A promising hepatitis-based gene therapy has been developed to target and eliminate liver cancer cells. The treatment, created by a team of physicians, recruits the body's immune system to attack and wipe out cancerous tumors.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have modified established drugs to stimulate nerve growth without suppressing the immune system, a critical step toward treating neurodegenerative diseases. The new compounds were able to regenerate lost branches of nerve cells and cause recovery of functions in lab animals.
A study has found that human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) reduces HIV viral protein production and protects against skin lesions in transgenic mice. The hormone may also explain the low rate of mother-to-infant HIV transmission, and has potential for treating wasting syndrome in children and adults.
Coral reefs face an alarming decline due to unknown causes, including coral bleaching and diseases. The loss of these ecosystems could have severe consequences for thousands of species and the global economy.
Researchers found that a lower free-to-total PSA ratio may indicate aggressive prostate cancer. The study suggests this ratio can help doctors distinguish between serious and non-serious cases, leading to better treatment decisions.
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may experience menstrual irregularities, infertility, and increased body hair due to hormonal imbalances. Research suggests that PCOS may be inherited, affecting both males and females in the family.
Researchers will test the effects of microgravity on plant species known as sweet wormwood and rosy periwinkle, which naturally produce pharmaceutically important compounds. The goal is to develop new drugs or lower production costs.
A transgenic mouse model of Huntington's disease has been developed, exhibiting symptoms resembling chorea and epileptic seizures. The R-6 strain is the first known mouse model to display these characteristics, allowing researchers to study the disease's progression.
Researchers have developed a new treatment using human mesenchymal stem cells that can regenerate tissue and reduce healing time after tendon surgery. The treatment has shown promising results in animal models, with improved tendon repair strength and quality of tissue within four weeks.
Researchers found that black children are nearly 2.5 times more likely than white children to receive hemodialysis versus peritoneal dialysis. The disparity was observed across different age groups, with younger black children being most likely to opt for hemodialysis.
A review finds existing studies on pregnancy after breast cancer treatment are inconclusive due to biases and limited data. Researchers stress the need for more research to determine potential effects of estrogen levels on tumor growth in pregnant women.
A Johns Hopkins study found that in 83 neighborhood stores, 86% of African-American and white teen buyers successfully purchased cigarettes, often with seductive advertisements targeting minors. The researchers suggest strengthening public awareness of tobacco's health hazards to prevent teen smoking.
A Penn State engineer has developed liquid crystal fibers that can automatically prevent overload and protect optical sensors from laser damage. The fibers absorb all colors of light and react non-linearly to intensity, allowing low levels of laser light to pass through.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a new antibody that targets the CXCR4 receptor, a molecule involved in HIV infection. The antibody, termed 12G5, has been shown to block some types of HIV from infecting cells and has enormous value for HIV investigators.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to trigger saliva production in rats with damaged salivary glands, a condition similar to that experienced by head and neck cancer patients. The treatment involves infecting ductal cells with an adenovirus carrying the aquaporin gene, which allows them to produce fluid and secrete saliva.
A Cornell University study found that overweight cats are more likely to develop diabetes mellitus, lameness, and non-allergic skin conditions. The study also showed that obese cats are twice as likely to die in middle age compared to optimal weight cats.
Penn State researchers develop organic thin film technology with potential to replace expensive hydrogenated amorphous silicon in liquid crystal displays. With improved mobility and on/off ratio comparable to amorphous silicon semiconductors, pentacene-based devices show promise for mass production.
A new technology has been developed to address the need for Rh immune globulin, a treatment for pregnant women with Rh-Factor Incompatibility. The approach uses phage display to isolate anti-Rh antibodies from whole cells, offering a promising solution to this long-standing problem.
Researchers found that men with high homocysteine levels and Factor V Leiden were three times more likely to develop venous blood clots. A 20-fold increased risk was seen in those with both conditions.
Researchers studying sea lamprey nerve regeneration found that fibers grow in the correct direction and create synapses with target cells, restoring function. The discovery led to hypotheses about a new mechanism of neurofilament transport pushing forward growth cones.
A survey of psychologists found they use more test results and review more materials in custody evaluations. Attitudes also shift towards greater preference for joint custody and less reliance on single variables.
A new study published by the American Psychological Association reveals that high school involvement is a key factor in academic success for minority students at risk of dropping out. Successful at-risk students who participate in positive engagement behaviors exhibit good grades, test scores, and on-time graduation.
Researchers have identified a molecule that allows bacteria to resist an unusually wide range of drugs, including those with different chemical properties. This discovery highlights the dormant potential of some bacteria to survive complex antibiotic treatments.
Researchers found that ketoconazole slowed disease progression by 66% in patients with glomerular disease and 77% in those with diabetic nephropathy. However, the treatment accelerated disease rate in patients with polycystic kidney disease. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.