A team of Purdue University researchers has identified the genetic mechanism responsible for dwarfed appearance in corn and sorghum plants. This finding may help develop dwarf forms in other crops, improving food production in certain regions. The study also reveals a genetic phenomenon involving direct duplication that causes instabil...
A breakthrough discovery has been made by McMaster University researchers, who have cloned the gene that marks an important nuclear protein of the SARS virus. The team plans to test their newly engineered adenovirus vector in animals for protective effects against the deadly disease.
Rao's research aims to understand the mechanism of virus assembly, a crucial step in viral transmission and disease spread. By studying the brome mosaic virus, his lab hopes to develop new strategies for blocking virus assembly and preventing disease.
Researchers discover that the immune synapse theory suggests the synapse is linked to both activating and deactivating T cells, with its ability to amplify signals also shutting down messages in later stages. The findings confirm key concepts in the immune synapse theory.
A newly discovered gene, Stb8, has been found in bread wheat species to be resistant to Septoria tritici leaf blotch, a fungus causing significant yield losses worldwide. The gene's longer duration of effectiveness compared to previous genes may make it a valuable addition to breeding programs.
The sequenced genome of Pseudomonas syringae provides a blueprint for understanding its virulence and pathogenesis, shedding light on the complex mechanisms behind bacterial disease
Dr. Gonsalves' research discovery led to the development of enhanced papaya varieties resistant to ringspot virus, now widely planted and valued at over $14 million annually. His work has significantly impacted Hawaii's papaya production, saving the industry from devastating losses.
Dr. Peter Ward, a renowned U-M pathologist, has received the American Thoracic Society's highest honor for his pioneering research on inflammation and lung biology. His work has significantly broadened the understanding of lung health and disease, influencing the career development of many clinicians and scientists worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a gene that protects potatoes from late blight, a fungal pathogen responsible for the Irish potato famine. The discovery holds significant potential to save farmers hundreds of millions of dollars and benefit the environment by reducing toxic chemical applications.
Research suggests that individuals with higher education levels exhibit less cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease due to increased brain adaptability and flexibility. The study, which analyzed autopsied brains of deceased participants, found a significant association between education and reduced AD pathology.
Researchers have identified two distinct forms of chromatin, a previously unrecognized level of genomic organization. This discovery has broad potential applications in cancer diagnosis and assigning functions to genome subsections.
Researchers developed new methods for diagnosing breast cancer based on gene expression signatures, correlating with traditional pathological classifications. The study found that early-stage lesions contain molecular signatures reflecting tumor aggressiveness, potentially changing the course of cancer progression.
A new study has found that a 14-gauge automated tru-cut needle is highly accurate in diagnosing breast cancer, with over 99% accuracy rate. The study also showed that smaller biopsy needles can be just as effective as larger ones, offering a less invasive option for patients.
A combination of celecoxib and a common cream used to treat nonmelanoma skin cancer was found to be up to 35% more effective in reducing skin tumors than using the cream alone. The researchers hope to reduce side effects while increasing efficacy by exploring different treatment regimens.
Researchers found that PPAR-g is abundantly expressed in human pituitary tumors, including non-functioning and hormone-secreting types. The study suggests that PPAR-g binding compounds may be suitable oral therapies for these tumors.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new technique for creating targeted, antigen-specific immune cells in the lab. The method uses artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs) to convert generic immune cells into effective disease-fighters.
Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center identified a critical molecular link between estrogen receptors and invasive growth in breast cancer. The study reveals that a protein called MTA3 regulates cell adhesion molecule E-cadherin expression, leading to cancer progression.
Researchers investigate targeting pericytes and endothelial cells with kinase inhibitors to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. PDX1 levels also play a crucial role in islet survival and diabetes development, while Factor H's anti-inflammatory properties are explored for hemolytic uremic syndrome treatment.
David M. Holtzman and Ashley I. Bush have been awarded the 2003 Potamkin Prize for their work on amyloid accumulation and oxidation in Alzheimer's disease. Their research has provided essential basic foundation for understanding how to treat the pathology related to amyloid accumulation.
A new UC Davis study reveals that C-reactive protein (CRP) plays a key role in the formation of blood clots and plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High CRP levels can be reduced by losing weight, exercising regularly, or taking statin drugs.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine successfully transdifferentiated rat stem cells into functional new tissue, including platelets, red blood cells, and heart muscle cells. This breakthrough finding may provide clues to the therapeutic potential of human adult stem cells for tissue repair.
Pittsburgh researchers identify a genetic change in the UMOD gene responsible for two juvenile onset renal diseases, FJHN and MCKD2. The discovery enables testing of clinically unaffected family members, allowing for early intervention and potential prevention of kidney disease progression.
A 2-week study found Concord grape juice provided significant antioxidant protection, outperforming á-tocopherol supplements. The unique finding was that CGJ reduced oxidized protein concentration by 20%, a benefit not seen with the supplements.
A study has identified specific combinations of H. pylori bacterial strain and host genetic variations that increase the risk of stomach cancer in infected individuals. These findings suggest that personalized genotyping can help identify high-risk individuals, who may benefit from targeted H. pylori eradication treatment.
Researchers suggest delaying RSV infection could lower the risk of infant hospitalization due to bronchiolitis and subsequent wheezing and asthma. Delayed infection also led to enhanced interferon gamma production and less severe lung disease during re-infection in mice.
Researchers at UT Southwestern and Children's will develop protocols and procedures for a thermocycler called GeneXpert, which rapidly processes and analyzes DNA samples. The new testing methods should allow children to leave the hospital sooner or avoid hospitalization altogether, with results available within hours.
Researchers found three distinct clusters of patients with different memory and brain profile patterns, suggesting multiple disease mechanisms. The 'cortical' subtype showed temporal lobe pathology, while the 'subcortical' subtype featured frontal-striatal region issues.
Researchers found that everolimus reduced scar tissue growth in stents, preventing re-blockages by 46-40 percent. The oral medication shows promise as a treatment for restenosis and may reduce the need for stenting.
A study published in the American Journal of Pathology found that uncircumcised men are more susceptible to HIV due to high concentrations of target cells in their foreskin tissue. This tissue contains higher densities of CD4+ T cells, macropahges and Langerhans' Cells than in circumcised individuals or cervical tissue.
A team of scientists from Smithsonian and other institutions sequenced bird genetic material found in the 1917 collection, comparing it with the 1918 pandemic virus HA gene sequence. The comparison suggests that the pandemic viral HA gene was not derived directly from an avian source.
The American Association of Clinical Chemistry presents an update on HCV testing, highlighting the importance of laboratory tests for diagnosis and monitoring treatment efficacy. New testing methods, including core antigen and genotype testing, are being developed to assist clinicians in diagnosing HCV infection.
A study examines the potential of pharmacogenomic testing to help drug-treatment centers select suitable treatment regimens for opiate-addicted patients. The research investigates genetic polymorphisms affecting opioid metabolism, aiming to improve pain management and drug-abuse treatment.
A vaccine has been shown to delay symptoms of prion brain disease in mice by inducing an immune response and producing antibodies. This breakthrough could potentially lead to a therapeutic response and prevent the disease in animals at risk.
Researchers created mice with human alpha-synuclein gene to study MSA pathology. Healthy cells do not produce this protein, while affected cells form insoluble inclusion bodies.
Researchers aim to find new targets in the brain to prevent and treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases using Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SAGE) technology. The $2.75 million funding will support Columbia University's technology transfer and commercialization efforts.
The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology has released comprehensive national consensus guidelines to evaluate women with abnormal Pap tests. The guidelines recommend utilizing new technologies, including liquid-based cytology and HPV testing, to standardize care.
Scientists have identified a family of six proteins, called ZIGs, responsible for maintaining the wiring of the nervous system. The discovery was made in C. elegans and suggests that analogous human ZIG proteins may play a role in neurological disease pathology.
Researchers have discovered abnormal immune regulation and autoimmunity in children with a form of autism characterized by sudden regression. The study reveals distinct autoimmune features in the epithelium of the small bowel, which may contribute to bowel symptoms and cognitive regression in autistic children.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a gene, AMACR, which triggers production of a specific enzyme involved in fat metabolism. The protein is detected in over 95% of localized prostate cancer cells and shows high sensitivity and selectivity ratings for diagnostic purposes.
Researchers found late-onset schizophrenia to be a distinct condition characterized by tau protein abnormalities. The study analyzed brain tissue from patients and found that changes in the hippocampus were caused by hyper-phosphorylation of tau.
A new blood test was developed using a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, which can detect amyloid plaques and predict dementia risk. The test uses a protein called Ab40, which is not reflective of brain pathology unless an antibody is injected into the animal.
Scientists have developed a test to identify breast abnormalities that are more likely to develop into breast cancer. The test analyzes biological signals in cells and can help doctors determine whether certain women should receive prophylactic anti-oestrogen treatment or more frequent screening.
Researchers discovered that autistic individuals have smaller minicolumns but more of them, leading to excessive communication and stimulation. This pathology may hold the key to understanding autism and other conditions like schizophrenia.
Researchers at Jefferson Medical College and University of Barcelona found that moderate drinking from one to four drinks a day improved heart function in men with alcohol-related heart failure. The study suggests a threshold drinking level for alcohol-related heart damage, below which there is no harm.
A five-year project aims to create a tool that allows researchers to compare DNA, proteins, and biological factors between cancerous and non-cancerous tissues. This database will be built on unidentifiable data from 1.6 million pathology reports and six million tissue blocks from various Indianapolis hospitals.
A team of Penn researchers found that molecular chaperones can block the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's by preventing neuronal decay in Drosophila melanogaster. The study suggests that activating these molecules may be an effective approach to treating several human neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers found that two statins, atorvastatin and simvastatin, significantly reduced remnant lipoprotein (RLP) cholesterol levels, while pravastatin had no effect. This suggests that these drugs may have additional mechanisms for reducing cardiovascular risk beyond just lowering LDL cholesterol.
Researchers at USC have discovered an increase in BACE enzymes in patients with inclusion-body myositis (IBM), a crippling muscle disease. The findings suggest that cholesterol may play a role in the production of toxic amyloid-ß protein, which could lead to new treatment options for both IBM and Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists at Uppsala University have identified a gene that regulates mast cell survival upon allergic activation, providing hope for a novel therapy to treat allergies. Inhibition of this gene, A1, leads to the death of mast cells, decreasing their numbers and alleviating allergic symptoms.
A new study found that the secretory path's activity is closely tied to the nucleus' structure and functions, with disruptions impacting gene expression and cellular growth. This research may hold key to developing molecular therapies for these genetic diseases.
Duke researchers have identified caveolae, small pits on cell membranes, as a route of entry for various pathogens and toxins. This finding could lead to new avenues for treating infections and delivering drugs into cells.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have successfully bred mice with both amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, the key pathologic hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. The double transgenic mouse model provides a more complete representation of human AD and will enable researchers to test therapies aimed at preventing or halting progression.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health successfully immunized mice against Alzheimer's disease using a new vaccine that reduces amyloid plaque and soluble beta levels. The vaccine, modeled on a modified peptide, appears to be non-toxic and shows great promise for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
A recent court decision requiring all North Carolina speech-language pathologists to hold a master's degree may lead to a 13% workforce loss in the state's public school system. The shortage could exacerbate caseloads, particularly for students with autism and growing demands for early intervention services.
A specific protein isolated from Chilean tarantula venom shows promise as a basis for new drugs to prevent atrial fibrillation, a major cause of death following a heart attack. The research demonstrates the physiological function of mechanosensitive ion channels in the heart for the first time.
Researchers have identified two proteins p73 and E2F1 that play important roles in programmed cell death, regulating the death of immune cells T cells. This discovery provides new insights into cancer research and the potential treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered that stress can increase the amount of hypericin in St. John's Wort, a popular herbal remedy for depression. The study found that plants under attack from insects produce more hypericin, which may contribute to its effectiveness.
Researchers at Cornell University and the USDA have found that stressed St. John's wort plants produce more of the active compound hypericin, which is a key ingredient in depression remedies. The finding suggests that the plant's chemical arsenal increases when it faces stress from predators like insects.
A study by Dr. David Bennett found that many people with mild cognitive impairment exhibit Alzheimer's disease pathology, indicating a larger public health problem than previously thought. The research suggests increased funding for clinical care and research is needed to combat the disease effectively.
Researchers discovered that bone marrow-derived stem cells can generate mature liver cells in humans. This groundbreaking finding has the potential to revolutionize treatment options for liver damage and disease.