June 2023

Many components of the biotechnology and medical toolbox have their origins in pathogenic microorganisms. These have been adapted to generate useful tools and therapies for research and medicine. Now, Caf1 proteins, also known as Cytotoxic Associated Factor 1, a group of proteins with pathogenic origins are emerging as a new building block due to their unique properties and potential applications in fields including medicine, biotechnology, and bioengineering.

Hydrogels are three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymeric networks capable of absorbing large amounts of water or biological fluids. Due to their unique properties, such as high water content, biocompatibility, and tunable mechanical properties, hydrogels have emerged as a promising material for various biomedical applications, including drug delivery. In recent years, hydrogels have gained significant attention as drug carriers due to their ability to encapsulate and release a wide range of therapeutic agents, including small molecules, proteins, and nucleic acids. Here we take a look at the role of hydrogels in drug delivery.

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in exploring new applications of growth factors and cytokines in various fields, such as regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, and tissue engineering. Awarded grant proposals provides an insight into the ongoing development of novel applications

Organ transplantation is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage organ failure. However, one of the major challenges in transplantation is the immune-mediated rejection of the transplanted organ by the recipient's immune system. Cytokines, a group of small proteins secreted by immune cells, play a crucial role in the immune response and are involved in the process of organ rejection.