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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 …

As atherosclerosis is a complex inflammatory disease, there are many influential biomarkers that contribute to the disease’s progression as well as biomarkers from atherosclerosis related diseases such as periodontal disease and autoimmune diseases i.e. Diabetes, RA, SLE. Biomarkers can be proteins, DNA and mRNA which are measured to asses biological, pathological processes and pharmacological responses. Biomarkers can be classified as early, predictive and prognostic biomarkers depending on disease stage (Huang et al., 2010). Identifying biomarkers for disease and finding therapeutic targets is crucial to research and treatment and overall a populations mortality and morbidity rat …

The orchestration of angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones, is a complex symphony regulated by various molecular players. At the forefront of this intricate dance is the VEGF-A VEGFR-2 signaling pathway, a pivotal mechanism that propels the growth and maintenance of blood vessels. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the molecular details of this pathway, shedding light on its fundamental role in angiogenesis and its implications in both health and disease.   VEGF-A: A Master Regulator of Angiogenesis: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) stands as a beacon among the VEGF family of growth factors. Produced …

T cell activation is a crucial process in the immune response, playing a pivotal role in how the body responds to pathogens and maintains immune homeostasis. This intricate process involves several key stages and molecules, each contributing to the effective functioning of T cells in the immune system. Understanding the Basics of T Cell Activation Direct conjugation involves the direct covalent attachment of the molecule to the antibody. This method is straightforward but requires careful control of reaction conditions to ensure specificity and retain antibody functionality. Indirect Conjugation Indirect conjugation uses a two-step process. Initially, a reactive group is …

Antibody conjugation is a pivotal technique in biomedical research and diagnostic applications. This process involves the covalent attachment of a molecule, such as a drug, toxin, enzyme, or fluorescent dye, to an antibody. The specificity of antibodies to their antigens makes antibody conjugation a powerful tool for targeted delivery in therapeutic contexts and for specific detection in diagnostic assays. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_V2_ELEMENTS.push({ uuid: 's-244b29f5-4261-4ef7-974d-e802c13cdca5' }) Overview of Antibody Conjugation Techniques Direc …

The focus of this article is Tumor Suppressor Genes. There are various different types of tumor suppressor genes, with BRCA being one of the most popular. The role of Tumor Suppressor Genes in Cancer, Oncogenes and Knudson Hypothesis are also discussed. Key Takeaways Tumor suppressor genes help prevent tumor formation by controlling cell growth. Mutations in these genes can lead to cancer by disrupting their normal functions. Examples include p53, BRCA1, BRCA2, and PTEN. The Knudson Two-Hit Hypothesis explains how mutations in these genes can lead to cancer. Understanding tumor suppressor genes aids in developing cancer treatments. What are Tumor Suppressor Gene …

Delve into the myeloid lineage, a cornerstone of the immune system and blood cell production, understanding its vital roles and implications in health and disease. Key Takeaways: Myeloid lineage is critical in immune response and blood cell formation. It includes cell types like granulocytes, monocytes, and dendritic cells. Myeloid cells are essential for phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and cytokine production. Dysregulation in myeloid cells can lead to diseases like leukemia and autoimmune disorders. Myeloid lineage plays a crucial role in the immune system and hematopoiesis, encompassing various cell types involved in defending the body against infections and ma …

Fibroblasts, essential components of connective tissues, play vital roles in maintaining tissue structure and function. Their remarkable ability to produce and organize the extracellular matrix forms the foundation for tissue integrity and repair processes. Identifying and characterizing fibroblasts amidst complex biological environments rely on fibroblast markers, specific molecular indicators that aid researchers in distinguishing these cells. In this blog post, we delve into Fibroblast, their markers and their significance in cancers. fibroblast markers in research, their potential applications in disease investigation, and their implications in regenerative medicine and therapeutic …

What is von Willebrand Factor? Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) is a crucial glycoprotein that plays a fundamental role in blood clotting and hemostasis. Produced by endothelial cells and megakaryocytes, VWF circulates in the bloodstream as large multimers. Its primary function is to mediate platelet adhesion at sites of vascular injury, forming a temporary platelet plug to stop bleeding. VWF also serves as a carrier protein for Factor VIII, protecting it and extending its availability during the clotting process. Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by deficiencies or abnormalities in von Willebrand Factor. { "@context": …

Cancer Metabolism is the mechanism by which cancer cells make energy in order for them to grow and spread. Even in the presence of oxygen, cancer cells increase glucose uptake and produce lactate, which is defined by the Warburg Effect. This article also discusses areas related to cancer metabolism such as Tumorigenesis and Metabolic Therapy. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/blog/an-overview-of-cancer-metabolism-tumorigenesis-metabolic-therapy-and-the-warburg-effect" }, "headline": "Cancer Metabolism: Tumorigenesis, Metabolic Therapy & The Warburg Effect", "descr …

RNA interference (RNAi), also referred to as Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing (PTGS), is the process by which RNA molecules silence genes in response to double-stranded RNA. RNA interference (RNAi) causes the downregulation or silencing of specific genes at the post-transcriptional level. It can lead to several effects depending on the targeted gene and its biological function.This article discusses RNAi, the various types of RNAi, its mechanism of action and RNAi therapeutics. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/blog/what-is-rna-interference-all-you-need-to-know" } …

Delving into the intricate world of Mitotic Catastrophe, this blog unveils its critical role in cell division and cancer therapy, offering insights into its mechanisms and potential treatments. Key Takeaways: Mitotic Catastrophe: A response to abnormal mitosis, potentially leading to cell death. Oncosuppressive Role: Prevents proliferation of genetically unstable cells, guarding against cancer. Mitotic Failure and Slippage: Involves death without mitosis exit or progression to G1 phase. Cyclin B Proteolysis: Key in mitotic slippage, leading to Cdk1 inactivation. Prolonged Arrest: Influences cell fate, with a cutoff point for irreversible catastrophe. Targeting Strategies …

Cyclins and CDKs are central to cell cycle control, with specific cyclin-CDK pairs regulating different phases, ensuring orderly progression and genomic integrity in cell division. Key Takeaways: Cyclins and CDKs are vital for cell cycle regulation. Cyclins A, B, D, E each pair with specific CDKs to control cell cycle phases. Cdk1, the prototypical CDK, partners with cyclin B for mitotic entry. Cyclin B upregulation and Cdk1 substrates play key roles in mitosis. Proteomic analysis reveals extensive Cdk1 substrates in mitosis. Positive feedback loops amplify Cdk1/cyclin B activity. Cdk1-Plk1 phosphorylation cascade is crucial for spindle assembly and mitosis. Cyclin degradatio …

p53, encoded by the TP53 gene on chromosome 17, is a fundamental protein safeguarding against tumor formation. It orchestrates cellular responses to DNA damage and stress, crucially managing cell division. By activating a range of mechanisms like cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, apoptosis, and senescence, p53 maintains cellular integrity and prevents cancerous growths. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/blog/p53-protein-mutations-cancer-cell-signalling" }, "headline": "The p53 Protein: Tumor Suppressor Protein", "description": "This article contains an overview of th …

Exploring the multifaceted role of dendritic cells in immune function and disease. Key Takeaways DCs are professional antigen-presenting cells that capture, process, and present antigens. They activate T cells and regulate immune responses by producing cytokines. DC markers help distinguish them from other cells. Different DC subtypes exist, each with unique functions. DCs play a vital role in immune surveillance and maintaining self-tolerance. They are involved in autoimmune diseases and cancer, both as protective and harmful factors. DCs have a crucial role in the development and regulation of immune responses. What is a Dendritic Cell? Dendrit …

Delving into TNF alpha's critical role in inflammation and its therapeutic targeting. Key Takeaways: TNF alpha is a crucial cytokine in inflammation and apoptosis. Its structure facilitates interaction with TNF receptors, influencing immune responses. Elevated TNF alpha levels are linked to various inflammatory diseases. TNF alpha activates distinct pathways through TNFR1 and TNFR2, impacting cell function. Its involvement in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis highlights its clinical significance. Therapeutic targeting of TNF alpha offers potential in treating inflammatory conditions and cancer. What is TNF alpha? Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) i …

Introduction Claudins are a family of proteins that play a critical role in the formation of tight junctions between cells. Tight junctions are the structures that seal the intercellular space between adjacent cells, preventing the free diffusion of molecules and ions. Claudins are responsible for the selective permeability of tight junctions, and they regulate the paracellular transport of ions and solutes. In addition, claudins have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer. In this article, we will discuss the different types of claudins, their role in disease, their poten …

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 …

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 …

Spindle assembly checkpoint The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), or mitotic checkpoint, is the main cell cycle control mechanism that governs mitosis. Incorrect spindle attachment causes the spindle assembly checkpoint to generate a wait anaphase signal that prevents the activation of the anaphase promoting complex (APC), an ubiquitin E3 ligase essential for progression of the cell cycle. Conserved components of the mammalian SAC include Bub1 (Cahill et al., 1998), BubR1 [Chan et al., 1998], Bub3 [Taylor et al.,ÿ1998], Mad1[Jin et al., 1998], Mad2 [Li and Benezra, 1996] and CENP-E [Weaver etÿal., 2003]. The checkpoint becomes activated as a …

Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. Ovarian cancer is when the normal cells in the ovary change and grow to form a tumour. Because the ovaries are located deep within the pelvis, an expanding tumour there might harm neighbouring organs. This can include the bladder or the bowel. The ovaries are two tiny oval-shaped organs on each side of your womb in your lower abdomen (pelvis). The ovaries produce oestrogen and progesterone, two female sex hormones that regulate menstrual cycles. There are several types of ovarian cancer, but the most common is epithelial ovarian cancer. Types of Ovarian Cancer Epithelial ovarian cancer - Ovari …

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative haematopoietic malignancy, characterised by a karyotypic abnormality present in more than 95% of cases known as the Philadelphia chromosome (Lozzio et al., 1975). CML has its origins in a common myeloid progenitor cell, which differentiates into erythrocytes, megakaryoctes, or granulocytes/monocytes (Fialkow et al., 1977). The Philadelphia Chromosome The Philadelphia chromosome was first karyotypically characterised in 1959 (Moorhead et al., 1960). It was demonstrated to be the result of a reciprocal translocation between the long arms of chromosomes 9 and 22 (Rowley, …

Leukemia Inhibitory Factor and JAK-STAT Signalling Pathway Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a cytokine that belongs to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines. Other members of this family include IL- 11, oncostatin M, and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). LIF was first identified in 1981 as a hematopoietic factor that could stimulate the growth of leukaemia cells in culture. LIF has been shown to be involved in the development, maintenance, and function of various tissues and organs, including the immune system, nervous system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. Leukemia Inhibitory factor signalling pathway overview LIF uses the JAK-STAT pathway to signal …

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, which is the tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach. Esophageal cancer can cause many different symptoms, depending on the stage of the disease. Did you know that esophageal cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer in the world? In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of esophageal cancer. Types of Esophageal cancer Esophageal cancer is classified according to the type of cells that are involved. The cancer begins within the inner layer of the esophagus and may spread to other layers of the esophagus and other parts of …