Cell Guidance Systems Blog

Aptamer-exosomes as sensors in Alzheimer disease models

Aptamer-exosomes as sensors in Alzheimer disease models

Aptamers, from the Latin word aptus, meaning to fit, are short (20-100 nucleotide) sequences of synthetic DNA, RNA or peptides that can be used for binding to specific target molecules with high sensitivity and biocompatibility. Exosomes have been used to deliver ATP-sensing DNA aptamers in a model of Alzheimer disease.

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Catabolism vs anabolism: how growth factors govern key processes

Catabolism vs anabolism: how growth factors govern key processes

Metabolism in multicellular organisms is a complex interplay of biochemical processes that can be broadly categorized into two types: catabolism and anabolism. These processes, that are essential for maintaining life, enabling growth, and ensuring the proper functioning of cells and tissues, are controlled by growth factors and hormones.

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Toxic effects of overdosing growth factors in cell culture

Toxic effects of overdosing growth factors in cell culture

Growth factors are critical to many aspects of cell culture including proliferation, differentiation and maintenance. Whilst the effects of insufficient growth factor, such as lack of proliferation, are readily apparent, the effects of adding too much growth factor can be less apparent but equally important.

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The role of macrophage-derived exosomes in cancer

The role of macrophage-derived exosomes in cancer

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (30-150 nm) that play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication by transferring proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells. Macrophage-derived exosomes (MDEs) have garnered significant attention in recent years for their role in tumorigenesis, the process by which normal cells transform into cancer cells. Macrophage-Derived Exosomes have key roles in tumorigenesis

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Freeze Drying in Research and Medicine

Freeze Drying in Research and Medicine

Freeze drying, also known as lyophilization, is a dehydration process typically used to preserve structural integrity and the qualities of perishable materials and biological samples. This technique has found significant applications in various fields, including research and medicine. Here, we explore the principles of freeze drying, its applications, and its impact on research and medical practices.

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Turning back the years by turning down IL11

Turning back the years by turning down IL11

Low-level chronic inflammation is a hallmark of ageing. A recent article in Nature suggests the goals of longevity research to increase healthspan, as well as lifespan, may be achieved by simply inhibiting an inflammatory cytokine.

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The RGD Peptide, origins and applications

The RGD Peptide, origins and applications

The RGD peptide is the most widely used in cell culture. RGD is a natural motif that binds to common cell receptors providing binding points to substrates. The origins and the myriad of applications of RGD are discussed.

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How 3D bioprinters are advancing cancer research

How 3D bioprinters are advancing cancer research

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, after cardiovascular disease, with over 16.4 million cancer-related deaths predicted by 2040. It is well known for its complex and dynamic nature, which has meant that it is challenging to study with 2D cell culture models, although understanding of the disease has improved.

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Meet us at ISSCR in Hamburg

Meet us at ISSCR in Hamburg

We're attending ISSCR in Hamburg from 10-12 July Come and say hello and find out about our products and services. We're going to be featuring PODS, the 100% protein slow-release growth factors

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