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Science News for January 9, 2001


Sprinters' secret weapon

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that a protein called parvalbumin can improve heart function in laboratory rats by restoring normal relaxation rates. The researchers hope to one day use this protein as therapy for progressive heart failure, a growing medical problem affecting millions of Americans.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2001

Medical hospitalization may be especially distressing for those with psychiatric disorders

A one-year study of male veterans found that health-related quality of life declined and psychological distress increased over time for participants with or without psychiatric disorders. Those with psychiatric disorders were the most impaired, experiencing substantial impairments in functioning that persisted over a year.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2001

Immunoprivilege has its disadvantages

Research findings indicate that viral infections can cause chronic vascular disease by establishing a protected niche within the elastic media of large arteries. This 'immunoprivilege' allows viruses to evade the immune system, leading to destructive arteritis and inflammation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2001

Syndecan-4 regulates wound repair in vivo

Syndecan-4 is essential for wound repair, as its knockout leads to marked defects in angiogenesis and tissue healing. In contrast, fibroblasts from syndecan-4-deficient mice display normal focal adhesion assembly and response to FGF-2.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2001

Newborn lung treatment poses risk of intestinal perforation

A new study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development found that early postnatal doses of dexamethasone may increase the risk of intestinal perforation in extremely low birth weight infants. The treatment was not shown to prevent chronic lung disease or improve survival rates.