Neurons Growing in Line
A group of scientists has successfully developed a novel method to grow cultured neurons in order to investigate basic mechanisms of memory. [Press release from EurekAlert! discussing online prepublication in Neuron]
Gene Links Neurodegeneration and Cancer In work that could lead to new insights into how neurons protect against neurodegeneration, researchers report that a gene family known for its role in controlling cell proliferation and suppressing tumors is also essential in the brain to regulate neuronal structure and function. [Press release from Massachusetts Institute of Technology discussing online prepublication in the Journal of Neuroscience]
Stem Cells from Menstrual Blood May Benefit Stroke Patients Cryo-Cell International, Inc. announced results of a study showing that stem cells found in menstrual blood may one day be a potential source for stem cell therapies in stroke and other central nervous system disorders. [Press release from Cryo-Cell International, Inc. discussing online prepublication in Stem Cells and Development]
Cell Transplants May Benefit Children with Cerebral Palsy
A unique cell type that supports and surrounds neurons within the nose known as olfactory ensheathing cells, possess the ability to regenerate, are relatively easy to obtain, and have become prime candidates for transplantation to repair a number of lesions in the central nervous system. [Press release from EurekAlert! discussing online prepublication in Cell Transplantation]
Study Identifies Small Molecules Mimicking Key Brain Growth Factor
Researchers have identified several small molecules that mimic a key but cumbersome protein in the brain, a discovery that could open the door to new therapies for a variety of brain disorders. [Press release from Stanford University School of Medicine discussing online prepublication in the Journal of Clinical Investigation]
Small Molecule BDNF Mimetics Activate TrkB Signaling and Prevent Neuronal Degeneration in Rodents
Using in silico screening with a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) loop–domain pharmacophore, followed by low-throughput in vitro screening in mouse fetal hippocampal neurons, researchers have efficiently identified small molecules with nanomolar neurotrophic activity specific to tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) versus other Trk family members. [J Clin Invest]
Florida Biotech Research Money in Jeopardy Florida researchers could lose $50 million in biomedical research funding due to the state’s $3 billion budget deficit. [Orlando Business Journal]
Quebec Biotechs in Tailspin Once Canada’s envy, and in the same league as Boston and San Francisco, Quebec’s biotechnology industry is a shadow of its former self and in danger of disappearing, observers say. [The Gazette]
Stem Cell Funding in Sight
Two of the most widely used embryonic stem cell lines could be just weeks away from being eligible for United States federal funding. [Obama Administration, United States]
Obama Picks Pragmatists for New Bioethics Panel
President Barack Obama named the members of his bioethics commission — headed by two university presidents. [National Bioethics Commission, United States]
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