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Topic Review
Therapeutic Strategies for Pantothenate Kinase
The term neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) brings together a broad set of progressive and disabling neurological genetic disorders in which iron is deposited preferentially in certain areas of the brain. Among NBIA disorders, the most frequent subtype is pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) caused by pathologic variants in the PANK2 gene codifying the enzyme pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2). 
  • 336
  • 10 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Presynaptic Precursor Vesicle Biogenesis
The faithful formation and, consequently, function of a synapse requires continuous and tightly controlled delivery of synaptic material. At the presynapse, a variety of proteins with unequal molecular properties are indispensable to compose and control the molecular machinery concerting neurotransmitter release through synaptic vesicle fusion with the presynaptic membrane. As presynaptic proteins are produced mainly in the neuronal soma, they are obliged to traffic along microtubules through the axon to reach the consuming presynapse. 
  • 264
  • 09 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Innate Lymphoid Cells in Brief
Innate Lymphoid Cells (ILCs) are a recently discovered, enigmatic class of immune cells that have garnered significant attention in the field of immunology. These cells play a pivotal role in maintaining tissue integrity, immune surveillance, and mediating immune responses at barrier surfaces, such as the skin, gut, and lungs. What sets ILCs apart is their ability to swiftly respond to challenges without the need for prior sensitization, distinguishing them from adaptive immune cells like T and B cells. ILCs rely on pattern recognition receptors and a repertoire of cytokines to detect and respond to a wide array of threats, including infections, tissue damage, and environmental changes. ILCs are classified into three main groups based on their cytokine production and transcription factor profiles: ILC1s, ILC2s, and ILC3s. ILC1s primarily defend against intracellular pathogens, ILC2s respond to parasitic infections and allergies, while ILC3s are essential for maintaining mucosal barrier integrity and regulating the gut microbiota. These cells are not only integral to immune defense but also have implications in various disease contexts, including infections, inflammatory disorders, cancer, and allergic conditions. Understanding ILC biology promises to shed light on new therapeutic strategies and revolutionize our approach to immune-related diseases. As our knowledge of ILCs deepens, these cells continue to unveil their potential as critical players in the intricate symphony of the immune system.
  • 245
  • 09 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Microtubule Cytoskeleton Organization, Cell Polarity, and Phosphoinositide Signaling
The capacity for cancer cells to metastasize to distant organs depends on their ability to execute the carefully choreographed processes of cell adhesion and migration. As most human cancers are of epithelial origin (carcinoma), the transcriptional downregulation of adherent/tight junction proteins (e.g., E-cadherin, Claudin and Occludin) with the concomitant gain of adhesive and migratory phenotypes has been extensively studied.
  • 253
  • 09 Oct 2023
Topic Review
T Lymphocytes in Brief
T lymphocytes, often referred to as T cells, are a crucial component of the immune system. These specialized white blood cells originate in the bone marrow and undergo maturation in the thymus gland. T cells are known for their remarkable specificity in recognizing antigens presented by other cells. This recognition is mediated by the T cell receptor (TCR) on their surface. There are two primary subsets of T lymphocytes: CD4+ T cells (helper T cells) and CD8+ T cells (cytotoxic T cells). Helper T cells assist in coordinating immune responses, while cytotoxic T cells directly target and destroy infected or abnormal cells. T cells also have memory subsets that provide long-term immunity. T lymphocytes play pivotal roles in defending the body against infections, regulating immune responses, and contributing to the immune system's ability to distinguish between self and non-self. Their diverse functions and clinical significance make T cells a subject of extensive research and therapeutic exploration in the field of immunology.
  • 384
  • 08 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Lymphocytes in Brief
Lymphocytes are a vital class of white blood cells that serve as the backbone of the immune system. These small yet powerful cells play a pivotal role in defending the body against infections, viruses, and other foreign invaders. Lymphocytes come in two main types: B lymphocytes (B cells) and T lymphocytes (T cells), each with distinct functions. B cells are the architects of humoral immunity, producing antibodies that can recognize and neutralize specific pathogens. They originate in the bone marrow and mature there, eventually differentiating into plasma cells that churn out antibodies. T cells, on the other hand, are central to cell-mediated immunity, a critical defense mechanism against intracellular threats like viruses. They mature in the thymus gland and include helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells, regulatory T cells, and memory T cells, each with specialized roles. Lymphocytes undergo complex developmental processes, ensuring they can identify invaders while avoiding attacks on the body's own cells. Their functions span innate and adaptive immunity, making them essential for maintaining health and responding to diseases. From protecting against infections to enabling vaccination and driving cutting-edge cancer treatments, lymphocytes are indispensable to our well-being, and ongoing research promises to unlock even more of their potential.
  • 627
  • 07 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Basophils in Brief
Basophils are a type of white blood cell that play a multifaceted role in the immune system. These enigmatic cells, constituting a mere 0.5% or less of the total white blood cell population, originate in the bone marrow and mature under the influence of various growth factors and cytokines. Traditionally known for their involvement in allergic reactions, basophils are equipped with high-affinity IgE receptors (FcεRI) that bind to allergens. Upon allergen exposure, basophils release histamine and other inflammatory mediators, triggering the hallmark symptoms of allergies. Beyond allergies, basophils are integral in the body's defense against parasitic infections. When they encounter parasitic antigens, they release cytokines like IL-4 and IL-13, promoting a Th2 immune response that helps eliminate parasites. Basophils also have a less explored role as regulators of the immune system, potentially influencing T cell differentiation and acting as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Additionally, they contribute to tissue repair and wound healing by releasing factors that stimulate angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. In clinical settings, basophils serve as valuable biomarkers for allergic diseases, parasitic infections, and certain hematological disorders. Ongoing research continues to unveil the diverse functions of basophils, highlighting their importance in immunology and beyond.
  • 276
  • 07 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Heterochromatin and Nuclear Phenotypes of T. infestans
Triatoma infestans (Klug), the most important vector of Chagas disease, is a hemipteran insect belonging to the Triatominae subfamily of the Reduviidae family and one of the 84 species of the Triatomini tribe.
  • 257
  • 07 Oct 2023
Topic Review
The Interaction between Melanoma Cells and Tumor Microenvironment
Malignant melanoma is a very aggressive skin cancer, characterized by a heterogeneous nature and high metastatic potential. The incidence of melanoma is continuously increasing worldwide, and it is one of the most common cancers in young adults. The understanding of melanoma biology has increased profoundly, and disease management for patients with disseminated disease has improved due to the emergence of immunotherapy and targeted therapy. However, a significant fraction of patients relapse or do not respond adequately to treatment. This can partly be explained by the complex signaling between the tumor and its microenvironment, giving rise to melanoma phenotypes with different patterns of disease progression.
  • 187
  • 06 Oct 2023
Topic Review
Beehive Products for Wound Repair and Skin Care
There is a long and interesting history between honeybees and humans. From the beginning, honey has been utilized not only as a sweetener, but also as an ointment and a drug to treat several diseases. Until the discovery of antibiotics, honey was a very popular product used to protect and preserve skin and promote wound healing, to counteract gastrointestinal pains and disorders of the oral cavity, and for other diseases. After the development of antibiotic resistance, honey again gained interest for its use in wound management. Subsequently, more recently, in vitro and in vivo studies have displayed antimicrobial, antioxidant, and other effects of honey and honeybee products, as well as protection of cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems. 
  • 257
  • 06 Oct 2023
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