Researchers characterized intermediate states in protein folding at an atomic level, a crucial step towards predicting protein structure and improving drug design. This breakthrough could help understand errors in folding linked to diseases like cystic fibrosis and Alzheimer's.
A team of researchers found that impaired Kv4.2 ion channels in neurons can lead to increased excitability and seizure frequency in epilepsy. Inhibiting the ERK enzyme may provide a new therapeutic target for treating this condition.
A recent study by Ohio State University's Sharon Sassler found that most people who live together do so due to financial reasons, convenience, or housing needs. Couples rarely cite getting married as the primary reason for cohabiting, instead citing factors like attraction and practicality.
A multi-center study found that consistent condom use halves the risk of recurrent PID, reducing chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Women using condoms were also 60% less likely to become infertile.
F. William Studier develops a new method that simplifies the production of proteins in parallel, allowing for efficient biomedical research and industrial production of proteins for various applications. The new autoinduction system enables automatic protein production without human intervention, leading to increased protein yields.
Researchers discovered a cluster of 60 nerve cells choreographing the courtship ritual in male flies. Interfering with these cells resulted in reproductive failure and abnormal behaviors, supporting the idea that basic circuitry mediates attraction and mating across species.
A national survey found that hyperhidrosis affects an estimated 7.8 million individuals in the US, with axillary hyperhidrosis being the most common form, particularly among working-age adults. Women are more likely to discuss their condition with healthcare professionals than men.
Researchers have identified a more effective treatment for people with both HIV and hepatitis C. The new therapy, peg-interferon with ribavirin, showed a sustained response rate of 27% compared to 12% in those who received standard interferon treatment.
Researchers have discovered a way to improve plant growth by increasing phosphorus uptake from the soil, reducing fertilizer needs and water pollution. The discovery, made by Dr. Maria Harrison, involves identifying genes that regulate the transfer of phosphorus into plants, with potential benefits for sustainable agriculture.
A team of scientists at UNC School of Medicine is investigating the molecular basis of blood vessel aging and its role in cardiovascular disease, including heart attack. New information gleaned from this basic research could offer new treatment strategies for cardiovascular disease.
A study of 166,000 Americans found that those reporting more depressive symptoms were at increased risk for illnesses, with exercise and higher education reducing symptoms. Young adults aged 18-24 reported the highest number of days with depressive symptoms.
A study of error reports from primary care offices found that two-thirds of treatment and diagnosis mistakes were caused by communication errors. Researchers suggest focusing on management systems to enhance information quality rather than improving clinical judgment.
A new UCI study has identified a gene linked to breast cancer that can also suppress tumor growth by blocking estrogen and growth factor signals. The research provides further insight into how estrogen interacts with mutated BRCA1 genes to promote breast cancer development.
A combination therapy of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin achieved a 40% sustained virological response in co-infected patients, the highest ever reported. The treatment did not interfere with the effectiveness of HIV drugs, offering hope for previously untreated patients.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a forest fire sensor based on a beetle's infrared sensing organs. The sensor uses polyethylene to mimic the beetle's cuticula and absorbs radiation, triggering an early warning system.
Researchers used a new mass spectrometry technique to determine how CENP-A turns a chromosome's center section into a stable centromere. The study sheds light on the process of cell division and its connection to birth defects and cancer.
Researchers discovered that excess ATP damages motor neurons, leading to paralysis. Blocking ATP's effects restored function in rats with damaged spinal cords, opening up promising new avenues for treatment.