Effects of cadmium and copper biosorption on Chlorella vulgaris

Changes in protein levels and lipid compositions in algal cells indicate the severity of stress related to toxic concentrations of heavy metals. In this study, the effects of exposure to cadmium and copper on Chlorella vulgaris and its capacity to remove metals were evaluated. The data revealed ion removal activity by microalgae under all treatments and different levels of protein expression after 48 h of exposure. Furthermore, we analyzed lipids contents to characterize them.

Age-related Morphofunctional Changes in Sickle Cell Mice Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) are key elements of the hematopoietic niche and participate in the regulatory mechanisms of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Hematological diseases can affect MSCs and their functions. However, the dysregulations caused by sickle cell disease (SCD) are not fully elucidated. This work explored changes in BM-MSCs and their relationship with age using sickle cell mice (Townes-SS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BM-MSCs were isolated from Townes-SS, and control groups 30- and 60-day-old Townes-AA and C57BL/6 J.

RESULTS

The BM-MSCs showed no morphological differences in culture and demonstrated a murine MSC-like immunophenotypic profile (Sca-1+, CD29+, CD44+, CD90.2+, CD31-, CD45-, and CD117-). Subsequently, all BM-MSCs were able to differentiate into adipocytes and osteocytes in vitro. Finally, 30-day-old BM-MSCs of Townes-SS showed higher expression of genes related to the maintenance of HSCs (Cxcl12, Vegfa, and Angpt1) and lower expression of pro-inflammatory genes (Tnfa and Il-6). However, 60-day-old BM-MSCs of Townes-SS started to show expression of genes related to reduced HSC maintenance and increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes.

CONCLUSION

These results indicates age as a modifying factor of gene expression of BM-MSCs in the context of SCD.