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Delve into the world of C-reactive protein (CRP), a critical player in the body's response to inflammation, and understand its role in health and disease. Key Takeaways C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation, increasing in response to infection, injury, or tissue damage. Produced by the liver, it's regulated by IL-6 and involved in immune responses. CRP's functions include pathogen recognition, opsonization, activating the complement system, and modulating inflammation. Used as a diagnostic biomarker, CRP levels help assess inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated CRP levels are associated with various conditions, including infections, autoimmune dis …

Explore antigen presentation's crucial role in adaptive immunity and its impact on cancer immunotherapy, highlighting the diversity and function of MHC class I molecules. Key Takeaways Antigen presentation by MHC class I is key for adaptive immunity. Specialized cells, antigen-presenting cells (APCs), present antigens to T cells. MHC-I molecules' polymorphism enables diverse antigen presentation. Cancer immunotherapy leverages antigen presentation to target tumor cells. What is Antigen Presentation? Our immune system has various mechanisms to defend against pathogens, with adaptive immunity being a crucial component. Adaptive immunity enables our immune syst …

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: Tumorigenesi …

Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. It has gained significant attention in the field of leukemia research due to its multifaceted functions and potential therapeutic applications. In this blog the molecular structure, biological sources, signaling pathways, and the role of LIF in leukemia will be discussed. Table of Contents …

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-kno …

Transfection protocols play a crucial role in the realm of molecular biology and genetic research, enabling the introduction of foreign nucleic acids into living cells. This innovative technique allows scientists to manipulate gene expression, study protein function, and investigate cellular processes with remarkable precision. This article focusses on the fundamental principles underlying transfection protocols, exploring their significance and various approaches employed for achieving successful genetic delivery Table of Contents …

What is VEGF? Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs) are a group of homodimeric polypeptides, and are master regulators of vascular development, maintenance and angiogenesis. VEGF is also a potent growth factor, and is produced by macrophages and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Members of the VEGF family include 5 structurally related proteins (VEGFA-D, and placental growth factor (PIGF), which are further individually subdivided based on alternative splicing. VEGF acts as a potent stimulator of angiogenesis, promoting the growth and survival of endothelial cells, and is essential for embryonic development and tissue re …

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 …

The immune system plays a critical role in defending the body against pathogens and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Within the intricate network of immune cells, CD11b, also known as integrin alpha M, emerges as a significant player in immunology and neuroscience. CD11b serves as a cell surface marker that aids in identifying and characterizing specific immune cell populations, particularly macrophages and microglia. Understanding the role of CD11b and its association with these cells provides valuable insights into various disease processes, immune responses, and neuroinflammatory disorders. In this blog post, we will look at the structure and function of CD11b, its significance …

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 …

What is Immunometabolism? Immunometabolism is an exponentially growing, multi-disciplinary field of research aiming at deciphering the dynamic cellular and molecular mechanisms that interweave metabolic and immunological processes together. Although the term “immunometabolism” first appeared in the literature in 2011, the first studies investigating the connection between immune and metabolic disorders date back to the late 19th century. Our expanding understanding of how different immune cell functions correlate with particular metabolic configurations during home …

Pyruvate dehydrogenase is a complex enzyme involved in the conversion of pyruvate, a product of glycolysis, into acetyl-CoA, a crucial molecule in energy production and intermediary metabolism. Table of Contents Jump to a section: - PDH Structure & Function - PDH Regulation - PDH & Cancer - PDH Related Kits - PDH & PDC .nav__list { list-st …

What is a Plasma Membrane? The plasma membrane, also known as the cell membrane, is a vital component of all cells. It is a thin, semi-permeable barrier that separates the cell's internal environment from the external surroundings. This crucial structure plays a fundamental role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of the cell. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.assaygenie.com/plasma-membrane-markers" }, "headli …

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": "Resea …

As a vital component of the immune system, the Alternative Complement Pathway plays a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens and maintaining immune homeostasis. In this blog, we will explore the underlying mechanisms of its activation, examine the key components involved, and shed light on its intricate biological functions. Key Takeaways: The Alternative Complement Pathway is crucial for immune defense, activating spontaneously or in response to pathogens. It contributes to inflammation, opsonization, and the clearance of immune complexes. Regulated by proteins like factor H and I to prevent damage to healthy cells. Dysregulation of this pathway is linked …

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 overv …

What Are Personalized Cancer Vaccines? Personalized cancer vaccines are a cutting-edge approach in cancer treatment that are designed to activate a patient's immune system against their specific tumor. Unlike traditional vaccines that target infectious agents, personalized cancer vaccines are tailored to each individual's unique tumor characteristics. These vaccines are customized to exploit the specific genetic mutations and alterations present in the patient's tumor cells. How Do Personalized Cancer Vaccines Work? Per …

Delving into the world of Lactobacilli, this piece explores their structural intricacies, metabolic functions, and the pivotal role they play in human health. These bacteria, key components in probiotic supplements, demonstrate abilities that span from enhancing immunity to optimizing digestive health and mitigating inflammation. Key Takeaways: Lactobacilli are crucial lactic acid bacteria, offering various health benefits, including immune boosting, digestive improvement, and inflammation reduction. They are prevalent in probiotic supplements and possess unique characteristics such as structure, metabolism, and specific health benefits. { "@context": "https: …

What is Hepatocyte Growth Factor? Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a cytokine that is mainly produced by the liver. HGF is a pleiotrophic cytokine that regulates cell growth, motility, and morphogenesis. The majority of HGF is produced by the liver, but it is also expressed in other organs, such as the kidney, pancreas, and intestine. HGF binds to its cognate receptor, c-Met, which is present on the surface of many types of cells. However, it has no measurable protease activity. Binding of HGF to c-Met leads to activation of multiple signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation, survival, migration, and differentiation. Key Takeaways Hepatocyte Growth Factor …

Introduction Microtubules are key components of the cytoskeleton and are composed of alpha and beta tubulin. These dimerise in a head to tail fashion to form 13 linear protofilaments. The protofilaments associate initially into sheets and subsequently into hollow tubes with a diameter of roughly 25 nm. These hollow tubes radiate from the microtubule-organising centre (MTOC) located at the centrosome in interphase cells. Microtubules are essential in intracellular trafficking of vesicles and mitochondria, cell polarisation and migration. Furthermore, microtubules are involved in the development and maintenance of cell shape. In mitosis, microtubules undergo dynamic instabili …

Exploring sepsis: a critical imbalance in the immune response to infection. Key Takeaways: Sepsis is a severe, immune-driven response to infection causing systemic inflammation and potential organ damage. It progresses through stages: initial sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock, each with increasing severity. Complications include organ failure, septic shock, ARDS, blood clots, and long-term impairments. Immune responses in sepsis vary from hypo-inflammation (weak) to hyper-inflammation (excessive). Understanding these responses is key for effective sepsis treatment and management. What is Sepsis? Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the bod …

Exploring DNA's essence, this guide illuminates its structure, function, and purification techniques, essential in fields like medicine and biotechnology. Key Takeaways: DNA's Structure: Composed of nucleotides adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine, forming a double helix. Charge Properties: DNA exhibits a negative charge due to phosphate groups. Central Dogma: DNA's role in protein synthesis and inheritance. Extraction Methods: Techniques for isolating DNA. Purification Techniques: Ensuring DNA's integrity for analysis. Genomic DNA: The complete genetic information in cells. DNA Assays: Tools for DNA analysis and research applications. { "@context": "https://schem …

What Are GPCRs? GPCRs, or G protein-coupled receptors, are a large family of membrane proteins that play a crucial role in cell signaling. They are involved in transmitting signals from the extracellular environment to the inside of cells, thereby regulating various physiological processes. GPCRs are classified into different classes based on their structural and functional characteristics. Some of the major classes include Rhodopsin-like (Class A), Secretin-like (Class B), Metabotropic glutamate/pheromone (Class C), Fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D), cAMP receptors (Class E) and Frizzled/Smoothened (Class F) recept …

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition, is characterized by a dysregulated immune response to an infection, leading to systemic inflammation and organ dysfunction. Biomarkers, as measurable indicators of biological processes, hold immense potential in the field of sepsis diagnosis, prognosis, and management. In this article, we explore the critical role that biomarkers play in sepsis, particularly their significance in early detection and diagnosis. We delve into the latest research and advancements in biomarker identification, their association with the immune response duri …