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Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a critical hormone in the regulation of glucose metabolism and has garnered significant attention due to its therapeutic potential in managing diabetes and obesity. Understanding the biological role of GLP-1 provides insights into its mechanisms of action and its impact on various physiological processes.Introduction to GLP-1GLP-1 is an incretin hormone primarily produced in the L-cells of the small intestine in response to food intake. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing insulin secretion from the pancreas, a process crucial for maintaining glucose homeostasis. GLP-1 is derived from the proglucagon gene and exists in two main forms, GLP-1(7-3 …

The p38 MAPK signaling pathway is an intracellular signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in cellular responses to various stressors and inflammatory stimuli. It is a part of the larger MAPK superfamily, which also includes ERK and JNK pathways. The p38 MAPK pathway is involved in regulating a wide range of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, inflammation, and immune responses. Key Takeaways: p38 MAPK, part of the MAPK family, is key in cellular responses to stress and inflammation. This pathway regulates cell processes like proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and immune responses. The MAPK family includes ERKs, JNKs, and p38 …

Sample Preparation · ImmunoassaySerum vs Plasma: Key Differences and When to Use EachSerum and plasma come from the same blood draw but are not interchangeable. One is collected after clotting, the other before it, and that single difference changes which analytes survive, which are artefactually raised, and which assays will give you a trustworthy number. This guide covers the composition difference, collection protocols for both, tube selection, and how to choose the right matrix for an ELISA.Browse ELISA kits →15–30 minClotting time before serum can be spun≤2 hWindow to separate plasma from cells1,000–2,000 ×gTypical centrifugation for separation~15–20%Greater yield from plasma than serum …

At Assay Genie we have created a comprehensive guide outlining everything you need to know about apoptosis! Key Takeaways: Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process, vital for tissue maintenance and disease prevention. Distinct from necrosis, apoptosis involves cellular shrinkage, nuclear breakdown, membrane disruption, and fragmentation into apoptotic bodies. p53 pathway, intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, and caspase cascades are key mechanisms in apoptosis. Apoptosis vs. Necrosis: Apoptosis is controlled and natural, while necrosis is uncontrolled and harmful. p53 Pathway: Activated by DNA damage, involves proteins like Bax, Bak, Bad. Intrinsic Apoptosis: Triggered intern …

Social media has become a powerful tool for science communication, and Instagram is no exception. The platform is home to a diverse array of science influencers, ranging from PhD students to established researchers and science communicators. From immunology to ecology, genetics to neurology, there's an Instagram account out there for every science enthusiast. In this article, we've curated a list of 43 science Instagram accounts that you need to follow to stay informed and inspired. Key Takeaways: Discover groundbreaking insights from 43 science influencers on Instagram. Delve into diverse research areas, including neuroscience, ecology, and biochemistry. Gain educational con …

Revolutionizing Research with AI Abstract Generator Explore how GPT can help in generating scientific abstracts based on figure legends and data. Discover the potential of AI in scientific literature. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS.push({ uuid: 's-4e5ca018-4e14-4841-83e7-262611034802' }) window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS.push({ uuid: 's-544e2b54-75c1-4b0c-a3ae-8ed4d3e1f80d' }) AI Abstract Generator in Action, example of an abstract in PNAS and a version …

CXCL16 CXCL16, a unique member of the CXC chemokine family, stands at the crossroads of immune modulation and vascular biology. Initially discovered as a chemokine, CXCL16 operates beyond its chemotactic role by serving as a transmembrane protein that can bind to its receptor, CXCR6. This dual functionality endows CXCL16 with the ability to regulate immune cell trafficking, particularly those expressing CXCR6, and to participate in diverse physiological processes such as inflammation, atherosclerosis, and tissue repair. CXCL16's intriguing capacity to bridge immune responses with vascular dynamics underscores its significance as a multifaceted player …

Making the switch! This article provides some help on CV writing tips for scientists for PhDs and PostDocs looking for jobs outside of academia and what they might need to add to their CV to improve it for a business orientated position. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/blog/cv-writing-tips-for-scientists/" }, "headline": "CV Writing Tips for Scientists", "description": "Assay Genie's CV (resume) writing tips for scientists looking to leave academia & more into a different career or looking for that new post-doc. CV template for scie …

Immunology · Innate LymphocytesNatural Killer Cells: Receptors, Subsets and FunctionNK cells kill without prior sensitisation and without antigen-specific receptors, using a balance of activating and inhibitory signals to distinguish healthy cells from infected or transformed ones. This guide covers missing-self recognition, the receptor families that implement it, the CD56-bright and CD56-dim subsets that do quite different jobs, the developmental stages and their markers, and the adaptive NK cells that complicate the textbook claim that NK cells have no memory.Browse NK cell reagents →CD56 & CD16Markers defining the two subsets~90%Of blood NK cells are CD56-dimMissing selfThe core reco …

Since I am from Ireland I thought I would give as comprehensive view as possible for Research Universities in Ireland. By now you are probably considering looking for a PhD or PostDoc position in Ireland which is a great start. Known as the Land of the scholars,there are 10 international standard Research Universities in Ireland and colleges that focus on a range of life science, chemistry, physics and engineering research. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/blog/research-universities-in-ireland/" }, "headline": "Research Universities in Ireland", "image": "" …

Introduction Transformation of bacteria with plasmids is not only of note for bacterial studies but also can be used for gene expression studies in mammalian cells. Most plasmids are of bacterial origin and contain both a bacterial origin of replication and an antibiotic resistance gene which can be used as a selectable marker. The process of transformation allows foreign DNA to be introduced into a cell. Genetic modifications can be made to various bacterial strains to make them more amenable to transformation. Such modifications will maintain the plasmid without rearranging the plasmid DNA. Certain treatments have been shown to increase the transformation efficiency of bacteria. …

Metabolism · Biochemistry GuideBeta-Oxidation of Fatty AcidsBeta-oxidation is the mitochondrial pathway that breaks fatty acids down into acetyl-CoA for energy. This guide covers where it happens, the carnitine shuttle, the four-step reaction cycle, its products and its role in metabolism and immunity.Browse Metabolism Assay Kits →2CREMOVED PER CYCLE4REACTION STEPSAcetyl-CoA+ FADH2 & NADHCPT1RATE-LIMITING STEPQuick answerBeta-oxidation is the mitochondrial pathway that degrades fatty acids into acetyl-CoA for energy. Long-chain fatty acids are first shuttled into the mitochondrion by the carnitine palmitoyltransferases, then broken down two carbons at a time through four repeating …

As a PhD student delving deep into the realm of cellular biology, there is one antagonist that consistently challenges my research: mycoplasma. This microscopic bacterium, with its ability to invisibly infiltrate and undermine cell cultures, has become a persistent foe. However, understanding the intricacies of this bacterial contaminant is the first step towards effective mitigation. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS.push({ hoverImage: '', uuid: 's-9662d6e3-0a1e-4340-82be-21f2d6baf7d7' }) Schematic of Mycoplasma The Invisible Enemy: Understan …

Objectives & Key Results Objectives & Key Results (OKRs) is a framework for setting and tracking goals. At Assay Genie, we've tailored this approach to suit research. Explore our OKR for Researchers presentation, get practical advice from our video, and apply this framework to your research with our downloadable OKR worksheet! OKR Pack! Download Implementing OKRs In this video you'll find out what OKRs are and how they can be sucessfully integrated in the lab to help you maximise productivity and achieve your research objectives. T …

Introduction to Sci-Hub In the realm of science and academia, one name has been echoing in every corner of the globe, Sci-Hub. Created by Alexandra Elbakyan, a Kazakhstani computer scientist, Sci-Hub is considered the most controversial yet revolutionary project in modern science. Since its inception in 2011, it has become a beacon of hope for millions of students, researchers, medical professionals, journalists, and curious minds across the globe​1​. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS.push({ uuid: 's-84b23fdd-a706-4847-b3a8-8ebed2d21066' }) The Mission of Sci-Hub Sci-Hub emerg …

Writing a Thesis Statement Writing a thesis statement can be a frustrating task, whether you're working on your undergraduate, master's, or PhD degree. Unfortunately, many teachers and professors don't provide clear examples of what a good thesis statement looks like or what elements it should include. If you're struggling to write your thesis statement, this blog post offers some helpful tips to consider. Plus, we've included a worksheet to help you improve your skills. Whether you're just starting out or finishing up your thesis, these resources can help you craft a strong and effective thesis statement. Thesis Statem …

PhD Interview Presentation Dos and Don’ts It is becoming increasingly common for master's and undergraduate students to present data they produced during their research as part of the PhD interview process. This may involve presenting to the potential lab, professor, or department interview panel responsible for evaluating candidates. The aim of this is to understand what basic skills and understanding the potential PhD candidate already has about the field or a scientific topic in general. For many this is a great opportunity to impress and may allow applicants to rise above competing applicants that may have the grades on paper but do not have the drive, …

Explore 29 essential tips for crafting a compelling and well-structured PhD thesis, blending effective writing practices with time management and academic rigor for a successful dissertation journey. Be sure to check out some of our other PhD/Post Doc related resources. Key Takeaways: Incorporate 29 effective strategies for efficient and impactful PhD thesis writing. Embrace practical tips like writing drafts, managing time, and utilizing technology for smoother writing. Understand the importance of regular breaks, setting goals, and seeking feedback for continuous improvement. Recognize the value of maintaining academic rigor and clarity throughout the thesis. 29 PhD …

Hepatic Function Assays Liver function assays are a suite of tests designed to assess the health and efficacy of our vital organ: The liver. This hardworking powerhouse is responsible for creating bile, eliminating toxins, and breaking down fats, carbohydrates and proteins – all necessary elements that keep us ticking! To evaluate the liver's health, there are various hepatic function assays that can be performed. These tests measure the organ's capacity to produce bile, metabolize toxins and drugs, as well as synthesize proteins and carbohydrates. By assessing these three factors of liver performance with an …

Enhancing Cancer Research: Syngeneic Mouse Models and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors A quick guide to Syngeneic Mouse Models Syngeneic Mouse Models Cancer research has seen remarkable advancements in recent years, largely due to the development of novel therapeutic approaches such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Among the various preclinical models used in cancer research, syngeneic mouse models have emerged as indispensable tools for studying the tumor microenvironment and evaluating immunotherapeutic strategies. In this article, we will delve into the significance of syngeneic mouse models in cancer research, particularly focusing on their role in the study o …

ILC2 - Function, Cytokines, and Role in Health and Disease A quick guide to IL2C Our immune system is composed of various types of cells that work together to protect us from harmful pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. One type of immune cell that has recently gained attention is the innate lymphoid cell type 2 (ILC2). ILC2s are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in protecting us against infections and allergies. In this article, we will explore what ILC2s …

Lab Methods · Flow CytometryFlow Cytometry Protocol: Two Worked Protocols, Controls and 10 Practical TipsFlow cytometry measures individual cells in a fluid stream at hundreds per second, reporting size, granularity and fluorescence for each one. Most failures come not from the instrument but from sample preparation, panel design and controls. This guide gives two complete worked protocols, a full controls reference table, and ten practical points that determine whether the data is interpretable.Browse flow cytometry reagents →FSC / SSCSize and granularityPMTPhotomultiplier voltageFMOThe control that sets gates9Controls in the reference tableKey takeawaysForward scatter correlates with parti …

Flow Cytometry · Cell SortingGuide to Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS)Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) is a specialised form of flow cytometry that physically isolates individual cells from a mixed sample based on their fluorescence and light-scattering properties. With sorting purities approaching 99.99%, it is one of the most powerful tools in modern cell biology, immunology and stem cell research.Explore flow cytometry antibodies →99.99%achievable sort purity1000sof cells sorted per second4+parameters measured at onceSinglecell resolutionKey TakeawaysFACS isolates individual cells with a purity approaching 99.99%.It sorts cells by size, granularity, surface markers and …

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) is a protein that stimulates cell growth and differentiation by binding to its receptor epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) which triggers ligand-induced dimerization which activates the intrinsic protein-tyrosine kinase activity of EGFR. This in turn initiates a signal transduction cascade that results in various biochemical changes within the cell being targeted by EGF. This ultimately leads to DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. Members of this protein family are all similar due to their shared structural and functional characteristics. Each member of the EGF family have at least one common structural motif, the EGF domain, which is character …