New strategy to combat ‘undruggable’ cancer molecule

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IMAGE:Professor Dimitrios Stamou heads a team specializing in investigating single cells and cell membranes along with a multidisciplinary team from Bio-Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine Laboratory, Nano-Science Center, Department of Chemistry, University... view more

Credit: Photo: Jes Andersen/University of Copenhagen.

The findings of Professor Dimitrios Stamou, Post Doc Jannik Bruun Larsen and a multidisciplinary team from Bio-Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine Laboratory, Nano-Science Center, Department of Chemistry are published under the title "Membrane curvature enables N-Ras lipid anchor sorting to liquid-ordered membrane phases" in the highly respected journal Nature Chemical Biology.

Ras-proteins inhabit the interior wall of each and every cell in the human body. Their role is to activate cell division or cell growth, so cancers develop if the protein starts to permanently trigger cells to grow and split: A process known as misregulation.

Ras misregulates if it misses its correct location on the cell wall; its membrane. What Stamou and Larsen discovered is that Ras cannot reach its designated location if the membrane has the wrong shape, explains Professor Dimitrios Stamou.

"If the curvature of the cell is right, Ras goes to the right place. If the membrane is too straight or too bent, it does not. And Ras is very much like any other worker. If it never finds the way to its work place, it is not likely to get any work done", says Stamou.

Ras are thought to be misregulated in upwards of 30 % of all cancers and is specifically linked to highly lethal strains in lungs, colon and pancreas. For three decades researchers have been searching for ways to quench the killer protein. Their lack of success has given Ras a reputation as the "undruggable cancer target" so Stamou is suggesting to head off in an entirely new direction.

"If Ras goes off the rails because of changes in the curvature of the cell, perhaps we should target whatever changes the shape of the cell membrane, says professor Stamou and goes on: "This is a change of perspective similar to when we went from flying with hot air balloons to taking off with fixed wings and propellers".

Looking for a correlation between cell shape and Ras misregulation was unusual bordering on controversial, says Jannik Bruun Larsen. The team was investigating how the proteins attach themselves to the cell wall and Larsen tried to attach Ras to a variety of simulated cell membranes formed into small spheres or vesicles of varying sizes. Ras would attach more readily to smaller balls. These are more curved than large and Larsen started to see a pattern.

"For more than a decade people thought that the constituents of the cell wall was the thing that controlled where Ras was localized, . We have shown, that at least one other aspect, namely membrane curvature, governs where Ras ends up in the cell and is therefore likely to be a factor in cancer development,", says the jubilant Post Doc, Jannik Bruun Larsen.

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New strategy to combat 'undruggable' cancer molecule

DGAP-News: MagForce AG: MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. Announce FDA Pre-IDE Meeting on MagForce’s NanoTherm(TM …

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DGAP-News: MagForce AG / Key word(s): Regulatory Admission MagForce AG: MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. Announce FDA Pre-IDE Meeting on MagForce's NanoTherm(TM) Prostate Cancer Therapy Pre-Submission

27.01.2015 / 08:00

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MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. Announce FDA Pre-IDE Meeting on MagForce's NanoTherm(TM) Prostate Cancer Therapy Pre-Submission

Berlin, Germany and Nevada, USA, January 27, 2015 - MagForce AG (Frankfurt, Entry Standard, XETRA: MF6, ISIN: DE000A0HGQF5), a leading medical device company in the field of nanomedicine focused on oncology, together with its subsidiary MagForce USA, Inc. today announced that an in-person meeting was held with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health to discuss FDA's response to MagForce's NanoTherm(TM) Prostate Cancer Therapy Pre-Submission of November, 2014.

"We received very constructive feedback on our submission and have an understanding of the pathway to market in the USA of NanoTherm(TM) Therapy to focally ablate prostate cancer. MagForce USA, Inc. will accelerate the prostate cancer Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) to utilize the MFH 300F NanoActivator(R) for both Glioblastoma and Prostate NanoTherm(TM) Therapy registration," commented Dr. Ben J. Lipps, CEO of MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc.

About MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc.

MagForce AG, listed in the entry standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (MF6, ISIN: DE000A0HGQF5), together with its subsidiary MagForce USA, Inc. is a leading medical device company in the field of nanomedicine focused on oncology. The Group's proprietary NanoTherm(TM) therapy enables the targeted treatment of solid tumors through the intratumoral generation of heat via activation of superparamagnetic nanoparticles. Mithril Capital Management, a growth-stage technology fund founded by Ajay Royan and Peter Thiel, along with MagForce AG, are investors and strategic partners in MagForce USA, Inc.

NanoTherm(TM), NanoPlan(R), and NanoActivator(R) are components of the therapy and have received EU-wide regulatory approval as medical devices for the treatment of brain tumors. MagForce, NanoTherm(TM), NanoPlan(R), and NanoActivator(R) are trademarks of MagForce AG in selected countries.

For more information, please visit: http://www.magforce.com.

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DGAP-News: MagForce AG: MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. Announce FDA Pre-IDE Meeting on MagForce's NanoTherm(TM ...

Integrins are essential in stem cell binding to defective cartilage for joint regeneration

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IMAGE:BioResearch Open Access is a bimonthly peer-reviewed open access journal led by Editor-in-Chief Robert Lanza, MD, Chief Scientific Officer, Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. and Editor Jane Taylor, PhD.... view more

Credit: Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers

New Rochelle, NY, January 26, 2015--The promise for using mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) to repair cartilage damage caused by osteoarthritis depends on the MSC being able to attach efficiently to the defective cartilage. A novel laboratory model in which artificially created cartilage lesions and labeled MSC were used to test factors that might improve MSC binding and the effectiveness of future MSC-based therapies is described in BioResearch Open Access, a peer-reviewed journal from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available on the BioResearch Open Access website.

In the article "1 Integrins Mediate Attachment of Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Cartilage Lesions," D. Zwolanek, PhD, and coauthors, University of Veterinary Medicine (Vienna, Austria), University of Cologne Medical Faculty (Germany), University Medical Center Rotterdam (The Netherlands) present the results of experiments using a combination of ex vivo and in vivo model systems of defective cartilage. They studied the effects of serum, plasma hyaluronic acid, and various cell adhesion-related proteins such as integrins on the attachment of MSC to the extracellular matrix of the cartilage.

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About the Journal

BioResearch Open Access is a bimonthly peer-reviewed open access journal led by Editor-in-Chief Robert Lanza, MD, Chief Scientific Officer, Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. and Editor Jane Taylor, PhD. The Journal provides a new rapid-publication forum for a broad range of scientific topics including molecular and cellular biology, tissue engineering and biomaterials, bioengineering, regenerative medicine, stem cells, gene therapy, systems biology, genetics, biochemistry, virology, microbiology, and neuroscience. All articles are published within 4 weeks of acceptance and are fully open access and posted on PubMed Central. All journal content is available on the BioResearch Open Access website.

About the Publisher

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers is a privately held, fully integrated media company known for establishing authoritative peer-reviewed journals in many areas of science and biomedical research, including DNA and Cell Biology, Tissue Engineering, Stem Cells and Development, Human Gene Therapy, HGT Methods, and HGT Clinical Development, and AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses. Its biotechnology trade magazine, Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN), was the first in its field and is today the industry's most widely read publication worldwide. A complete list of the firm's 80 journals, books, and newsmagazines is available on the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers website.

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.

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Integrins are essential in stem cell binding to defective cartilage for joint regeneration

Valley Physician Partners with Patients During Anti-Aging Events Throughout 2015

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Phoenix, Arizona (PRWEB) January 27, 2015

Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead recently announced a year-long series of free education events to help guide their patients through the options available to them to fight the signs of aging. Dr. Shannon Maltais, CEO and Medical Director of Physician Skin Solutions will host these events, which will be held quarterly at no cost to attendees.

These events will give patients the chance to learn about the ever-evolving menu of services and treatments that are available to stop and reverse the aging process in a fun, relaxed setting. They will learn which procedures are designed to treat particular problems, have the opportunity to ask questions and learn if he or she is a good candidate for the treatment. The events will be organized to discuss a particular aging problem and the procedures that are available to treat it. All attendees will receive special pricing on services discussed.

The first event is scheduled for March 5 and will focus on Body and Facial Contouring. The following event, focusing on Pigment and Scarring, is scheduled for June 4. In the fall session, scheduled for September 3, Dr. Maltais will focus on Facial Laxity. Just in time for the Holidays, Dr. Maltais will discuss Quick Fixes for Lines & Wrinkles on December 3.

We are very excited to offer these events to our patients this year. The technology and advances in anti-aging are moving so quickly that it is hard for patients to keep up on what is available and which treatment or procedure treats what problem area, said Dr. Maltais. Many patients are very specific about what they want to change, while others arent even sure what the specific problem is they just know something looks different in their appearance. By offering these events we can cover what the options are and even assess if the individual is a good candidate all in a relaxed, no-pressure, friendly atmosphere.

Physician Skin Solutions operates under the philosophy of partnership with their patients and holds honesty and education as the cornerstone of their practice. They aim to provide the safest, most appropriate solutions for their patients anti-aging needs, offering free consultations and skin care analysis to all new patients. Dr. Maltais has been recognized as an advanced injector of BOTOX and has received the Allergan Black Diamond distinction every year for nearly a decade. Physician Skin is also a CoolSculpting Certified Practice and an Ultherapy Premier Provider.

This is an fascinating time in the anti-aging field there are numerous advances on both the aesthetic and internal wellness forefronts, explained Dr. Maltais. We now have the knowledge and tools to nourish a body from within and give the patient the best defense in the aging process, while also combatting the exterior results of aging. Whether a patient wants to start early and slow down the signs of aging or reverse previous damage, we have the tools to do it!

About Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead Since 2004, Physician Skin Solutions has served over 13,000 patients Valleywide. The clinical staff of licensed medical aestheticians and nurses are led by their full-time on-site Medical Director, Dr. Shannon Maltais. They have made it a priority to evaluate and offer state of the art technology in aesthetic medicine, and make recommendations based on clinical data, safety and expectations. Their non-invasive Aesthetic Solutions utilizes a combination of cosmetic laser and light treatments, aesthetic protocols, injectable solutions, and professional grade skin care regimens. While their Wellness Solutions focus on nourishing from within and giving the body the best defenses in the aging process. For more information, please visit http://www.physicianskinarrowhead.com.

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Valley Physician Partners with Patients During Anti-Aging Events Throughout 2015

Dr. Stuart Baker Is Now a Master Injector of JUVDERM VOLUMA XC

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Decatur, Illinois (PRWEB) January 26, 2015

Dr. Stuart Baker is pleased to announce that he is now a master injector of JUVDERM VOLUMA XC, a FDA-approved anti-aging treatment for lines and wrinkles of the face. JUVDERM VOLUMA XC is available at both the Decatur and Champaign offices of The Center for Cosmetic Medicine, giving all of Dr. Baker's patients the ability to look their very best without the need for a full surgical procedure.

"JUVDERM injections achieve excellent results for patients, which is why I'm proud to offer them," said Dr. Baker. "Becoming a master injector is simply my way of making sure patients receive the best possible care no matter what, which is something I've tried to do throughout my career."

About JUVDERM VOLUMA XC

JUVDERM VOLUMA XC is a next-generation dermal filler that is ideal for treating wrinkles, lines, and folds around the face. It is the first and only cosmetic injection approved by the FDA to correct age-related loss of facial volume around the cheek area in patients older than 21.

JUVDERM VOLUMA XC treatments are completed in a short visit, with practically no downtime and mild and brief side effects. The results of the procedure can last up to two years thanks to the patented composition of the dermal filler.

What It Means to Be a Master Injector

Being a master injector means understanding how a cosmetic injection can best be used to meet a patient's needs. It means studying the numerous products available and determining which filler is most effective in certain circumstances. Ultimately what defines being a master injector is diligence and close attention to the evolving field of non-surgical aesthetics.

"To help patients look their best, I need to be my best," said Dr. Baker. "Training to use JUVDERM VOLUMA XC and understanding how to best perform treatments is going to allow the practice to help so many people and hopefully exceed their expectations in the process."

Offering Patients Options to Achieve Their Goals

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Dr. Stuart Baker Is Now a Master Injector of JUVDERM VOLUMA XC

Michael Lau, MD, FACS, FACOG – Faculty at the AMWC World Congress in Monte-Carlo, March 26-28, 2015

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Edmonds, WA (PRWEB) January 27, 2015

Dr. Lau will be speaking on the topic of Applying anatomical and physiological considerations to optimize sexual function in vaginal cosmetic surgeries.

The vaginal area is richly supplied by nerves and consists of erectile tissues that contribute to the sexual response of women. While vaginal cosmetic surgery has a primary objective to improve the appearance of the area, it is of great importance to preserve the nerves and erectile tissues that are functional in sexual response.

With a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the vaginal structures, a cosmetic surgeon can employ proper plastic surgery techniques, leveraging the anatomical and physiological factors, not only to improve the aesthetic appearance of the vagina, but also optimize the sexual function of women.

Dr. Lau will also discuss with the surgeons some of the potential pitfalls that should be avoided while performing vaginal cosmetic surgery, such as labioplasty and vaginal rejuvenation.

Dr. Lau was trained in vaginal plastic and reconstructive surgery, under the tutorage of Professor C. Paul Hodgkinson, a recognized pioneer in the field. Further training in cosmetic surgery under Dr. Robert Alexander, a cosmetic surgeon pioneering fat stem cell transfer, has enabled Dr. Lau to further develop his expertise in vaginal cosmetic surgery, incorporating both pelvic and plastic surgery principles and experience.

Dr. Michael Lau is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He practices at Radiant Rejuvenation and Cosmetic Surgery, located in a suburb of Seattle, USA, but receives patients coming from all around the world.

Radiant Rejuvenation & Cosmetic Surgery 425.712.7546 Edmonds, WA 98026 http://www.radiantrejuvenation.com info(at)radiantrejuvenation(dot)com

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Michael Lau, MD, FACS, FACOG - Faculty at the AMWC World Congress in Monte-Carlo, March 26-28, 2015

Sol 0 – Mars Colonization – Season 2 – Part 4 – Brand New Start! – Video

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Sol 0 - Mars Colonization - Season 2 - Part 4 - Brand New Start!
Subscribe to stay up-to-date with all the latest videos - youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=orbitalpotato Get it here - http://www.solzerogame.com/ Li...

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Sol 0 - Mars Colonization - Season 2 - Part 4 - Brand New Start! - Video

Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD – Video

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Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD
This image, captured with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, is the largest and sharpest image ever taken of the Andromeda galaxy otherwise known as M31. This is a cropped version of...

By: Amazing Space - Astounding Images and Videos

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Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD - Video

Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy 2 [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD – Video

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Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy 2 [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD
The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has captured the sharpest and biggest image ever taken of the Andromeda galaxy otherwise known as Messier 31. The enorm...

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Hubble GIGAPIXEL image of Andromeda Galaxy 2 [4K] : Largest Hubble Telescope Image ever ! ULTRA HD - Video

NATO chief prepares for talks with Russia, as fighting surges in eastern Ukraine – Video

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NATO chief prepares for talks with Russia, as fighting surges in eastern Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says he is ready to meet Russia #39;s foreign minister, as violence escalates in eastern Ukraine. He is due to hold talks with Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines...

By: euronews (in English)

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NATO chief prepares for talks with Russia, as fighting surges in eastern Ukraine - Video