Monica Forni

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This study focused on a protein called SH3BP5L, which plays a crucial role in the behavior of aggressive types of breast cancer, specifically HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer. Researchers found that high levels of SH3BP5L were associated with more advanced tumors and worse patient outcomes; for instance, patients with increased SH3BP5L expression were more likely to have distant metastases. The study discovered that targeting SH3BP5L could be a new way to reduce breast cancer spread, as blocking it in experiments decreased tumor cell movement and spread in animal models. Who this helps: This research benefits breast cancer patients, especially those with aggressive forms of the disease.

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This study looked at how a substance called glutamine affects the healing process of skin wounds by regulating inflammation. Researchers found that when glutamine metabolism is active in certain immune cells (macrophages), it helps reduce the presence of another type of immune cell (neutrophils) that can cause prolonged inflammation. Specifically, they discovered that glutamine helps suppress genes that attract neutrophils, which is particularly important for patients with diabetes, as these genes were found to be more active in their macrophages. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with skin wounds and diabetes by improving our understanding of inflammation during healing.

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This study looked at different versions of a drug called FAPI-46 and FAPI-74, which are used for imaging in cancer detection. Researchers found that both the (S) version and a mixture of (S/R) versions of these drugs worked equally well in laboratory tests and animal studies, showing similar behavior in the body, such as how they bind to target cells and how they are cleared from the body. Specifically, they confirmed that all tested forms of the drug were stable and performed comparably, which helps ensure that patients receive effective and reliable imaging results. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing cancer imaging, as well as doctors who use these drugs for diagnosis.

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This study focused on a new treatment approach for breast cancer by using special nanoparticles to deliver two drugs: one that inhibits a protein called TLR2, which is linked to cancer growth, and another chemotherapy drug, doxorubicin. The findings showed that these combined nanoparticles effectively reduced cancer cell survival and growth, with a notable reduction of tumor size in mice, indicating this method works better than using each drug alone. This is important because it offers a potential way to overcome the resistance that some breast cancers have to current treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced breast cancer seeking more effective treatment options.

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This research studied how fat cells in the skin break down stored fats during a condition called skin fibrosis, which leads to an overproduction of specific proteins and depletion of these fat cells. The researchers found that a key enzyme, Atgl, is necessary for fat breakdown in these cells, and without it, fat storage is preserved. This means that the presence of fat in skin cells helps delay the harmful changes that occur in the skin during fibrosis, highlighting a potential way to treat related diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with fibrotic skin diseases by pointing to new treatment possibilities.

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This study looked at how holding horse eggs (oocytes) overnight and adding a drug called naloxone affect their freezing process, known as vitrification. The researchers found that the survival of the eggs was lower after freezing compared to fresh and held eggs, and eggs treated with naloxone before freezing matured better. Importantly, holding the eggs overnight changed their characteristics, impacting their survival and quality after freezing. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and reproductive specialists working with horses.

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This study looked at how Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents (GBCA), used in medical imaging, affect young non-human primates in terms of behavior, learning, and memory. Researchers found that even after administering high doses of these agents to juvenile monkeys, there were no harmful effects on their behavior or brain function, and the highest safe dose was determined to be at least 0.9 mmol/kg. This is important because it suggests that these contrast agents are safe for use in young patients undergoing medical imaging without risking their long-term development. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by confirming the safety of GBCA use in young children during imaging procedures.

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This study looked at how well Italian biobanks are using digital tools to manage data, which is essential for efficient and reproducible research. Researchers created a framework to assess the digital maturity of biobanks, surveying 46 facilities. They found that while nearly 50% have good IT infrastructure and staff, less than half have strong data annotation practices, and many still use paper for patient consent—indicating a clear need for digital improvements. Who this helps: This benefits biobank managers and scientists who rely on accurate and accessible data for research.

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This study focused on improving the education and training of scientists who conduct animal experiments. The researchers created a comprehensive guide for teaching, which includes clear goals for what learners should achieve, a suggested 2-day workshop format, and feedback from previous participants showing that the training was effective. This is important because better training can lead to higher quality research and more ethical treatment of animals in studies. Who this helps: This helps early career researchers and educators in laboratory animal science.

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This study focused on creating a more realistic 3D model of mammary gland cells using cells from Göttingen Minipigs. Researchers found that combining mammary epithelial cells with vascular stem cells and endothelial cells led to better-organized and healthier clusters of cells, which are important for studying how the mammary gland works. This model can help scientists understand hormonal changes and other factors affecting breast health in a more accurate way. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying breast health and diseases, as well as potentially informing treatments for patients.

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This study looked at 44 adults with medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor, between the ages of 17 and 48. Researchers found that the average overall survival was about 16.9 years, and the average time patients lived without the cancer getting worse was 12 years. It was noted that having metastatic disease at diagnosis and less than complete surgical removal of the tumor led to worse outcomes; however, adding chemotherapy did not improve survival compared to just radiation therapy. Who this helps: This research helps doctors better understand treatment options for adult brain cancer patients.

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This study focused on assessing how well pig mammary cells can act as a barrier, which is important for protecting against harmful substances. Researchers measured the barrier's strength using a technique called TEER and tested how well a dye passed through the cells. They found that this method provides reliable information about the barrier's integrity, which is critical for understanding how similar barriers in other animals and humans work. Who this helps: This helps researchers and medical professionals working on barriers in human health, particularly in breast tissue studies.

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This study looked at how well two new types of calcium-silicate bioceramic sealers can help cells from pig blood vessels grow into bone-forming cells. The researchers found that both sealers (Ceraseal and AH Plus Bioceramic) led to a significant increase in cell activity and bone-related gene expression after just eight days, showing they have strong potential to aid in bone regeneration. In contrast, a traditional epoxy resin sealer showed no positive effects on cell activity or bone growth. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need dental or bone repair, as these new sealers may improve healing outcomes.

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This study looked at how aging affects the structure and function of mitochondria in the liver, which is important for metabolism. Researchers found that as mice age, their liver mitochondria shrink and become less complex, which correlates with increased risks of liver disease—specifically, they noticed a decrease in a protein called Sam50 that plays a key role in maintaining mitochondrial health, especially in those on a high-fat diet. Understanding these changes can help develop new treatments for age-related liver diseases. Who this helps: This study benefits patients at risk for liver diseases and healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at how to improve the stability of horse platelet lysate (PL), a substance that helps with healing and reduces inflammation, by freeze-drying it. The researchers found that freeze-drying not only preserved the effectiveness of the PL for at least a week but also showed that using different horses affected how well it worked on cells. Their detailed methods for freeze-drying could make PL easier to store and use as a treatment option for horses. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners looking for effective treatments to promote healing in horses.

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This study looked at how a high-salt diet affects gut bacteria in rats that are likely to have strokes. Researchers found that rats on a high-salt diet showed changes in their gut bacteria that were linked to stroke; after four weeks, certain beneficial bacteria decreased while harmful bacteria increased. This is important because it suggests that the type of diet can influence gut health and potentially increase stroke risk. Who this helps: Patients at risk for stroke and their healthcare providers.

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This study compared human mammary epithelial cells (hMECs) and Göttingen Minipig mammary epithelial cells (mpMECs) to see how well they produce energy. Researchers found that hMECs produced ATP, a key energy molecule, more efficiently than mpMECs; however, mpMECs showed a robust ability to adapt to stressful conditions. This matters because it suggests that pig cells can be a useful model for studying human breast tissue in medical research. Who this helps: Patients and researchers in breast cancer treatment and prevention.

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This study created a lab model using human breast cells to better understand how medications move from blood to breast milk, which is important for assessing the risks of using drugs while breastfeeding. The researchers found that these human breast cells could form a strong barrier that mimics the blood-milk barrier, with a resistance greater than 400 ohms. This model can help predict how different medications might enter breast milk, which is crucial for ensuring the safety of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Who this helps: This helps breastfeeding mothers and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the environment around wounds affects the metabolism of immune cells called macrophages, and how this changes with age. Researchers found that in younger mice, macrophages have a metabolism that relies more on mitochondria, while in older mice, their metabolism shifts to using sugars instead. Specifically, they discovered that signals from younger macrophages can help restore healthier metabolism in older macrophages, which is essential for effective wound healing. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with chronic wounds and age-related injuries by improving understanding of how to support healing.

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This study looked at mammary cells taken from Göttingen Minipigs to see how they compare to breast cells from hybrid pigs, especially in the context of the risks of medication use during breastfeeding. The researchers isolated these cells and found that while both types had similar markers and mRNA profiles, the Göttingen Minipigs' cells created a barrier that was less compact than that of the hybrid pigs, especially under stress. This research is important because it helps improve our understanding of how to study drug effects on breastfeeding mothers and their infants using pig models. Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers who are studying medication safety for breastfeeding mothers.

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This study looked at how the antibiotic amoxicillin affects the gut and milk bacteria of Göttingen Minipigs, which are a good model for understanding how medications impact mothers and their milk. Researchers found that while the gut bacteria were significantly altered by the antibiotic, the milk bacteria showed only minor changes, with some types decreasing and others increasing. This is important because it suggests that milk may remain relatively stable during antibiotic treatment, which could help us understand breastfeeding in women on medications. Who this helps: This helps new mothers and healthcare providers who are concerned about the effects of antibiotics on breastfeeding.

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This study looked at how specific small molecules called triazole derivatives (specifically 3a and 3b) can help protect heart cells from damage caused by low oxygen levels and high salt. The researchers found that these molecules improved the cells' energy production and overall health, restoring their function even after being injured. For instance, when the damaged cells were treated with 1 micromolar of 3a or 0.5 micromolar of 3b, their metabolism was as good as healthy cells again. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with cardiovascular diseases, especially those affected by conditions like hypertension and oxygen deprivation.

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This study looked at how certain cellular processes help heal skin wounds in mice, particularly focusing on cells that recognize and remove dead cells. The researchers found two main things: the receptor Axl is crucial for repairing wounds but not for the removal of dead cells, and blocking another receptor called Timd4 reduced the healing process. These findings could lead to new treatments for chronic wounds in diabetic patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic wounds, especially those with diabetes.

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This study looked at specific receptors in the joints of horses to understand how they might be involved in joint inflammation and osteoarthritis. Researchers found that several receptors, including CB1, CB2, TRPV1, GPR55, and PPARα, were present in the joint tissues of the horses studied, indicating that they could play a role in joint health. This matters because targeting these receptors could lead to new treatments for joint inflammation, potentially improving the quality of life for horses suffering from conditions like arthritis. Who this helps: This helps horses with joint inflammation and their veterinarians.

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This study looked at a new method of brain stimulation to reduce pain in rats. Researchers found that using an adaptive current stimulation method led to strong pain relief for about 4 hours, and even lingering effects for up to 30 minutes, with very few side effects. This is important because it shows that personalized brain stimulation could be a safe and effective way to manage pain. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from chronic pain.

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This study investigated how a drug called spironolactone can help patients with Type-2 Familial Partial Lipodystrophy (FPLD2), a rare condition that leads to problems with fat distribution in the body. Researchers found that spironolactone can correct the way fat cells develop in FPLD2 patients, which was evident in one patient who showed improved fat cell function after treatment. This matters because it opens up new possibilities for treating a condition that currently has few options. Who this helps: Patients with Type-2 Familial Partial Lipodystrophy.

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This study looked at how certain receptors in skin cells help heal wounds in mice, especially during inflammation. Researchers found that specific pathways and receptors were more active when skin was injured, with one receptor, Axl, being crucial for healing but not for clearing dead cells. They also discovered that another receptor, Timd4, is important for both clearing dead cells and repairing wounds. This research is important because it can lead to new treatments for chronic wounds, especially in diabetic patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic wounds, particularly those with diabetes.

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This study focused on developing a new method to separate two important types of cells—vascular wall mesenchymal stem cells (VW-MSCs) and endothelial cells—from the aorta of Göttingen minipigs, a breed used for cardiovascular research. Researchers found that their new protocol successfully produced pure populations of these cells, with VW-MSCs meeting key international standards for stem cells and showing the ability to develop into bone, cartilage, and fat cells. This research is important because it enhances the potential for studying vascular health and disease using these cells in laboratory settings. Who this helps: Patients with cardiovascular diseases and researchers studying vascular treatments.

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This study looked at how certain tiny particles released by cells in the liver can indicate early liver damage in mice with severe bile flow blockage (cholestasis). Researchers found that after 8 days of the blockage, specific RNA types in these particles changed significantly, identifying 151 microRNAs linked to liver injury, with 66 of them also relevant to humans. This matters because it could lead to new, non-invasive ways to detect early liver problems before they become severe. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver diseases by improving early diagnosis and potentially guiding treatment.

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This study looked at how certain cells called Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) support the growth of breast cancer through specific proteins. Researchers found that a protein known as STAT3 plays a crucial role in this process, leading to the production of three important proteins: ANGPTL4, MMP13, and STC1, which help tumors grow. In samples from human patients, those with higher levels of the proteins linked to STAT3 in their CAFs were found to have shorter survival times, meaning this research could lead to new treatment strategies that target these proteins. Who this helps: This helps patients with breast cancer, especially those whose tumors have specific characteristics related to STAT3 activity.

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This study investigated how a specific protein, PI3KC2α, affects the spread of breast cancer in over 2,000 patients. Researchers found that 52% of the patients had high levels of this protein, which was linked to more aggressive tumors and a greater chance of the cancer spreading. When they inhibited this protein or reduced its activity, they saw a significant decrease in the spread of cancer, indicating a new potential treatment approach. Who this helps: This research benefits breast cancer patients, particularly those with aggressive forms of the disease.

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This research looked at stem cell therapy's effectiveness for treating heart diseases caused by inadequate blood supply in large animals, specifically focusing on how well the heart pumps blood. The analysis covered 66 studies involving 1,183 animals and found that after treatment, heart function improved, with an average increase in pumping ability of about 7.4%. Understanding how and when to best use this therapy could lead to better heart disease treatments in the future. Who this helps: Patients suffering from heart disease.

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This study looked at the effects of adding two plant extracts, Boswellia serrata and Salix alba, to the diet of free-range Leghorn laying hens during their pre-laying and laying phases. It found that hens given the supplements drank more water and laid smaller eggs, but their overall health indicators, like immune response, were mostly unchanged. These findings suggest that these plant extracts are safe for hens and could have specific effects on their behavior and egg production. Who this helps: This helps poultry farmers and those involved in hen care.

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This study looked at how bergamot extract, specifically its polyphenolic fraction (BPF), affects energy production in pig heart cells. Researchers found that at higher concentrations of BPF (over 50 micrograms/mL), the cells produced 15% more energy and improved their energy efficiency by up to 85%. This is important because it shows that BPF can enhance how cells generate energy, which could be beneficial for cell health. Who this helps: This helps patients with metabolic disorders and doctors looking for new treatments to improve cell energy production.

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This study looked at how a specific genetic mutation affects energy production in cells from patients with type 2 familial partial lipodystrophy, a condition where fat accumulates abnormally in the body. Researchers found that cells with the mutation produced less energy (ATP) compared to normal cells, with fibroblasts producing more ATP than preadipocytes, thanks to more efficient energy processes. Understanding these differences is crucial because it helps explain why individuals with this condition experience fat distribution issues and may lead to better treatment options. Who this helps: Patients with type 2 familial partial lipodystrophy.

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This study looked at how a substance called bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) can help protect blood vessel cells from damage caused by the cancer drug doxorubicin (DOX). Researchers found that DOX reduced the cell viability by 50% after 24 hours, but adding BPF improved the cells' health significantly. Specifically, BPF helped restore normal cell function after exposure to lower doses of DOX, leading to better energy production in the cells. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cancer treatment who are at risk of heart damage from doxorubicin.

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This study looked at how a herbal extract from the plant Artemisia annua affects cancer cells from dogs with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Researchers found that the extract, which contained around 63.8 micrograms of an active compound called artemisinin per milliliter, killed cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner and caused significant changes in the cells, like higher iron levels and damage to their structure. This is important because it shows potential for using this herbal treatment to help dogs with osteosarcoma that don't respond to traditional chemotherapy. Who this helps: Dog owners and veterinarians treating osteosarcoma in dogs.

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This study looks at how certain proteins in the nuclear envelope of human cells are broken down, which is important because mutations in these proteins can lead to diseases. The researchers discovered specific enzymes involved in this process, including the protein RNF5 that works better when paired with another protein called TMEM33. They found that RNF5 can move to where it's needed in the cell when there's more work to do, which is key for maintaining healthy cells. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers better understand diseases related to nuclear membrane proteins.

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This study looked at how doxorubicin, a common cancer treatment, affects two types of dog mammary tumor cells. Researchers found that while these cells initially took up the drug, after 48 hours, it was no longer present in the cells that survived treatment. The more aggressive tumor cells were better at pushing the drug out and showed an increase in markers related to drug resistance, suggesting that some cells can avoid death and continue to grow despite treatment. Who this helps: This research helps veterinarians and pet owners by providing insights into overcoming chemotherapy resistance in dogs with cancer.

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This study looked at how different levels of foetal bovine serum (FBS) in lab-grown pig gut cells (IPEC-J2) affect cell growth and energy production. The researchers found that cells with 10% FBS grew faster and produced more energy, specifically a 100% increase in ATP from oxidative processes. These findings are important because they reveal that higher FBS levels can enhance cell functions related to gut health, which may benefit future studies on intestinal conditions. Who this helps: This helps researchers studying gut health in pigs and potentially humans.

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This study looked at how a specific channel in cells, called TRPA1, affects the immune response during melanoma, a serious skin cancer. Researchers found that mice without the TRPA1 channel had reduced tumor growth and increased immune cell activity, specifically CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting tumors. The absence of TRPA1 seemed to enhance the ability of these immune cells to fight cancer by changing how they use energy. Who this helps: This helps patients with melanoma by potentially improving treatment strategies that boost immune responses.

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This study examined how different forms of vitamin K (called vitamers) affect energy production in cells that resemble human intestinal cells. The researchers found that vitamin K1 boosts energy production significantly—by 5% through one method and by 30% through another—while higher doses of vitamin K3 reduce energy production by 30% and 45%. Understanding these effects matters because they may influence how our bodies function, especially in the gut, including processes like nutrient absorption and detoxification. Who this helps: This helps patients with digestive issues and healthcare providers looking to improve gut health.

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This study focused on the role of a protein complex called mTORC2 in neutrophils, which are crucial white blood cells involved in fighting infections during sepsis. Researchers found that when this protein complex was missing in neutrophils, these cells couldn't effectively kill bacteria, leading to a higher bacterial load in a sepsis model; specifically, Rictor-deficient neutrophils produced less hypochlorous acid, an important bacterial killer. This matters because understanding these mechanisms could help improve treatments for patients with sepsis. Who this helps: This helps patients with sepsis and the doctors treating them.

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Researchers created a new device using tiny microelectrodes to stimulate parts of the brain that control pain. In their experiments with rats, this method successfully blocked pain without causing any major side effects, allowing for strong pain relief. This is important because it could lead to better treatment options for people suffering from chronic pain without the issues often seen with current pain relief methods. Who this helps: Patients suffering from chronic pain.

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This study looked at how serotonin transporters (SERT) are distributed in the intestines of dogs and compared these findings to rats and humans. The researchers found that SERT was present in dog intestinal cells, similarly to those in rats and humans. Understanding the role of SERT in dogs is important because it could lead to better treatments for digestive disorders that affect serotonin levels. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and dog owners dealing with digestive health issues in dogs.

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This research paper looks at how medications taken by breastfeeding mothers might transfer into their breast milk and affect infants. The authors reviewed different non-clinical methods, including laboratory tests and computer models, that can help predict which medications are safe during breastfeeding. They found that while some models are promising, they often lack the necessary data to be fully reliable. This is important because it can help mothers continue breastfeeding while safely taking needed medications, reducing the risk of stopping either therapy or breastfeeding. Who this helps: This research helps breastfeeding mothers and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how different animal species produce milk and its composition, focusing on which species could best help us understand how drugs might pass through milk to human babies. The researchers found that minipigs are the best choice for these studies because they share important similarities with humans in milk production and can be ethically managed in research. This is important for ensuring the safety of breastfeeding when it comes to medications. Who this helps: Patients, especially breastfeeding mothers who may need medications.

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This study looked at how melatonin is produced in the testes of roe deer bucks during the mating season (rut) and after it. Researchers found that melatonin levels and the genes responsible for its production were present in both periods, but no clear link was found between melatonin and the decline in testosterone levels after mating. This is important because it provides new insights into how seasonal changes affect deer reproduction, which can help improve wildlife management and conservation efforts. Who this helps: This helps wildlife biologists and conservationists working with deer populations.

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This research focused on creating a lab model using pig cells from mammary glands to better understand how medications might affect breast tissue during breastfeeding. Scientists developed a technique to isolate and grow these cells, which showed they can form a solid barrier and are capable of transporting drugs. This research is important because it provides a way to study the safety of drugs for breastfeeding mothers, which has been a poorly understood area. Who this helps: This benefits breastfeeding mothers and healthcare providers who need better information about medication safety.

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This study created a new pig model to look at how acid damages the esophagus and to test medical devices aimed at treating acid reflux. The researchers found that while the esophagus showed a larger decrease in function during acid exposure, it recovered better with saline than with acid. Importantly, the damaged esophagus absorbed more dye, indicating significant harm, and the results were consistent and reliable. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers who develop treatments for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).