Researchers at the NIH have identified a compound that prevents overproduction of thyroid hormone, potentially improving treatment for Graves' disease. The receptor antagonist has not yet been tested in animals or people and still needs to undergo safety testing before potential human trials.
A University of Edinburgh study reveals that nanoparticles used in various products can cause distinct lung injuries in rats, with some triggering asthmatic reactions and others leading to severe damage. Researchers emphasize the need for improved testing methods to assess nanoparticle risks.
Chris Wood, a professor at McMaster University and University of Miami, is recognized for his immense impact on the field as a scientist and mentor. He has attracted over 100 postdocs and grad students to his labs, with many now holding faculty positions worldwide.
A team of researchers led by Michigan State University will investigate the effects of increasing doses of mercury on yellow perch. The study aims to shed light on the negative repercussions of low-level pollutants on fish populations.
Researchers found that narciclasine, a natural compound in daffodil bulbs, markedly reduces cancer cell proliferation and migration. The study suggests that narciclasine selectively inhibits the growth of very aggressive cancer cells while avoiding adverse effects on normal cells.
A study published in PLoS Medicine found that agricultural pesticide poisoning is the single most common means of suicide worldwide, with significant variation in case fatality rates among different pesticides. The authors argue that basing regulation on human toxicity, rather than animal data, could help reduce suicides and improve pu...
Researchers can now study the mouse brain in unprecedented detail, thanks to a new atlas that provides a 3D reference point for genetics, toxicology, and drug discovery. The atlas features images with resolutions up to 21 microns, eliminating variability issues associated with conventional histology.
A new research center will study the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates on infant and adolescent development, cognition, and behavior. The center aims to determine if exposure to these chemicals alters hormone signaling and affects sex differences in brain development and behavior.
A recent study published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health found that exposure to Kilauea's vog increases health risks, including headaches, sore throats, and acute airway problems. Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable due to their nose-breathing habits.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in Ewing's sarcoma treatment with the discovery of a novel small molecule that blocks key protein interactions. The $4.37 million NCI grant will fund preclinical toxicology studies to accelerate the development process.
A study of medical records in Hong Kong found 66 cases of poisoning from natural slimming therapy, with one fatality. The researchers identified 12 agents used in 81 products as falling into categories that include undeclared weight-loss drugs and banned substances.
A researcher at Indiana University has been awarded $2.27 million to study the environmental effects on gene copy number, which can influence disease susceptibility. The project aims to understand how genetic differences between individuals are affected by environmental factors.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded $36 million in grants to support worker safety training programs. These programs aim to reduce exposure to hazards during disaster response, cleanup, and chemical emergency responses.
Toxoplasma gondii parasite triggers stress response mechanism to survive outside host cells, enabling it to find new hosts and infect them. Researchers identify critical pathway that helps the parasite overcome environmental stresses, offering potential new treatments for toxoplasmosis infection.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that BPA released from plastic resins used in pediatric dentistry is detectable in saliva after placement in children's mouths. The team recommends using alternative BPA derivatives and taking precautions to reduce exposure.
Researchers at the University of Kansas have developed a drug that can stop and reverse diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a debilitating condition leading to nerve death and amputations. The compound, KU-32, has been shown to inhibit molecular chaperones and restore sensory neuron function.
Researchers at the University of Western Ontario have discovered a link between chronic stress and heart attacks using hair cortisol levels as a biological marker. The study found that heart attack patients had higher cortisol levels in their hair samples compared to control group, suggesting chronic stress as a contributing factor.
New research from North Carolina State University reveals that fertilizer chemicals can be converted into toxic nitric oxide by water fleas, causing developmental and reproductive problems. The study's findings raise concerns about the impact of these chemicals on other organisms and highlight the need for further research.
A new study found that prenatal exposure to low doses of atrazine causes prostate inflammation and delays puberty in male rats. The incidence of prostate inflammation increased significantly with the strength of the doses, while puberty was also delayed in animals exposed to atrazine.
Researchers have found that boosting brain levels of 2-AG, a natural painkiller, soon leads to loss of its therapeutic effect due to receptor downregulation. This discovery has implications for drug development and basic science, suggesting that more modest elevations in 2-AG may produce sustained pain relief.
A newly formed advisory committee will review all federal breast cancer research efforts and develop recommendations for improving existing programs. The committee aims to expand opportunities for collaborative, multi-disciplinary research and advance the understanding of links between environment, genes, and health.
Researchers at NC State University developed a screening tool to predict nanoparticle interactions with biological systems, allowing for improved safety and applications in drug delivery. The study uses molecular probes to create 'fingerprints' identifying how nanoparticles will behave inside the human body.
Assistant Professor Annelise Nguyen receives $370,000 grant to study cell communication in cancer cells, potentially leading to enhanced drug treatments. Her work also has potential applications for colon and prostate cancers.
Dr. Thomas J. Walsh, Director of the Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program at Weill Cornell Medical College, has been selected as the 2010 laureate of the sanofi-aventis ICAAC Award for his groundbreaking work on antifungal pharmacology and therapeutics.
A study by University of Calgary researchers reveals a significant increase in female fish population and feminization of males in two Southern Alberta rivers. The presence of man-made and naturally occurring chemicals, such as synthetic estrogens and bisphenol A, is linked to the sex ratio imbalance.
Researchers are investigating how parkin protein can rescue certain neurons from injury induced by Parkinson's disease. The study aims to understand the steps underlying parkin's ability to promote neuron recovery and identify targets for therapies.
A Michigan State University researcher is using $1.7 million in federal funding to study the role of microRNAs in regulating genes that control cell behavior. The goal is to determine how arsenic exposure leads to tumor development and identify potential treatments.
Two studies confirm widespread pollution in national parks across the Western United States, with pesticides being a major concern. The research found high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) near industrial sites, posing health risks to humans and wildlife.
Researchers found that nanoparticles of zinc oxide are twice as toxic to colon cells as conventional zinc oxide. The study's results suggest that accidental ingestion of sunscreen products could lead to toxicity in humans.
Research shows that public housing residents are exposed to toxins from tobacco smoke, even if they don't smoke themselves. The authors argue that a ban on smoking in public housing units is necessary to protect the health of all residents, particularly children, who are more vulnerable to the effects of second-hand smoke.
Smokeless tobacco affects enzyme function and genetic material in liver, kidney, and lungs, altering hormone production and potentially toxic substance breakdown. The study's findings highlight the need for greater awareness of smokeless tobacco's risks, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations.
A groundbreaking study has shown that a novel treatment using small interfering RNAs can protect monkeys from lethal Ebola virus infection after exposure. The treatment was found to be well-tolerated and offered complete protection in some cases, paving the way for further research and potential human trials.
The Rice University-led Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry journal has released a special virtual edition making 25 previously published studies on the Exxon Valdez oil spill available for free. The collection provides insights into the occurrence, fate, and effects of oils and oil spills in the environment.
Scientists developed a fast, simple and inexpensive test for detecting chemicals that cause contact dermatitis, eliminating the need for animal testing. The test uses nitrobenzenethiol as a skin protein surrogate, producing positive results for known skin irritants and negative results for non-irritating substances.
A USGS study reveals that atrazine concentrations in agricultural streams and rivers can cause reduced reproduction and spawning in fish. Fathead minnows exposed to atrazine showed lower total egg production and reproductive tissue abnormalities.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new method for collecting narcotic substances from exhaled breath, which was successful in detecting amphetamine and metamphetamine in all cases of emergency care patients.
The study found elevated concentrations of lead, arsenic, and other chemicals in New Orleans' soil and flood sediments, particularly in disadvantaged areas. The research highlights the need for long-term monitoring programs to establish baseline concentrations and distributions of contaminants in the environment.
Thomas Miller, UCR entomologist, to advise State Department on biotechnology and pest management globally. He will also engage with non-specialists and travel to embassies to share expertise.
Research suggests that epigenetics plays a key role in the development of degenerative diseases. Environmental influences can alter gene expression, which can be passed on to offspring and impact life and death. HDAC inhibitors, found in foods like broccoli and garlic, may help prevent cancer by silencing tumor suppressor genes.
Researchers from Oregon State University are exploring the link between epigenetics, diet, and disease prevention. They found that HDAC inhibitors, found in foods like broccoli and garlic, can stop degenerative processes and turn off tumor suppressor genes.
The University of Iowa Superfund Research Program has received a five-year, $16 million grant to investigate the health impacts of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in water, soil, and air. The program will also explore novel clean-up methods using plants.
A recent NIH-led interagency group report highlights 11 key categories of diseases affected by climate change, including respiratory problems, mental health issues, and cardiovascular disease. The report provides a starting point for federal research to better understand the impact of climate change on human health.
Scientists have discovered lingering oil from the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill is still being ingested by wildlife in Prince William Sound. The study used biomarkers to reveal long-term exposure to oil in harlequin ducks, demonstrating that consequences of oil spills can last for decades.
Researchers have discovered that targeting the blood-brain barrier can slow the accumulation of a protein associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study shows that activating a certain receptor in the brain can increase the expression of a blood-brain barrier protein that transports beta-amyloid out of the brain.
The University of Arizona Superfund Research Program will receive $14 million to investigate metal-laden dust, water contamination and their health effects. The program aims to minimize mine dust and water leachate, stabilize arsenic residuals, and monitor pollutant distribution in air and water.
High levels of copper and iron in older adults can lead to cell damage and increase the risk of age-related diseases. To mitigate this, individuals over 50 should consider avoiding certain supplements and taking steps to lower their exposure to these metals.
A national study by Queen's University researchers has found a strong correlation between Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and a high prevalence of epilepsy. Six percent of participants had epilepsy, while twelve percent experienced one or more seizures in their lifetimes.
Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are at a high risk of developing epilepsy or seizure history, according to a new study. Researchers found that six percent of individuals with FASD developed epilepsy and 12 percent had one or more seizures in their life.
Researchers found that certain buckyball configurations, such as the tris configuration, caused premature senescence in human skin cells. This could lead to disease development if not properly understood. The study provides early foundations for worker protection and highlights the need for federal regulations on nanomaterial use.
Researchers found that environmental chemicals form a complex cocktail, leading to greater toxicity than individual chemicals. The EU recommends implementing guidelines for managing the chemical cocktail effect to assess risks to humans and the environment.
The new laboratory will provide forensic services in up to 5,000-6,000 criminal investigations annually, including toxicology analysis and drug identification. It is part of a larger program focused on criminal justice and related areas.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have made a new discovery about how the body fights certain types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. A newly discovered protein, HVCN1, regulates antibody production and can be targeted for therapies to treat conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
A new study found that elevated dissolved oxygen concentrations in alcoholic drinks can accelerate the metabolism and elimination of alcohol. This could provide clinical significance by allowing individuals to become sober faster, reducing acetaldehyde's side effects, and potentially decreasing alcohol-related accidents.
A new study reveals that aged dental fillings may contain a non-toxic form of mercury. Researchers found that the surface forms of mercury in dental amalgam change over time, with most mercury lost through evaporation or exposure to hygiene products.
A study by NC State researchers found that a protein called TAB2 activates inflammation but also brings together molecules to turn it off. This finding challenges previous understanding of the protein's role in immune-system responses.
The University of Plymouth is investing £500,000 in joint research with the Peninsula Dental School to tackle key areas in oral health. The research will focus on statistical epidemiology, virtual reality, and nanotechnology, aiming to ease dental anxiety and develop more aesthetically pleasing materials.
A new study has found that chlorophyll and its derivative chlorophyllin are effective in limiting the absorption of aflatoxin in humans. The Phase 0 approach allows for the measurement of minute amounts of aflatoxin, revealing rapid absorption that is significantly limited after treatment with chlorophyll and chlorophyllin.
A new study reveals that older dental fillings, containing beta-mercuric sulfide or metacinnabar, are unlikely to be toxic. The surface forms of mercury in these fillings lose up to 95% of their mercury over time, making human exposure less concerning.
A study by Irina Stepanov and colleagues found that moist snuff contains at least eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nine of which are classified as carcinogens. The presence of these toxicants in smokeless tobacco may contribute to increased risk of cancer and other health issues.
A series of studies published in The Lancet show that cutting greenhouse gases can directly reduce premature deaths and improve global health, particularly in low-income countries. The research highlights the co-benefits of tackling climate change by reducing air pollution and improving public health.