Delivering mRNAs to mouse tissues using the SEND system.

mRNAs produced in a cell are almost always translated within the same cell. Some mRNAs are transported to other cells of the organism through processes involving membrane nanotubes or extracellular vesicles. A recent report describes a surprising new phenomenon of encapsulating mRNAs inside virus-like particles (VLPs) to deliver them to other cells in a process that was named SEND (Selective Endogenous eNcapsidation for cellular Delivery).

Novel reporter mouse models useful for evaluating gene editing and for optimization of methods of delivering genome editing tools.

The clustered regularly interspersed palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system is a powerful genome-editing tool to modify genomes, virtually in any species. The CRISPR tool has now been utilized in many areas of medical research, including gene therapy. Although several proof-of-concept studies show the feasibility of gene therapy applications for correcting disease-causing mutations, and new and improved tools are constantly being developed, there are not many choices of suitable reporter models to evaluate genome editor tools and their delivery methods.

Effects of long-term treatment with desipramine on microtubule proteins in rat cerebral cortex.

The molecular mechanism of the action of antidepressants beyond the receptor level has not yet been elucidated. We have investigated the effects of long-term treatment with desipramine on the phosphorylation state of microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and microtubule assembly in the rat cerebral cortex. Phosphorylation of MAP2 was detected by immunoblotting after immunoprecipitation of MAP2 in the soluble fraction.

Involvement of protein kinase in the regulation of beta-adrenergic receptors by antidepressants.

The role of serotonin (5-HT) and protein kinases in the regulation of the beta-receptor induced by typical and atypical antidepressants was investigated. Treatment with either mianserin or maprotiline for seven days produced a significant decrease in the beta-receptor density measured 6h after the last dose. The reduction in beta-receptors disappeared within 24h.