A study found that type 2 diabetes in lean Africans is caused by a shortage of insulin, not insulin resistance, unlike in overweight individuals. This disparity leads to different disease processes and treatment responses, with lean patients often developing eye damage and strokes, while overweight patients are more likely to have high...
A large-scale Phase 3 trial of CRISPR therapy has shown an 87% reduction in attacks for patients with hereditary angioedema. The treatment also improved quality-of-life scores and reduced the need for on-demand medication, paving the way for future genetic therapies.
A new preclinical study by Amsterdam UMC researchers overturns a key assumption in the biological pacemaker field. They show that transcription factor TBX18 does not generate true pacemaker activity, while ion channel Hcn2 produces robust pacemaker function in the heart.
Researchers at Amsterdam UMC found that a second pregnancy changes the female brain in unique ways, altering brain networks involved in attention and sensory cues. The study also linked structural brain changes to maternal mental health, providing new insights into postpartum depression.
Smartwatches with PPG and ECG functionality improve atrial fibrillation detection, detecting it four times more often than standard care. Researchers detected heart arrhythmia in 21 patients using smartwatches compared to five in those receiving standard care after six months of monitoring.
Research at Amsterdam UMC found that early HIV treatment improves immune system function in the short term but leads to dysregulation in the long term. After six months of treatment, the immune system functions similarly to that of people without HIV, but this improvement is temporary and does not last beyond three years.
A large-scale study published in the European Heart Journal found no increased risk of heart attack and stroke among transgender women taking hormone oestradiol. In contrast, transgender men using testosterone have a higher risk due to factors such as high blood pressure and poorer cholesterol levels.
The addition of progesterone to gender-affirming hormone therapy leads to increased breast growth for transgender individuals. Progesterone, a key female sex hormone, was found to be safe and effective when added to oestradiol, with participants experiencing up to a 37% increase in breast volume.
Researchers highlight a significant gap in detecting symptoms and preventive measures before myocardial infarctions, with distinct differences found between age groups and genders.
Research led by Amsterdam UMC reveals the hearts of female elite athletes have different characteristics compared to their male counterparts. Female athletes exhibit dilation of the heart chambers, whereas males show thickening in combination with a dilation of the heart muscle. This finding can aid doctors in identifying possible hear...
Researchers from Amsterdam UMC have made a breakthrough in developing an HIV vaccine with a germline-targeting strategy, inducing immune responses in participants. The phase one trial showed promising results, suggesting the potential for this approach to be further developed into a vaccine.
A large-scale study published in eClinicalMedicine found that transmasculine and gender-diverse individuals who use testosterone for an average of five years do not have an increased risk of gynecological cancer. The research, which followed 1955 participants, suggests that hormone therapy may be safe for this group.
Researchers at Amsterdam UMC have developed a new diagnostic test that measures CRP protein in cerebrospinal fluid to quickly diagnose bacterial meningitis. The test has been shown to be very reliable and can start treatment within half an hour of diagnosis.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm based on the medical history of over half a million patients, enabling GPs to identify increased risk of lung cancer up to 4 months before diagnosis. This method may also offer early detection for other types of cancer and improved patient outcomes.
A significant proportion of patients who suffer a stroke due to carotid artery narrowing can be treated with medication only. Researchers found that up to 75% of patients may not need surgery, eliminating the risk of another stroke and saving healthcare costs.
A study found that migrants experience a 'clear change' in their gut microbiome composition after migration, leading to increased rates of cardiovascular disease. The Amsterdam UMC-led research showed that specific groups of microbes disappear or emerge along the migration axis.
Researchers at Amsterdam UMC and Moffitt Cancer Center found that contact with CLL cells leads to an energy crisis in T cells, making them unable to proliferate. The study suggests that restoring T cell energy could significantly enhance the effectiveness of current treatments for cancer.
A study published in The Lancet found that tocolytic drugs after 30 weeks of pregnancy do not improve the baby's health. Premature birth often has a medical cause and delaying childbirth may actually be harmful.
Researchers have discovered a novel gene therapy that can reverse conduction slowing and prevent cardiac arrhythmias by introducing the SCN10a-short gene into heart muscle cells. The treatment has shown promise in animal models and human cell studies, offering a potential solution for millions affected by arrhythmias worldwide.
A global study by Amsterdam UMC found that new medication direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are equally safe and effective as vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for treating sinus thrombosis. Regular monitoring is no longer necessary, making it more user-friendly.
A recent Amsterdam UMC study found that a quick initial shock with a defibrillator can significantly improve survival rates in patients who have suffered a cardiac arrest. Every minute of delay reduces the chance of survival by 6%, with 93% of cases successfully terminated if given within six minutes.
A CRISPR-Cas9 based gene editing therapy has been shown to reduce angioedema attacks and sustainably lower kallikrein levels in patients with hereditary angioedema, offering a potential treatment option. The therapy was tested on 27 patients across two dosages compared to placebo.
Researchers from Amsterdam UMC have developed a way to predict which patients are at risk of epilepsy after a cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT), a rare type of stroke. The prediction model, known as the DIAS3 score, is based on six indicators and can be accessed online for healthcare providers worldwide.
A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that a pregnant woman's genetic background significantly affects the effectiveness of Non-Invasive Prenatal Tests (NIPTs). The study found that a specific genetic variant in approximately 7% of women increases the odds of inconclusive results and impairs test sensitivity. This discovery ...
A study by Amsterdam UMC found that nearly three-quarters of Dutch elite athletes report sport-related distress, while forty percent of their coaches do so as well. The most common mental health problems among athletes are related to their performance and life events, with unfavorable alcohol consumption also prevalent.
A recent study published in Cell Reports Medicine has discovered an important immune component that offers protection against MRSA infection. The researchers found that IgM antibodies are required for clearance of S. aureus during an infection, suggesting a new direction for future vaccine strategies and therapies.
Researchers found that digital consultations significantly improved medication adherence among heart failure patients, with 28% receiving optimal medication combinations after 12 weeks. The study also showed no negative impact on patient satisfaction or quality of life.
A research study led by Amsterdam UMC demonstrates a strategy to reduce unnecessary IV and catheter use, resulting in a 37% reduction in related infections. The study's five-year sustainability highlights the importance of temporary investments and effective implementation.
ICU patients with contractile weakness of the diaphragm due to mechanical ventilation develop a state of hibernation, where myosin protein is trapped in an energy-saving state. This compromises diaphragm strength and independent breathing, leading to difficulties in weaning from the ventilator. Researchers have found a potential lead f...
A recent study published in Neurology found that commercial arm robots have no significant impact on the recovery of motor arm function in stroke patients. Despite improvements in technology, the robots did not demonstrate any improvement in muscle and arm function, and may even increase healthcare costs.
The KEEPCARING study aims to develop a digital tool using AI to predict the most effective stress-reducing methods for individual healthcare providers. Researchers will also map and use existing stress measurement methods, and test interventions in clinical trials across multiple European hospitals.
A recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that poverty is a causal factor leading to mental health problems, while certain mental health issues can also affect financial stability. The researchers used Mendelian randomization to untangle the relationship between poverty and mental illness.
Researchers at Amsterdam UMC have developed a prediction model that can forecast cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. The model provides an indication of the disease course over 5 years and has potential for use in a user-friendly app, aiding doctors in discussing prognosis with patients.
A recent study by Amsterdam University Medical Center found that women who survive cardiac arrest are at a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression compared to men. The research also showed a significant decrease in employment rates and earnings among survivors, highlighting the need for better support after a cardiac arrest.
A study of over 10,000 people found that those with fewer butyrate-producing bacteria in their gut were more likely to develop serious infections. The research suggests a strong link between the microbiome and the immune system, opening up new possibilities for preventing serious infections.
The study found that the wireless modular system is safe and effective in treating cardiac arrhythmias, with a success rate of almost 99% in communicating between devices. The technology also reduces complications and invasive procedures, improving patient safety.
Research reveals specific lipids accumulate in tissues as we age and can be decreased through exercise, according to a recent study published in Nature Aging. The findings suggest that exercise may have a role in reversing age-related changes in human muscle tissue.
Research from Amsterdam UMC found that social activities like interactions and organised events prevent cognitive decline in long-term care residents. Participation in these activities offers a protective effect, particularly for those with little or no cognitive impairment.
A study published in Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that not placing a drain during distal pancreatectomy surgery improves patient outcomes. The study, involving 282 patients across ten Dutch and two Italian hospitals, demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative pancreatic leaks and overall morbidity.
A recent study published in BMJ found that progesterone is more effective than a cervical pessary at reducing extreme preterm birth in women with a short cervix. Women with a cervix shorter than 25mm can benefit from progesterone treatment to prevent severe preterm birth.
Research on over 600,000 TB cases reveals 80% have no persistent cough, delaying diagnoses and transmission, with high infection rates among symptomless individuals. The study suggests rethinking current diagnostic practices for more effective TB identification.
A study by Amsterdam UMC and University of Cape Town found that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is present in the respiratory aerosol of 90% of suspected TB patients, including those with negative sputum tests. This raises concerns about unknowingly transmitting infection and highlights the complexity of TB transmission.
Researchers analyzed access to new treatments for early-stage lung cancer in Europe, highlighting existing disparities in healthcare systems and reimbursement structures. The study calls for a collective European approach to reduce inequalities in access to care.
A recent study from Amsterdam UMC and the University of Glasgow found that loneliness increases physical frailty, leading to a higher risk of depression, falls, and cognitive decline in older adults. The research analysis more than 130 studies and revealed that reduced social functioning is associated with physical decline in older adu...
A third of trans masculine individuals taking testosterone are found to ovulate, according to a study from Amsterdam UMC's Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria. This discovery emphasizes the importance of birth control measures and comprehensive care for trans men who may experience unplanned pregnancy.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm to analyze brain scans and clinical data, predicting treatment response with 8-week accuracy.
A study by Amsterdam UMC shows that Doppler ultrasound can detect placenta problems in small babies, identifying those at higher risk of oxygen deficiency and health issues. The measurement is added to the care plan for these undersized babies, allowing for better detection and monitoring of potential problems.
A study led by Amsterdam UMC found that a tailored computerised decision support system reduced high-risk drug combinations and improved patient safety. The system only showed alerts for high-risk or needing extra monitoring, resulting in 12% fewer high-risk drug combinations and shorter ICU stays.
Researchers are exploring 'priming, shaping, and polishing' techniques to develop an HIV vaccine targeting rare immune cells that produce broad-neutralizing antibodies. The Amsterdam UMC-led project aims to create an effective vaccine for low- and middle-income countries with a €4.5m grant.
Dutch scientists identified five distinct biological variants of Alzheimer's disease through cerebrospinal fluid proteomics. These variants differ in protein production, immune system function and nerve cell growth, affecting disease progression and treatment responses.