IL-16 is synthesized as a precursor molecule of 68 kDa (pro-IL-16) that is processed by caspase-3, a member of the IL-1 converting enzyme (ICE) family. This cleavage results in a 13-kDa carboxy terminal peptide, which constitutes the bioactive secreted form of IL-16. We have previously reported constitutive IL-16 mRNA expression and pro-IL-16 protein in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Although bioactive...

Bioactive polymeric scaffolds are a prerequisite for the ultimate formation of functional tissues. Here, we show that supramolecular polymers based on quadruple hydrogen bonding ureido-pyrimidinone (UPy) moieties are eminently suitable for producing such bioactive materials owing to their low-temperature processability, favourable degradation and biocompatible behaviour. Particularly, the rever...

The potency, selectivity, and decreased side effects of bioactive peptides have propelled these agents to the forefront of pharmacological research. Peptides are especially promising for the treatment of neurological disorders and pain. However, delivery of peptide therapeutics often requires invasive techniques, which is a major obstacle to their widespread application. We have developed a tai...

Stem cells are often cultured on substrates that present extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins; however, the heterogeneous and poorly defined nature of ECM proteins presents challenges both for basic biological investigation of cell-matrix investigations and translational applications of stem cells. Therefore, fully synthetic, defined materials conjugated with bioactive ligands, such as adhesive ...

Interface conditions are of prime importance for implant fixation in the early post-operative period and modelling of specific biochemical interactions at implant surface is still missing. We hypothesized that updating osteoblast adhesion properties and growth factor source in an active zone located at the implant surface was relevant to model biochemical interactions of implant with its enviro...

Stressors after injury from a multitude of factors can lead to cell death. We have identified four fibronectin (FN) peptides: two from the first FN type III repeat (FNIII1), one from the 13th FN type III repeat (FNIII13), and one from FN variable region (IIICS), which when tethered to a surface acted as platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) enhancers to promote cell survival. One of the F...

Consumption of milk and dairy products has been associated with reduced risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease. Milk contains two primary sources of protein, casein (80%) and whey (20%). Recently, the beneficial physiological effects of whey protein on the control of food intake and glucose metabolism have been reported. Studies have shown an insulinotropic and glucose-lowering ...