with the immune response within the brain, we evaluated the morphology of astrocytes and microglia of dogs naturally infected with Leishmania chagasi. We used immunohistochemical and lectin-histochemical techniques for morphological analyses and we also examined the glial correlation with lymphocyte infiltration of the brain and with the presence of anti-Leishmania antibodies within the cerebrospinal fluid of the dogs. Although we did not detect a shared morphological pattern in the astrocytes or microglia in the brain tissue, these cells were more intensely labelled in infected dogs than... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502619 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:33:16 +0100 5502619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502620&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc167163r14824661%2F Abstract  The protein myozap, a polypeptide of 54 kDa, has recently been identified as a component of the cytoplasmic plaques of the composite junctions (areae compositae) in the myocardiac intercalated disks and of the adherens junctions (AJs) in vascular endothelia. Now we report that using very sensitive new antibodies and drastic localization methods, we have also identified this protein as a component of the AJ plaques in simple and complex epithelia, in the adluminal cell layer of the transitional epithelium of the urinary tract and in certain cell layers of diverse stratified epithelia, including gingiva, tongue, pharynx and esophagus, cervix, vagina and epidermis. Myozap has not been identified in desmosomal and tight junction plaques. We have also detected prot... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502620 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:55:47 +0100 5502620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493269&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn1225464k7397784%2F Abstract  We performed structural and immunohistochemical studies on the thymus of juvenile turbot (Psetta maxima L.) in order to define its cellular composition. The thymic stroma was mainly composed of two subpopulations of reticulo-epithelial cells (RECs). RECs immunoreactive to anti-actin antibody were distributed through the organ, while RECs that were cytokeratin-immunopositive were located in the outer zone of the thymus. The parenchyma of the thymus was composed of several cell types such as lymphocytes/thymocytes, lymphoblasts, melano-macrophages and to a lesser extent of nurse-like cells, immunoglobulin positive (Ig+) cells, mucous cells, rodlet cells and neuroendocrine cells. CD3ε+ lymphocytes were mainly located in the outer zone. On the other hand, Ig+ cells we... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493269 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:03:35 +0100 5493269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493268&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx80556kw76205113%2F Abstract  Long interspersed element-1s (LINE-1 or L1s) are abundant retrotransposons that occur in mammalian genomes and that can cause insertional mutagenesis and genomic instability. L1 activity is generally repressed in most cells and tissues but has been found in some embryonic cells and, in particular, in neural progenitors. Moreover, L1 retrotransposition can be induced by several DNA-damaging agents. We have carried out experiments to verify whether L1 retrotransposition is affected by oxidative DNA damage, which plays a role in a range of human diseases, including cancer and inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease. To this purpose, BE(2)C neuroblastoma cells, which are thought to represent embryonic precursors of sympathetic neurons, have been treated with hydrog... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493268 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:03:35 +0100 5493268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493271&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm505227nq2806117%2F Abstract  The development of respiratory trees in the holothurian Apostichopus japonicus has been studied using light and electron microscopy. Primordial respiratory trees emerge in 2–3-mm-long animals (2 months after fertilization). They arise as two independent outgrowths from the dorsal wall of the anterior part of the cloaca. Upon first emerging and throughout the course of development, the left respiratory tree is longer than the right one. A common base develops in 4-mm-long animals (2–3 months after fertilization). In yearlings, the left respiratory tree grows into gaps between the loops of the intestinal tube interlaced with intestinal hemal vessels. The developing coelomic and luminal epithelia have ultrastructural peculiarities. The luminal epithelium... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493271 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:03:34 +0100 5493271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493270&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw02702r681111260%2F In this study, we isolated, expanded and characterized mouse MSCs from bone marrow (BM-MSCs). Additionally, we analyzed the effects of two regulatory molecules, interleukin 17 (IL-17) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), on BM-MSCs growth and elucidated the signaling pathways involved. The results revealed that IL-17 increased the frequency of colony-forming units fibroblast (CFU-F) as well as the BM-MSCs proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, while bFGF supplementation had no significant effect on CFU-F frequency but induced an increase in cell proliferation. Their combined usage did not produce additive effects on BM-MSCs proliferation and even induced reduction in the number of CFU-F. Also, the involvement of both p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) mitoge... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493270 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:03:34 +0100 5493270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493272&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fvvu266505006m353%2F Abstract  Melanomacrophage centres (MMCs) are formed by macrophage aggregates containing pigments such as hemosiderin, melanin and lipofuscin. MMCs are found in animals such as reptiles, amphibians and, mainly, fishes, in organs such as the kidney, spleen, thymus and liver. In teleost fish, several functions have been attributed to MMCs, including the capture and storage of cations, the phagocytosis of cellular debris and immunological reactions. As the use of MMCs has been suggested as a tool for the assessment of environmental impacts, our aim has been to describe the various metabolic processes performed by MMCs in diverse organs (liver and spleen) by using the teleost Prochilodus argenteus as an animal model. MMCs from the liver and spleen were assessed by histochemistry... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493272 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:03:32 +0100 5493272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493273&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw574314w88753632%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1294-3Authors Flávio de Oliveira Silva, Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, BrazilPriscila das Neves Santos, Centro de Ciências biológicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, BrazilCristiane Moutinho Lagos de Melo, Departamento de Imunologia do Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu, Magalhães - CPqAM/FIOCRUZ-UFPE, Recife, Pernambuco, BrazilEdson Holanda Teixeira, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, BrazilBenildo Sousa Cavada, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, BrazilFrancisco Vassiliepe Sousa Arruda, Biomol-Lab, ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493273 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:25:28 +0100 5493273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5484840&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx1025v8636560r27%2F Abstract  During developmental critical periods, external stimuli are crucial for information processing, acquisition of new functions or functional recovery after CNS damage. These phenomena depend on the capability of neurons to modify their functional properties and/or their connections, generally defined as “plasticity”. Although plasticity decreases after the closure of critical periods, the adult CNS retains significant capabilities for structural remodelling and functional adaptation. At the molecular level, structural modifications of neural circuits depend on the balance between intrinsic growth properties of the involved neurons and growth-regulatory cues of the extracellular milieu. Interestingly, experience acts on this balance, so as to create permissive co... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5484840 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:43:39 +0100 5484840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5466795&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5023227148h7h21m%2F Abstract  Galectin-3 (gal-3) is a β-galactoside binding protein present in multivalent complexes with an extracellular matrix and with cell surface glycoconjugates. In this context, it can deliver a variety of intracellular signals to modulate cell activation, differentiation and survival. In the hematopoietic system, it was demonstrated that gal-3 is expressed in myeloid cells and surrounding stromal cells. Furthermore, exogenous and surface gal-3 drive the proliferation of myeloblasts in a granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-dependent manner. Here, we investigated whether gal-3 regulates the formation of myeloid bone marrow compartments by studying galectin-3−/− mice (gal-3−/−) in the C57BL/6 background. The bone marrow histology of gal-3�... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5466795 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 16:46:00 +0100 5466795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5455246&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh387135681224868%2F Abstract  Our aim was to evaluate the effect of hyperlipidemia on the activation of endogenous alarmin, the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein, related to systemic inflammation associated with the progression of experimental atherosclerosis and to establish whether statin treatment regulates the HMGB1 signaling pathway. Hyperlipidemia was induced in vivo in golden Syrian hamsters and in monocyte cell culture (U937) by feeding the animals with a high-fat Western diet and by exposing the cells to hyperlipidemic serum. Blood samples, heart, lung and cells were harvested for biochemical, morphological, Western blot, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analyses. The data revealed that, in the atherosclerotic animal model, the prote... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5455246 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:43:32 +0100 5455246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5455247&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq85182285462r725%2F In this study, we analyzed the heterogeneity of the cells in the pituitary primordium of embryonic day (E) 13.5. The three-dimensional structure of the Rathke’s pouch was built up from measurements taken from multiple DAPI-stained sections and cell populations positive to stem/progenitor marker SOX2 and pituitary-specific transcription factor PROP1 were analyzed. The pituitary primordium (Rathke’s pouch) of E13.5 showed a flattened discoid shape of about 500 μm in diameter and 200 μm depth in a dorsoventral axis and consisted in about 5,800 cells. Immunohistochemistry revealed that 0.3% of the cells in Rathke’s pouch were SOX2-negative in the lateral region, whereas all cells at E12.5 were SOX2-positive. On E13.5, the shape and size of their nuclei showed a location... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5455247 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:43:31 +0100 5455247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5455248&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc925871x11017074%2F Abstract  Nesfatin-1 is a novel anorexigenic regulatory peptide. The peptide is the N-terminal part of nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2) and is expressed in brain areas regulating feeding. Outside the brain, nesfatin-1 expression has been reported in adipocytes, gastric endocrine cells and islet cells. We studied NUCB2 expression in human and rodent islets using immunocytochemistry, in situ hybridization and western blot. Furthermore, we investigated the potential influence of nesfatin-1 on secretion of insulin and glucagon in vitro and in vivo in mice and in INS-1 (832/13) cells. The impact of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and glucolipotoxicity on NUCB2 gene expression in human islets and its relationship to insulin secretory capacity and islet gene expression was studied using microarray. N... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5455248 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:59:54 +0100 5455248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438916&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F88l7t8h072415049%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) has been recognized as an important mediator in the genesis of chronic kidney diseases (CKD), which are characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the glomeruli (glomerular fibrosis, glomerulosclerosis) and the tubular interstitium (tubulointerstitial fibrosis). Glomerulosclerosis is a major cause of glomerular filtration rate reduction in CKD and all three major glomerular cell types (podocytes or visceral epithelial cells, mesangial cells and endothelial cells) participate in the fibrotic process. TGF-β induces (1) podocytopenia caused by podocyte apoptosis and detachment from the glomerular basement membrane; (2) mesangial expansion caused by mesangial cell hypertrophy, proliferation (... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438916 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:06:58 +0100 5438916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438915&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg0445044357u1123%2F Abstract  Aortic aneurysm is predominantly found in the ascending aorta in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS). However, descending aortic disease has emerged as a problem since people are living longer because of improved medical and surgical management of the ascending aorta. Diagnostic procedures before disease onset and the mechanisms involved in the transition of normal aortic tissue to aneurysm remain unclear. We determined signs of descending aortic disease before disease onset in mice with a mutation in the fibrillin 1 gene (Fbn1 +/C1039G), a validated mouse model of disease susceptibility and progression of aortic aneurysm of MFS. We analyzed a tubular unfixed non-aneurysmal descending thoracic aorta from 8-month-old wild-type and Fbn1 +/C1039G mice by a tubular b... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438915 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:06:58 +0100 5438915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5438917&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx24822705017hm1t%2F Abstract  We compared the bone regeneration potentials of autologous cultured osteoblasts and of bone-marrow-derived autologous MSCs in combination with allogeneic cancellous bone granules in a rabbit radial defect model. Radial shaft defects over 15 mm were made in 26 New Zealand white rabbits. The animals underwent insertion of allogeneic cancellous bone granules containing autologous osteoblasts into right-side defects (the experimental group) and of allogeneic cancellous bone granules with autologous MSCs into left-side defects (the control group). To quantitatively assess bone regeneration, radiographic evaluations as well as BMD and BMC measurements were performed 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks post-implantation and histology as well as micro-CT image analysis were pe... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5438917 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:06:57 +0100 5438917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5429566&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F124270246304p49m%2F Abstract  The purpose of the present study was to determine if the lacrimal gland contains 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-label retaining cells and if they are involved in tissue repair. Animals were pulsed daily with BrdU injections for 7 consecutive days. After a chase period of 2, 4, or 12 weeks, the animals were sacrificed and the lacrimal glands were removed and processed for BrdU immunostaining. In another series of experiments, the lacrimal glands of 12-week chased animals were either left untreated or were injected with interleukin 1 (IL-1) to induce injury. Two and half days post-injection, the lacrimal glands were removed and processed for BrdU immunostaining. After 2 and 4 weeks of chase period, a substantial number of lacrimal gland cells were BrdU+ ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5429566 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:31:35 +0100 5429566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5429567&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq114285377gr2703%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) is found in increasing amounts in aqueous humor and reactive optic nerve astrocytes of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), a major cause of blindness worldwide. The available data strongly indicate that TGF-β2 is a key player contributing to the structural changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the trabecular meshwork and optic nerve head as characteristically seen in POAG. The changes involve an induction in the expression of various ECM molecules and are remarkably similar in trabecular meshwork cells and optic nerve head astrocytes. The ECM changes in the trabecular meshwork most probably play a role in the increase of aqueous humor outflow resistance causing higher intraocular pressure (IOP). In the... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5429567 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:31:34 +0100 5429567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5429568&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F272j4w8174555038%2F Abstract  Regenerative therapies, including cell injection and bioengineered tissue transplantation, have the potential to treat severe heart failure. Direct implantation of isolated skeletal myoblasts and bone-marrow-derived cells has already been clinically performed and research on fabricating three-dimensional (3-D) cardiac grafts using tissue engineering technologies has also now been initiated. In contrast to conventional scaffold-based methods, we have proposed cell sheet-based tissue engineering, which involves stacking confluently cultured cell sheets to construct 3-D cell-dense tissues. Upon layering, individual cardiac cell sheets integrate to form a single, continuous, cell-dense tissue that resembles native cardiac tissue. The transplantation of layered cardiac... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5429568 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:58:04 +0100 5429568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5429569&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg165rg502631267w%2F In conclusion, this study shows that addition of 10 ng/ml of insulin to the culture medium improved the survival and stimulated growth of goat preantral follicles. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Short CommunicationPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1264-9Authors R. N. Chaves, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Campus Itaperi, Fortaleza, 60740-903 CE, BrazilA. M. C. V. Alves, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Campus Itaperi, Fortaleza, 60740-903 CE, BrazilL. R. Faustino, Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceará, Campus Itaperi, Fortaleza, 60740-90... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5429569 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:47:32 +0100 5429569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5429570&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd43705pq78j1663k%2F Abstract  Zebrafish myosepta connect two adjacent muscle cells and transmit muscular forces to axial structures during swimming via the myotendinous junction (MTJ). The MTJ establishes transmembrane linkages system consisting of extracellular matrix molecules (ECM) surrounding the basement membrane, cytoskeletal elements anchored to sarcolema, and all intermediate proteins that link ECM to actin filaments. Using a series of zebrafish specimens aged between 24 h post-fertilization and 2 years old, the present paper describes at the transmission electron microscope level the development of extracellular and intracellular elements of the MTJ. The transverse myoseptum development starts during the segmentation period by deposition of sparse and loosely organized colla... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5429570 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:58:30 +0100 5429570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5419817&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn652634540637150%2F The objective of this study was to investigate the role of negatively-charged heparin in priming hydrogel-encapsulated MSCs toward the osteoblastic lineage during coculture with a monolayer of osteoblasts in the absence of dexamethasone. MSCs encapsulated with higher amounts of heparin and cocultured with osteoblasts exhibited an over 36-fold increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and 13-fold increase in calcium accumulation by day 21, compared to MSCs cocultured with MSCs at the same heparin content. Moreover, hydrogels with higher amounts of heparin and cocultured with osteoblasts exhibited enhanced mineralization on the edges, suggesting that heparin may be important in sequestering osteoblast-secreted soluble factors, particularly on the surfaces of hydrogels. The ability of h... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5419817 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:57:38 +0100 5419817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5398332&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff07448786j31655j%2F Abstract  The notochord functions as the midline structural element of all vertebrate embryos, and allows movement and growth at early developmental stages. Moreover, during embryonic development, notochord cells produce secreted factors that provide positional and fate information to a broad variety of cells within adjacent tissues, for instance those of the vertebrae, central nervous system and somites. Due to the large size of the embryo, the salmon notochord is useful to study as a model for exploring notochord development. To investigate factors that might be involved in notochord development, a normalized cDNA library was constructed from a mix of notochords from ∼500 to ∼800 day°. From the 1968 Sanger-sequenced transcripts, 22 genes were identified to ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5398332 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:55:28 +0100 5398332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5378333&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq5437u20h48485x1%2F Abstract  The unpleasant sensory and emotional experience of pain is initiated by excitation of primary afferent nociceptive neurons. Nerve damage or inflammation induces changes in nociceptive DRG neurons which contribute to both peripheral and central sensitization of pain-sensitive pathways. Recently, blockade of microRNA synthesis has been found to modulate the response of nociceptive neurons to inflammatory stimuli. However, little is known about the contributions of individual miRNAs to painful conditions. We compared miRNA expression in mouse sensory neurons and focussed on the localisation and control of miR-143. Using miRNA-arrays we compared the microRNA expression profile of intact lumbar DRG with one-day-old DRG cultures and found that nine miRNAs including miR-... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5378333 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 16:58:55 +0100 5378333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356935&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj6j73887634j8622%2F Abstract  Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by pain and disability. It involves all ages and 70% of people aged >65 have some degree of osteoarthritis. Natural cartilage repair is limited because chondrocyte density and metabolism are low and cartilage has no blood supply. The results of joint-preserving treatment protocols such as debridement, mosaicplasty, perichondrium transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation vary largely and the average long-term result is unsatisfactory. One reason for limited clinical success is that most treatments require new cartilage to be formed at the site of a defect. However, the mechanical conditions at such sites are unfavorable for repair of the original damaged cartilage. Therefore, it is unlike... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356935 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:41:12 +0100 5356935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344963&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft223u431x7278v17%2F This study reveals the presence of a novel ORMDL3 splicing isoform, ORMDL3 V1 in human. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Regular ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1261-zAuthors Rui Jin, Department of Pediatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guang Zhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, ChinaWen-Xiao Yuan, Department of Pediatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guang Zhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, ChinaHua-Guo Xu, Department of Pediatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guang Zhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, ChinaWei Ren, Department of Pediatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guang Zhou Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Pro... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344963 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:53:02 +0100 5344963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344964&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0g8703qg26l70818%2F Abstract  In situ guided tissue regeneration, also addressed as in situ tissue engineering or endogenous regeneration, has a great potential for population-wide “minimal invasive” applications. During the last two decades, tissue engineering has been developed with remarkable in vitro and preclinical success but still the number of applications in clinical routine is extremely small. Moreover, the vision of population-wide applications of ex vivo tissue engineered constructs based on cells, growth and differentiation factors and scaffolds, must probably be deemed unrealistic for economic and regulation-related issues. Hence, the progress made in this respect will be mostly applicable to a fraction of post-traumatic or post-surgery situations such as big tissue defects d... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344964 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:45:33 +0100 5344964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344965&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9108g4574v341240%2F The objective of this study was to characterize and quantify the effect of ESWT on lubricin expression in tendons and septa in a rat model. Hindlimbs of six rats were treated with low-dose ESWT and those of another six with high-dose ESWT, using contralateral limbs as controls. After 4 days, resected samples were processed for immunolocalization of lubricin using a purified monoclonal antibody. ESWT was found to increase lubricin expression in both low-dose and high-dose ESWT-treated tendons and also in septa. Lubricin expression generally increased with increasing dose of ESWT. Increased lubricin expression may contribute to the beneficial effects of ESWT in providing pain and symptom relief in musculoskeletal disorders by decreasing erosive wear. Content Type Journal Arti... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344965 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:57:01 +0100 5344965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344966&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg431h4201731816w%2F In this study, murine splenocytes were cultured to determine the effect of ConBr on cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) release and cytokine secretion. In addition, cellular viability assays were performed to evaluate any mitogenic activity induced by this lectin. ConBr significantly increased cell proliferation with minimal cell damage. This lectin was able to induce an increased production of cytokines such as IL-2, IL-6 and IFN-γ and a decreased production of IL- 10. The release of NO was also observed. The results of this study indicate that ConBr could potentially be used as an immunomodulator. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Regular ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1239-xAuthors Flávio de Oliveira Silva, Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal, Unive... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344966 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:56:59 +0100 5344966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344968&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq63k47745485h522%2F Abstract  In the central nervous system, serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling is terminated by the activity of specialized transporter proteins for serotonin (SERT) and dopamine (DAT). These transporter proteins are found both on the cell surface and in intracellular transport vesicles. Trafficking between these subcellular domains regulates the efficiency of removal of extracellular neurotransmitters and hence the efficacy of neuronal signaling. Therefore, it is of high interest to gain more insight into the regulatory mechanisms of the human DAT and SERT cell surface expression in their natural surroundings, i.e., in human cells. Because it is not possible to cultivate human neuronal cells expressing these transporter proteins, there is a need to find other human cells ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344968 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:01:12 +0100 5344968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344967&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg672656m6u617064%2F Abstract  Partial-thickness articular cartilage defects (PTCDs) do not heal spontaneously and are thought to be a predisposing factor for the development of osteoarthritis. Younger and smaller animals have a better healing capacity for many types of injuries including those to articular cartilage. Our aim was to examine the longitudinal histological changes of immature murine articular cartilage after the creation of small PTCDs and to compare them to PTCDs in mature cartilage. Single linear PTCDs were created in 3-week-old and 16-week-old rats in the direction of joint motion. At 6 and 12 weeks after PTCD creation, histological changes were examined in the defect sites and surrounding cartilage. Immature cartilage showed a higher repair capability than mature cartilag... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344967 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:01:12 +0100 5344967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344969&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy567637756818h31%2F Abstract  Goat ovarian cortex fragments were subjected to slow freezing in the presence of various solutions containing intracellular cryoprotectants, including 1.0 M ethylene glycol (EG), propanediol (PROH), or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), with or without sucrose and/or fetal calf serum (FCS). Histological examination revealed that only the DMSO-containing solutions were able to maintain a follicular ultrastructure similar to the morphology observed in the fresh control. Therefore, fragments previously cryopreserved in DMSO solutions (with and without sucrose and/or FCS) were cultured in vitro for 48 h and then subjected to viability, histological, and ultrastructural analysis. No significant differences were observed among the percentages of morphologically normal ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344969 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:01:11 +0100 5344969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344971&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx76k2364j1k04876%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a central regulator in chronic liver disease contributing to all stages of disease progression from initial liver injury through inflammation and fibrosis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver-damage-induced levels of active TGF-β enhance hepatocyte destruction and mediate hepatic stellate cell and fibroblast activation resulting in a wound-healing response, including myofibroblast generation and extracellular matrix deposition. Being recognised as a major profibrogenic cytokine, the targeting of the TGF-β signalling pathway has been explored with respect to the inhibition of liver disease progression. Whereas interference with TGF-β signalling in various short-term animal models has provided promising result... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344971 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:01:10 +0100 5344971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5344970&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F792u468u57l6775v%2F Abstract  Merkel cells (MCs) are special neuroendocrine epithelial cells that occur as individual cells or as cell groups within the confinements of a major epithelium formed and dominated by other epithelial cells. In the epidermis and some of its appendages MCs are mostly located in the basal cell layer, occasionally also in suprabasal layers and generally occur in linear arrays in outer root sheath cell layers of hair follicles. As MCs are connected to the adjacent keratinocytes by a series of adhering junctions (AJs), of which the desmosomes are the most prominent, these junctions represent heterotypic cell–cell connections, i.e. a kind of structure not yet elucidated in molecular terms. Therefore, we have studied these AJs in order to examine the molecular compositio... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5344970 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:01:10 +0100 5344970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5322353&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F480387522jx4188u%2F Abstract  Tripeptidyl peptidase I (TPPI) — a lysosomal serine protease — is encoded by the CLN2 gene, mutations that cause late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (LINCL) connected with profound neuronal loss, severe clinical symptoms and early death at puberty. Developmental studies of TPPI activity levels and distribution have been done in the human and rat central nervous systems (CNS) and visceral organs. Similar studies have not been performed in mouse. In this paper, we follow up on the developmental changes in the enzyme activity and localization pattern in the CNS and visceral organs of mouse over the main periods of life — embryonic, neonate, suckling, infantile, juvenile, adult and aged — using biochemical assays and enzyme histochemistry. In the stu... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5322353 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:50:31 +0100 5322353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312281&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa323k284616054u5%2F In this study, we analyzed desmoplasia in vivo in human colorectal carcinoma tissue, detecting an up-regulation of collagen I, collagen IV and collagen V in human colorectal cancer desmoplastic reaction. These components were then analyzed in vitro co-cultivating colorectal cancer cells (Caco-2 and HCT116) and fibroblasts utilizing various co-culture techniques. Our findings demonstrate that direct cell-cell contact between fibroblasts and colorectal cancer cells evokes an increase in ECM density, composed of unorganized collagens (I, III, IV and V) and proteoglycans (biglycan, fibromodulin, perlecan and versican). The desmoplastic collagen fibers were thick, with an altered orientation, as well as deposited as bundles. This increased ECM density inhibited the migration and invasion o... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312281 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:59 +0100 5312281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312285&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8225628p164370m4%2F Abstract  Pluripotent mouse embryonal carcinoma (mEC) and mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells differentiate into several cell lineages upon retinoic acid (RA) addition. Differentiation is facilitated, in part, by RA activation of nuclear RA receptors (RARs) that bind to DNA response elements located in the promoters of target genes. The purpose of the studies reported here was to immunolocalize RARα and RARγ protein in mEC and mES cells and in their RA-induced differentiated progeny. Fixed cells were reacted with three different RARα antibodies and one RARγ antibody. Pluripotent and differentiated mEC and mES cells showed positive nuclear immunoreactivity with all antibodies tested. Two RARα antibodies also showed positive reactivity in the cytoplasm. Surprisingly, our re... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312285 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:58 +0100 5312285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312284&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg4w0848503701284%2F Abstract  Placenta-derived stem cells (PDSCs) have gained interest as an alternative source of stem cells for regenerative medicine because of their potential for self-renewal and differentiation and their immunomodulatory properties. Although many studies have characterized various PDSCs biologically, the properties of the self-renewal and differentiation potential among PDSCs have not yet been directly compared. We consider the characterization of chorionic-plate-derived mesenchymal stem cells (CP-MSCs) and Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) among various PDSCs and the assessment of their differentiation potential to be important for future studies into the applicability and effectiveness of PDSCs in cell therapy. In the present study, the capaciti... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312284 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:58 +0100 5312284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312283&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh05238m8h646m420%2F Abstract  We have previously shown that VegT mRNA plays a structural (translation-independent) role in the organization of the cytokeratin cytoskeleton in Xenopus oocytes. The depletion of VegT mRNA causes the fragmentation of the cytokeratin network in the vegetal cortex of Xenopus oocytes. This effect can be rescued by the injection of synthetic VegT RNA into the oocyte. Here, we show that the structural function of VegT mRNA in Xenopus oocyte depends on its combinatory signals for the induction or facilitation and for the maintenance of the depolymerization vs. polymerization status of cytokeratin filaments and that the 300-nucleotide fragment of VegT RNA isolated from the context of the entire molecule induces and maintains the depolymerization of cytokeratin filaments wh... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312283 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:58 +0100 5312283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312282&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F24lp056232713924%2F Abstract  The acrosome is a specialized secretory vesicle located in the head of spermatozoa and has an essential role during fertilization. This organelle and the sperm nucleus have aberrant morphologies in forms of male infertility in humans (teratozoospermia), often associated with poor motility (asthenoteratozoospermia). To further our understanding of the aetiology of these conditions, we have performed a pathological investigation of a model of asthenoteratozoospermia that can be induced in mice by N-butyldeoxynojirimycin (NB-DNJ). We have found that, in mice treated with NB-DNJ, instead of an acrosome forming over the round spermatid nucleus, multivesicular bodies (MVB) accumulate in the vicinity of this nucleus. Electron microscopy has revealed that proacrosomic vesic... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312282 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:58 +0100 5312282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312287&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy757725787407362%2F Abstract  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vascular endothelial growth factor-A165 (VEGF-A165) on the in vitro development of goat secondary preantral follicles. Preantral follicles (≥150 μm in diameter) were isolated from the ovaries of adult mixed-breed goats and individually cultured for 18 days in αMEM in the absence (control) or presence of VEGF-A165 at concentrations of 10 ng/ml (VEGF10) and 100 ng/ml (VEGF100). Analyses of follicular survival, diameter, antrum formation and rate of daily growth were performed every 6 days. At the end of the culture period, morphologically normal oocytes (≥110 μm in diameter) were taken for in vitro maturation (IVM). The results demonstrated that all follicles presented oocytes and... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312287 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:57 +0100 5312287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312286&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy1546k26180481n3%2F In this study, TNFR1 in hosts had a promoting effect on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity and fibrosis, whereas BMC infusion in TNFR1 knockout mice enhanced host-derived intrahepatic inflammation and fibrosis proliferation. These findings differed from those in WT recipient mice, in which improvement in inflammation and fibrosis with BMC infusion had previously been reported. TNFR1-mediated signaling might be important to induce the improvement of liver fibrosis by bone marrow cell infusion. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Regular ArticlePages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1236-0Authors Takuro Hisanaga, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Minami Kogushi 1-1-1, Ube, Yamaguchi 755-8505, JapanShuji Terai, Department of Gastroen... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312286 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:05:57 +0100 5312286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312288&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ffl922m24837l05v3%2F In this study, the distribution of immune cells and the expression of interleukin (IL) receptors (R) in the ileal PPs of newborn and 2-month-old calves were investigated immunohistochemically with monoclonal antibodies against bovine CD4, CD8, IgM, γδTCR, T19, WC3, WC5, and WC6 antigens. The expression of ILRs was examined with antibodies against CD25 (IL-2Rα), IL-2Rγ, IL-4R, IL-6R, IL-10R, and IL-13R antigens. CD4+, CD8+, γδTCR+, T19+, and WC6+ cells were found to be more widely distributed in the ileal PPs of 2-month-old calves than in those of newborn calves. Moreover, the expression of CD25 (IL-2Rα), IL-4R, and IL-13R in the ileal PPs of 2-month-old calves was more prominent than that in newborn calves. These data suggest that the immune system of calves at 2 months of... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312288 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:43:44 +0100 5312288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5312289&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn4w011667k2571q9%2F Abstract  Galanin (GAL) is a neuropeptide that is widely expressed in neuroendocrine tissues, including the adenohypophysis. Since GAL is expressed at higher levels in females, little attention has been paid to the regulation of GAL secretion in males. Here, we show that testosterone regulates GAL secretion in the adenohypophysis of male rats. Using double immunoelectron microscopy, we demonstrate that GAL cells possess three types of secretory granule: those with colocalization of GAL and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), those with GAL only, and those with ACTH only. The predominant granule type was that containing both GAL and ACTH, suggesting that GAL and ACTH are secreted at the same time. Indeed, adrenalectomy induced an acute decrease in the number of both GAL cell... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5312289 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:43:41 +0100 5312289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5294849&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw33m1377057344q0%2F Abstract  We found colocalization of the neuronal protein p42IP4 (centaurin-α1; ArfGAP with dual pleckstrin homology domain [ADAP1]), the metalloendopeptidase nardilysin (NRD; involved in axonal maturation and myelination) and tubulin in the cytosol and at the plasma membrane of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. To examine the importance of tubulin for the interaction of NRD with p42IP4, we treated cells with nocodazole, which interferes with tubulin polymerization. Nocodazole did not affect the colocalization of p42IP4 and tubulin but caused a clear redistribution of the proteins in cells, so that the colocalization of p42IP4, tubulin and NRD was visible exclusively in multiple foci. To reveal the mechanism of the interaction between NRD, p42IP4 and tubulin observed in neuronal c... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5294849 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 05:42:47 +0100 5294849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5294850&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F2002p44751865884%2F Abstract  Gametogenesis and fertilization are the key events in sexual reproduction. In the female, meiosis results in a large oocyte that is competent for fertilization and fundamental for the success of early embryonic development. Progression through meiosis is monitored by fine regulatory mechanisms. In this review, we focus on one of the most well-known regulatory elements, the E3 ligase APC/C, which mediates proteolytic degradation of a number of important substrates via the ubiquitin proteasome pathway (UPP). The UPP also indirectly regulates protein synthesis by affecting proteins involved in RNA metabolism, a process that is paramount for the transcriptionally silent oocyte. During the past few years, more evidence has accumulated to suggest that the UPP has an imp... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5294850 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:51:23 +0100 5294850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5282904&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv323685841166755%2F Abstract  The ontogeny and disease responses of Langerhans-like cells within lymphoid tissues of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, and rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, were investigated. These cells were studied in situ with the use of two markers: the ultrastructural presence of Birbeck-like granules and immunohistochemistry with an antibody against human langerin/CD207 that cross-reacts with salmonid tissues. The appearance of Birbeck-like granules was observed in rainbow trout at 2 weeks post-hatch (PH) in the thymus and anterior kidney prior to the development of the spleen. Spleen first appeared at 3 weeks PH in both Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout, and Birbeck-like granules were observed within cells of the newly developed spleens. The cross-reactivity of lan... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5282904 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 06:45:02 +0100 5282904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5282905&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx3458x0311543423%2F In conclusion, ghrelin receptors have a restricted distribution in the kidney. The location in the straight parts of the distal tubules accords with observations that ghrelin promotes sodium retention. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Short CommunicationPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1240-4Authors Gene Venables, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010 AustraliaBillie Hunne, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010 AustraliaRomke Bron, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010 AustraliaHyun-Jung Cho, Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010 AustraliaJames A. Brock, Department of Anatomy &... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5282905 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 06:17:26 +0100 5282905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5271167&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ftw727635172337p4%2F Abstract  The majority of children with congenital heart disease now live into adulthood due to the remarkable surgical and medical advances that have taken place over the past half century. Because of this, adults now represent the largest age group with adult cardiovascular diseases. It includes patients with heart diseases that were not detected or not treated during childhood, those whose defects were surgically corrected but now need revision due to maladaptive responses to the procedure, those with exercise problems and those with age-related degenerative diseases. Because adult cardiovascular diseases in this population are relatively new, they are not well understood. It is therefore necessary to understand the molecular and physiological pathways involved if we are... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5271167 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 05:47:38 +0100 5271167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5258311&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh577m3p1372m8584%2F In this study, we examined the expression of G-proteins by immunohistochemistry to reveal the projection pattern of olfactory RNs of Xenopus laevis, especially those in the MCE. The somata of Golf- and Go-positive RNs were separately situated in the upper and lower layers of the MCE. The former were equipped with cilia and the latter with microvilli on their apical surface. These RNs are suggested to project to the rostromedial and the caudolateral regions of the v-MOB, respectively. Such segregation patterns observed in the MCE and v-MOB are also present in the OE and olfactory bulbs of most bony fish. Thus, Xenopus laevis is a very interesting model to understand the evolution of vertebrate olfactory systems because they have a primitive, fish-type olfactory system in addition to th... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5258311 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:24:35 +0100 5258311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5258312&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr3j657u8w5323050%2F Abstract  Mice mutant for the presynaptic protein Bassoon develop epileptic seizures and an altered pattern of neuronal activity that is accompanied by abnormal enlargement of several brain structures, with the strongest size increase in hippocampus and cortex. Using manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, an abnormal brain enlargement was found, which is first detected in the hippocampus 1 month after birth and amounts to an almost 40% size increase of this structure after 3 months. Stereological quantification of cell numbers revealed that enlargement of the dentate gyrus and the hippocampus proper is associated with larger numbers of principal neurons and of astrocytes. In search for the underlying mechanisms, an approximately 3-fold higher proportion of... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5258312 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:55:23 +0100 5258312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5247796&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fwh4875703v67357x%2F Abstract  Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are of particular interest in the field of tissue engineering because of their potential to differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and neuronal cells. In order to promote the differentiation of BMSCs into specific cell types, appropriate scaffold biomaterials and bioactive molecules that can support the differentiation of BMSCs into specific cell types are needed. We hypothesized that β-mercaptoethanol (BME), which has been reported to induce the differentiation of BMSCs into neural-like cells, promotes BMSCs to differentiate into neural-like cells when BME is added to polymeric scaffolds containing the BMSCs. We fabricated biocompatible film shaped scaffolds composed of poly(lacti-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5247796 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:44:02 +0100 5247796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5235507&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg95818u1x7212123%2F Abstract  The presence of macrophages in dental pulp is well known. However, whether these macrophages proliferate and differentiate in the dental pulp in situ, or whether they constantly migrate from the blood stream into the dental pulp remains unknown. We have examined and compared the development of dental pulp macrophages in an organ culture system with in vivo tooth organs to clarify the developmental mechanism of these macrophages. The first mandibular molar tooth organs from ICR mice aged between 16 days of gestation (E16) to 5 days postnatally were used for in vivo experiments. Those from E16 were cultured for up to 14 days with or without 10% fetal bovine serum. Dental pulp tissues were analyzed with immunohistochemistry to detect the macrophages and with... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5235507 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:47:46 +0100 5235507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5220808&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fuum1276123130241%2F Abstract  Two major difficulties facing widespread clinical implementation of existing Tissue Engineering (TE) strategies for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders are (1) the cost, space and time required for ex vivo culture of a patient’s autologous cells prior to re-implantation as part of a TE construct, and (2) the potential risks and availability constraints associated with transplanting exogenous (foreign) cells. These hurdles have led to recent interest in endogenous TE strategies, in which the regenerative potential of a patient’s own cells is harnessed to promote tissue regrowth without ex vivo cell culture. This article provides a focused perspective on key issues in the development of endogenous TE strategies, progress to date, and suggested future rese... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5220808 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:54:00 +0100 5220808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5191971&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F2l08677238706205%2F Abstract  We have previously demonstrated that tooth size is determined by dental mesenchymal factors. Exogenous bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)4, Noggin, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)3 and FGF10 have no effect on tooth size, despite the expressions of Bmp2, Bmp4, Fgf3, Fgf10 and Lef1 in the dental mesenchyme. Among the wingless (Wnt) genes that are differentially expressed during tooth development, only Wnt5a is expressed in the dental mesenchyme. The aims of the present study were to clarify the expression pattern of Wnt5a in developing tooth germs and the role of Wnt5a in the regulation of tooth size by treatment with exogenous WNT5A with/without an apoptosis inhibitor on in vitro tooth germs combined with transplantation into kidney capsules. Wnt5a was intensely express... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5191971 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:58:42 +0100 5191971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5191972&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9028325125078337%2F Abstract  Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects about 35 million people worldwide. Current drugs for AD only treat the symptoms and do not interfere with the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. AD is characterized by the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Identification of the molecular determinants underlying Aβ-induced neurodegeneration is an essential step for the development of disease-modifying drugs. Recently, an impairment of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) signaling pathway has been demonstrated to be specific to the AD brain and, particularly, to the early phase of the disease. TGF-β1 is a neurotrophic factor responsible for the initiation and maintenance of... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5191972 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:58:39 +0100 5191972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174464&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fxp27k085wgm88733%2F Abstract   N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are essential mediators of synaptic plasticity under normal physiological conditions. During brain ischemia, these receptors are excessively activated due to glutamate overflow and mediate excitotoxic cell death. Although organotypical hippocampal slice cultures are widely used to study brain ischemia in vitro by induction of oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD), there is scant data regarding expression and functionality of NMDARs in such slice cultures. Here, we have evaluated the contribution of NMDARs in mediating excitotoxic cell death after exposure to NMDA or OGD in organotypical hippocampal slice cultures after 14 days in vitro (DIV14). We found that all NMDAR subunits were expressed at DIV14. The NMDARs were f... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174464 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:26:51 +0100 5174464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169383&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F93181114h7464218%2F Abstract  Stem cell therapy requires large numbers of stem cells to replace damaged tissues, but only limited numbers of stem cells can be harvested from a single patient. To obtain large quantities of stem cells with differentiation potential, we explored a spinner culture system using human extracellular matrix (hECM) powders. The hECM was extracted from adipose tissue and fabricated into powders. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) were isolated, seeded on hECM powders, and cultivated in a spinner flask. The 3-D culture system, using hECM powders, was highly effective for promoting cell proliferation. The number of hASCs in the 3-D culture system significantly increased for 10 days, resulting in an approximately 10-fold expansion, whereas a traditional 2-D cult... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169383 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:01:53 +0100 5169383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169382&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh2012g7121q58qg3%2F Abstract  There is evidence that pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptides other than adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) have a role in adrenal cell proliferation. We compared the activity of synthetic rat N-terminal POMC fragment 1-28 with disulfide bridges (N-POMCw) and without disulfide bridges (N-POMCw/o), with the activity of fibroblast growth factor (FGF2), a widely studied adrenal growth factor, and ACTH, in well-characterized pure cultures of both isolated adrenal Glomerulosa (G) and Fasciculata/Reticularis (F/R) cells. Three days of FGF2-treatment had a proliferative effect similar to serum, and synthetic peptide N-POMCw induced proliferation more efficiently than N-POMCw/o. Moreover, both induced proliferation via the ERK1/2 pathway. In contrast, sustained ACTH t... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169382 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:01:53 +0100 5169382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169384&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F145117j464658m43%2F Abstract  Recent evidence has demonstrated that endothelial cells can have a remarkable plasticity. By a process called Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EndMT) endothelial cells convert to a more mesenchymal cell type that can give rise to cells such as fibroblasts, but also bone cells. EndMT is essential during embryonic development and tissue regeneration. Interestingly, it also plays a role in pathological conditions like fibrosis of organs such as the heart and kidney. In addition, EndMT contributes to the generation of cancer associated fibroblasts that are known to influence the tumor-microenvironment favorable for the tumor cells. EndMT is a form of the more widely known and studied Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). Like EMT, EndMT can be induced by t... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169384 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:01:52 +0100 5169384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169385&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa2777160hh73m57r%2F Abstract  Endogenous stem cell recruitment to the site of skeletal injury is key to enhanced osseous remodeling and neovascularization. To this end, this study utilized a novel bone allograft coating of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLAGA) to sustain the release of FTY720, a selective agonist for sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptors, from calvarial allografts. Uncoated allografts, vehicle-coated, low dose FTY720 in PLAGA (1:200 w:w) and high dose FTY720 in PLAGA (1:40) were implanted into critical size calvarial bone defects. The ability of local FTY720 delivery to promote angiogenesis, maximize osteoinductivity and improve allograft incorporation by recruitment of bone progenitor cells from surrounding soft tissues and microcirculation was evaluated. FTY720 bioactivity... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169385 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:54:11 +0100 5169385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158278&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa762l0720275050j%2F This study describes a novel type of interstitial (stromal) cell — telocytes (TCs) — in the human and mouse respiratory tree (terminal and respiratory bronchioles, as well as alveolar ducts). TCs have recently been described in pleura, epicardium, myocardium, endocardium, intestine, uterus, pancreas, mammary gland, etc. (see www.telocytes.com). TCs are cells with specific prolongations called telopodes (Tp), frequently two to three per cell. Tp are very long prolongations (tens up to hundreds of μm) built of alternating thin segments known as podomers (≤ 200 nm, below the resolving power of light microscope) and dilated segments called podoms, which accommodate mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum and caveolae. Tp ramify dichotomously, making a 3-dimensional network wi... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158278 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:58:10 +0100 5158278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158280&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk445q53k70815609%2F In conclusion, both scaffold designs can be effectively used for adipose tissue engineering. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Regular ArticlePages 1-11DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1226-2Authors Paul S. Wiggenhauser, Department for Plastic and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Straße 22, 81675 Munich, GermanyDaniel F. Müller, Department for Plastic and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Straße 22, 81675 Munich, GermanyFerry P. W. Melchels, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Ave, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, AustraliaJosé T. Egaña, Department for Plastic and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158280 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:48:29 +0100 5158280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158279&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu141382261n34838%2F Abstract  The brain function depends on a continuous supply of blood. The blood–brain barrier (BBB), which is formed by vascular cells and glia, separates components of the circulating blood from neurons and maintains the precisely regulated brain milieu required for proper neuronal function. A compromised BBB alters the transport of molecules between the blood and brain and has been associated with or shown to precede neurodegenerative disease. Blood components immediately leak into the brain after mechanical damage or as a consequence of a compromised BBB in brain disease changing the extracellular environment at sites of vascular damage. It is intriguing how blood-derived components alter the cellular and molecular constituents of the neurovascular interface after BBB ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158279 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:48:29 +0100 5158279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158281&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fbq159lnq2076682m%2F In this study, we developed a modified “face-to-face” scale-skin culture system as an ex vivo model to study epidermal wound healing, and examined the role of the actin–myosin system in the rapid re-epithelialization using a myosin II ATPase inhibitor, blebbistatin. A low level of blebbistatin suppressed the formation of APS and induced the dissociation of keratocytes from the leading edge without attenuating the growth of the epidermal sheet or the migration rate of solitary keratocytes. AJs in the superficial layer showed no obvious changes elicited by blebbistatin. However, two epidermal sheets without APSs did not make a closure with each other, which was confirmed by inhibiting the connecting AJs between the superficial layers. These results suggest that myosin II activity... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158281 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 05:56:27 +0100 5158281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158282&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Flv406567gnqx0qxt%2F Abstract  It is clear that the well-described phenomenon of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in embryonic development, wound healing, tissue regeneration, organ fibrosis and cancer progression. EMTs have been classified into three subtypes based on the functional consequences and biomarker context in which they are encountered. This review will highlight findings on type II EMT as a direct contributor to the kidney myofibroblast population in the development of renal fibrosis, specifically in diabetic nephropathy, the signalling molecules and the pathways involved in type II EMT and changes in the expression of specific miRNA with the EMT process. These findings have provided new insights into the activation and development of EMT during diseas... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158282 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:18:25 +0100 5158282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158284&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk61q864095362m41%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a ubiquitous cytokine playing an essential role in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, adhesion and invasion, as well as in cellular microenvironment. In malignant diseases, TGF-β signaling features a growth inhibitory effect at an early stage but aggressive oncogenic activity at the advanced malignant state. Here, we update the current understanding of TGF-β signaling in cancer development and progression with a focus on breast cancer. We also review the current approaches of TGF-β signaling-targeted therapeutics for human malignancies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ReviewPages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1225-3Authors Xuyu Zu, Clinical Research Institution, the First Affiliated Hospital, Univers... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158284 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:18:24 +0100 5158284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158283&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4114111k7212756p%2F Abstract  RCAS1 is involved in generating the suppressive profile of the tumor microenvironment that helps cancer cells evade immune surveillance. The status of the cells surrounding the cancer nest may affect both the progression of the cancer and the development of metastases. In cases of ovarian cancer, a large number of patients do not respond to the applied therapy. The patient’s response to the applied therapy is directly linked to the status of the tumor microenvironment and the intensity of its suppressive profile. We analyzed the immunoreactivity of RCAS1 on the cells present in the ovarian cancer microenvironment in patients with the disease; these cells included macrophages and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts. Later we analyzed the immunoreactivity levels with... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158283 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:18:24 +0100 5158283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130489&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F67w1447382953420%2F Abstract  5-Bromo-2′-deoxyuridin (BrdU) is frequently used in anaylsis of neural stem cell biology, in particular to label and to fate-map dividing cells. However, up to now, only a few studies have addressed the question as to whether BrdU labeling per se affects the cells to be investigated. Here, we focused on the potential impact of BrdU on neurosphere cultures derived from the adult rat brain and on proliferation of progenitors in vivo. In vitro, neurospheres were pulsed for 48 h with BrdU, and cell proliferation, cell cycle, differentiation, survival and adhesion properties were subsequently analyzed. BrdU inhibited the expansion of neural progenitors as assessed by MTS assay and increased the fraction of cells in the G0/G1-phase of the cell cycle. Moreover, Br... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130489 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 06:11:04 +0100 5130489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130490&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp11621140t571838%2F In this study, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) spheroids, or “mesenspheres”, of different sizes, were formed using a forced aggregation technique and maintained in suspension culture for extended periods of time thereafter. Cell proliferation and differentiation potential within mesenspheres and dissociated cells retrieved from spheroids were compared to conventional adherent monolayer cultures. Mesenspheres maintained in growth medium exhibited no evidence of cell necrosis or differentiation, while mesenspheres in differentiation media exhibited differentiation similar to conventional 2D culture methods based on histological markers of osteogenic and adipogenic commitment. Furthermore, when plated onto tissue culture plates, cells that had been cultured within mesenspheres in growth... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130490 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:57:33 +0100 5130490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125605&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq131j436k168187v%2F Abstract  In the anterior and intermediate lobes of the rat pituitary gland, non-hormone-producing cells that express S-100 protein coexist with various types of hormone-producing cells and are believed to function as phagocytes, supporting and paracrine-controlling cells of hormone-producing cells and stem cells, among other functions; however, their cytological characteristics are not yet fully understood. Using a transgenic rat that expresses green fluorescent protein under the promoter of the S100β protein gene, we immunohistochemically detected expression of the luteinizing hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin, growth hormone and proopiomelanocortin by S-100 protein-positive cells located between clusters of hormone-producing cells in the intermediate lobe.... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125605 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:43:55 +0100 5125605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125606&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F88122801620j4873%2F Abstract  Estradiol plays essential roles in the modulation of synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection in males as well as in females, as has been shown particularly in the hippocampus. Although it has long been known that aromatase, the final enzyme in estrogen synthesis, is expressed in the hippocampus, a new paradigm emerged when it was shown that estradiol is actually synthesized de novo in this part of the brain. Increasing evidence indicates that hippocampus-derived estradiol plays a role in synaptic plasticity and neuroptrotection, rather than estradiol originating from the gonads. In recent years, a number of in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that hippocampus-derived estradiol substantially contributes to hippocampal function, in particular to structural synap... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125606 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:52:19 +0100 5125606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125607&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp1k536101767j640%2F Abstract  The successful regrowth of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons after optic nerve (ON) axotomy in Gallotia galloti indicates a permissive role of the glial environment. We have characterised the astroglial lineage of the lizard optic pathway throughout its ontogeny (embryonic stage 30 [E30] to adults) by using electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry to detect the proliferation marker PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), the transcription factor Pax2 and the gliofilament proteins vimentin (Vim) and GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein). PCNA+ cells were abundant until E39, with GFAP+/PCNA+ astrocytes being observed between E37 and hatching. Proliferation diminished markedly afterwards, being undetectable in the adult optic pathway. Müller glia of the centra... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125607 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:52:18 +0100 5125607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5085840&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F317k264408171284%2F Abstract  Our aim was to assess the feasibility of the sequential application of extracellular matrix (ECM) and low oxygen to enhance chondrogenesis in human fetal synovium-derived stem cells (hfSDSCs). Human fetal synovial fibroblasts (hfSFs) were characterized and found to include hfSDSCs, as evidenced by their multi-differentiation capacity and the surface phenotype markers typical of mesenchymal stem cells. Passage-7 hfSFs were plated on either conventional plastic flasks (P) or ECM deposited by hfSFs (E) for one passage. Passage-8 hfSFs were then reseeded for an additional passage on either P or E. The pellets from expanded hfSFs were incubated in a serum-free chondrogenic medium supplemented with 10 ng/ml transforming growth factor-β3 under either normoxia (21% ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5085840 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:06:01 +0100 5085840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069182&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F480wq2n8228g4g69%2F We examined the toxicity of methamphetamine and dopamine in CATH.a cells, which were derived from mouse dopamine-producing neural cells in the central nervous system. Use of the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that transcripts of the endoplasmic reticulum stress related gene (CHOP/Gadd153/ddit3) were considerably induced at 24–48 h after methamphetamine administration (but only under apoptotic conditions), whereas dopamine slightly induced CHOP/Gadd153/ddit3 transcripts at an early stage. We also found that dopamine and methamphetamine weakly induced transcripts for the glucose-regulated protein 78 gene (Grp78/Bip) at the early stage. Analysis by immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated an increase of　CHOP/Gadd153/ddit3 and Grp78/Bip proteins at 2... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069182 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:47:27 +0100 5069182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069181&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5746vq52r4144w6l%2F In conclusion, identifying beneficial aspects may lead to promising therapeutical approaches that might benefit further by eliminating the unfavorable factors. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1205-7Authors Katharina Schmidt-Bleek, Julius Wolff Institut and Center for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, GermanyHanna Schell, Julius Wolff Institut and Center for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, GermanyNorma Schulz, Julius Wolff Institut and Center for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, GermanyPaula Hoff, Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Th... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069181 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:47:27 +0100 5069181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5061937&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn26u31435h956083%2F In this study, we report on an investigation of the expression and localization of TMEM16A/anoctamin 1 (ANO1), a recently cloned Ca2+-activated Cl- channel, in the mouse cochlea by Western blot and immunhistochemistry. The ANO1 protein was identified in the cochlea by Western blotting. The immunoreactivity was found in stria vascularis as a line and in the organ of Corti as three plaques. The cellular localization of ANO1 was examined by means of double-labeling experiments with anti-claudin 11, a marker for basal cells of the stria vascularis. The results demonstrated that ANO1 colocalized with claudin 11, indicating its expression in basal cells. We also examined ANO1 localization in the organ of Corti by double- and triple-labeling techniques with anti-myosin VI, a marker for hair... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5061937 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:04:42 +0100 5061937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5061938&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc31486u375575158%2F In this study, we determined expressional profiles of the PPARs during early pregnancy. Immunocytochemistry revealed that both PPARα and PPARβ/δ were strongly detected in the endometrial stroma on days 4.5–6.5 of pregnancy, which is just a starting time of implantation. Delayed implantation animal model showed that the expressions of PPARα and PPARβ/δ occurred after the initiation of implantation in the endometrial stroma. Moreover, an in vitro decidualization model further revealed that the expression of PPARα increased in the cultured rat endometrial stromal cells at 24 h after the decidualization treatment, but the expression of PPARβ/δ was delayed and increased at 48 h after the treatment. PPARγ was expressed in the endometrial stroma and its expression decre... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5061938 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:08:38 +0100 5061938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019019&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1120860224520515%2F Abstract  Surgical human cochlear specimens were obtained during the removal of large posterior cranial fossa meningioma by a transcochlear approach in which the cochlea was removed for maximal exposure of the tumor and protection of important structures, such as the brainstem, cranial nerves, and pivotal blood vessels. The cochlear tissue was fixed and cryo-sectioned for tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) immunohistochemistry. TrkB receptor protein was expressed in both neuronal somata and the processes of human spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). In the human organ of Corti, TrkB immunoreactivity was mainly present in nerve fibers underneath outer hair cells. BDNF expression was found neither in the organ of Corti nor in the spiral ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019019 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:32:17 +0100 5019019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019020&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg444470376504002%2F Abstract  Taste receptors and their downstream signaling molecules are activated by sugars and sweeteners in the gut and participate in the regulation of glucose transport into enterocytes. The glucose transporter families GLUT and SGLT are responsible for the absorption of glucose, GLUT4 and SGLT1 being expressed preferentially in T1R3-positive taste cells. However, the expression patterns of the other glucose transporters in mouse gustatory tissues have not yet been elucidated. Therefore, we have examined the expression patterns of the glucose transporters (GLUT1-4 and SGLT1-3) in mouse gustatory tissues. Reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction assays have revealed that GLUT1, 3, and 4 and SGLT1 mRNAs are expressed in the circumvallate papillae. Immunohistochemical... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019020 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:32:16 +0100 5019020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997390&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6x28346767331613%2F Abstract  The molecular mechanisms for epithelial differentiation have been studied by observing skin development in embryogenesis, but the early signaling modulations involved in tongue epithelial differentiation are not completely understood. Based on the gene expression patterns of the Fgf signaling molecules and previous results from Fgf10 and Fgfr2b knockout mice, it was hypothesized that there would be fundamental signaling interactions through the epithelial Fgfr2b and its mesenchymal ligand Fgf10 to regulate tongue epithelium differentiation. To elucidate these reciprocal interactions in tongue epithelial differentiation, this study employed an in vitro tongue organ culture system with antisense-oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODNs) and recombinant protein-soaked bead imp... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997390 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 09:38:48 +0100 4997390 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968268&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fmg142754r2k38822%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) is a key regulator of cell fate during embryogenesis and has also emerged as a potent driver of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition during tumor progression. TGFβ signals are transduced by transmembrane type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors (TβRI and TβRII, respectively). The activated TβR complex phosphorylates Smad2 and Smad3, converting them into transcriptional regulators that complex with Smad4. TGFβ also uses non-Smad signaling pathways such as the p38 and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways to convey its signals. Ubiquitin ligase tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and TGFβ-associated kinase 1 (TAK1) have recently been shown t... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968268 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:23:46 +0100 4968268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968269&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fnw2528348q614745%2F Abstract  The lipidic modification of proteins has recently been shown to be of immense importance, although many of the roles of these modifications remain as yet unidentified. One of such key modifications occurring on several proteins is the covalent addition of a 14-carbon long saturated fatty acid, a process termed myristoylation. Myristoylation can occur during both co-translational protein synthesis and posttranslationally, confers lipophilicity to protein molecules, and controls protein functions. The protein myristoylation process is catalyzed by the enzyme N-myristoyltransferase (NMT), which exists as two isoforms: NMT1 and NMT2. NMT1 is essential for growth and development, during which rapid cellular proliferation is required, in a variety of organisms. NMT1 is ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968269 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 06:13:10 +0100 4968269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968270&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe716830351k33j52%2F Abstract  Stem cell techniques have facilitated a number of potential uses for such cells in cell therapy and drug development. Studies of the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway are widely employed to investigate the effects of a large variety of substances. We assayed the cAMP pathway in human skin-derived mesenchymal stem cells (S-MSC) to evaluate donor to donor variations in response to pharmacological manipulations in vitro. Immunophenotyping of S-MSC revealed that, in general, 95% of S-MSCs were positive for CD90, CD73 and CD105 and negative for the expression of haemopoetic markers CD14, CD45 and human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR). Nevertheless, fluctuations occurred in basal cAMP levels from 5 pmol/mg to 18 pmol/mg. Total cAMP response element binding protein (CREB... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968270 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 06:13:09 +0100 4968270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968271&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc384174546505846%2F This study thus presents a novel acellular bone-graft-free endogenous repair therapy for orthotopic tissue-engineered bone regeneration. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-14DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1197-3Authors Kenneth M. Dupont, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332, USAJoel D. Boerckel, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332, USAHazel Y. Stevens, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332, USATamim Diab, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atl... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968271 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 20:55:04 +0100 4968271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968272&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl25812x04xpj1q36%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a potent pleiotropic cytokine that regulates mammalian development, differentiation, and homeostasis in essentially all cell types and tissues. TGF-β normally exerts anticancer activities by prohibiting cell proliferation and by creating cell microenvironments that inhibit cell motility, invasion, and metastasis. However, accumulating evidence indicates that the process of tumorigenesis, particularly that associated with metastatic progression, confers TGF-β with oncogenic activities, a functional switch known as the “TGF-β paradox.” The molecular determinants governing the TGF-β paradox are complex and represent an intense area of investigation by researchers in academic and industrial settings. Recent findings li... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968272 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:41:45 +0100 4968272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968273&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe241478371441n22%2F Abstract  Proliferative cells expressing proteoglycan neuron-glia 2 (NG2) are considered to represent parenchymal precursor cells in the adult brain and are thought to differentiate primarily into oligodendrocytes. We have studied cell genesis in the adult amygdala and found that, up to 1 year after the labeling of proliferating cells with bromodeoxyuridine, most proliferating NG2 cells remain NG2 cells, and only a few slowly differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes, as assessed by the expression of 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase. We have detected no signs of neurogenesis but have confirmed the expression of “neuronal” markers such as Doublecortin in NG2 cells. Nestin-expressing NG2 cells in the amygdala show electrophysiological properties known fo... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968273 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:05:28 +0100 4968273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4933554&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw08658224083t464%2F Abstract  Skeletal muscle has a robust capacity for regeneration following injury. However, few if any effective therapeutic options for volumetric muscle loss are available. Autologous muscle grafts or muscle transposition represent possible salvage procedures for the restoration of mass and function but these approaches have limited success and are plagued by associated donor site morbidity. Cell-based therapies are in their infancy and, to date, have largely focused on hereditary disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. An unequivocal need exists for regenerative medicine strategies that can enhance or induce de novo formation of functional skeletal muscle as a treatment for congenital absence or traumatic loss of tissue. In this review, the three stages of skeleta... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4933554 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 06:03:44 +0100 4933554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4933555&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp2478734223m6h57%2F Abstract  A few types of peptidergic clock neurons have been identified in the fruitfly Drosophila, whereas in blowflies, only pigment-dispersing factor (PDF)-immunoreactive lateral ventral clock neurons (LNvs) have been described. In blowflies, but not Drosophila, a subset of these PDF-expressing neurons supplies axon branches to a region outside the synaptic layer of the lamina, the most peripheral optic lobe neuropil. In Drosophila, similar lamina processes are instead supplied by non-clock neurons (LMIo) that express myoinhibitory peptide (MIP). We have investigated the distribution of MIP-immunoreactive neurons in the visual system of the blowfly Calliphora vomitoria and found neurons resembling the three LMIos, but without processes to the lamina. In Calliphora, PDF-immun... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4933555 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 06:36:05 +0100 4933555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920935&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F07kt438n83112600%2F Abstract  The mammalian SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes play essential roles in cell cycle control through the transcriptional regulation of cell-cycle-specific genes. These complexes depend on the energy of ATP hydrolysis provided by the BRG1 or BRM catalytic subunit. They contain seven or more noncatalytic subunits, some being constitutive components, with others having paralogs that assemble in a combinatory manner producing different SWI/SNF-related complexes with specific functions. ARID1A and ARID1B are mutually exclusive subunits of the BAF complex. The specific presence of these subunits in the complex has been demonstrated to determine whether SWI/SNF functions as a corepressor (ARID1A) or as a coactivator (ARID1B) of the cell cycle genes. Our aim has been t... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920935 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:57:08 +0100 4920935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920936&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy3047l74182n039q%2F Abstract  Biologists long believed that, once development is completed, no new neurons are produced in the forebrain. However, as is now firmly established, new neurons can be produced at least in two specific forebrain areas: the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampal formation. Neurogenesis within the adult DG occurs constitutively throughout postnatal life, and the rate of neurogenesis within the DG can be altered under various physiological and pathophysiological conditions. The process of adult neurogenesis within the DG is a multi-step process (proliferation, differentiation, migration, targeting, and synaptic integration) that ends with the formation of a post-mitotic functionally integrated new neuron. Various markers are expressed d... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920936 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:57:07 +0100 4920936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920937&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff018156046608635%2F Abstract  Vav1 is a critical signal transducer for both the development and function of normal hematopoietic cells, in which it regulates the acquisition of maturation-related properties, including adhesion, motility, and phagocytosis. Vav1 is also important for the agonist-induced maturation of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)-derived promyelocytes, in which it promotes the acquisition of a mature phenotype by playing multiple functions at both cytoplasmic and nuclear levels. We investigated the possible role of Vav1 in the differentiation of leukemic precursors to monocytes/macrophages. Tumoral promyelocytes in which Vav1 was negatively modulated were induced to differentiate into monocytes/macrophages with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and monitored for their m... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920937 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:57:05 +0100 4920937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920938&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw05187v450w51013%2F Abstract  c-Ski is an evolutionary conserved protein that is involved in diverse cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, transformation, and tumor progression. A large range of cellular partners of c-Ski, including transcription factors, chromatin-remodeling molecules, tumor suppressors, and nuclear hormone receptors, has been identified. Moreover, numerous mechanisms have been described by which c-Ski regulates essential signaling pathways, e.g., the TGFβ pathway. In this review, we summarize the diverse roles attributed to c-Ski during normal development and in cancer progression and discuss future strategies to unravel further the complex nature of c-Ski actions in a context-dependent manner. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-14DOI 10.1007/s0044... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920938 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:57:02 +0100 4920938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920939&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft2p8jl7116090551%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is the prototype for a large family of pleiotropic factors that signal via heterotetrameric complexes of type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors. Important intracellular mediators of TGFβ signaling are members of the Smad family. Smad2 and 3 are activated by C-terminal receptor-mediated phosphorylation, whereafter they form complexes with Smad4 and are translocated to the nucleus where they, in cooperation with other transcription factors, co-activators and co-repressors, regulate the transcription of specific genes. Smads have key roles in exerting TGFβ-induced programs leading to cell growth arrest and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The activity and stability of Smad molecules are carefully regulated by a ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920939 Sat, 04 Jun 2011 06:07:08 +0100 4920939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902052&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Flx084u0k40g64203%2F Abstract  Chronic kidney disease constitutes an increasing medical burden affecting 26 million people in the United States alone. Diabetes, hypertension, ischemia, acute injury, and urological obstruction contribute to renal fibrosis, a common pathological hallmark of chronic kidney disease. Regardless of etiology, elevated TGF-β1 levels are causatively linked to the activation of profibrotic signaling pathways initiated by angiotensin, glucose, and oxidative stress. Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) is a useful and accessible model to identify mechanisms underlying the progression of renal fibrosis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), a major effector and downstream target of TGF-β1 in the progression of several clinically important fibrotic disorders, is high... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902052 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:57:00 +0100 4902052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902054&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk623536086702440%2F Abstract  We have characterized and compared the telomere length, telomerase, reverse transcriptase (RT) activity and expression of genes implicated in cancer and in pluripotency, in human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from dental papilla tissue, umbilical cord matrix and adipose tissue and in cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, U-87 MG, and MCF-7). MRC-5 fetal fibroblasts and adult muscle cells were used as somatic cell controls. Telomere length was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in MSCs and somatic cells (7.2-9.3 kb) than in cancer cell lines (3.9-6 kb). However, the relative telomerase activity (RTA) in the cancer cell lines was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of MSCs and somatic cells. RTA tended to be slightly higher in MSCs but no signif... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902054 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:56:59 +0100 4902054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902053&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4037142341124042%2F Abstract  The primary cilium is a small microtubule-based organelle projecting from the plasma membrane of practically all cells in the mammalian body. In the past 8 years, a flurry of papers has indicated a crucial role of this long-neglected organelle in the development of a wide variety of organs, including derivatives of all three germ layers. A common theme of these studies is the critical dependency of signal transduction of the Hedgehog pathway upon functionally intact cilia to regulate organogenesis. Another common theme is the role that the cilium plays, not necessarily in the determination of the embryonic anlagen of these organs, although this too occurs but rather in the proliferation and morphogenesis of the previously determined organ. We outline the vari... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902053 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:56:59 +0100 4902053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902056&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft00830606w470003%2F Abstract  Regenerative medicine-based approaches for the repair of damaged cartilage rely on the ability to propagate cells while promoting their chondrogenic potential. Thus, conditions for cell expansion should be optimized through careful environmental control. Appropriate oxygen tension and cell expansion substrates and controllable bioreactor systems are probably critical for expansion and subsequent tissue formation during chondrogenic differentiation. We therefore evaluated the effects of oxygen and microcarrier culture on the expansion and subsequent differentiation of human osteoarthritic chondrocytes. Freshly isolated chondrocytes were expanded on tissue culture plastic or CultiSpher-G microcarriers under hypoxic or normoxic conditions (5% or 20% oxygen partial pr... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902056 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:56:58 +0100 4902056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902055&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3u6g2713757m4886%2F Abstract  Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of articular cartilage, with aging as the main risk factor. In OA, changes in chondrocytes lead to the autolytic destruction of cartilage. Transforming growth factor-β has recently been demonstrated to signal not only via activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5)-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation, but also via ALK1-induced Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation in articular cartilage. In aging cartilage and experimental OA, the ratio ALK1/ALK5 has been found to be increased, and the expression of ALK1 is correlated with matrix metalloproteinase-13 expression. The age-dependent shift towards Smad1/5/8 signalling might trigger the differentiation of articular chondrocytes with an autolytic phenotype. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.100... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902055 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:56:58 +0100 4902055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902057&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj1k318475q3qkn72%2F Abstract  Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually arises from hepatic fibrosis caused by chronic inflammation. In chronic liver damage, hepatic stellate cells undergo progressive activation to myofibroblasts (MFB), which are important extracellular-matrix-producing mesenchymal cells. Concomitantly, perturbation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling by pro-inflammatory cytokines in the epithelial cells of the liver (hepatocytes) promotes both fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis (fibro-carcinogenesis). Insights into fibro-carcinogenic effects on chronically damaged hepatocytes have come from recent detailed analyses of the TGF-β signaling process. Smad proteins, which convey signals from TGF-β receptors to the nucleus, have intermediate linker regions between conserve... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902057 Mon, 30 May 2011 16:54:30 +0100 4902057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902058&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa6138h80h7717177%2F Abstract  Based on its proven anabolic effects on bone in osteoporosis patients, recombinant parathyroid hormone (PTH1-34) has been evaluated as a potential therapy for skeletal repair. In animals, the effect of PTH1-34 has been investigated in various skeletal repair models such as fractures, allografting, spinal arthrodesis and distraction osteogenesis. These studies have demonstrated that intermittent PTH1-34 treatment enhances and accelerates the skeletal repair process via a number of mechanisms, which include effects on mesenchymal stem cells, angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, bone formation and resorption. Furthermore, PTH1-34 has been shown to enhance bone repair in challenged animal models of aging, inflammatory arthritis and glucocorticoid-induced bone loss. This pre-cli... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902058 Mon, 30 May 2011 16:54:28 +0100 4902058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902059&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr2h46581457083t0%2F Abstract  Age-related progression of cardiovascular disease is by far the largest health problem in the US and involves vascular damage, progressive vascular fibrosis and the accumulation of lipid-rich atherosclerotic lesions. Advanced lesions can restrict flow to key organs and can trigger occlusive thrombosis resulting in a stroke or myocardial infarction. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a major orchestrator of the fibroproliferative response to tissue damage. In the early stages of repair, TGF-β is released from platelets and activated from matrix reservoirs; it then stimulates the chemotaxis of repair cells, modulates immunity and inflammation and induces matrix production. At later stages, it negatively regulates fibrosis through its strong antiproliferati... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902059 Mon, 30 May 2011 16:54:26 +0100 4902059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902060&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F956271278750u561%2F Abstract  The present study was undertaken to examine in vivo the effect of growth hormone (GH) on progesterone and estradiol levels and on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the chicken ovary during sexual maturation. Hy-Line chickens (10 weeks old) were injected three times a week with 200 μg recombinant chicken GH (cGH) per kilogram body weight until sexual maturity. GH treatment significantly increased ovarian weight at 16 weeks of age, i.e., ∼1 week before onset of egg laying. The progesterone content in the ovary just before and at the time of sexual maturity and the estradiol content before onset of egg laying were also elevated after cGH injections. The highest number of proliferating (positive for proliferating cell nuclear antigen) and apopt... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902060 Thu, 26 May 2011 16:11:06 +0100 4902060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902061&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1518106846662478%2F Abstract  Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is involved in almost all major cell behaviors under physiological and pathological conditions, and its regulatory system has therefore been vigorously investigated. The fundamental elements in TGF-β signaling are TGF-β ligands, their receptors, and intracellular Smad effectors. The TGF-β ligand induces the receptors directly to phosphorylate and activate Smad proteins, which then form transcriptional complexes to control target genes. One of the classical questions in the field of research on TGF-β signaling is how this cytokine induces multiple cell responses depending on cell type and cellular context. Possible answers to this question include cross-interaction with other signaling pathways, different repertoires... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902061 Thu, 26 May 2011 16:11:05 +0100 4902061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902062&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fhu61387636rq8418%2F Abstract  We investigated changes in serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) levels and in their distribution patterns in the central nervous system (CNS) and ovary during the ovarian maturation cycle in the Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. The concentrations of these two neurotransmitters were determined by using high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. The 5-HT concentration exhibited a gradual increase in the brain and thoracic ganglia during early ovarian stages I, II, and III, reaching a maximum at the mature ovarian stage IV, whereas DA showed its highest concentration at ovarian stage II in the brain and thoracic ganglia and then declined to its lowest concentration at ovarian stage IV. In the ovaries, 5-HT was lowest at ovarian sta... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902062 Mon, 23 May 2011 17:04:16 +0100 4902062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852657&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ftuu5817017574754%2F Abstract  We have found that a water-soluble alkaline-digested form of eggshell membrane (ASESM) can provide an extracellular matrix (ECM) environment for human dermal fibroblast cells (HDF) in vitro. Avian eggshell membrane (ESM) has a fibrous-meshwork structure and has long been utilized as a Chinese medicine for recovery from burn injuries and wounds in Asian countries. Therefore, ESM is expected to provide an excellent natural material for biomedical use. However, such applications have been hampered by the insolubility of ESM proteins. We have used a recently developed artificial cell membrane biointerface, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine polymer (PMBN) to immobilize ASESM proteins. The surface shows a fibrous structure under the atomic force microscope, and a... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852657 Thu, 19 May 2011 16:33:49 +0100 4852657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852658&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj5814204611862u1%2F Abstract  Decapod crustaceans have long served as important models for the study of neuroendocrine signaling. For example, the process of neurosecretion was first formally demonstrated by using a member of this order. In this review, the major decapod neuroendocrine organs are described, as are their phylogenetic conservation and neurochemistry. In addition, recent advances in crustacean neurohormone discovery and tissue mapping are discussed, as are several recent advances in our understanding of hormonal control in this group of animals. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-27DOI 10.1007/s00441-011-1183-9Authors Andrew E. Christie, Neuroscience Program, John W. and Jean C. Boylan Center for Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory, ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852658 Thu, 19 May 2011 16:33:48 +0100 4852658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852659&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr85072663512x705%2F Abstract  Pituitary adenylyl cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) augment the biosynthesis of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). We tested whether secretin belonging to the glucagon/PACAP/VIP superfamily would increase transcription of the tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) gene and modulate catecholamine secretion. Secretin activated transcription of the endogenous Th gene and its transfected promoter (EC50 ∼4.6 nM) in pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. This was abolished by pre-treatment with a secretin receptor (SCTR) antagonist and by inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA), mitogen-activated protein kinase, or CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein). In agreement, secretin increased PKA activity and induced phosphorylation of CREB and binding... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852659 Thu, 19 May 2011 16:33:47 +0100 4852659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841091&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5m1h58g45335l046%2F Abstract  The treatment of long bone defects and non-unions is still a major clinical and socio-economical problem. In addition to the non-operative therapeutic options, such as the application of various forms of electricity, extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy, which are still in clinical use, several operative treatment methods are available. No consensus guidelines are available and the treatments of such defects differ greatly. Therefore, clinicians and researchers are presently investigating ways to treat large bone defects based on tissue engineering approaches. Tissue engineering strategies for bone regeneration seem to be a promising option in regenerative medicine. Several in vitro and in vivo studies in small and large animal models have been... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841091 Mon, 16 May 2011 05:33:34 +0100 4841091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841090&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Flxh7h18436g180lh%2F Abstract  Klf10 and Klf11 belong to the family of Sp1/Krüppel-like zinc finger transcription factors that play important roles in a variety of cell types and tissues. Although Klf10 and Klf11 were initially introduced as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta)-inducible genes, several studies have described their upregulation by a plethora of growth factors, cytokines and hormones. Here, we review the current knowledge of the inductive cues for Klf10 and Klf11 and focus on their transcriptional regulation by members of the TGF-beta superfamily. We further summarize their involvement in the regulation of the TGF-beta signaling pathway and discuss their possible role as molecules mediating crosstalk between various signaling pathways. Finally, we provide an overview of th... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841090 Mon, 16 May 2011 05:33:34 +0100 4841090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841092&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc7047gj41753g721%2F Abstract  In fresh-water turtles, the bridge connecting the proximal and caudal stumps of transected spinal cords consists of regenerating axons running through a glial cellular matrix. To understand the process leading to the generation of the scaffold bridging the lesion, we analyzed the mitotic activity triggered by spinal injury in animals maintained alive for 20–30 days after spinal cord transection. Flow cytometry and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-labeling experiments revealed a significant increment of cycling cells around the lesion epicenter. BrdU-tagged cells maintained a close association with regenerating axons. Most dividing cells expressed the brain lipid-binding protein (BLBP). Cells with BrdU-positive nuclei expressed glial fibrillary acidic protein. As sp... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841092 Mon, 16 May 2011 05:33:33 +0100 4841092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841093&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm7120h781057506m%2F Abstract  Neurons have an enormous capacity to adapt to changing conditions through the regulation of gene expression, morphology, and physiology. In the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, this plasticity includes recurrent changes taking place within intervals of a few hours during the day. The rhythmic alterations in the morphology of neurons described so far include changes in axonal diameter, branching complexity, synapse numbers, and the number of synaptic vesicles. The cycles of these changes have larger amplitude when the fly is exposed to light, but they persist in constant darkness and require the expression of the clock genes period and timeless, leading to the concept of circadian plasticity. The molecular mechanisms driving these cycles appear to require the expre... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841093 Thu, 12 May 2011 18:57:00 +0100 4841093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841094&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl14082km842066q1%2F Abstract  The role of the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in chronic inflammatory bowel disease, i.e., ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), remains unclear. Ultrastructural alterations in ICC in the colonic myenteric plexus (ICC-MP) have been reported previously in UC, but descriptions of ICC-MP and other interstitial cells in the myenteric region of the colon are lacking for CD. In the present study, we characterized the ultrastructure of interstitial cells, nerves, and glial cells in the myenteric region in Crohn’s colitis (CC). In comparison with controls, varicosities of the myenteric bundles were dilated and appeared to be empty. Lipid droplets and lipofuscin-bodies were prominent in glial cells and neurons. ICC-MP were scanty but, as in controls, ha... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841094 Thu, 12 May 2011 18:56:59 +0100 4841094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4820564&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe1762n314u643087%2F Abstract  Tumor necrosis factor receptor subfamily 9 (TNFRSF9) plays a potentially important general role in immune function. Tnfrsf9 gene expression has previously been characterized in late pregnant mouse uterus and placenta. However, little is known about its expression in the uterus during the implantation phase of early pregnancy. We have assessed the levels and localization of Tnfrsf9 expression in the mouse uterus and conceptus during implantation. Relative Tnfrsf9 mRNA levels were significantly higher in implantation than in non-implantation site tissue on days 6.5-8.5 of pregnancy. This increase did not depend on the presence of the conceptus, as mRNA levels were not significantly different between pregnant implantation sites and artificially induced deciduomas. Loca... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4820564 Wed, 11 May 2011 06:28:12 +0100 4820564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4788891&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fgu842635u176h82j%2F Abstract  In patients with progressive podocyte disease, such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and membranous nephropathy, upregulation of transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß) is observed in podocytes. Mechanical pressure or biomechanical strain in podocytopathies may cause overexpression of TGF-ß and angiotensin II (Ang II). Oxidative stress induced by Ang II may activate the latent TGF-ß, which then activates Smads and Ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways in podocytes. Enhanced TGF-ß activity in podocytes may lead to thickening of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) by overproduction of GBM proteins and impaired GBM degradation in podocyte disease. It may also lead to podocyte apoptosis and detachment from the GBM, and epi... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4788891 Tue, 03 May 2011 16:06:03 +0100 4788891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4788892&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff4320l7846183x51%2F We describe the morphological sequential characteristics of murine fetal liver niches that favor the settlement and migration of hematopoietic cells from 12 days post-coitum (dpc) to 0 day post-partum. Liver sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Lennert’s Giemsa, Sirius Red pH 10.2, Gomori’s Reticulin, and Periodic Acid Schiff/Alcian Blue pH 1.0 and pH 2.5 and were analyzed by bright-field microscopy. Indirect imunohistochemistry for fibronectin, matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), and MMP-9 and histochemistry for naphthol AS-D chloroacetate esterase (NCAE) were analyzed by confocal microscopy. The results showed that fibronectin was related to the promotion of hepatocyte and trabecular differentiation; reticular fibers did not appear to parti... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4788892 Tue, 03 May 2011 16:06:01 +0100 4788892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4788893&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6628l7130417469l%2F Abstract  Fibrillin-1 and fibrillin-2 are structural components of the extracellular matrix which are also involved in modulating local TGFβ and BMP bioavailability. Loss of fibrillin-1 or fibrillin-2 is associated with perturbed osteoblast maturation principally as the result of unbalanced TGFβ and BMP signaling. Here, we demonstrated that stable expression of small hairpin RNAs against fibrillin-1(Fbn1) or fibrillin-2 (Fbn2) transcripts in the clonal osteoprogenitor cell line Kusa-A1 led to the same phenotypic and molecular manifestations as germline Fbn1- or Fbn2-null mutations in primary calvarial osteoblast cultures. Proof-of-concept experiments are also presented showing that Fbn1- or Fbn2-silenced Kusa-A1 cell lines are suitable models to identify candidate determi... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4788893 Mon, 02 May 2011 15:02:12 +0100 4788893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4770871&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1m455r33k37755w2%2F Abstract  Preeclampsia (PE) is known to be associated with increased circulating levels of anti-angiogenic factors, such as soluble fms-related tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and soluble endoglin (sEng). However, the way that placental oxidative stress results in the elevation of these two factors remains enigmatic. We have observed the overexpression of growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible 45 alpha (Gadd45α) and excessive activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in preeclamptic placentas compared with normotensive controls, together with increased levels of sFlt-1 and sEng in maternal sera in patients with PE. Moreover, Gadd45α knockdown or p38 inhibition provides protective effects in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-exposed human umbilical vein endothelial ce... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4770871 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:43:55 +0100 4770871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4770870&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F97535440147w8p42%2F Abstract  Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are the non-myelinating glial cells of the olfactory nerves and bulb. The fragmentary characterization of OECs in situ during normal development may be due to their small size requiring intricate ultrastructural analysis and to the fact that available markers for in situ detection are either expressed only by OEC subpopulations or lost during development. In the present study, we searched for markers with stable expression in OECs and investigated the spatiotemporal distribution of CNPase, an early oligodendrocyte/Schwann cell marker, in comparison with the prototype marker p75NTR. Anti-CNPase antibodies labeled canine but not rat OECs in situ, while Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes were positive in both species. CNPase immunore... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4770870 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:43:55 +0100 4770870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4770872&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg797813v666j0116%2F Abstract  A Xenopus laevis homolog of nucleophosmin/nucleoplasmin3 (NPM3), no29, has been previously identified as a thyroid hormone (TH)-response gene during TH-induced metamorphosis. X. laevis has another NPM3 homolog (npm3) in the pseudo-tetraploid genome, whereas X. tropicalis possesses one ortholog in the diploid genome. To assess the possible roles of these NPM3 homologs in amphibian metamorphosis, we have analyzed their expression profiles in X. laevis tadpoles. Levels of no29 and npm3 mRNA are rapidly up-regulated by exogenous TH in various organs of the premetamorphic tadpoles. Notably, in the small intestine, no29 and npm3 mRNA levels are transiently up-regulated during metamorphic climax, when progenitor/stem cells of the adult epithelium appear and actively prolife... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4770872 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:43:54 +0100 4770872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753465&cid=s_33445_171_f&fid=33445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5622561q23m01457%2F Abstract  Perinatal exposure to a synthetic estrogen, diethylstilbestrol (DES), causes cervicovaginal adenosis and permanent hyperplastic cornified vaginal epithelium with keratinization in mice. To investigate the mechanisms of the induction of vaginal abnormalities by DES, we have focused on activin A signaling. We have found that the βA-subunit mRNA is mainly expressed in the neonatal vaginal stroma, whereas activin A receptor type IB is localized in the neonatal vaginal epithelium. SMAD2, the intracellular signaling protein, is phosphorylated in the neonatal vagina. Cell proliferation in the vaginal epithelium grown in vitro is reduced by DES treatment or by activin signaling suppression through inhibin treatment. Thus, activin A (a homodimer of the βA-subunit) in the ... Cell and Tissue Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753465 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 06:03:07 +0100 4753465