Publications by authors named "T M Magin"

The hierarchical design of the toe pad surface in geckos and its reversible adhesiveness have inspired material scientists for many years. Micro- and nano-patterned surfaces with impressive adhesive performance have been developed to mimic gecko's properties. While the adhesive performance achieved in some examples has surpassed living counterparts, the durability of the fabricated surfaces is limited and the capability to self-renew and restore function-inherent to biological systems-is unimaginable.

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Article Synopsis
  • - The keratin cytoskeleton is essential for protecting epithelial cells from various stresses and is involved in important signaling pathways that help maintain cell integrity and resilience.
  • - Mutations in keratin genes can lead to rare skin diseases known as keratinopathies, such as Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex and Pachyonychia Congenita, for which treatment options are currently limited.
  • - Recent high-throughput drug screening has discovered existing medications that can be repurposed to target specific modifications in keratins, potentially improving treatment effectiveness and reducing side effects for those with these keratin-related diseases.
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A new study reports that the extracellular matrix component laminin-111 shields the nucleus from actin-mediated forces by engaging the keratin cytoskeleton. Thus, matrix composition represents a means by which tissues can protect cell nuclei from mechanical damage.

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We suggest that the human body can be viewed as of textile nature whose fabric consists of interconnected fiber systems. These fiber systems form highly dynamic scaffolds, which respond to environmental changes at different temporal and spatial scales. This is especially relevant at sites where epithelia border on connective tissue regions that are exposed to dynamic microenvironments.

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