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Topic Review
Connexins in Cancer
The expression, localization, and function of connexins, the protein subunits that comprise gap junctions, are often altered in cancer. In addition to cell–cell coupling through gap junction channels, connexins also form hemichannels that allow communication between the cell and the extracellular space and perform non-junctional intracellular activities. Historically, connexins have been considered tumor suppressors; however, they can also serve tumor-promoting functions in some contexts. Here, we review the literature surrounding connexins in cancer cells in terms of specific connexin functions and propose that connexins function upstream of most, if not all, of the hallmarks of cancer. The development of advanced connexin targeting approaches remains an opportunity for the field to further interrogate the role of connexins in cancer phenotypes, particularly through the use of in vivo models. More specific modulators of connexin function will both help elucidate the functions of connexins in cancer and advance connexin-specific therapies in the clinic.
  • 734
  • 24 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Aquaporins in Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of membrane water channel proteins that control osmotically-driven water transport across cell membranes. Recent studies have focused on the assessment of fluid flux regulation in relation to the biological processes that maintain mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) physiology. In particular, AQPs seem to regulate MSC proliferation through rapid regulation of the cell volume. Furthermore, several reports have shown that AQPs play a crucial role in modulating MSC attachment to the extracellular matrix, their spread, and migration. This review aims to describe the recent findings on AQPs role in MSCs physiology taking into account their reflex for potential applicatio in regenerative medicine.
  • 641
  • 24 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Aquaporins and Female Reproductive System
Aquaporins constitute a group of water channel proteins located in numerous cell types. These are pore-forming transmembrane proteins, which mediate the specific passage of water molecules through membranes. It is well-known that water homeostasis plays a crucial role in different reproductive processes, e.g., oocyte transport, hormonal secretion, completion of successful fertilization, blastocyst formation, pregnancy, and birth. Further, aquaporins are involved in the process of spermatogenesis, and they have been reported to be involved during the storage of spermatozoa. It is noteworthy that aquaporins are relevant for the physiological function of specific parts in the female reproductive system.
  • 1.4K
  • 22 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Intestinal Stem Cells
Intestinal stem cells (ISC) are crucial players in colon epithelium physiology. The accurate control of their auto-renewal, proliferation and differentiation capacities provides a constant flow of regeneration, maintaining the epithelial intestinal barrier integrity. Under stress conditions, colon epithelium homeostasis in disrupted, evolving towards pathologies such as inflammatory bowel diseases or colorectal cancer. A specific environment, namely the ISC niche constituted by the surrounding mesenchymal stem cells, the factors they secrete and the extracellular matrix (ECM), tightly controls ISC homeostasis. Colon ECM controls ISC homeostasis by exerting physical constraint on the enclosed stem cells through peculiar topography, stiffness and deformability.
  • 1.7K
  • 22 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Cell Adhesive Force Microscopy
Cell adhesive force, exerting on the local matrix or neighboring cells, plays a critical role in regulating many cell functions and physiological processes. In the past four decades, significant efforts have been dedicated to cell adhesive force detection, visualization and quantification. Traction force microscopy (TFM) pioneered the detection and visualization of cell adhesive force. A recent important methodological advancement in cell adhesive force visualization is to ultilize fluorescent tension sensor (FTS) to convert force to fluorescence onsite, thus greatly improving the sensitivity and resolution of force imaging. Here, TFM and FTS-based imaging techniques are collectively termed as Cell Adhesive Force Microscopy (CAFM).
  • 970
  • 17 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Extracellular Vesicles in Epigenetic Regulation
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are complex phospholipidic structures actively released by cells. EVs are recognized as powerful means of intercellular communication since they contain many signaling molecules (including lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids).
  • 653
  • 14 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Sample Entropy
Sample entropy, fractal dimension, Lyapunov exponent used as nonlinear measures, and assessment of the variability of the center of pressure during standing using force plate. 
  • 757
  • 14 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Betel quid (BQ) chewing increased the risk of oral cancer and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), an oral premalignant disorder (OPMD) with malignant transformation potential. BQ components such as areca nut (AN), trauma by coarse AN fiber, catechin, copper, alkaloids, stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation and cytotoxicity are suggested to be the contributing factors. In this review, the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover related genes and proteins in OSMF and the relation to betel quid chewing habit is discussed. Genetic susceptibility of ECM-related genes to OSMF is also mentioned. These results can facilitate our understanding the pathogenesis of OSMF and its possible prevention/treatment in the future.
  • 883
  • 08 Dec 2020
Topic Review
5-Methylcytosine
The human genome has additional regulation layers for the regulation of transcription. The DNA methylation is a key epigenetic process that sharp in functional regions in the genome. The 5-methylcytosine patterns in promoter regions are related to gene expression regulation.
  • 839
  • 08 Dec 2020
Topic Review
Yeast Cell Polarity
A bottom-up route towards predicting evolution relies on a deep understanding of the complex network that proteins form inside cells. In a rapidly expanding panorama of experimental possibilities, the most difficult question is how to conceptually approach the disentangling of such complex networks. These can exhibit varying degrees of hierarchy and modularity, which obfuscate protein functions that may prove pivotal for adaptation. Using the well-established polarity network in budding yeast as a case study, we organize current literature to highlight protein entrenchments inside polarity in five sub modules: timing, mating, bud-scar, reaction-diffusion and the actin pathway. 
  • 725
  • 07 Dec 2020
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