Cell division drives DNA methylation loss in late-replicating domains in primary human cells.

DNA methylation undergoes dramatic age-related changes, first described more than four decades ago. Loss of DNA methylation within partially methylated domains (PMDs), late-replicating regions of the genome attached to the nuclear lamina, advances with age in normal tissues, and is further exacerbated in cancer. We present here experimental evidence that this DNA hypomethylation is directly driven by proliferation-associated DNA replication.

Articular cartilage and sternal fibrocartilage respond differently to extended microgravity.

The effects of spaceflight on cartilaginous structure are largely unknown. To address this deficiency, articular cartilage (AC) and sternal cartilage (SC) from mice exposed to 30 days of microgravity on the BION-M1 craft were investigated for pathological changes. The flight AC showed some evidence of degradation at the tissue level with loss of proteoglycan staining and a reduction in mRNA expression of mechano-responsive and structural cartilage matrix proteins compared to non-flight controls.

Authentication of collagen VI antibodies.

Background: Collagen VI is a ubiquitously-expressed macromolecule that forms unique microfibrillar assemblies in the extracellular matrix. Mutations in the COL6A1, COL6A2 and COL6A3 genes result in congenital muscular dystrophy, arguing that collagen is critical for skeletal muscle development and function. Antibodies against collagen VI are important clinical and diagnostic tools in muscular dystrophy.