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Science News for August 27, 2008


Chronic stress alters our genetic immune response

Researchers found that chronic stress alters the genetic immune response by changing the pattern of gene expression in monocytes, a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response. This altered response can lead to increased inflammation and contribute to the risk for illnesses like depression, heart disease, and diabetes.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 27, 2008

Cocaine-induced brain plasticity may protect the addicted brain

A recent study found that cocaine-induced brain plasticity may actually defend the brain during excessive drug use, potentially limiting maladaptive behavioral responses. The research identifies MEF2 as a key regulator of structural synapse plasticity and suggests that increasing spine density in the NAc may be a compensatory mechanism.

Not all fat is created equal

A recent study published in the journal Diabetes found that fat tissue in obese patients has impaired cellular function, leading to increased risk of insulin resistance and related conditions. The researchers discovered significant differences in the cellular structure and function of fat cells between lean and obese individuals.

SourceTemple University·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 27, 2008

Study examines use of opioids

A recent study found that over 10 million Americans use opioids, with 4 million using them regularly, reflecting a need to strike a balance between opioid misuse and chronic pain control. Opioid regular use increased with age, decreased with education level, and was more common in females and non-Hispanic whites.

SourceBoston University·JournalPain·DateAug 27, 2008

Endoscopic ultrasound highly accurate in evaluating ambiguous radiographic findings of the pancreas

Researchers report that endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is highly accurate in diagnosing pancreatic neoplasms, with a 99.1% accuracy rate. EUS-FNA also shows excellent results, with 88.8% sensitivity and 100% specificity, making it an ideal next step for patients with ambiguous imaging findings.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateAug 27, 2008

Potential new targets for antidepressant medications

A new study suggests that blocking the corticotrophin releasing factor-1 (CRF1) receptor and the vasopressin-1B (V1B) receptor may retain their efficacy in treating depression, even when neurogenesis is disrupted. The researchers found that restoration of the stress axis may be key to how these new antidepressant approaches work.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 27, 2008

New role for natural killers!

Scientists at the University of York have discovered a new role for Natural Killer cells, which can make diseases worse in certain cases. The research suggests that these cells produce chemicals that inhibit immune responses, leading to potential breakthroughs in treating chronic infections and cancer.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalImmunity·DateAug 27, 2008

Low levels of brain chemical may lead to obesity, NIH study of rare disorder shows

A National Institutes of Health study found that people with WAGR syndrome, a rare genetic condition, have low blood levels of the brain chemical BDNF and are more likely to become obese. The study suggests that BDNF plays a role in regulating appetite and body weight.

Common treatment to delay labor decreases pre-term infants' risk for cerebral palsy

Researchers found that mothers who received magnesium sulfate during preterm labor had a lower risk of cerebral palsy in their infants. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggests that magnesium sulfate may protect against cerebral palsy by stabilizing blood vessels and reducing inflammation.

Why is Greenland covered in ice?

Research suggests that changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are the primary cause of Greenland's ice formation, contrary to competing theories. The study uses computer climate and ice-sheet models to show that a decline in CO2 levels led to the long-term growth of the Greenland ice sheet.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature·DateAug 27, 2008

Pre-school age exercises can prevent dyslexia

Researchers at the Academy of Finland's Centre of Excellence in Learning and Motivation Research have found that pre-school age exercises can significantly reduce reading and writing difficulties in children. The study suggests that training should focus on phonetics, mathematics, and information technology to aid learning.

Genetic link to dry macular degeneration found

Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation that offers protection against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in adults over 50. The study identifies a functional link between toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and geographic atrophy, a type of dry AMD.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 27, 2008