RSS Feeds

Earth Science

Space Science

Life Science

Fields of Scientific Study

Nanotechnology

Cancer

Definitions of The Fields of Scientific Study

Mathematical model identifies genes which battle hepatitis C

July 20, 2007

Joint research by Dr. Leonid Brodsky, of the Institute of Evolution of the University of Haifa, and Dr. Milton Taylor, of Indiana University, led to the discovery of a mathematical method which can identify which genes in our bodies conduct the battle against the various viruses that attack us. In their research, they identified 37 genes out of 22,000 possible genes which fight the hepatitis C virus.

"When we know which genes are responsible for fighting the viruses which attack our liver, we will be able to look for the medications which will activate these genes most favorably," said Dr. Brodsky. The team conducted clinical trials, supported by the Health National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) of the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), which included 400 patients at eight different centers in the United States. The results will be published in the prestigious journal PLOS ONE.

The hepatitis C virus, found mostly among many patients who have had a blood transfusion or who share needles, attacks the liver and in extreme cases can cause cancer of the liver. At present, there is one well know medication, interferon, used to treat the virus; however, while some patients respond to the treatment with interferon, others do not. In this research, the clinical study was combined with the mathematical model developed by Dr. Brodsky. The study identified 37 genes which are key for patient response to treatment.

"In the specific case of hepatitis C, we have now isolated the genes that show which patients will respond to treatment. Until now, all patients received treatment for an extended period of time without knowing whether or not they would respond. In the future, we hope to find other medications that will be more effective in activating all of the 37 genes." summarized Dr. Brodsky.

He further explained that this mathematical model is not limited to identifying the genes which fight viruses that attack the liver. It can also be applied further in the fields of medicine, biology and agriculture.

University of Haifa

Related Hepatitis Current Events and Hepatitis News Articles

Hepatitis Current Events and Hepatitis News RSS

Toward explaining why hepatitis B hits men harder than women
Scientists in China are reporting discovery of unusual liver proteins, found only in males, that may help explain the long-standing mystery of why the hepatitis B virus (HBV) sexually discriminates -- hitting men harder than women.

Largest-ever database for liver proteins may lead to treatments for hepatitis
Scientists at a group of 11 research centers in China are reporting for the first time assembly of the largest-ever collection of data about the proteins produced by genes in a single human organ.

Mount Sinai finds those with more difficult to treat forms of HCV are half as likely to get treated
A new study by Mount Sinai researchers has for the first time found that patients with more difficult to treat forms of hepatitis C are half as likely to initiate treatment for the disease, when compared to patients with hepatitis C that is easier to treat.

Extending treatment after liver transplant may benefit patients with hepatitis C recurrence
Extending hepatitis C treatment for liver transplant patients beyond current practice results in high rates of clearance of the hepatitis C virus from the blood, as well as a low rate of relapse, according to a Henry Ford Hospital study.

Hepatitis B does not increase risk for pancreatic cancer
A Henry Ford Hospital study found that hepatitis B does not increase the risk for pancreatic cancer - and that only age is a contributing factor.

Governor recognizes stem cell research at Einstein
Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University hosted a roundtable discussion on stem cell research with New York Governor David A. Paterson today.

Liver cells grown from patients' skin cells
Scientists at The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee have successfully produced liver cells from patients' skin cells opening the possibility of treating a wide range of diseases that affect liver function.

Injury and hazards in home health care nursing are a growing concern
Patients continue to enter home healthcare ''sicker and quicker," often with complex health problems that may require extensive nursing care.

Medication effective for acute liver failure in early stages of disease
The antidote for acute liver failure caused by acetaminophen poisoning also can treat acute liver failure due to most other causes if given before severe injury occurs, UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers and their colleagues at 21 other institutions have found.

New aging studies improving vaccine efficacy for the elderly
A new study from the Trudeau Institute in Saranac Lake, New York, demonstrates that immune system cells important for both pathogen resistance and vaccine efficacy live longer in older animals but because of this longevity acquire functional defects.

More Hepatitis Current Events and Hepatitis News Articles

	Dr. Melissa Palmer's Guide To Hepatitis and Liver Disease by Melissa Palmer (Author) In the United States alone, more than four million people are infected with the hepatitis C virus, and chronic liver disease is the twelfth leading cause of death. In this revised and updated edition of her groundbreaking 2000 book, renowned hepatologist Dr. Melissa Palmer discusses all facets of liver disease, from symptoms and tests to treatment options and lifestyle changes. In addition, this comprehensive handbook reveals cutting-edge research on the dangers of hepatitis C, one of the world's fasting-growing microbial threats.
	Living With Hepatitis C For Dummies by Nina L. Paul (Author), Gina Pollichino (Foreword) A comprehensive, empathetic guide for anyone suffering from this serious liver disease Approximately 4 million Americans and 170 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C, a viral liver disease that is treatable but not curable. It accounts for more than 40 percent of U.S. liver disease deaths–about 8,000 to 10,000 people annually–and is the most common reason for liver transplantation. This compassionate guide explains how hepatitis C affects the liver and the body and provides solid advice on today’s treatment options–from drugs (and their side effects) to transplants and alternative therapies–as well as tips on dealing with the emotional and financial burdens the disease brings with it. Nina L Paul, PhD (New York, NY) earned her doctorate in infectious...
	HEPATITIS GIANT MICROBE by Giant Microbes HAV is spread primarily by unsanitary food and water ? HBV is transmitted in bodily fluids and can cause chronic liver disease ? HCV is perhaps the most dangerous: no vaccine is available ? HDV occurs only in the presence of HBV ? HEV is relatively mild and non-chronic ? HFV and HGV are newly identified; their connection with liver disease is debated
	Understanding Hepatitis B (Home Use) Part of the award winning public television series Healthy Body/Healthy Mind. Hepatitis B is the most common Hepatitis virus affecting more than a billion people world wide. Unfortunately many of the people who carry the virus don't even know they're infected. As a result the infection continues to proliferate. But there is a serious effort to eradicate this virus, through treatment and vaccine programs. The important first step is for those in the "at risk" categories to be tested. In this program we hear first hand accounts of what could happen if the infection remains untreated for many years. This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply.
	Home Access Hepatitis C Check 1 ea by Home Access At-Home Telemedicine Test Service for Hepatitis C*. Confidentia
	Aids & Hepatitis Digest by Ccm International Ltd Provides information to Air Force comptroller personell relating to mission accomplishment, to assist them in solving problems and improving efficiency of operation and to communicate new developments and techniques
	The Hepatitis C Help Book, Revised Edition: A Groundbreaking Treatment Program Combining Western and Eastern Medicine for Maximum Wellness and Healing by Misha Ruth Cohen O.M.D. L. Ac. (Author), Robert Gish (Author), Kalia Doner (Author) A fully updated and revised edition of an important health guide, including the latest information on optimum interferon protocol. Hepatitis C has been called "the emergent and preeminent public-health problem of the twenty-first century--surpassing HIV." It has also been dubbed "The Shadow Epidemic," because it is one of the most clandestine of viruses and infects healthy people who have no idea they are being attacked by something they can't even detect. Now, the two experts on Hepatitis C who teamed up to write the first comprehensive guide to orthodox and alternative treatment options have revised and fully updated the book to include recent findings in the field. Along with programs for self-care, nutritional and fitness plans and a comprehensive Western and Chinese medical...
	Native Remedies Liver Doctor and Detox Drops ComboPack by Native Remedies The ComboPack of Liver Dr. and Detox Drops consists of multiple remedies that work well together to provide increased support for your condition. This ComboPack helps to improve liver functioning and aids in detoxifying the system. The Liver Dr. helps to improve liver health and functioning while the Detox Drops assist in the elimination of toxins from the body.
	Understanding Hepatitis Anatomical Chart Laminated (In Stock)-9992PL1.5 by Anatomical Chart Company Defines viral hepatitis and the types of hepatic viruses that cause this disease: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, and recently discovered viruses G and TTV (Transfusion Transmitted Virus). Talks about modes of tranmission and illustrated the complications of hepatitis. Illustrates the anatomy of the liver, pancreas and surrounding structures, including veins and arteries. Shows 3 liver biopsies: normal, mild hepatitis and moderate. Lists the signs and symptoms which progress by stages.
	Hepatitis C Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad by MyHeritageWear.com The Hepatitis C Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Hepatitis C Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Hepatitis C Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness!