SCL/TAL1-Mediated Transcriptional Network Enhances Megakaryocytic Specification of Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Platelets can be generated from cord blood progenitors and human embryonic stem cells (hESCs); however, the molecular mechanisms and determinants controlling the in vitro megakaryocytic specification of hESCs remain elusive. The authors show that ectopic SCL expression enhances the emergence of megakaryocytic precursors, mature megakaryocytes and platelets in vitro. [Mol Ther] Abstract
Tubulin- and Actin-Associating GIMAP4 Is Required for IFN-γ Secretion during Th Cell Differentiation
Researchers discovered that GTPase of the immunity-associated protein (GIMAP) regulates secretion of cytokines in early differentiating human CD4+ Th lymphocytes and in particular the secretion of interferon (IFN)-γ also affecting its downstream targets. Cord blood-derived CD4+ T cells were nucleofected with either GIMAP4 gene-specific or non-targeting siRNA. [Immunol Cell Biol] Full Article
Clonal Dominance with Retroviral Vector Insertions Near the ANGPT1 and ANGPT2 Genes in a Human Xenotransplant Mouse Model
To develop a pre-clinical model for the evaluation of vector-related genotoxicity directly in the relevant human target cells, cord blood CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) were transplanted into immunodeficient NOD.SCID.IL2rg−/− mice after transduction with an LTR-driven gammaretroviral vector. Researchers investigated the effect of prolonged in vitro culture in the presence of cytokines recently described to promote HSC expansion or maintenance. [Mol Ther Nucleic Acids] Full Article
REVIEWS
Mesenchymal Stem Cells as a Potential Therapeutic Tool for Spinocerebellar Ataxia
The authors introduce the therapeutic influence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on each mouse model for cerebellar ataxia and the possible mechanisms underlying the action of MSCs. They also introduce studies on the safety and effectiveness of umbilical cord MSCs for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia. [Cerebellum] Abstract
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Henry Ford Celebrates First Double-Cord Stem Cell Transplant
Doctors at Henry Ford Hospital are celebrating the success of the system’s first double-cord stem cell transplant, a promising treatment for African Americans and other minorities affected by disparities in life-saving transplant options. [Henry Ford Hospital] Press Release
SynGen, Inc. Secures Additional Financing from Bay City Capital
SynGen, Inc., a company that focuses on the development and commercialization of instrument systems that harvest stem and progenitor cells from umbilical cord blood, bone marrow, peripheral blood, and cell culture, announced that it has secured additional financing from Bay City Capital, LLC. [SynGen, Inc.] Press Release
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