Growth factor receptors are activated through dimerization by the binding of their ligands and play pivotal roles in normal cell function. However, the aberrant activity of the receptors has been asso Show more
Growth factor receptors are activated through dimerization by the binding of their ligands and play pivotal roles in normal cell function. However, the aberrant activity of the receptors has been associated with cancer malignancy. One of the main causes of the aberrant receptor activation is the overexpression of receptors and the resultant formation of unliganded receptor dimers, which can be activated in the absence of external ligand molecules. Thus, the unliganded receptor dimer is a promising target to inhibit aberrant signaling in cancer. Here, we report an aptamer that specifically binds to fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b and inhibits the aberrant receptor activation and signaling. Our investigation suggests that this aptamer inhibits the formation of the receptor dimer occurring in the absence of external ligand molecules. This work presents a new inhibitory function of aptamers and the possibility of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics for cancer. Show less
Highly ordered interactions between immune and metabolic responses are evolutionarily conserved and paramount for tissue and organismal health. Disruption of these interactions underlies the emergence Show more
Highly ordered interactions between immune and metabolic responses are evolutionarily conserved and paramount for tissue and organismal health. Disruption of these interactions underlies the emergence of many pathologies, particularly chronic non-communicable diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Here, we examine decades of research identifying the complex immunometabolic signaling networks and the cellular and molecular events that occur in the setting of altered nutrient and energy exposures and offer a historical perspective. Furthermore, we describe recent advances such as the discovery that a broad complement of immune cells play a role in immunometabolism and the emerging evidence that nutrients and metabolites modulate inflammatory pathways. Lastly, we discuss how this work may eventually lead to tangible therapeutic advancements to promote health. Show less