Deciphering the “Collagen code” in tumor progression

Deciphering the authorship code.

Deciphering the Tubulin Code

Enzymes of the tubulin tyrosine ligase-like (TTLL) family posttranslationally modify and thereby mark microtubules by glutamylation, generating specific recognition sites for microtubule-interacting proteins. Garnham et al. report the first structure of a TTLL protein alone and in complex with microtubules, elucidating their mechanism of action.

Chemical approaches to deciphering the glycosaminoglycan code.

Glycosaminoglycans are sulfated biopolymers with rich chemical diversity and complex functions in vivo, contributing to processes ranging from cell growth and neuronal development to viral invasion and neurodegenerative disease. Recent studies suggest that glycosaminoglycans may encode information in the form of a 'sulfation code,' whereby discrete modifications to the polysaccharide backbone m...

Collagen density promotes mammary tumor initiation and progression

BACKGROUND Mammographically dense breast tissue is one of the greatest risk factors for developing breast carcinoma. Despite the strong clinical correlation, breast density has not been causally linked to tumorigenesis, largely because no animal model has existed for studying breast tissue density. Importantly, regions of high breast density are associated with increased stromal collagen. Thus,...

Deciphering the renal code: advances in conditional gene targeting.

Several powerful new techniques can examine gene function in mammals. Recombinase systems and kidney-specific promoters enable gene knockout and overexpression. Genetic systems induced on administration or removal of antibiotics or hormones permit control of gene expression. Gene silencing using short interfering RNA expression systems should accelerate loss-of-function studies. Thorough charac...