Tumour-associated fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells: more similarities than differences.

Tumour-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) are part of the tumour stroma, providing functional and structural support for tumour progression and development. The origin and biology of TAFs are poorly understood, but within the tumour environment, TAFs become activated and secrete different paracrine and autocrine factors involved in tumorigenesis. It has been shown that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be recruited into the tumours, where they proliferate and acquire a TAF-like phenotype.

GADA and islet cell antibodies in Romanian children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus.

Unlabelled: Childhood type 1 diabetes is defined by autoimmunity and insulinopenia. Etiopathogenic definition based on biochemical characteristics has recently replaced the clinical definition based on insulin requirement for treatment. The aim of this study was to describe biochemical and clinical characteristics of children with clinically diagnosed type 1 diabetes, hospitalized at the "Cristian Serban" Center in Buziaş.

Clinical and Immunological Aspects in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

We propose to establish the relationship between the clinical, functional and immunological parameters in a cohort of women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The study included 68 patients between 19 and 70 who were hospitalized for two years in the Endocrinology Clinic of the Hospital in Timisoara. The thyroidal dimensions and the aspects of the thyroidal stroma were shown by echography examinations.