Rebecca G. Wells

Nuclear confinement from matrix stiffness drives epigenomic reprogramming of gingival fibroblasts

This study shows that matrix stiffness influences epigenomic changes in gingival fibroblasts, with stiff matrices promoting CpG methylation and reduced inflammation, while soft matrices lead to hypomethylation and increased inflammatory signaling.

Reduction in Hepatic Phosphatidylcholine Biosynthesis Promotes MASH Through Copper Deficiency

This study shows that reduced hepatic phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis leads to copper deficiency, which promotes MASH through disrupted copper distribution and fibrogenesis.

Intrahepatic crystals from elevated dietary cholesterol are sufficient to stiffen the liver

This study shows that elevated dietary cholesterol in rats leads to liver lipid crystals, which increase tissue stiffness and fibrosis progression in a model of MASLD.

Matrix Stiffness Governs Fibroblast-Driven Immune Homeostasis in Gingival Tissues

This study shows that matrix stiffness influences fibroblast-driven immune responses in gingival tissues, with stiff matrices reducing inflammation through non-canonical NFκB and epigenetic pathways.

Liver Viscosity Decreases Before the Onset of Fibrosis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated 1 Steatohepatitis (MASH)

This study shows that liver viscosity decreases before fibrosis in a mouse model of MASH, indicating it as a potential early biomarker.

Metabolically intact nuclei are fluidized by the activity of the chromatin remodeling motor BRG1

This study shows that BRG1 activity fluidizes the nucleus, altering its stiffness and dissipating mechanical energy, with implications for nuclear mechanics and remodeling.