A transformed view of cyclosporine
Article Abstract:
Cyclosporine and the related FK506, are used to treat autoimmune diseases and prevent organ rejection in transplants. Hojo and colleagues describe a re-examination of the presumed causes of cyclosporine-associated cancers, and find that cyclosporine changes the characteristics of certain cancerous cell lines in vitro and in vivo. This is thought to be achieved by inducing the synthesis of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-Beta). However it is still not known whether it has a similar effect on precancerous cells, or whether it has a role in converting cells from benign to cancerous states.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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Cyclosporine induces cancer progression by a cell-autonomous mechanism
Article Abstract:
A mechanism is reported for the heightened malignancy independent of host immunity. Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant, induces phenotypic changes following organ transplantation. Cyclosporine treatment of adenocarcinoma cells leads to dramatic morphological alternations, such as membrane ruffling, pseudopodial protrusions and increased cell motility. Treatment with monoclonal antibodies directed at transforming growth factor-beta prevents these changes.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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A diffusible coupling signal from the transplanted suprachiasmatic nucleus controlling circadian locomotor rhythms
Article Abstract:
Transplanted suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), like neural pacemakers of silkmoths and Drosophila, restore circadian activity rhythms through a diffusible signal in animals whose own SCN have been ablated. This shows that the circadian rhythm is a result of the donor tissue rather than a consequence of spontaneous recovery of function. Re-establishment of appropriate synaptic connections and neural efferents is necessary for circadian rhythmicity.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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