Growing Role of 3D In Vitro Cell Cultures in the Study of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms: Short Focus on Breast Cancer, Endometriosis, Liver and Infectious Diseases.

Over the past decade, the development of three-dimensional (3D) models has increased exponentially, facilitating the unravelling of fundamental and essential cellular mechanisms by which cells communicate with each other, assemble into tissues and organs and respond to biochemical and biophysical stimuli under both physiological and pathological conditions. This section presents a concise overview of the most recent updates on the significant contribution of different types of 3D cell cultures including spheroids, organoids and organ-on-chip and bio-printed tissues in advancing our understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms. The case studies presented include the 3D cultures of breast cancer (BC), endometriosis, the liver microenvironment and infections.

Surface Properties of a Biocompatible Thermoplastic Polyurethane and Its Anti-Adhesive Effect against and .

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a polymer used in a variety of fields, including medical applications. Here, we aimed to verify if the brush and bar coater deposition techniques did not alter TPU properties. The topography of the TPU-modified surfaces was studied via AFM demonstrating no significant differences between brush and bar coater-modified surfaces, compared to the un-modified TPU (TPU Film).

Crystal structures of Schistosoma mansoni histone deacetylase 8 reveal a novel binding site for allosteric inhibitors.

Parasitic diseases cause significant global morbidity and mortality particularly in the poorest regions of the world. Schistosomiasis, one of the most widespread neglected tropical diseases, affects more than 200 million people worldwide. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are prominent epigenetic drugs that are being investigated in the treatment of several diseases, including cancers and parasitic diseases.

Azetidin-2-one-based small molecules as dual hHDAC6/HDAC8 inhibitors: Investigation of their mechanism of action and impact of dual inhibition profile on cell viability.

The search of new therapeutic tools for the treatment of cancer is being a challenge for medicinal chemists. Due to their role in different pathological conditions, histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes are considered valuable therapeutic targets. HDAC6 is a well-investigated HDAC-class IIb enzyme mainly characterized by a cytoplasmic localization; HDAC8 is an epigenetic eraser, unique HDAC-class I member that displays some aminoacidic similarity to HDAC6.