June 28th, 2024

Computer-designed proteins guide stem cells to form blood vessels

Researchers at the University of Washington developed computer-designed proteins to guide stem cells in forming blood vessels, showing promise in regenerative medicine for organ repair. The study highlights potential advancements in tissue development research.

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Computer-designed proteins guide stem cells to form blood vessels

Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine have developed computer-designed proteins that can guide human stem cells to form new blood vessels in laboratory settings. This breakthrough in regenerative medicine opens possibilities for repairing damaged organs like the heart and kidneys. By creating custom proteins that interact with cellular growth factor receptors in precise ways, the team was able to control the development of different types of vasculature in stem cells. These engineered proteins led to the formation of functional and mature vascular networks that exhibited expected behaviors like healing and nutrient absorption. When transplanted into mice, these blood vessel networks integrated with the animals' circulatory systems. The study, published in the journal Cell, showcases the potential of custom-designed proteins to advance tissue development research and potentially lead to new treatments for conditions lacking effective therapies, such as spinal cord injuries. The technology could be applied to various tissue types beyond blood vessels, offering a new approach to studying tissue development and disease prevention.

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