Researchers at BC Children's Hospital have discovered a protein that can diagnose chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD), a life-threatening complication of blood and bone marrow transplants. Elevated levels of CXCL10 were found in patients who developed cGvHD, offering an early warning sign for diagnosis.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that genome-wide sequencing can diagnose genetic conditions leading to intellectual disability, enabling targeted treatments. Researchers discovered new disease genes and described physical traits associated with known diseases, offering hope for personalized medicine.
Researchers developed a gene therapy that programs T regulatory cells to protect transplanted tissues from rejection by the patient's immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases and open up possibilities for building genes for any disease where the immune system is overactive.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treating elevated blood pressure during pregnancy reduces the risk of stroke without increasing risks for babies. Normalizing blood pressure levels is recommended for pregnant women to minimize harm.
The RRate app uses a touch screen to measure respiratory rate in an average of 9.9 seconds, compared to 60 seconds with traditional manual methods. The app is a significant step towards diagnosing pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses in children more effectively.
A new $1.5 million grant will expand a research initiative to improve diagnosis and care for pregnant women with pre-eclampsia, aiming to reduce maternal and newborn deaths worldwide. The project, led by Dr. Peter von Dadelszen, has already shown promising results with its clinical diagnostic predictive model, miniPIERS.
Researchers discovered how EBV infection evades detection by the immune system, triggering molecular events that turn off key proteins. This finding could lead to a vaccine that provides immunity from ever being infected with EBV.
A new study published in JAMA Dermatology has found that the common acne drug isotretinoin does not increase the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. The research, led by Dr. Mahyar Etminan, statistically adjusted for severe acne and found no association between the drug and IBD.
Preterm infants with slower growth have delayed cerebral cortex development, report Canadian researchers in a new study published in Science Translational Medicine. The cerebral cortex is involved in cognitive and motor processes, and the study's findings may lead to new discoveries on optimizing brain development.
A genetic variation has been found to increase the risk of metabolic syndrome in children taking second-generation anti-psychotic medications, characterized by high blood pressure and elevated fasting blood sugar levels. The study aims to prevent and manage metabolic complications associated with these medications in childhood.
Scientists have identified a gene mutation in the EZH2 gene that causes Weaver syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by large size at birth and intellectual disability. This breakthrough discovery enables DNA-based diagnostic testing for the disease, providing definitive answers for families seeking a diagnosis.
Researchers used gene therapy to increase a protein in mouse pancreas that prevents immune attack, potentially leading to new drugs for type 1 diabetes and organ rejection prevention. The discovery may also apply to other autoimmune disorders.
A phase 2 study found that adding imatinib mesylate to regular chemotherapy increased three-year survival rates for children with Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) from 30-35% to 87%. The drug was well-tolerated and showed no significant side effects.
New research finds that universal childhood vaccination against meningococcal C has significantly reduced the incidence of the most deadly strain of bacterial meningitis in Canada. Provinces with early implementation of the vaccine program showed a dramatic decline in cases, while those introduced later showed no major changes.
Studies in Canada and US show that educational materials on infant crying increased mothers' knowledge of new triggers for shaking. The materials also influenced mothers to share information with caregivers about coping strategies and warned them about the dangers of shaking an infant.
Research found that women consuming high amounts of meat and low amounts of fish have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain and eye function. This may lead to developmental delays in infants, emphasizing the need for dietary recommendations that promote optimal health for mothers and babies.
A new study finds that high fructose and glucose intake can reduce SHBG protein levels, increasing testosterone and estrogen availability. This disruption is associated with acne, infertility, and cardiovascular disease risks.