Researchers developed patient-specific tumor organoids to test immunotherapy treatments for appendiceal cancer. The study found that various types of immunotherapies can achieve personalized results, identifying beneficial treatments while sparing patients from harmful side effects.
A national survey reveals a pronounced lack of needed skills in the regenerative medicine biomanufacturing workforce, highlighting key findings and recommendations to address this gap. The study suggests five strategies for developing the workforce ecosystem, including faculty development opportunities, work-based learning, and policy ...
Researchers linked repeated head impacts in youth football with changes in brain imaging, highlighting the need for reduced head impact drills during practice. The study used diffusion tensor imaging and biomechanical data from helmet-mounted sensors to examine the effects of head impacts on young athletes.
Researchers found that diet can alter the breast microbiome to affect breast cancer risk. The study, published in Cancer Research, showed that a high-fat diet led to more aggressive tumors and reduced effectiveness of fish oil supplements.
A novel rehabilitation program, REHAB-HF, improved physical function, balance, mobility, strength, and endurance in hospitalized older patients with acute heart failure. The program, tailored to individual needs and starting early in the hospital stay, showed significant gains regardless of ejection fraction.
A new stem cell therapy strategy has shown promising results in treating intestinal bowel disease in premature infants. The treatment uses human placental-derived stem cells to repair damage caused by the disease and promote healing of the intestinal barrier.
Researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine have identified a set of new genetic markers that could lead to targeted treatments for non-small cell lung cancer. The study found that tumors with mutated KMT2 genes exhibit genetic instability, making them more sensitive to PARP inhibitors.
A new study suggests removing additional tissue around the tumor cavity can reduce positive margins in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) by nearly 65%. Achieving clear margins is crucial in decreasing cancer recurrence, and this technique should be considered for DCIS patients.
The funding supports development of a new drug testing platform to predict treatment outcomes for patients with cancer. Researchers will leverage tissue bioengineering advances and genomic technologies to reconstruct and grow patient-derived tumor organoids in the presence of different drugs.
A recent study published in Global Advances in Health and Medicine found that online mindfulness interventions can improve psychological health during times of uncertainty. The study showed significant reductions in momentary stress, anxiety, and COVID-19 concern among participants.
Researchers investigate using a cell-signaling chemokine from cats to treat human kidney fibrosis and slow disease progression. The study suggests that intra-renal injection of CXCL12 may be a potential therapy for early kidney disease, offering new hope for millions with the condition.
A study found lifestyle interventions reduced cardiovascular harm and optimized benefits for 85% of participants. However, it increased the risk of major cardiovascular events in those with poor blood sugar control, suggesting alternative options like glucose-lowering drugs may be necessary.
A new health equity curriculum at Wake Forest School of Medicine improved students' knowledge and confidence in addressing social determinants of health. The program, implemented in 2018, included simulations, online modules, and community-based partnerships.
Scientists have discovered a link between nicotine and the spread of breast cancer cells into the lungs, which can lower survival rates by 33%. Nicotine exposure creates an environment ripe for metastatic growth, attracting immune cells that promote tumor growth.
A new approach involving specially trained nurses increased ACP discussions with patients, documenting it in 42% of visits compared to 3.7% in normal care groups. The nurse-led group used an electronic health record tool to guide the conversation and document patient goals.
The 16th World Stem Cell Summit will be co-located with the 7th annual Regenerative Medicine Essentials Course, featuring joint single-track programming on stem cells, biomaterials, cell therapies, clinical trials, and regulatory matters. The event aims to accelerate regenerative medicine and deliver cures.
A recent clinical trial found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) reduced migraine frequency and severity in adults with a history of migraine. MBSR improved quality of life, depression scores, and measures of emotional well-being compared to headache education.
A new study found that a Mediterranean diet can enhance stress resilience and slow nervous system aging in animal models. The study showed that the Mediterranean diet reduced sympathetic nervous system activity and cortisol levels compared to a Western diet.
Researchers have developed a novel method to bioprint fibrocartilage, a crucial tissue in knee joints, using a hybrid tissue construct. The study demonstrates the potential of this regenerative medicine treatment for repairing damaged cartilage and restoring knee function.
Researchers aim to boost protection against severe flu infection in babies under 6 months with a new vaccine approach.
Researchers recorded real-time changes in dopamine and serotonin levels in patients' brains during tasks, revealing that serotonin levels increased with uncertainty and decreased with confidence. The study provides insight into how dopamine and serotonin regulate perception, decision-making, and cognition, potentially leading to improv...
A new approach helps paramedics identify patients at high risk for adverse cardiac events using a modified HEART Pathway, which includes measurement of troponin levels. This allows for faster and more focused care for patients who need specific cardiac treatment.
Researchers used closed-loop, acoustic stimulation neurotechnology to alleviate insomnia symptoms and improve autonomic nervous system function. Participants showed clinically meaningful reductions in insomnia symptoms and significant improvements in autonomic cardiovascular regulation after just three weeks of treatment.
Researchers found that a Mediterranean ketogenic diet can alter specific gut fungi associated with higher Alzheimer's disease risk. The study suggests that this dietary approach may help reduce harmful fungi in the gut, potentially leading to improved mental health outcomes.
A review of preclinical data suggests estrogen lowers ACE2 levels, which may explain why women experience milder symptoms. Higher ACE2 levels in men could account for worse outcomes.
A new study uses patient-specific tumor organoids to identify the most effective chemotherapy protocol for treating advanced stages of colon and appendiceal cancer. The approach shows promise in tailoring treatment to individual patients, potentially increasing life expectancy.
Researchers biofabricated human colorectal cancer organoids to understand how tumors grow in their natural microenvironment and respond to treatments. The study replicated native tumor tissue in a laboratory model and validated its effects on whole-body physiology, paving the way for new therapies targeting the extracellular matrix.
Researchers used 3D brain organoids to model inflammation's effect on the blood-brain barrier, finding significant changes that contribute to its dysfunction. The study suggests these organoids can help understand disease mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies.
Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have developed an optimized cellular platform for delivering Factor 8 to treat patients with hemophilia A. The new approach uses human placental cells to produce therapeutic levels of Factor 8, potentially providing a long-term correction for the disease.
Scientists at WFIRM have successfully engineered uterine tissue that supports fertilization, fetal development, and live birth. The study's findings suggest a regenerative medicine solution to treat uterine defects, avoiding organ rejection and the need for antirejection drugs.
Scientists discover that nicotine, found in tobacco, promotes the spread of non-small-cell lung cancer cells into the brain. Researchers identify parthenolide as a potential treatment option to prevent brain metastasis.
A study published in the American Heart Association journal Hypertension found that intensive blood pressure control reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation. Lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120mmHg resulted in a 26% lower risk of AFib compared to standard lowering, with similar benefits seen across different groups.
The hospital created a specialized respiratory isolation unit from an existing medical-surgical unit, equipped with dialysis access. The framework published in The Hospitalist aims to provide a model for other institutions to establish similar units quickly, minimizing cross-contamination and exposure risk.
The North Carolina Diabetes Research Center will provide educational programs, pilot grants, and research infrastructure support to investigators in diabetes research. As one of only 12 NIH Diabetes Research Centers, the grant aims to connect investigators with collaborators to expand project scope.
A community-based research study has been launched to better understand the pandemic and regional infection patterns. The study will employ online data-gathering and at-home rapid diagnostic kits to help the medical community develop strategies for containment and possibly eliminate COVID-19 in defined communities.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that more than 90% of legal marijuana products offered in medical dispensaries are stronger than recommended for chronic pain relief. This can lead to increased risk of developing cannabis-use disorders and tolerance, according to the study's lead author.
The researchers developed a system of miniaturized organs that can detect harmful effects of drugs before they are prescribed to patients. The miniature organs, created using biofabrication techniques, mimic human tissues and organs, enabling the detection of toxicity in drugs approved for human use.
Yong Lu and David Soto-Pantoja receive grants to study immunotherapy and cardiotoxicity, aiming to improve cancer treatment outcomes and prevent heart disease. Their research could lead to new approaches in combating metastatic and treatment-resistant cancers.
Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have developed a way to accelerate functional muscle regeneration by integrating neural cells into 3D bioprinted skeletal muscle constructs. The study, published in Nature Communications, demonstrates the potential for these constructs to restore normal muscle weight and fu...
A team of researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine will use a novel brain-imaging technique to image microtubules in the brain, which could potentially predict the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to identify a biomarker for neural degeneration and cognitive impairment.
Researchers create patient-specific, immune-active tumor organoids to test response to immunotherapy treatment and predict effectiveness. The platform has the potential to revolutionize cancer care by focusing on patients' unique needs.
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that gastric bypass surgery is associated with a slightly higher risk of returning to the operating room or having other types of interventions. By four years out, researchers estimated that 26.5% of bypass patients had an endoscopy procedure compared to 18% of sleeve patients.
A study by Wake Forest School of Medicine identified a dead probiotic strain that reduces age-related leaky gut and inflammation in older mice. The dead probiotic strain, Lactobacillus paracasei D3-5, extended the lifespan of roundworms and improved physical and cognitive functions in mice.
The National Institute of Nursing Research has awarded Wake Forest Baptist a five-year grant worth $2.97 million to investigate the reasons for attrition in pediatric weight-management programs and develop a predictive model to reduce dropout rates.
Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have successfully bioprinted trachea constructs comprising of smooth muscle and cartilage regions, showcasing similar mechanical properties to human tracheal tissue. The novel approach could provide regenerative medicine treatments for damaged or diseased tracheal regions.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that can deliver immunostimulants via inhalation to induce systemic immune response against lung cancer. The treatment converted cold tumors to hot, immune-responsive tumors and showed significant regression of tumors in both lungs and prolonged survival of mice.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Health are developing a web-based pain management program using the PainTRAINER platform to help cancer survivors manage persistent pain without opioids. The study aims to test the effectiveness of this approach in improving coping strategies and reducing pain medication use.
A recent study published by Wake Forest Baptist Health suggests that the microbes living in our gut play a key role in childhood obesity. The review of existing studies reveals how a mother's health, diet, exercise level, and birth method can affect the risk of obesity in her children.
Researchers found that ALS patients with a specific genetic variation in the IL6 receptor gene experience more severe symptoms and faster disease progression. The study suggests this polymorphism may serve as a target for new treatments and lay the groundwork for future clinical trials.
A nationwide, multiple-site study will investigate whether lifestyle changes can improve chronic sleep problems, which have been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to identify an effective strategy for improving sleep that could prevent Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.