The use of hyaluronic acid in a 3D biomimetic scaffold supports spheroid formation and the culture of cancer stem cells.

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting culture models capable of reproducing the pathological architecture of diseases are increasingly advancing. In this study, 3D scaffolds were created using extrusion-based bioprinting method with alginate, gelatin, and hyaluronic acid to investigate the effects of hyaluronic acid on the physical properties of the bioscaffold as well as on the formation of liver cancer spheroids. Conformational analysis, rheological characterization, and swelling-degradation tests were performed to characterize the scaffolds.

Culturing, Freezing, Processing, and Imaging of Entire Organoids and Spheroids While Still in a Hydrogel.

Organoids and spheroids, three-dimensional growing structures in cell culture labs, are becoming increasingly recognized as superior models compared to two-dimensional culture models, since they mimic the human body better and have advantages over animal studies. However, these studies commonly face problems with reproducibility and consistency. During the long experimental processes - with transfers of organoids and spheroids between different cell culture vessels, pipetting, and centrifuging - these susceptible and fragile 3D growing structures are often damaged or lost.

Sertraline in combination with sorafenib: A promising pharmacotherapy to target both depressive disorders and hepatocellular cancer.

Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is found within the first five most common tumors worldwide. Sorafenib is an approved agent in HCC treatment. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.

Effect of solution and post-mortem time on mechanical and histological properties of liver during cold preservation.

Background: In liver transplantation, the donor and recipient are in different locations most of the time, and longer preservation periods are inevitable. Hence, the choice of the preservation solution and the duration of the preservation period are critical for the success of the transplant surgery.

Objective: In this study, we examine the mechanical and histological properties of the bovine liver tissue stored in Lactated Ringer's (control), HTK and UW solutions as a function of preservation period.

Quantitative analysis of immunogold labeling for basic fibroblast growth factor according to the activational stages of mast cells.

Objective: To analyze whether immunogold labeling density for basic fibroblastic growth factor in granules is compatible with the activation stage of mast cells.

Study Design: Cytoplasmic features and granules of 46 mast cells were examined at the ultrastructural level. The cells were classified according to their activation stage, namely, whether resting, initially activated, fully degranulated or piecemeal degranulated.

Correlation between the mechanical and histological properties of liver tissue.

In order to gain further insight into the mechanisms of tissue damage during the progression of liver diseases as well as the liver preservation for transplantation, an improved understanding of the relation between the mechanical and histological properties of liver is necessary. We suggest that this relation can only be established truly if the changes in the states of those properties are investigated dynamically as a function of post mortem time. In this regard, we first perform mechanical characterization experiments on three bovine livers to investigate the changes in gross mechanical properties (stiffness, viscosity, and fracture toughness) for the preservation periods of 5, 11, 17, 29, 41 and 53h after harvesting.

Ultrastructural immunolocalization of basic fibroblast growth factor in endothelial cells: morphologic evidence for unconventional secretion of a novel protein.

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is one of the most potent angiogenic factors. Unlike many other growth factors, bFGF lacks a classic peptide sequence for its secretion. Recent studies suggest that there is an unconventional secretory pathway for this growth factor.

Does erythropoietin affect motility of spermatozoa?

Introduction: Erythropoietin, which is a hematopoietic growth factor, has been found to play a role in various physiologic processes within the body including testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. However, it is not known whether erythropoietin is also essential for the normal physiology of mature sperm cells. In this study, the effects of recombinant human erythropoietin beta (rEPO) on sperm motility were investigated.

The effects of long-term low-dose cyclosporin A treatment on muscles and tendons: an experimental study.

Background: Limited studies report that patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, including cyclosporin A (CsA), face muscle and/or tendon pathologies. The current study aimed (i) to investigate if CsA cause changes in the microscopic structure of striated muscle tissues and tendons after long-term low-dose therapy and (ii) to examine if the vehicle of CsA, Cremophor EL, or steroid administration might cause additional effects.

Methods: Twenty-four adult female Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 230-300 g were divided at random into four groups.

Use of iodine-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy for the detection of amiodarone induced pulmonary toxicity in a rabbit model: a comparative study with technetium-99m diethyltriaminepenta acetic acid radioaerosol scintigraphy.

The purpose of the study was; (i) to determine whether 123I-MIBG scintigraphy is sensitive for detection of amiodarone induced pulmonary toxicity (AIPT) and (ii) to compare it with 99mTc-DTPA radioaerosol. Twelve white New Zealand rabbit with initial mean body weight 4.24 +/- 0.