Psychiatric disorders are highly heritable, and in many individuals likely arise from the combined effects of genes and the environment. A substantial body of evidence points toward
The application of stem cells to regenerative medicine depends on a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying their pluripotency. Many studies have identified key transcription factor-regulated transcriptional networks and chromatin landscapes of embryonic and a number of adult stem cells. In addition, recent publications have revealed another interesting molecular feature of stem cells— a distinct alternative splicing pattern. Thus, it is possible that both the identity and activity of stem cells are maintained by stem cell-specific mRNA isoforms, while switching to different isoforms ensures proper differentiation. In this review, we will discuss the generality of mRNA isoform switching and its interaction with other molecular mechanisms to regulate stem cell pluripotency, as well as the reprogramming process in which differentiated cells are induced to become pluripotent stem cell-like cells (iPSCs).
This paper examines cellular and molecular mechanisms that may underpin the purported effects of five herbal supplements in the context of athlete immune function. Ginseng and echinacea are used frequently by athletes, whereas astragalus and elderberry are used infrequently and pequi is just emerging as a possible supplement.
The focus of this review is to highlight the importance of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) for the motor nervous system. GDNF is the most potent survival factor for motor neurons, where it enhances maintenance and survival of both developing and mature motor neurons
Common mechanisms plants use to translate the external stimuli into cellular responses are the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. These MAPK cascades are highly conserved in eukaryotes and consist of three subsequently acting protein kinases, MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAPKKK), MAP kinase kinase (MAPKK) and MAP kinase (MAPK) which are linked in various ways with upstream receptors and downstream targets. Plant MAPK cascades regulate numerous processes, including various environmental stresses, hormones, cell division and developmental processes. The number of MAPKKs in
The dynein motor protein family is involved in a wide variety of functions in eukaryotic cells. The axonemal dynein class and cytoplasmic dynein-1 subclass have been well characterized. However, the cytoplasmic dynein-2 subclass of the family has only recently begun to be understood. We describe the entire dynein family but focus on cytoplasmic dynein-2. Dynein-2 consists of a heavy, an intermediate, a light intermediate, and a light chain. The complex appears to function primarily as the retrograde motor for intraflagellar transport. This process is important for the formation and maintenance of cilia and flagella. Additionally, dynein-2 has roles in the control of ciliary length and in non-ciliary functions. Mutations in the human dynein-2 heavy chain lead to cilia-related diseases.