Unusual Vascular Distribution in the Third Segment of the Axillary Artery.

The third segment of the axillary artery (TSAA) is the main vascular supply to the muscles of the upper limb. Numerous studies have reported atypical branching patterns of the TSAA, which can complicate operative interventions involving structures supplied by this segment of the artery. Our current study evaluated a previously undescribed branching pattern in the TSAA, in which the subscapular artery gave rise to an unusual posterior humeral circumflex artery, and a second subscapular artery.

Kynurenine induces an age-related phenotype in bone marrow stromal cells.

Advanced age is one of the important contributing factors for musculoskeletal deterioration. Although the exact mechanism behind this degeneration is unknown, it has been previously established that nutritional signaling plays a vital role in musculoskeletal pathophysiology. Our group established the vital role of the essential amino acid, tryptophan, in aging musculoskeletal health.

The Role of Tryptophan Metabolites in Musculoskeletal Stem Cell Aging.

Although aging is considered a normal process, there are cellular and molecular changes that occur with aging that may be detrimental to health. Osteoporosis is one of the most common age-related degenerative diseases, and its progression correlates with aging and decreased capacity for stem cell differentiation and proliferation in both men and women. Tryptophan metabolism through the kynurenine pathway appears to be a key factor in promoting bone-aging phenotypes, promoting bone breakdown and interfering with stem cell function and osteogenesis; however, little data is available on the impact of tryptophan metabolites downstream of kynurenine.