Sculpting a cell's backside
Researchers discovered a new protein, Callipygian, which aids in cell migration by shutting off proteins at the front edge of cells. The protein helps create the back of a cell, allowing it to move directionally.
Johns Hopkins Medicine
Cellular sentinel prevents cell division when the right machinery is not in place
Researchers discovered that protein p53 monitors centriole numbers to prevent potentially disastrous cell divisions. Without centrioles, cells are unable to divide due to the presence of p53, which acts as a backup to prevent abnormal cells from forming.
Heart attack treatment hypothesis 'busted'
Johns Hopkins scientists discovered that blocking calcium from entering mitochondria in heart cells didn't prevent cell death after heart attacks, but rather activated alternative pathways. The study's findings challenge the long-standing theory of using calcium channel blockage to prevent heart attack damage.
Experimental drug combined with standard chemo may shrink ovarian cancers
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that combining fostamatinib with paclitaxel can reduce tumor size in ovarian cancer cells by up to 87 percent. The combination therapy may provide a new treatment option for patients with recurrent advanced ovarian cancer who have developed resistance to standard treatments.
Geography is destiny in deaths from kidney failure, study shows
A new US study reveals that end-stage kidney disease patients who receive specialized care have significantly improved survival rates and access to life-saving treatment. The research highlights the importance of timely referrals to nephrologists in reducing mortality risks, particularly in low-performing regions.
Johns Hopkins scientists restore normal function in heart muscle cells of diabetic rats
Researchers have identified a key mechanism behind diabetes-related heart damage and developed a potential treatment strategy. By targeting the movement of sugar molecules and enzymes inside heart cells, they were able to restore normal function in diabetic rat hearts.
DNA shed from head and neck tumors detected in blood and saliva
Scientists successfully identified tumor DNA shed into the blood and saliva of patients with head and neck cancer, offering a promising new screening test. Saliva tests fared better for oral cavity cancers, while blood tests excelled in detecting cancers in the larynx, hypopharynx, and oropharynx.
'Smarter' ordering of breast biomarker tests could save millions in health care dollars
A study of 197 patients with breast cancer found that more selective use of biomarker testing could save up to $117 million annually. Testing larger excisional biopsies instead of reflexively testing smaller core biopsies would help pick up tumors eligible for targeted therapy, reducing unnecessary costs.
Medical marijuana 'edibles' mostly mislabeled, study shows
A study found that most edible cannabis products sold in dispensaries carried labels with inaccurate THC levels, posing a risk to patients. The researchers called for better regulation and oversight of marijuana edibles to prevent overdosing and ensure accurate labeling.
Nanoparticle 'wrapper' delivers chemical that stops fatty buildup in rodent arteries
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine report a breakthrough in treating atherosclerosis by loading nanoparticles with a chemical that restores normal fat metabolism in rodents. The nanoparticle 'wrapper' improves the drug's potency and ability to stop fatty buildup, offering new hope for treating cardiovascular disease.
Study identifies multiple genetic changes linked to increased pancreatic cancer risk
Researchers have uncovered four regions in the human genome where changes may increase pancreatic cancer risk, with specific variants linked to a 38% increased risk at position 17q25.1. The study confirms connections between pancreatic cancer risk and genetic variants linked to other cancers.
'High-normal' blood pressure in young adults spells risk of heart failure in later life
A study of 2,500 young adults found that even mild elevations in blood pressure can lead to subclinical heart damage by middle age. Persistent high blood pressure is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but the new study suggests that 'high-normal' pressure may also be a concern.
Scientists identify amino acid that stops seizures in mice
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine identified a potent seizure inhibitor in mice using D-leucine, an amino acid found in many foods and certain bacteria. The amino acid interrupts prolonged seizures effectively without sedative side effects, paving the way for new treatments for drug-resistant epilepsy.
Cosmetic lip surgery may ease facial paralysis, small study suggests
A cosmetic surgery procedure that enhances lip appearance could also ease facial paralysis symptoms, according to a small study. Researchers found significant improvements in patients with facial paralysis and muscular dystrophy after receiving hyaluronic acid injections.
New imaging technique could make brain tumor removal safer, more effective, study suggests
Researchers have developed an imaging technology that can provide surgeons with a color-coded map of a patient's brain, distinguishing between cancerous and healthy tissue. This could potentially make brain tumor removal safer and more effective by allowing surgeons to visualize the area being operated on.
Scientists identify protein that sustains heart function into old age
Researchers found that vinculin levels increase with age, altering the shape and performance of cardiac muscle cells, leading to a healthy adaptive change. The findings suggest that vinculin could be an important therapeutic target to slow down the decline of heart muscle vitality.
Vulnerabilities in genome's 'dimmer switches' should shed light on many complex diseases
A decade of research at Johns Hopkins has yielded a computer formula that accurately predicts which genetic control region mutations affect gene activity levels. This breakthrough offers new targets for diagnosing and treating complex diseases.
Study affirms link between disjointed care and unnecessary medical procedures
A Johns Hopkins study analyzed Medicare claims to confirm a long-suspected link between lower rates of coordinated health care services and higher rates of unnecessary medical tests and procedures. Patients with more continuity in their medical care had a lower chance of having an overused procedure.
'Mutation accelerator' identified in gene mutation linked to common adult leukemia
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a protein-signaling process that accelerates the work of the most frequently mutated gene in adult leukemia. A combination of two drugs targeting this process and the gene itself slowed leukemia cell growth in mice, suggesting potential for improved treatment outcomes.
For safer care, simple steps yield substantial improvements in colorectal surgery
A new program at Johns Hopkins Hospital implemented consistent use of experienced medical teams, preemptive antibiotics, and early patient mobilization to reduce complications and accelerate recovery in colorectal surgery. The approach resulted in a significant reduction in hospital stays, surgical infections, blood clots, and costs.
Chemo may be preferred option for some with advanced prostate cancer
A small clinical trial found that men with advanced prostate cancer and the AR-V7 gene variant respond to chemotherapy just as well as those without the variant. The study's findings may lead to improved treatment decision-making for patients with prostate cancer.
Developing delirium in the ICU linked to fatal outcomes
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that developing delirium in the ICU increases hospital stays and risk of dying, with risks doubled for brain dysfunction. The study also suggests potential causes of delirium include medication use and inflammation outside the brain.
Re-inflating balloon after carotid stenting appears to double risk of stroke and death
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that re-inflating a balloon in the vessel after stent placement can double the risk of stroke and death. The common practice, known as 'ballooning,' is intended to prevent complications but may actually cause them.
Immunotherapy drug improves survival for common form of lung cancer
The study found that nivolumab improved median overall survival by 2.4 months and doubled the one-year survival rate compared to chemotherapy. The immunotherapy drug also reduced the risk of dying from lung cancer by 41%.
Genetic biomarker may predict cancer patients' response to immunotherapy drug
Researchers identified a genetic biomarker that can predict which cancer patients will respond to immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab. Patients with mismatch repair gene defects showed improved responses to the treatment, offering hope for previously failed patients. Larger studies are needed to assess the potential for clinical use.
Weak electric current to the brain may improve thinking in people with schizophrenia
Researchers found that transcranial direct current stimulation led to improvements in short-term memory and subtle changes in word retrieval in people with schizophrenia. The study suggests that this type of brain stimulation might ease some cognitive difficulties, enabling individuals to lead a more normal life.
Study suggests new way of preventing diabetes-associated blindness
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland have discovered a new way to treat diabetic retinopathy by blocking two growth proteins, VEGF and angiopoietin-like 4. This could prevent many cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common cause of vision loss in working-age adults in the US.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2015
Seven projects to make progress on ethics and global food security in five years
A landmark report outlines seven projects to address global food security's complex ethical issues, including redefining farming as a service-oriented profession and developing climate-smart agriculture. The '7 by 5 Agenda' aims to make progress on divisive issues in the next five years.
Pilot clinical trial finds injected immune cells safe in multiple myeloma patients
In a small clinical trial, researchers safely used immune cells grown from patients' own bone marrow to treat multiple myeloma. Thirteen of 22 patients experienced partial responses, with seven achieving at least 90% tumor cell reduction and living up to 25.1 months without cancer progression.
Text messages can help boost teen birth control compliance
Sending periodic text messages to teens can improve birth control adherence. The study found that 87% of patients with personalized daily texts showed up for their first injection, compared to 56% without texts. Text messaging also helped increase adherence to a tight treatment schedule and regularly taking prescription medications.
Molecule designed to treat lung cancer shows promising results in mice
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have designed a molecule called RK-33 to target the enzyme DDX3, which is overexpressed in over 90% of lung cancer samples. The therapy has shown promising results in mice, with the ability to lower radiation doses while increasing its effectiveness.
Agriculture, declining mobility drove humans' shift to lighter bones
A study of thousands of human bones reveals a gradual decline in leg bone strength as Europeans adopted agriculture and settled down, while arm bone strength remained steady. Researchers found that lifestyle changes, such as reduced mobility, were more significant contributors to the shift than urbanization or nutrition.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2015
Men with asthma less likely to develop lethal prostate cancer
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that men with a history of asthma are 29% less likely to be diagnosed with lethal prostate cancer. Overall, asthmatic men were 36% less likely to die from the disease.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy appears to help some patients with pancreatic cancer
Researchers found that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is safe and as effective as standard radiation treatment for certain patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. SBRT delivers high doses of radiation in a short period, resulting in reduced pain and improved quality of life. The treatment also allowed some patient...
'Extreme' exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke causes mild intoxication
Researchers found that nonsmokers who inhaled secondhand cannabis smoke under extreme conditions experienced mild effects, including memory and coordination problems. The study provides significant insights into the impact of secondhand cannabis smoke on individuals and has implications for workplace drug testing.
Plugging in your vision's autostabilization feature
Researchers discovered a key protein, Sema6A, that helps guide axons from neurons in the retina to the correct part of the brain. This finding has implications for treating eye movement disorders and regenerating damaged vision-sensing nerve cells.
Strategy found for safely prescribing antidepressants to children and adolescents
Researchers developed two new strategies to mitigate the risk of suicide in young people taking SSRIs, finding that careful dosing can minimize negative effects. Adding a molecule called WAY-100635 eliminates anxiety and impulsivity associated with SSRI treatment.
Molecular link found between high glucose, metabolic disease
Researchers found that chronic high blood sugar disrupts mitochondria activity by altering levels of O-GlcNAc transferase and removal enzymes. This leads to less efficient energy production, increased heat and damaging molecules, and further elevates blood sugar.
How oxidizing a heart 'brake' causes heart damage
Researchers found that oxidation in cardiac cells disrupts PKG's ability to shield the heart from stress. Oxidation-resistant forms of PKG, however, allow for better protection against disease.
Children with ADHD at risk for binge eating, study shows
A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that children with ADHD are significantly more likely to develop an eating disorder akin to binge eating. The research suggests a common biological mechanism linking the two disorders, highlighting the need for developing new treatment strategies.
As circumcision wounds heal, HIV-positive men may spread virus to female partners
A new study has identified a temporary, but potentially troublesome unintended consequence of male circumcision: an increased risk of infecting female sexual partners while the wound heals. The study found that nearly 30% of HIV-positive men were shedding the virus two weeks after surgery, compared to less than 10% before circumcision.
Genital-only screening misses many cases of gonorrhea and chlamydia in women
A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that nearly 14% of chlamydia infections and over 30% of gonorrhea infections in women would be missed with standard genital-only screening. Extragenital rates were significant, particularly among younger women.
'Motion-tracking' MRIs reveal harbingers of stroke in people with heart rhythm disorder
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that specific altered function in the left atrium may signal stroke risk in those with a-fib and possibly those without it. The study suggests that certain features of the heart's upper left chamber could be used to tell apart low-risk from high-risk patients.
Neurons constantly rewrite their DNA
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that neurons use minor 'DNA surgeries' to toggle their activity levels, shedding light on brain disorders and learning. The study found a mechanism where Tet3 levels respond to synaptic activity, enabling neurons to maintain consistent levels of communication.
Study shows how breast milk protects against severe intestinal disease in preemies
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals breast milk's immune-boosting properties prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a devastating intestinal disorder. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) blocks the activation of a protein responsible for NEC, promoting gut healing.
Children with ADHD at risk for binge eating, study shows
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to develop loss of control eating syndrome (LOC-ES), which can lead to obesity and other health problems. The study found that odds of having LOC-ES were 12 times higher for children with ADHD, suggesting a common biological mechanism linking the two disorders.
PTSD common in ICU survivors
Research found that nearly one-quarter of ICU survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to a recent Johns Hopkins study. The study identified possible triggers for PTSD, including existing psychological problems and large amounts of sedation medication, and suggested using ICU diaries as a potential prevent...
Interventions developed at Johns Hopkins reduce bloodstream infections in Abu Dhabi
A bundled intervention at Johns Hopkins Medicine significantly reduced central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in seven Abu Dhabi hospitals. The program, which included evidence-based infection prevention practices and teamwork improvements, achieved a 30-40% reduction in CLABSI rates across all ICUs.
Immune therapy tested in study of women with triple-negative breast cancer
Researchers have tested an experimental immune system drug, MPDL3280A, in a preliminary human study and found it to be generally safe and well-tolerated. The therapy aims to restore the immune system's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells, with promising results in controlling disease in some patients.
Molecular spies sabotage a protein's activities in specific cellular compartments
AMPK activity levels vary across cellular compartments, affecting different sets of proteins. In unstressed cells, the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane had low activity, while the Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum showed high activity.