Comparison of Fecal MicroRNA Isolation Using Various Total RNA Isolation Kits.

Fecal specimens have long been regarded as promising sources for gastrointestinal cancer screening and have, thus, been extensively investigated in biomarker research. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules involved in regulating various biological processes. They are commonly dysregulated during tumor development and exhibit differential expression in feces.

Analysis of nitrifying bacteria growth on two new types of biomass carrier using respirometry and molecular genetic methods.

This work addresses the testing of two newly produced biomass carriers (micro- and nanofibers) and one commercially available AnoxKaldnes™ K3 carrier in a laboratory post-nitrification reactor. The carriers were prepared under parameters suitable for high-quality biomass adhesion to their surface, and each was characterized by its specific structures. As part of the evaluation of the biofilms using respirometry and molecular genetic methods, the carriers were assessed in terms of their effectiveness and comparability.

Lipocalin 2 modulates dendritic cell activity and shapes immunity to influenza in a microbiome dependent manner.

Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) is a secreted glycoprotein with roles in multiple biological processes. It contributes to host defense by interference with bacterial iron uptake and exerts immunomodulatory functions in various diseases. Here, we aimed to characterize the function of LCN2 in lung macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) using Lcn2-/- mice.

Advanced characterization of natural biofilm on nanofiber scaffold.

Nanofiber scaffolds provide numerous advantages over common carriers engineered for microorganisms. The most important advantage is an increased speed of primary surface colonization (up to four times faster), which shortens the time required for the areal biofilm formation and optimum performance of attached microorganisms (higher efficiency of biological activity of up to twice as fast). Image analysis predicts early formation of biofilm even in beginning stages; analysis of biofilm reveals the different structures of bacterial colonies on both scaffolds (higher porosity, size, and number of bacterial colonies on nanofiber's surface).

Myeloid Cells Restrict MCMV and Drive Stress-Induced Extramedullary Hematopoiesis through STAT1.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) has a high prevalence worldwide, is often fatal for immunocompromised patients, and causes bone marrow suppression. Deficiency of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) results in severely impaired antiviral immunity. We have used cell-type restricted deletion of Stat1 to determine the importance of myeloid cell activity for the defense against murine CMV (MCMV).