ROCK activity and the Gβγ complex mediate chemotactic migration of mouse bone marrow-derived stromal cells.

Introduction: Bone marrow-derived stromal cells (BMSCs), also known as mesenchymal stem cells, are the focus of intensive efforts worldwide to elucidate their function and biology. Despite the importance of BMSC migration for their potential therapeutic uses, the mechanisms and signalling governing stem cell migration are still not fully elucidated.

Methods: We investigated and detailed the effects of MCP-1 activation on BMSCs by using inhibitors of G protein-coupled receptor alpha beta (GPCR αβ), ROCK (Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase), and PI3 kinase (PI3K).

Depth profiling of PLGA copolymer in a novel biomedical bilayer using confocal Raman spectroscopy.

Confocal Raman spectroscopy was undertaken to identify separate layers of PLGA and gentamicin sulfate (GS) coatings on a titanium alloy substrate for a novel drug-delivery system. Additionally, it was found that it was possible to measure the layer thickness and uniformity of the PLGA accurately by detecting intensity and wavelength changes in the vibrational bands of the copolymer bonds. Further analysis of the materials was done using FIB, SEM/EDX, and profilometry; these techniques were used to confirm the findings of the Raman data.

Wnt signalling: variety at the core.

The Wnt/beta-catenin pathway is a conserved cell-cell signalling mechanism in animals that regulates gene expression via TCF/LEF DNA-binding factors to coordinate many cellular processes. Vertebrates normally have four Tcf/Lef genes, which, through alternative splicing and alternative promoter use give rise to a variety of TCF/LEF isoforms. Recent evidence from several experimental systems suggests that this diversity of TCF/LEF factors is functionally important in vertebrates for mediating tissue- and stage-specific Wnt regulation in embryonic development, stem cell differentiation and associated diseases, such as cancer.