Department of Veterans Affairs

DISSECTing cell signaling networks

Vanderbilt researchers have developed a new method to study cell signaling networks at single-cell resolution.

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Microtubules act as cellular ‘rheostat’ to control insulin secretion

Microtubules — cellular “highways” that deliver cargo to the cell membrane for secretion — have a surprising role in pancreatic beta cells. Instead of facilitating glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, they limit it, a team of Vanderbilt investigators reported recently in Developmental Cell.

Immune system a must for kidney repair

A signaling protein that is essential for recovery from acute kidney injury works by increasing the population of tissue-repairing immune cells.

Detect and defend against pathogens

Understanding factors, such as the receptor TLR9, that detect and defend against pathogens may lead to therapeutic approaches that promote an effective immune response to treat infections.

Inflammation, obesity and diabetes

Vanderbilt study adds to the mounting role for inflammatory signaling in obesity.

Healing without scarring

Drugs that inhibit the Wnt signaling pathway can regenerate injured skin and may be useful in treating fibromatosis, degenerative joint disease and cancer.

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