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Imperial College London


Malaria parasites soften our cells' defenses in order to invade

Researchers at Imperial College London found that malaria parasites change the properties of red blood cells to facilitate entry, making them more susceptible to infection. This discovery suggests that naturally flexible cells may be easier for parasites to invade, prompting further investigation into host-directed therapies.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2017

MS treatment that 'resets' immune system may halt disease progression for at least 5 years

A type of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been shown to slow or stop MS disease progression for up to five years in nearly half of patients, with significant benefits seen in younger patients and those with relapsing-remitting MS. However, the treatment carries a small risk of death and is not suitable fo...

SourceImperial College London·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 20, 2017

New epilepsy gene network identified by scientists

Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered a gene network of 320 genes associated with epilepsy. The M30 network is thought to be involved in how brain cells communicate with each other and its malfunction triggers seizures. Finding medications that restore this network could provide new treatments for the condition.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 12, 2016

MRSA uses decoys to evade a last-resort antibiotic

Scientists at Imperial College London discovered that MRSA releases decoy molecules to escape being killed by daptomycin. The decoys are made of the same type of fat as MRSA cells and allow the bacteria to evade destruction. Further experiments showed that a second antibiotic, oxacillin, can partially prevent decoy release.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 24, 2016