Joseph Irudayraj

Encapsulating cells—both prokaryotic and eukaryotic—allows researchers to carry out experiments in hydrated environments over prolonged periods of time. However, cell growth under these conditions can exert a lot of pressure on the encapsulating shells, resulting in cell leakage. In a new study, researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed modified alginate hydrogels that can endure the growth of bacteria, allowing them to synthesize important enzymes.

Exposure to PFAS – a class of synthetic chemicals utilized in food wrappers, nonstick cookware and other products – reprograms the metabolism of benign and malignant human prostate cells to a more energy efficient state that enables the cells to proliferate at three times the rate of nonexposed cells, a new study in mice found.

When Auinash Kalsotra (CGD/GNDP), member of the Cancer Center at Illinois, Associate Professor and the William C. Rose Scholar of Biochemistry, attended college at Birla Institute of Technology and Science in India, he knew he wanted to pursue an entrepreneurial career inspired by his family members. Instead of following a traditional business route, Kalsotra’s enterprising genes have led him down a trailblazing scientific journey – uncovering intricacies of cell biological mechanisms that may lead to more targeted and improved cancer therapies.