ACM Enhances Neural Maturation
Journal: Nature Communications
Author: Honghui Zheng et al., China
The results of this study indicates that astrocyte-conditioned medium (ACM) promotes neural maturation in brain organoids, resulting in thicker neuronal layers, increased deep-layer neurons, and enhanced electrical activity, possibly due to protective lipid droplet accumulation.
Human Skeletal Stem Cell Diversity Shapes Bone Health and Disease
Journal: Cell Stem Cell
Author: Thomas H. Ambrosi et al., USA
Researchers identified four distinct human skeletal stem cell (hSSC) subtypes with unique functions across different skeletal sites. Aging and disease conditions promote a pathological shift toward fibrogenic hSSCs, limiting bone regeneration. Targeting specific gene pathways can restore proper hSSC diversity.
Blocking Prox1 Protein Transfer Unlocks Retinal Regeneration
Journal: Nature Communications
Author: Eun Jung Lee et al., South Korea
This research discovered that Prox1 protein, transferred from neurons to Müller glia cells, inhibits retinal regeneration in mammals. By blocking this transfer using antibodies, they restored regenerative capacity in mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa, delaying vision loss.
Sensory Nerve Targeting System Revolutionizes Bone Healing
Journal: Science Advances
Author: Kaicheng Xu et al., China
Scientists created a dual-function phage system that selectively promotes sensory nerve growth and accelerates bone regeneration by capturing natural growth factors. The system enhances healing by regulating immune responses through the Sema3A/XIAP/PAX6 pathway, reducing inflammation and shifting macrophages to repair mode.