Mass spectrometry proteomic profiling of postmortem human muscle degradation for PMI estimation.

The discovery of new methods for determining the post-mortem interval is of significant forensic interest. Mass spectrometry has enhanced the accuracy of assessing post-mortem protein decay, with skeletal muscle being the most studied substrate due to its intrinsic properties of postmortem decay. In this pilot study, human skeletal muscle tissue (iliopsoas) was harvested and allowed to decay under controlled temperature and humidity conditions at predetermined intervals.

Dopamine and Serotonin Transporter Genes Regulation in Highly Sensitive Individuals during Stressful Conditions: A Focus on Genetics and Epigenetics.

: Coping with stress is essential for mental well-being and can be critical for highly sensitive individuals, characterized by a deeper perception and processing of stimuli. So far, the molecular bases characterizing high-sensitivity traits have not been completely investigated and gene × environment interactions might play a key role in making some people more susceptible than others. : In this study, 104 young adult university students, subjects that might face overwhelming experiences more than others, were evaluated for the genetics and epigenetics of dopamine () and serotonin () transporter genes, in addition to the expression of miR-132, miR-491, miR-16, and miR-135.

Cellular and microenvironmental cues that promote macrophage fusion and foreign body response.

During the foreign body response (FBR), macrophages fuse to form foreign body giant cells (FBGCs). Modulation of FBGC formation can prevent biomaterial degradation and loss of therapeutic efficacy. However, the microenvironmental cues that dictate FBGC formation are poorly understood with conflicting reports.