University of Würzburg

About: University of Würzburg is a education organization based out in Wurzburg, Bayern, Germany. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Gene. The organization has 31437 authors who have published 62203 publications receiving 2337033 citations. The organization is also known as: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg & Würzburg University.

Single-cell RNA-seq: advances and future challenges

Abstract: Phenotypically identical cells can dramatically vary with respect to behavior during their lifespan and this variation is reflected in their molecular composition such as the transcriptomic landscape. Single-cell transcriptomics using next-generation transcript sequencing (RNA-seq) is now emerging as a powerful tool to profile cell-to-cell variability on a genomic scale. Its application has already greatly impacted our conceptual understanding of diverse biological processes with broad implications for both basic and clinical research. Different single-cell RNA-seq protocols have been introduced and are reviewed here—each one with its own strengths and current limitations. We further provide an overview of the biological questions single-cell RNA-seq has been used to address, the major findings obtained from such studies, and current challenges and expected future developments in this booming field.

Medaka — a model organism from the far east

Abstract: Genome sequencing has yielded a plethora of new genes the function of which can be unravelled through comparative genomic approaches. Increasingly, developmental biologists are turning to fish as model genetic systems because they are amenable to studies of gene function. Zebrafish has already secured its place as a model vertebrate and now its Far Eastern cousin--medaka--is emerging as an important model fish, because of recent additions to the genetic toolkit available for this organism. Already, the popularity of medaka among developmental biologists has led to important insights into vertebrate development.

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering (asymptomatic) multiple myeloma: IMWG consensus perspectives risk factors for progression and guidelines for monitoring and management

Abstract: Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) was identified in 3.2% of 21 463 residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, 50 years of age or older. The risk of progression to multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, AL amyloidosis or a lymphoproliferative disorder is approximately 1% per year. Low-risk MGUS is characterized by having an M protein <15 g/l, IgG type and a normal free light chain (FLC) ratio. Patients should be followed with serum protein electrophoresis at six months and, if stable, can be followed every 2-3 years or when symptoms suggestive of a plasma cell malignancy arise. Patients with intermediate and high-risk MGUS should be followed in 6 months and then annually for life. The risk of smoldering (asymptomatic) multiple myeloma (SMM) progressing to multiple myeloma or a related disorder is 10% per year for the first 5 years, 3% per year for the next 5 years and 1-2% per year for the next 10 years. Testing should be done 2-3 months after the initial recognition of SMM. If the results are stable, the patient should be followed every 4-6 months for 1 year and, if stable, every 6-12 months.

Intracerebral Administration of Heat-Inactivated Staphylococcus Epidermidis Enhances Oncolysis and Prolongs Survival in a 9L Orthotopic Gliosarcoma Model

Abstract: Background/Aims: The association between postoperative infection and prolonged survival in high-grade glioma is still a matter of debate. Previously we demonstrated that the intracerebral (i.c.) injection of heat-inactivated staphylococcal epitopes (HISE) resulted in a well-defined infux of immunocompetent cells across the blood-brain barrier. The present study investigated the potential antitumoral effect of HISE-immunostimulation in an experimental glioma model. Methods: Wistar rats were intracerebrally implanted with 9L gliosarcoma cells (n=6), 9L cells mixed with HISE (n=12), or phosphate buffered saline (n=4). Tumor growth was measured by serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After death due to the tumor burden, the brains were histopathologically assessed for inflammation and oncolysis. A toxicity assay was performed to quantify potential impairment of HISE on tumor cell growth in vitro. Results: Animals treated by HISE showed a significant increase in average survival and even complete regression of an already established mass in one case. Naive 9L gliosarcomas failed to recruit significant numbers of systemic immune cells. In contrast, concomitant intracerebral HISE inoculation lead to a oncolysis and a distinct peri- and intratumoral infiltration of macrophages, CD8 and CD4 co-expressing T-lymphocytes in two thirds of the tumor-bearing animals. The toxicity screening showed HISE-mediated oncolysis to be ineffective ex vivo. Conclusion: This study describes a novel approach for combatting malignant glioma using inactivated staphylococci as potent immunomodulators. Our results provide an outline for investigating the strategic potential of bacteria as emerging future therapeutics.