Optimizing Anti-Tumor Therapies with Engineered Antibodies

immune_activation_by_CD40_antibodies

A type of immunotherapy uses antibodies that activate the TNF receptor family member CD40 on immune cells. CD40 is present on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) of the immune system and is activated by surface-bound proteins called CD40L. Activation of CD40 on APCs stimulates these cells to take up and display antigens to T and B cells, … Read more

The Benefits of the Early Bird Special: Insight into Fasting and Longevity

early_bird_special

Calorie restriction and intermittent fasting are both associated with improved health and longevity in many animals. Studies with monkeys and humans are consistent with health benefits of both calorie restriction and intermittent fasting, but the studies are difficult to compare due to differences in the diet and feeding patterns in the monkey studies and the … Read more

Beyond Neurons: Guts and Bones Need Acetylcholinesterase and Cholinergic Signaling to Develop

Mouse_skeleton

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is the enzyme (Figure 1) that degrades the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is released at neuronal synapses in the brain, at parasympathetic nerve synapses in the periphery, and at neuromuscular junctions. Acetylcholine activates two classes of receptors, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which is an ion channel, and the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, which is a … Read more