Article
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Robert D. Hume, Shaan Kanagalingam, Tejas Deshmukh, Siqi Chen, Suzanne M. Mithieux, Fairooj N. Rashid, Iman Roohani, Juntang Lu, Tram Doan, Dinny Graham, Zoe E. Clayton, Eugene Slaughter, Eddy Kizana, April S. Stempien-Otero, Paula Brown, Liza Thomas, Anthony S. Weiss, James J. H. Chong
Summary: This study demonstrated that tropoelastin can improve post-MI healing by enhancing cardiac repair and reducing scar formation. Tropoelastin injection significantly improved left ventricular function, reduced scar size, and increased scar elastin content. Furthermore, it promoted elastic fiber formation and reduced immune response. The findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies for manipulating scar synthesis after MI.
CIRCULATION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Dermatology
Aniqa Chowdhury, Nasim Nosoudi, Saketh Karamched, Vaideesh Parasaram, Naren Vyavahare
Summary: The combination of polyphenols with short exposure to UVA light can increase extracellular matrix deposition of elastin and collagen, potentially improving skin properties.
JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGICAL SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Madison E. Bates, Leia Troop, M. Ethan Brown, Jennifer L. Puetzer
Summary: The application of exogenous LOX protein significantly improves the mechanical performance of tissue engineered constructs, with timing of application being crucial. This study provides insights into the cellular regulation of LOX crosslinking.
ACTA BIOMATERIALIA
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Kirklann Lau, Sean Reichheld, Simon Sharpe, Marta Cerruti
Summary: Elastic fiber assembly is a complex process that is influenced by the timing and kinetics of coacervation and crosslinking, which affect the morphology of elastin.
Article
Physiology
Michael Fagiola, Sandra Reznik, Muhammad Riaz, Yibing Qyang, Seoyeon Lee, Joseph Avella, Gerard Turino, Jerome Cantor
Summary: The study investigated the relationship between airspace size and elastin-specific cross links in normal and emphysematous human lungs. It was found that there was a positive correlation between elastin degradation and alveolar diameter, indicating that airspace enlargement in pulmonary emphysema is an emergent phenomenon.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-LUNG CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Nataliya Migulina, Gavin Tjin, Alen Faiz, Theo Borghuis, Fenghua Zhao, Hans J. Kaper, Marit Metzlar, Eline van Dijk, Prashant K. Sharma, Wim Timens, Reinoud Gosens, Corry-Anke Brandsma, Janette K. Burgess
Summary: This study investigated the effects of smoking and COPD on LOs gene and protein expression in the airways and found that LOs alterations may be related to smoking and contribute to impaired airway function in COPD, providing potential novel targets for prevention or treatment of small airways changes in COPD.
Article
Ophthalmology
Manohar Rebecca, Krishnamoorthy Sripriya, M. Bharathselvi, B. Shantha, Lingam Vijaya, Narayanasamy Angayarkanni
Summary: The study found increased elastin degradation and turnover in the lens capsule of PXF patients, indicating up-regulation of the elastogenesis machinery. This suggests abnormal elastin turnover in PXF patients with significant molecular changes.
EXPERIMENTAL EYE RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Candela Diaz-Canestro, Yustina M. Puspitasari, Luca Liberale, Tomasz J. Guzik, Andreas J. Flammer, Nicole R. Bonetti, Patricia Wust, Sarah Costantino, Francesco Paneni, Alexander Akhmedov, Zsuzsanna Varga, Stefano Ministrini, Juerg H. Beer, Frank Ruschitzka, Matthias Hermann, Thomas F. Luescher, Isabella Sudano, Giovanni G. Camici
Summary: Arterial stiffness, a hallmark of vascular aging, is closely related to elevated levels of MMP-2. Knockdown of MMP-2 gene can effectively attenuate age-dependent arterial stiffness.
CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jinwon Park, Jung Suk Kim, Geon Yang, Hobin Lee, Gayong Shim, Jaiwoo Lee, Yu Kyoung Oh
Summary: The researchers designed LOX-responsive nanoparticles to interact with the collagen matrix in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro experiments showed that these nanoparticles could bind to LOX-secreting CT26 cells, but this binding was blocked by a LOX inhibitor. In mouse experiments, the addition of the LOX inhibitor did not significantly change the antitumor efficacy of the nanoparticles. However, without the LOX inhibitor, a single administration of the nanoparticles provided sustained responsiveness to near-infrared irradiation and ablation of primary tumors.
JOURNAL OF CONTROLLED RELEASE
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Carolina Anazco, Janin Riedelsberger, Lorenzo Vega-Montoto, Armando Rojas
Summary: Collagen is a vital structural protein in mammals and is strengthened by complex enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions, such as covalent cross-linking and glycation. This review article explores the amine oxidase-like activity of plant polyphenols and their potential as antiglycation agents. It also discusses the molecular mechanisms by which specific flavonoids impact or protect the normal collagen cross-linking process, with the aim of promoting the stabilization of highly organized collagen fibrils.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Federico Capuana, Alkystis Phinikaridou, Rachele Stefania, Sergio Padovan, Begona Lavin, Sara Lacerda, Eyad Almouazen, Yves Chevalier, Laurence Heinrich-Balard, Rene M. Botnar, Silvio Aime, Giuseppe Digilio
Summary: The use of Gd-4-TESMA, a tetrameric probe specifically designed for molecular imaging of tropoelastin within atherosclerotic plaques, shows great promise in enhancing the characterization of plaque progression compared to monomeric counterparts.
JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Matthew R. Aronoff, Paul Hiebert, Nina B. Hentzen, Sabine Werner, Helma Wennemers
Summary: Collagens are essential fibrous proteins for connective tissues, and lysyl oxidases play a crucial role in their cross-linking process. Abnormal LOX activity is associated with various diseases. The probe presented in this study can monitor and target LOX-mediated collagen cross-linking, potentially improving understanding of collagen remodeling and offering new opportunities for diagnosing fibrotic and malignant diseases.
NATURE CHEMICAL BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Qiuchen Guo, Duanchen Sun, Alexander S. Barrett, Sonali Jindal, Nathan D. Pennock, Matthew W. Conklin, Zheng Xia, Elizabeth Mitchell, Ravikant Samatham, Naomi Mirza, Steven Jacques, Sheila Weinmann, Virginia F. Borges, Kirk C. Hansen, Pepper J. Schedin
Summary: Mammographically-detected breast density has an impact on breast cancer risk and progression, and the presence of fibrillar collagen plays a crucial role in breast density. This study investigated the physiological factors influencing collagen production in the breast. Through the analysis of gene expression in female rats, the study revealed a triphasic pattern of collagen gene regulation and reproductive state-dependent composition. The findings were confirmed in human breast tissue from premenopausal women. The study also found a correlation between the collagen gene signature and poor progression-free survival in breast cancer patients. These findings contribute to a better understanding of normal breast function, the etiology of breast density, and breast cancer risk and outcomes.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Michael Fagiola, George Gu, Joseph Avella, Jerome Cantor
Summary: This study evaluated the free DID content in unhydrolyzed tissues as a more accurate biomarker for pulmonary emphysema. The results showed a significant positive correlation between free DID levels and the extent of alveolar wall injury.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Shataakshi Dahal, Mei Kuang, Anna Rietsch, R. S. Butler, Anand Ramamurthi, Margot S. Damaser
Summary: This study validated a technique for analyzing elastic fibers in vaginal tissues using an LOXL1 KO mouse model. The results showed significant changes in the characteristics of elastic fibers in POP tissues, with elastogenic growth factors treatment causing further alterations.
ANNALS OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging
Stijn E. Verleden, Arno Vanstapel, Joseph Jacob, Tinne Goos, Jeroen Hendriks, Laurens J. Ceulemans, Dirk E. Van Raemdonck, Laurens De Sadeleer, Robin Vos, Johanna M. Kwakkel-van Erp, Arne P. Neyrinck, Geert M. Verleden, Matthieu N. Boone, Wim Janssens, Els Wauters, Birgit Weynand, Danny D. Jonigk, Johny Verschakelen, Wim A. Wuyts
Summary: This study determined the correlation between radiologic findings and histopathologic results in CT-defined interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) in human lung explants.
Article
Acoustics
J. Janssen, J. van Drongelen, W. F. Daamen, J. P. C. Grutters
Summary: Early-stage health economic modeling was used to estimate the potential value of an advanced sealing plug for fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) in the context of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The model showed that the plug strategy has the potential to be cost-effective, as only a minor reduction in the risk of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) and preterm delivery (PTD) is needed. Continued research and development of the plug strategy is deemed to provide value for money.
ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Rob T. C. Meuwese, Elly M. M. Versteeg, Joris van Drongelen, Danielle de Hoog, Debora Bouwhuis, Frank P. H. A. Vandenbussche, Toin H. van Kuppevelt, Willeke F. Daamen
Summary: A biocompatible collagen plug with shape memory was developed to prevent premature birth after fetal surgery. The plug expands upon application and seals fetal membrane defects, preventing amniotic fluid leakage and potential premature rupture of fetal membranes (iPPROM).
BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
(2023)
Editorial Material
Respiratory System
Wim Janssens, Geert M. Verleden
EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW
(2023)
Article
Respiratory System
Thierr Troosters, Wim Janssens, Heleen Demeyer, Roberto A. Rabinovic
Summary: Pulmonary rehabilitation is an evidence-based therapy for patients with symptomatic COPD. It includes various disciplines and formats of healthcare to accommodate patients' limitations. Exercise training is a cornerstone intervention, and adaptations can lead to different training effects or improved movement efficiency. Optimizing pharmacotherapy and using modalities such as oxygen supplements, low- and high-intensity training, resistance training, inspiratory muscle training, and whole-body vibration are important for these patients. The future holds promise for further personalizing exercise training and tailoring rehabilitation to individual needs.
EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Patricia Suurs, Henry van den Brand, Robin ten Have, Willeke F. Daamen, Shai Barbut
Summary: Co-extrusion is an automated sausage production process that uses a continuous collagen dispersion to encase meat and form sausages. This study investigated the properties of collagen preparations from different sources for co-extrusion. The dispersions showed different rheological and mechanical properties, with American Calf, Dutch Heavy Veal, and Danish Ox and/or Heifer being potentially suitable alternatives.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Rick Heida, Paul Hagedoorn, Melle C. van Meel, Jurrie E. R. Prins, Frederike S. Simonis, Renate Akkerman, Anke L. W. Huckriede, Henderik W. Frijlink, Anne H. de Boer, Wouter L. J. Hinrichs
Summary: A challenge in developing dry powder formulations for inhalation is the poor reproducibility of administration to small laboratory animals. Current devices for delivering dry powder formulations to small rodents often fail to function optimally due to the use of the same puff of air for both powder dispersion and aerosol delivery. A novel aerosol generator was introduced, allowing the administration of a pre-generated aerosol to mice lungs, with controlled powder delivery. Although the emitted aerosol showed favorable size range for lung deposition and reproducibility, in vivo fluorescent imaging revealed significant differences in dose deposition and powder distribution among mice, suggesting inevitable biological variation in lung deposition.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Khanh T. T. Nguyen, Daan Zillen, Franca F. M. van Heijningen, Kjeld J. C. van Bommel, Renz J. van Ee, Henderik W. Frijlink, Wouter L. J. Hinrichs
Summary: This study demonstrates the successful production of PBP tablets with smooth surfaces that can be directly coated with the ColoPulse coating, while preserving the stability of the encapsulated biopharmaceutical, BIAP.
Meeting Abstract
Critical Care Medicine
M. Topalovic, P. Desbordes, J. Maes, F. de Jong, K. Sylvester, C. Vogelmeier, A. Dinh-Xuan, J. Mortensen, W. Janssens
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Critical Care Medicine
K. Verstraete, I. Gyselinck, H. Huts, M. Staes, M. De Vos, W. Janssens
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Critical Care Medicine
K. Wu, A. Moran-Macdonald, S. Ledoux, A. Hsieh, J. D. Cooper, W. L. Janssens, S. Everaerts, B. Vanaudenaerde, J. C. Hogg, D. M. Vasilescu, T. Hackett
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Critical Care Medicine
C. De Fays, H. Beeckmans, P. Kerckhof, V. Geudens, A. Vermaut, I. Gyselinck, T. Goos, M. Vermant, J. Kaes, J. Van Slambrouck, Y. Mohamady, L. Willems, L. Aversa, K. Maes, C. Aelbrecht, S. Everaerts, J. E. Mcdonough, L. J. De Sadeleer, S. Gohy, J. Ambroise, W. A. Wuyts, W. L. Janssens, L. J. Ceulemans, D. E. M. Van Raemdonck, R. Vos, T. Hackett, J. C. Hogg, N. Kaminski, C. Pilette, G. Gayan-Ramirez, B. Vanaudenaerde
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Nancy Avila-Martinez, Merel Gansevoort, Juul Verbakel, Haarshaadri Jayaprakash, Ines Maria Araujo, Marta Vitorino, Gustavo Tiscornia, Toin H. van Kuppevelt, Willeke F. Daamen
Summary: Achieving regeneration in humans has been a long-standing goal, and recent research has focused on the African spiny mouse's injury resistance and tissue regeneration capabilities. This review compares the wound healing and regeneration processes of the African spiny mouse and the axolotl, and identifies consistently upregulated matrisome genes that could be potential candidates for biomaterials aiming to promote regeneration.
BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
P. Kerckhof, G. P. Ambrosio, H. Beeckmans, J. Kaes, V. Geudens, J. Slambrouck, S. Bos, M. Vermant, C. Aelbrecht, W. Lynn, V. Astrid, L. Aversa, Y. Mohamady, X. Jin, D. Charlott, T. Goos, G. Iwein, A. Vanstapel, M. Orlitova, M. Boone, W. Janssens, I. Josipovic, V. Varghese, L. Dupont, L. Godinas, G. Verleden, D. Van Raemdonck, L. Ceulemans, A. Neyrinck, J. McDonough, G. Gayan-Ramirez, B. Vanaudenaerde, R. Vos
JOURNAL OF HEART AND LUNG TRANSPLANTATION
(2023)