ScienceDaily: Mouse News

Vaccine blackjack: IL-21 critical to fight against viral infections

Thu, 23 May 2013 16:22:22 EDT

Scientists have shown that an immune regulatory molecule called IL-21 is needed for long-lasting antibody responses in mice against viral infections.

Mosquito behavior may be immune response, not parasite manipulation

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:20:20 EDT

Malaria-carrying mosquitoes appear to be manipulated by the parasites they carry, but this manipulation may simply be part of the mosquitoes' immune response, according to entomologists.

Slowing the aging process -- only with antibiotics

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:11:11 EDT

Scientists reveal the mechanism responsible for aging hidden deep within mitochondria -- and dramatically slow it down in worms by administering antibiotics to the young.

How immune system peacefully co-exists with 'good' bacteria

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:09:09 EDT

The human gut is loaded with helpful bacteria microbes, yet the immune system seemingly turns a blind eye. Now, researchers know how this friendly truce is kept intact. Innate lymphoid cells directly limit the response by inflammatory T cells to commensal bacteria in the gut of mice. Loss of this ILC function effectively puts the immune system on an extended war footing against the commensal bacteria a condition observed in multiple chronic inflammatory diseases.

Intestinal bacteria protect against E. coli O157:H7

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:42:42 EDT

A cocktail of non-pathogenic bacteria naturally occurring in the digestive tract of healthy humans can protect against a potentially lethal E. coli infection in animal models according to new research.

Now we know why old scizophrenia medicine works on antibiotics-resistant bacteria

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:37:37 EDT

An old medicine for schizophrenia is effective at treating something completely different than it was designed for: antibiotic-resistant bacteria. So far it has been a mystery how this old schizophrenia medicine works, but now researchers have figured it out. This can lead to a new medicine against the increasingly threatening antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Intestinal bacterium Akkermansia curbs obesity

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:37:37 EDT

A dominant and useful bacterium called Akkermansia muciniphila is present in the intestinal system of all humans, from babies to the elderly. This microorganism is found in the intestinal mucus layer that protects against intruders. Even more remarkable is that this bacterium has a favorable effect on the disrupted metabolism associated with obesity.

Same musicians play a brand new tune: Unusual interplay of signaling pathways shapes critical eye structure

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:54:54 EDT

A small ensemble of musicians can produce an infinite number of melodies, harmonies and rhythms. So too, do a handful of workhorse signaling pathways that interact to construct multiple structures that comprise the vertebrate body. In fact, crosstalk between two of those pathways -- those governed by proteins known as Notch and BMP (for Bone Morphogenetic Protein) receptors -- occurs over and over in processes as diverse as forming a tooth, sculpting a heart valve and building a brain.

Engineered biomaterial could improve success of medical implants

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:28:28 EDT

Expensive, state-of-the-art medical devices and surgeries often are thwarted by the body's natural response to attack something in the tissue that appears foreign. Now, engineers have demonstrated in mice a way to prevent this sort of response.

Serotonin mediates exercise-induced generation of new neurons

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:09:09 EDT

Mice that exercise in running wheels exhibit increased neurogenesis in the brain. Crucial to this process is serotonin signaling. Surprisingly, mice lacking brain serotonin due to a genetic mutation exhibited normal baseline neurogenesis. However, in these serotonin-deficient mice, activity-induced proliferation was impaired, and wheel running did not induce increased generation of new neurons.

How individuality develops: Experience leads to growth of new brain cells

Thu, 09 May 2013 14:20:20 EDT

How do organisms evolve into individuals that are distinguished from others by their own personal brain structure and behavior? Scientists have now taken a decisive step towards clarifying this question. Using mice as an animal model, they were able to show that individual experiences influence the development of new neurons, leading to measurable changes in the brain.

Soy and tomato may be effective in preventing prostate cancer

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:43:43 EDT

Tomatoes and soy foods may be more effective in preventing prostate cancer when they are eaten together than when either is eaten alone, said a new study.

Differences between 'marathon mice' and 'couch potato mice' reveal key to muscle fitness

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:26:26 EDT

Using "marathon" and "couch potato" mouse models, researchers have discovered that microRNAs link the defining characteristics of fit muscles: The abilities to burn fuel and switch between muscle fiber types. They also found that active people have higher levels of one microRNA than sedentary people.

New technique to track cell interactions in living bodies developed

Mon, 06 May 2013 18:16:16 EDT

Researchers have developed a new technique to see how different types of cells interact in a living mouse.

Critical link in mammalian odor detection identified

Mon, 06 May 2013 16:12:12 EDT

Researchers at the Monell Center have identified a protein that is critical to the ability of mammals to smell. Mice engineered to be lacking the Ggamma13 protein in their olfactory receptors were functionally anosmic – unable to smell. The findings may lend insight into the underlying causes of certain smell disorders in humans.

Epilepsy cured in mice using brain cells

Fri, 03 May 2013 23:03:03 EDT

Epilepsy that does not respond to drugs can be halted in adult mice by transplanting a specific type of cell into the brain, researchers have discovered, raising hope that a similar treatment might work in severe forms of human epilepsy.

Human brain cells developed in lab, grow in mice

Fri, 03 May 2013 23:03:03 EDT

A key type of human brain cell developed in the laboratory grows seamlessly when transplanted into the brains of mice, researchers have discovered, raising hope that these cells might one day be used to treat people with Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and possibly even Alzheimer’s disease, as well as and complications of spinal cord injury such as chronic pain and spasticity.

Scientists revolutionize creation of genetically altered mice to model human disease

Thu, 02 May 2013 13:17:17 EDT

Scientists have efficiently created mouse models with multiple gene mutations in a matter of weeks. Because the method does not require embryonic stem cells, the approach also could allow any animal to become a model organism.

New imaging technique to visualize bio-metals and molecules simultaneously

Thu, 02 May 2013 08:17:17 EDT

Metal elements and molecules interact in the body but visualizing them together has always been a challenge. Researchers have now developed a new molecular imaging technology that enables them to visualize bio-metals and bio-molecules simultaneously in a live mouse. This new technology will enable researchers to study the complex interactions between metal elements and molecules in living organisms.

Potential novel treatment for influenza discovered: Scientists pursue new therapies as deadly H7N9 flu spreads in China

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:44:44 EDT

An experimental drug has shown promise in treating influenza, preventing lung injury and death from the virus in preclinical studies, according to new research. The scientists found that a drug called Eritoran can protect mice from death after they have been infected with a lethal dose of influenza virus.

Hypothalamus: Brain region may hold key to aging

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:18:18 EDT

While the search continues for the Fountain of Youth, researchers may have found the body's "fountain of aging": the brain region known as the hypothalamus. For the first time, scientists report that the hypothalamus of mice controls aging throughout the body. Their discovery of a specific age-related signaling pathway opens up new strategies for combating diseases of old age and extending lifespan.

Cat and mouse: One gene is necessary for mice to avoid predators

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:41:41 EDT

A new study involving olfactory receptors provides evidence that a single gene is necessary for a mouse to avoid a cat. A research team has shown that removing one olfactory receptor from mice can have a profound effect on their behavior. The gene, called TAAR4, encodes a receptor that responds to a chemical that is enriched in the urine of carnivores. While normal mice innately avoid the scent marks of predators, mice lacking the TAAR4 receptor do not.

Will green tea help you lose weight?

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:47:47 EDT

Green tea extract in tandem with an additional compound could be effective for body weight control and type 2 diabetes, a new study in mice indicates. Evidence has shown that green tea extract may be an effective herbal remedy useful for weight control and helping to regulate glucose in type 2 diabetes.

Developmental neurobiology: How the brain folds to fit

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:55:55 EDT

During fetal development of the mammalian brain, the cerebral cortex undergoes a marked expansion in surface area in some species, which is accommodated by folding of the tissue in species with most expanded neuron numbers and surface area. Researchers have now identified a key regulator of this crucial process.

Roundworm quells obesity and related metabolic disorders

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:45:45 EDT

Researchers have shown in a mouse model that infection with nematodes (also known as roundworms) can not only combat obesity but ameliorate related metabolic disorders.

Thanks to rare alpine bacteria, researchers identify one of alcohol's key gateways to the brain

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:28:28 EDT

Thanks to a rare bacteria that grows only on rocks in the Swiss Alps, researchers have been the first to identify how alcohol might affect key brain proteins.

Firefly protein lights up degenerating muscles, aiding muscular-dystrophy research

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:58:58 EDT

Scientists have created a mouse model of muscular dystrophy in which degenerating muscle tissue gives off visible light.

Transgenic mice ready to fight obesity, and more

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:13:13 EDT

Scientists have investigated mice with a very precisely modified genome. Because it is possible to turn off the Dicer gene in adult mice, they can be used to investigate the processes related to such cognitive functions such as learning and memory. Also scientists have just shown that the new transgenic mouse is suitable to study metabolic dysfunctions resulting in obesity.

'Toggle switch' to burn fat identified

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:07:07 EDT

For a long time, scientists have dreamt of converting undesirable white fat cells into brown fat cells and thus simply have excess pounds melt away. Researchers have now gotten a step closer to this goal: They decoded a “toggle switch” in mice which can significantly stimulate fat burning.

Bacteria may contribute to premature births, STDs

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:24:24 EDT

New research points to a common species of bacteria as an important contributor to bacterial vaginosis, a condition linked to preterm birth and increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Uncleaned cells mean weak muscles

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:10:10 EDT

The protein complex mTORC1 promotes muscle growth. However, should this complex remain constantly active, it impairs the ability of the cells to self-clean, causing myopathy. Scientists have now described the exact mechanism involved.

Radioactive bacteria targets metastatic pancreatic cancer

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:47:47 EDT

Researchers have developed a therapy for pancreatic cancer that uses Listeria bacteria to selectively infect tumor cells and deliver radioisotopes into them. The experimental treatment dramatically decreased the number of metastases (cancers that have spread to other parts of the body) in a mouse model of highly aggressive pancreatic cancer without harming healthy tissue.

Muscle repair after injury helped by fat-forming cells

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:16:16 EDT

Scientists have discovered that muscle repair requires the action of two types of cells better known for causing inflammation and forming fat.

Quest for edible malarial vaccine leads to other potential medical uses for algae

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:26:26 EDT

Can scientists rid malaria from the Third World by simply feeding algae genetically engineered with a vaccine? That's the question biologists sought to answer after they demonstrated last May that algae can be engineered to produce a vaccine that blocks malaria transmission. In a follow up study, they got their answer: Not yet, although the same method may work as a vaccine against a wide variety of viral and bacterial infections.

From blank round to a potently active substance?

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:10:10 EDT

A long-forgotten candidate for antiviral therapy is undergoing a renaissance: Since the 1970s, the small molecule CMA has been considered a potent agent against viral infections, yet it was never approved for clinical use. Scientists have now deciphered how the molecule can actually stimulate the immune system to combat viruses.

Brain development is guided by junk DNA that isn't really junk

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:20:20 EDT

Specific DNA once dismissed as junk plays an important role in brain development and might be involved in several devastating neurological diseases, scientists have found.

Surprising finding could alter the face of dengue vaccine development

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:44:44 EDT

As efforts to create a strong and effective vaccine for the dreaded dengue virus continue to hit snags, a new study offers surprising evidence that suggests the need for a revamped approach to dengue vaccine design. The finding runs counter to current scientific understanding of the key cells that need to be induced to develop a successful dengue vaccine.

Nanosponges soak up toxins released by bacterial infections and venom

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 19:34:34 EDT

Engineers have invented a "nanosponge" capable of safely removing a broad class of dangerous toxins from the bloodstream -- including toxins produced by MRSA, E. coli, poisonous snakes and bees.

'Strikingly similar' brains of human and fly may aid mental health research

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:29:29 EDT

Scientists have revealed deep similarities in how the brain regulates behavior in arthropods (such as flies and crabs) and vertebrates (such as fish, mice and humans). The findings shed new light on the evolution of the brain and behavior and may aid understanding of disease mechanisms underlying mental health problems.

Blocking immune response protein helps body clear chronic infection; Potential therapy for HIV, other viral infections?

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:27:27 EDT

Scientists have shown that temporarily blocking a protein critical to immune response actually helps the body clear itself of chronic infection. The finding suggests new approaches to treating HIV and other persistent viral infections.

Tiny wireless device shines light on mouse brain, generating reward

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:27:27 EDT

Using a miniature electronic device implanted in the brain, scientists have tapped into the internal reward system of mice, prodding neurons to release dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure. This implantable LED device is smaller than the eye of a needle and activates brain cells with light.

System provides clear brain scans of awake, unrestrained mice

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:19:19 EDT

Researchers have shown that the AwakeSPECT system can obtain detailed, functional images of the brain of a freely moving, conscious mouse.

Currently used drugs found active in laboratory mice against bioterror threats

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 10:57:57 EDT

In the most extensive screen of its kind, scientists have demonstrated the feasibility of repurposing already-approved drugs for use against highly pathogenic bacteria and viruses. The pathogens included emerging diseases and potential bioterror threats ranging from anthrax to the Marburg and Ebola viruses.

Adding intestinal enzyme to diets of mice appears to prevent, treat metabolic syndrome

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:29:29 EDT

Feeding an intestinal enzyme to mice kept on a high-fat diet appears to prevent the development of metabolic syndrome -- a group of symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and fatty liver -- and to reduce symptoms in mice that already had the condition.

New link between heart disease and red meat: New understanding of cardiovascular health benefits of vegan, vegetarian diets

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 13:33:33 EDT

A compound abundant in red meat and added as a supplement to popular energy drinks has been found to promote atherosclerosis -- or the hardening or clogging of the arteries.

Seeds of model cereal plant now available

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 06:42:42 EDT

Seeds of the model cereal plant Brachypodium distachyon are now available to the international scientific community.

Wild mice have natural protection against Lyme borreliosis

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 07:29:29 EDT

Like humans, mice can become infected with Borrelia. However, not all mice that come into contact with these bacteria contract the dreaded Lyme disease: Animals with a particular gene variant are immune to the bacteria, as scientists demonstrate. Wild mice are the primary hosts for Borrelia, which are transmitted by ticks.

Breakthrough cancer-killing treatment has no side-effects in mice: New chemistry may cure human cancers

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:13:13 EDT

The scientific crusade against cancer recently achieved a victory. Medical researchers have developed a new form of radiation therapy that successfully put cancer into remission in mice. This innovative treatment produced none of the harmful side-effects of conventional chemo and radiation cancer therapies.

Fast track to mouse modeling

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:48:48 EDT

What genes are responsible for the development of breast cancer? What are the brain cell mutations that lead to the onset of Alzheimer's? To find new therapies, scientists have to understand how diseases are triggered at cell level. Experiments on genetically modified mice are an indispensable part of basic medical research. Now a method has been found to help laboratories carry out their work with fewer test animals.

Surprising findings in mitochondrial biology change long-standing ideas on the protein MTERF1

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:46:46 EDT

New findings in mitochondrial biology thoroughly change the idea scientists had for 20 years on the role and importance of the protein MTERF1. For the first time, scientists now have investigated in vivo what was up to now only explored in cell culture.

Nothing fishy about it: Fish oil can boost the immune system

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:15:15 EDT

Fish oil rich in DHA and EPA is widely believed to help prevent disease by reducing inflammation, but until now, scientists were not entirely sure about its immune enhancing effects. A new report helps provide clarity on this by showing that DHA-rich fish oil enhances B cell activity, a white blood cell, challenging the notion that fish oil is only immunosuppressive.

Mate choice in mice is heavily influenced by paternal cues, mouse study shows

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 12:53:53 EDT

Hybrid offspring of different house mice populations show a preference for mating with individuals from their father's original population.

New way to lose weight? Changing microbes in guts of mice resulted in rapid weight loss

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:41:41 EDT

New research has found that the gut microbes of mice underwent drastic changes following gastric bypass surgery. The transfer of these microbes into sterile mice resulted in rapid weight loss.

Fewer children mean longer life?

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:30:30 EDT

New research into aging processes, based on modern genetic techniques, confirms theoretical expectations about the correlation between reproduction and lifespan. Studies of birds reveal that those that have offspring later in life and have fewer broods live longer. And the decisive factor is telomeres, shows new research.

Mice show innate ability to vocalize: Deaf or not, courting male mice make same sounds

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:41:41 EDT

While humans and birds must learn to vocalize, a neurophysiologist has found that deaf male mice will vocalize to females the same way as hearing mice. The finding points the way to a more finely focused, genetic tool for teasing out the mysteries of speech and its disorders.

Potential Chagas vaccine candidate shows unprecedented efficacy

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:41:41 EDT

Scientists are getting closer to a Chagas disease vaccine, something many believed impossible only 10 years ago. New research has resulted in a safe vaccine candidate that is simple to produce and shows a greater than 90 percent protection rate against chronic infection in mice.

Why sticking around is sometimes the better choice for males

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 19:41:41 EDT

Researchers have been able to provide one answer as to why males in many species still provide paternal care, even when their offspring may not belong to them. The study finds that, when the conditions are right, sticking around despite being "cuckolded" actually turns out to be the most successful evolutionary strategy.

Lemur lookalikes are two new species, DNA says

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:15:15 EDT

Scientists have identified two new species of mouse lemur, the saucer-eyed, teacup-sized primates native to the African island of Madagascar.

Old mice, young blood: Rejuvenating blood of mice by reprogramming stem cells that produce blood

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:36:36 EDT

The blood of young and old people differs. Scientists have now rejuvenated the blood of mice by reversing, or reprogramming, the stem cells that produce blood.

Smelling genetic information: Molecules allow mice to sniff out the genes of other mice

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:02:02 EDT

Scientists have theorized that animals and humans are able to smell certain genes linked to the immune system, which in turn influences their choice of mate. The genes in question are known as MHC (major histocompatibility complex) genes. Selecting a mate with very different MHC genes from one's own makes sense, because your offspring will then have a greater variety of immunity genes -- and a correspondingly greater resistance to disease. But until now, no scent offering information about MHC genes had been discovered among those emitted by humans and animals. Now researchers have managed to do just that.