New probe measures cell stiffness and traction University of Illinois scientists have developed a tiny mechanical probe that can measure the inherent stiffness of cells and tissues, as well as the internal forces that cells generate and exert upon one another. It is the first probe able to quantify both properties, according to its developers.Read More
Artificial nerve cells closely mimic biological ones Researchers at Sweden’s Linköping University have created an artificial neuron that closely mimics the characteristics of biological nerve cells. They describe the work in a study, published recently in Nature Materials, indicating that the artificial neuron can stimulate natural nerves, making it a promising technology for various medical treatments.Read More
Lab grown mature neurons hold promise for neurodegenerative disease therapy Northwestern University-led researchers have created the first highly mature neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells. The study, published January 12 in the journal Cell Stem Cell, holds potential for new neurodegenerative disease therapies.Read More
MIT researchers record cellular memories through protein chains Using engineered proteins, MIT researchers have designed a system in which they can record “memories” of sequences of cellular events, such as when certain genes are activated, or how cells respond to a drug, as cells turn on series of genes and pathways in performing functions.Read More