Black children who undergo urologic surgery are more likely to experience postsurgical complications and hospital-acquired infections. The study analyzed data from nearly 12,000 patients and found that hospitals and policy makers should expand efforts to reduce postoperative adverse events and health disparities in children.
Research finds high-impact physical activity strengthens bones in children genetically predisposed to weakness, even at a young age. High-impact activities like gymnastics and soccer show significant benefits for improved bone health.
A new study from CHOP and CDC found that 82% of concussions among 0-17 year olds were diagnosed at primary care sites, while only 12% were in the emergency department. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for concussion recovery, and targeted training can help primary care providers diagnose and treat most cases.
CHOP researcher Dr. Douglas Wallace was inducted into the Italian Academy of Sciences for his work on mitochondria and metabolic diseases. He is a pioneer in the field of mitochondrial medicine, which he founded 40 years ago.
Researchers have developed minihepcidins, synthetic peptides that regulate iron absorption, to treat two genetic blood diseases. The compound normalizes red blood cell levels and reduces spleen enlargement in animal models of thalassemia and polycythemia vera.
Research published in Pediatrics found that a high body mass index (BMI) at 2 months is a strong predictor of obesity at age 2. The study, which analyzed nearly 74,000 infants, showed that BMI outperformed weight-for-length measurements in predicting early childhood obesity.
Researchers develop innovative procedure to treat plastic bronchitis, a rare condition causing airway blockages in children with congenital heart defects. The technique uses minimally invasive catheterization techniques and customized imaging tools to improve symptoms and potentially cure the condition.
Scientists have found that palovarotene, a previously tested emphysema drug, prevents multiple skeletal problems caused by fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) and maintains normal limb motion in lab animals. The drug has potent effects, preventing heterotopic ossification and preserving bone growth.
Dr. Peter Adamson, a pediatric oncologist at CHOP, joins the Blue Ribbon Panel of scientific experts advising the VP's initiative on cancer research goals and approaches.
Pediatric researchers identified a new syndrome causing intellectual disability, linked to a mutation in the TBCK gene. A potential targeted treatment using an amino acid supplement has been proposed based on cell studies.
A pediatric oncologist at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has received a $1 million grant to develop new treatments for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) through immunotherapy. The goal is to identify specific proteins on AML cells that can be targeted by the immune system.
Researchers have identified rare genetic changes that significantly increase bone density in girls, which may protect against osteoporosis and fractures in women. The study highlights the importance of promoting bone health during childhood and adolescence to reduce future risks.
A study found that one in five adults with congenital heart disease experience PTSD symptoms, with those who have had recent cardiac surgery being more likely to develop the condition. The researchers highlight the need for clinicians and caregivers to be aware of possible PTSD symptoms in their patients.
Researchers identified novel gene locations associated with childhood body mass index (BMI) through a meta-analysis of over 47,000 children. The study's findings suggest that genetic variants may not exert their effects only in childhood, but have different effects at different ages.
Researchers found that neglected neighborhoods with poor street lighting, vacant lots, and fewer parks had higher rates of teen homicides. Modifying these features through low-cost improvements may foster community interaction and reduce youth violence.
The CHOP/Rutgers team developed new experimental approaches to detect DNA scrunching during transcription start site selection. They identified the TSS, front and rear positions where RNA polymerase attached to DNA, and found that as the position of the TSS changes, the position of the enzyme's leading edge changes in lock step.
Emerging genetic tools for mitochondrial DNA replacement offer the potential to prevent a multi-system genetic disease, but also raise questions about unintended risks to children and their descendants. The tools aim to prevent mother-to-child transmission of mitochondrial DNA disease.
Researchers found that younger T cells are critically important in T cell immunotherapy and can be more effective when collected earlier. This discovery has the potential to change clinical management in T cell immunotherapy.
Researchers have identified an abnormal fused gene that drives pediatric brain tumors through three distinct biological mechanisms. This finding may advance diagnosis and treatment by identifying the MYB-QKI fusion gene as a defining event in angiocentric glioma, allowing for targeted therapies.
A three-year study funded by PCORI investigates the safety and patient preferences of discharge strategies after chemotherapy for children with acute myeloid leukemia. The study aims to gather data on bloodstream infections and chemotherapy delays to inform better care for these vulnerable patients.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to correct a rare bleeding disorder, factor VII deficiency, in dogs. The treatment showed long-term safety and efficacy, with treated dogs expressing therapeutic levels of clotting factor VII.
A study has identified a gene, RANBP1, that appears to play a significant role in raising the risk of severe subtypes of autism and other genetic diseases. The findings suggest that disruptions in brain signaling networks may be good targets for future research and potentially lead to new treatment opportunities.
A recent study found a significant increase in kidney stone cases among adolescents, particularly females, and African-Americans in the US. The incidence of kidney stones doubled during childhood for both boys and girls, while there was a 45% increase in lifetime risk for women.
The Philadelphia Pediatric Medical Device Consortium awards $50,000 seed grants to Actuated Medical and ENTvantage Diagnostics to improve bone biopsies and diagnose sinus infections in children. This funding aims to reduce pain and unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions.
Researchers at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have identified a powerful new drug with unparalleled strength against forms of neuroblastoma that resist crizotinib. The study found that PF-06463922 showed more profound inhibition of ALK than crizotinib, leading to rapid and sustained regression in animal models.
A new $1.5 million grant will support an innovative approach to treating relapsed or refractory neuroblastoma through a dynamic clinical trial design allowing for quick incorporation of new treatments based on genetic changes in individual patients' tumors.
A new study led by Adda Grimberg proposes to reframe the debate on treating short stature in children. The research team found that psychosocial issues such as self-esteem and future adult success dominate parent discussions, with treatment characteristics and health concerns playing a significant role in decision-making.
A study analyzing DNA from over 1200 CHD patients found overlapping genetic influences during early childhood development, suggesting a link between heart defects and neurodevelopmental delays. The research identified 21 genes harboring protein-damaging mutations in more than one patient, which may lead to targeted therapies.
Research suggests that mitochondrial function affects hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral systems in response to mild stress. This discovery has implications for understanding the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric diseases and the role of stress in human health.
A new CHOP study finds that teaching problem-solving skills and leadership opportunities to elementary school-aged African-American girls can lower relational aggression. The Friend to Friend program improved social problem-solving knowledge and decreased relational aggression in urban minority girls, with positive effects lasting at l...
A recent study found that 8.5% of children with cancer have genetic mutations increasing their risk, highlighting the need for improved counseling and family testing. The study's author, Dr. John M. Maris, emphasizes the importance of understanding how other genes interact with these mutations to cause cancer in children.
Children in low-income families experience greater access to preventive medical and dental care under Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) than those with private insurance. Despite this, accessing specialty care remains a challenge for all types of insurance coverage.
A large-scale study of newly arrived refugee children in the US has identified key public health concerns, including hepatitis B, tuberculosis, and parasitic worms. The study suggests that existing medical screening guidelines remain relevant but recommends further analysis and resource allocation for refugee populations.
A large study by CHOP PolicyLab found an increased risk of child abuse and neglect among US Army soldier-parents when they return from deployment, especially in the first six months. The risk was highest among families with soldiers deployed twice, with abuse often perpetrated by non-soldier caregivers.
Researchers have developed a gene therapy approach that delays symptoms and extends lifespan in dogs with a comparable disease to Batten disease. The treatment involves delivering a working version of a gene to produce a key enzyme, resulting in striking clinical improvements and slowed disease progression.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified a crucial change in a single DNA base that both predisposes children to aggressive neuroblastoma and drives disease progression. This discovery may lead to novel therapies for the complex and deadly disease.
Pediatric researchers have developed new growth charts for U.S. children with Down syndrome, providing a tool for pediatricians to evaluate growth patterns and nutritional status. The new charts show improvements in weight gain and height for children under age three, while also creating BMI charts to screen patients for excess body fat.
A multicenter clinical trial led by CHOP researcher David T. Teachey found that sirolimus, an immunosuppressant drug, is effective in treating autoimmune blood disorders such as ALPS with complete responses and rapid improvements. The treatment has minimal side effects, with most patients able to discontinue steroids within months.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified a signaling network involving three cancer-causing genes that drive high-risk neuroblastoma. The study found that variants in the LIN28B gene generate abnormal signals that regulate RAN and AURKA proteins, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
Scientists have calculated precise measurements of heritability in nine childhood-onset autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The research strengthens a child's risk prediction for associated autoimmune diseases, potentially informing personalized therapies.
A recent animal study broadens understanding of the flu virus's impact on the immune system, revealing a more dynamic process that engages multiple biological pathways. This research may lead to the development of more effective vaccines against influenza and other viruses.
Mitochondrial mutations enabled humans to adapt to new environments, allowing for physiological responses and flexibility. This adaptation is crucial for species survival, as it provides faster and more flexible adaptations than nuclear DNA mutations.
Researchers discovered rare gene variants associated with a severe form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects children under age five. The findings suggest that these genes play important roles in immune function and may be linked to primary immunodeficiency disorders.
A study analyzing 10 childhood-onset autoimmune diseases found 22 genome-wide signals shared by two or more diseases, suggesting potential new targets for therapy. The research identified genes with biological relevance to specific diseases, offering opportunities for targeted treatment and repurposing existing drugs.
PEDSnet, a national clinical research network co-led by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, combines big data with family engagement to address concerns important to families. The network aims to pool data and expertise from multiple centers to more quickly translate discoveries into better outcomes for children.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia discover that modulating basic biological processes like protein translation and autophagy improves health in mitochondrial disease, opening a new arsenal of therapies. Several existing human drugs show significant beneficial results, including rapamycin and probucol.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that cancer-driving mutations in neuroblastoma can be targeted with existing MEK inhibitors, offering hope for improved treatments. The study identified specific mutations on the RAS-MAPK pathway that are sensitive to these drugs.
Researchers found two distinct gene signals associated with bone strength, one specific to girls and another for boys. These genetic variants are linked to lower bone mineral density, increasing the risk of wrist fractures in children. The study's findings may inform targeted recommendations for children carrying these genetic risks.
Dr. Steven Douglas has made significant contributions to the understanding of HIV infection through his work on immune cells and mechanisms of infection. His research has led to the identification of potential targets for treating HIV, including a pathway involving substance P and a cell receptor.
Researchers found that short boys are 2-3 times more likely than short girls to receive recombinant human growth hormone treatment for idiopathic short stature (ISS). This gender bias may lead to overzealous treatment in healthy boys and delayed diagnoses of underlying diseases in short girls.