Matrix stiffness regulates Notch signaling activity in endothelial cells.

Notch signaling is critical for many developmental and disease-related processes. It is widely accepted that Notch has a mechanotransduction module that regulates receptor cleavage. However, the role of biomechanical properties of the cellular environment in Notch signaling in general is still poorly understood.

Using the yeast three-hybrid system for the identification of small molecule-protein interactions with the example of ethinylestradiol.

Since the first report on a yeast three-hybrid system, several approaches have successfully utilized different setups for discovering targets of small molecule drugs. Compared to broadly applied MS based target identification approaches, the yeast three-hybrid system represents a complementary method that allows for the straightforward identification of direct protein binders of selected small molecules. One major drawback of this system, however, is that the drug has to be taken up by the yeast cells in sufficient concentrations.

Mechanical Aspects of Angiogenesis.

Angiogenesis is of high clinical relevance as it plays a crucial role in physiological (e.g., tissue regeneration) and pathological processes (e.

Tetrapyrrolic Pigments from Heme- and Chlorophyll Breakdown are Actin-Targeting Compounds.

Chlorophyll and heme are among the "pigments of life", tetrapyrrolic structures, without which life on Earth would not be possible. Their catabolites, the phyllobilins and the bilins, respectively, share not only structural features, but also a similar story: Long considered waste products of detoxification processes, important bioactivities for both classes have now been demonstrated. For phyllobilins, however, research on physiological roles is sparse.

Sequential and Switchable Patterning for Studying Cellular Processes under Spatiotemporal Control.

Attachment of adhesive molecules on cell culture surfaces to restrict cell adhesion to defined areas and shapes has been vital for the progress of in vitro research. In currently existing patterning methods, a combination of pattern properties such as stability, precision, specificity, high-throughput outcome, and spatiotemporal control is highly desirable but challenging to achieve. Here, we introduce a versatile and high-throughput covalent photoimmobilization technique, comprising a light-dose-dependent patterning step and a subsequent functionalization of the pattern via click chemistry.

Zikavirus ME Envelope Pseudotyped Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type-1 as a Novel Tool for Glioblastoma-Directed Virotherapy.

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most lethal type of brain tumor that is not yet curable owing to its frequent resurgence after surgery. Resistance is mainly caused by the presence of a subpopulation of tumor cells, the glioma stem cells (GSCs), which are highly resistant to radiation and chemotherapy. In 2015, Zikavirus (ZIKV)-induced microcephaly emerged in newborns, indicating that ZIKV has a specific neurotropism.