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Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a groundbreaking scientific method that promises to accelerate our understanding of the PTEN gene, a crucial regulator of cellular growth. This innovative approach could lead to significant advancements in the treatment of conditions such as cancer and developmental disorders.
The study, led by Dr. Tal Laviv from the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Tel Aviv University, has been published in the prestigious journal Nature Methods.
The Role of PTEN in Cellular Growth
Cells in the human body constantly adapt their size and rate of division to maintain balance and function properly. This regulation is essential for normal development, ensuring cells grow in a controlled manner. When this process is disrupted, it can contribute to the onset of serious conditions like cancer and developmental disorders.
In early brain development, which takes place in the first years of life, cellular growth regulation is especially vital. One gene, PTEN (Phosphatase and Tensin Homologue), plays a central role in this process. Mutations in PTEN have been linked to various conditions, including autism, epilepsy, and cancer.
Dr. Laviv explains, “Many studies have demonstrated that PTEN is essential for regulating cell growth in the brain by providing a stop signal. This ensures that cells maintain their proper size and function. Mutations in PTEN, which reduce its activity, are associated with diseases such as autism, macrocephaly, cancer, and epilepsy.”
Overcoming Previous Limitations
Despite its critical role, scientists previously lacked tools to directly measure PTEN activity in an intact brain. The inability to observe PTEN’s function in live tissue hindered a full understanding of its impact on health and disease.
To address this gap, Dr. Laviv and his team, led by MD-Ph.D. student Tomer Kagan, developed a novel tool that allows for the direct and highly sensitive measurement of PTEN activity. This innovative technology, which integrates genetic tools with advanced microscopy, enables researchers to study PTEN dynamics in live models, including the intact brains of mice.
Potential for Future Therapies
By providing new insights into PTEN’s function, the researchers believe this tool will pave the way for the development of personalized treatments. The ability to monitor PTEN activity in various biological environments could facilitate early disease detection and more effective therapeutic interventions.
“This tool could significantly improve our ability to study PTEN-related diseases and may lead to the discovery of new treatments tailored to individual patients,” Dr. Laviv stated.
The study, titled Genetically encoded biosensor for fluorescence lifetime imaging of PTEN dynamics in the intact brain, was authored by Tomer Kagan et al. and published in Nature Methods (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41592-025-02610-9.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on medical conditions and treatments.
