Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that demethylation, the removal of chemical bonds from cancer-promoting genes, can trigger more than half of all cancers. Demethylating drugs used to treat some cancers may actually cause new cancers as a side effect, warns Dr. Joseph Califano.
Researchers have identified 10 common variants of genes that modify the timing of heart contraction, known as the QT interval. These genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, which claims over a quarter million Americans annually.
Researchers estimate that around 6.5 million older adults with low cholesterol and high C-reactive protein levels might benefit from statin therapy to prevent cardiovascular events. Expanding prescribing criteria to include CRP levels could potentially prevent thousands of heart attacks, strokes, and deaths each year.
A new study using a seaweed-based capsule and firefly-inspired bioluminescent agents successfully delivered therapeutic stem cells to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in rabbits. The breakthrough could pave the way for targeted stem cell treatments for patients with PAD, which affects millions of Americans.
Scientists have discovered a key to eye development - a protein called Pias3 that promotes rod cell formation and suppresses cone cell development. This breakthrough could lead to new treatment options for blinding conditions such as macular degeneration.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine used genome scanning to locate a mutation in the PALB2 gene, responsible for initiating hereditary pancreatic cancer. The discovery highlights the value of personalized genome sequencing in identifying disease-causing mutations.
A Johns Hopkins study found that older men with PSA levels less than 3 nanograms per milliliter are unlikely to die of or experience aggressive prostate cancer. This suggests that routine PSA testing may be unnecessary for some older men, potentially reducing costs and morbidity.
A multicenter study led by Johns Hopkins shows that an experimental clot-busting treatment can increase survival rates and improve function in patients with intracranial hemorrhage, a lethal form of stroke. After six months, about 10% had no lingering disability and 40% were independently caring for themselves.
Scientists have identified two gene mutations, IDH1 and IDH2, linked to nearly three-quarters of gliomas, a type of brain cancer. These mutations are associated with longer survival rates in patients with certain types of gliomas. Further research may lead to more precise diagnoses and treatments.
A new review by Johns Hopkins scientists highlights the importance of platelets in organ transplant rejection, revealing their role in driving inflammatory responses. This research could lead to the development of new strategies using drugs or other means to keep platelets quiet and non-inflammatory.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have discovered how the Myc cancer-promoting gene uses microRNAs to control glutamine, a major energy source for cancer cells. This finding may lead to identifying new pathways to target for designing drugs with fewer side effects.
A Johns Hopkins study reveals that volunteering in grade schools increases physical activity in older black women, which remains high for at least three years. The study suggests that volunteer programs can be a win-win for both the elderly and the community, promoting intergenerational social connections.
Researchers identified three genetic variants associated with delusions in people with schizophrenia, located within the neuregulin 3 gene on chromosome 10. The study suggests that this gene may contribute to the development of delusions and other symptoms of the condition.
A survey of tenure-track physicians at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found that awareness and sensitivity to racial and ethnic diversity are poor among faculty, particularly those from underrepresented minorities. The study suggests that enhancing diversity remains a challenge for medical schools.
Researchers discovered clofazimine's potential to treat autoimmune diseases by inhibiting the Kv1.3 potassium channel. The findings suggest a new approach to treating conditions like multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and type 1 diabetes.
The study found that institutions performing at least 20 lung transplants annually have the best overall patient survival rates and lowest number of deaths from the complex surgery. High-volume centers see over 95% chance of survival for organ recipients within the first month of recovery.
A Johns Hopkins study of 40 hospitals and 160,000 patients found that 'paperless' hospitals with computerized notes and records had a 15% decrease in patient deaths. These systems also showed significant reductions in complications, heart attack deaths, and hospital costs.
Researchers discovered how anthracycline chemotherapy drugs block cancer cell growth by inhibiting HIF-1 protein. The findings suggest that these drugs may benefit a subgroup of cancer patients with high HIF-1 levels, leading to reduced tumor size and fewer blood vessels in mice.
A global team of researchers has discovered an alteration in the ear's nAChR protein that contributes to protecting against permanent hearing loss by limiting sound. The study found that genetically altered mice with improved sound-blocking ability suffered less permanent hearing damage when exposed to loud sounds.
A Johns Hopkins study found that HIV-positive kidney transplant recipients can achieve one-year survival rates comparable to those without HIV, provided key risk factors for transplant failure are recognized and controlled. The study's results reflect the impact of newer antiretroviral therapies on reducing HIV-related deaths.
A study found that most gene switch sites occur on nearby regions, called CpG shores, not just isolated DNA islands in the human genome. This discovery has significant implications for understanding disease and developing new treatments against colon cancer.
Researchers discovered that long stretches of DNA containing many genes are silenced in cells as they mature, rather than individual genes. This epigenetic modification, called LOCKS, plays a crucial role in cell differentiation and development.
A study found that women over 45 are significantly less likely to be placed on a kidney transplant list than their male counterparts, even though they have an equal chance of survival. The likelihood of being listed decreased incrementally with increasing age, from 3% for women aged 46-55 to 59% for those over 75.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have found that a protein called Gadd45b is involved in changing epigenetic marks in brain cells, leading to the birth of new neurons and long-term changes in memory. This discovery may help understand how daily life experiences trigger long-lasting memories.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that the ribosome recognizes and corrects errors during protein synthesis. The discovery reveals a critical 'proofreading step' in protein production, showcasing the cell's strict adherence to high-fidelity synthesis.
Ancient flying reptiles employed all four limbs for take-off, defying conventional wisdom. The study reveals that pterosaurs had stronger front limbs than legs, allowing them to generate massive power without sacrificing size. This discovery sheds new light on the biology and evolution of these fascinating creatures.
Johns Hopkins researchers found that digoxin, a heart medication, can inhibit HIF-1 protein crucial for cancer cell survival. Digoxin slowed prostate cancer cell growth and reduced tumor size in mice by lowering HIF-1 levels.
Researchers found that extended nevirapine regimens in breast-fed babies prevent HIV infection, but lead to drug-resistant strains if infected. The study highlights the benefits of six-week nevirapine therapy in preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission, despite increased risk of resistance.
Researchers have found that Viagra amplifies the effects of a protective protein called RGS2, which shields the heart from damage caused by high blood pressure. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, provides insights into the biology of RGS2 and its potential as a therapeutic target for heart failure.
A team of Johns Hopkins neuroscientists has discovered a new type of light sensor in the eye that detects light and communicates with the brain. These melanopsin-containing cells are insensitive to light, but their signal is large enough to influence the brain when activated by multiple photons.
Researchers have discovered a key difference in hormone receptors on prostate cancer cells in patients who no longer respond to hormone deprivation therapy. The finding, published in Cancer Research, could lead to new targets for treating prostate cancer and monitoring disease progression.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have discovered a potential new approach to cancer therapy by manipulating the tail of a tumor suppressor protein. By removing its tail, the protein becomes active and can effectively suppress cancer growth.
Despite increased emphasis on patient safety, little progress has been made, with physicians' autonomy and lack of standardization identified as key culprits. An average hospitalized adult receives recommended therapy only 53% of the time, leading to nearly 100,000 annual deaths due to hospital error.
Researchers discovered that a 1966 RSV vaccine's defective antibodies failed to bind to the real virus, leading to severe disease. New findings could lead to the development of safer and more effective vaccines for RSV and other respiratory viruses.
Researchers found that cancer cells' chromatin packaging, including Polycomb group proteins, plays a crucial role in deactivating tumor suppressor genes. By disrupting this packaging, demethylating agents can restore gene expression and potentially lead to new cancer therapies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered how a lowly fungus regulates its version of cholesterol, gaining new insight into the target and action of cholesterol-lowering drugs. In humans, Insig limits cholesterol production by inactivating the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase through phosphorylation.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have discovered how ovarian tumors use fatty substances to suppress the body's immune response, leaving disease unchecked. The team found that fluid secretions from tumors can block activation of natural killer T cells, which are crucial for fighting cancer.
New research confirms that 64-CT scans can accurately diagnose coronary artery blockages, rivaling invasive cardiac catheterization. The technology also has the potential to reduce cardiac catheterizations and serve as an alternative to cardiac stress testing.
Researchers have discovered a possible therapy for mucolipidosis type IV (ML4), a disease causing nerve cell death and progressive motor function loss in children. Introducing normal blood cells into genetically modified fruit flies with ML4 symptoms delayed cell death, suggesting bone marrow transplantation as a treatment option.
Researchers found that inhaled corticosteroid drugs increase the risk of pneumonia by a full third in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study suggests that the treatment may be more harmful and pose a greater risk to some individuals, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
Researchers found that diuretics commonly prescribed for high blood pressure can lower serum potassium levels, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study examined data from 3,790 nondiabetic participants and found a 45% increased risk of diabetes for each 0.5 milliequivalent-per-liter decrease in potassium levels.
Researchers found that community hospitals with more experience with coronary angioplasty have lower mortality rates. The study suggests that easing restrictions on elective angioplasty could improve patient safety and survival rates.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified the chemical step involved in blocking the phosphodiesterase 5 enzyme, which slows down the breakdown of cyclic GMP and contributes to heart failure. The discovery paves the way for targeted drug therapies to stall progression of heart failure and hypertrophy.
A Johns Hopkins cardiologist disputes the American Heart Association's recommendation to screen all heart patients for depression, citing lack of evidence and potential harm from treatment. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced approach, such as listening to patients during examinations and asking about their overall well-being.
A team of Johns Hopkins biochemists identified five key proteins that may form the basis of an accurate early warning test for impending heart attacks. The test could provide advance warning to paramedics and physicians during the critical window before ischemia causes substantial heart tissue damage, allowing for urgent treatment to p...
A study of 113 children and teens physically victimized by peers found that one-on-one mentoring can significantly reduce youth violence. The researchers found that those who received personalized counseling reported fewer fights, injuries, and aggressive behaviors.
A recent study found that HPV vaccination can reduce the incidence of HPV-caused cancers, particularly oral and anal cancers, which are rising in incidence. Researchers propose a simple oral screening test using 'swish and spit' rinses to detect high-risk infections.
A four-year study of Baltimore inner-city teenage girls diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory disease reveals a high rate of subsequent sexually transmitted infections. Researchers emphasize the need for individually tailored counseling and strict follow-up care to prevent future infections.
Researchers found that gradually increasing doses of milk protein over time can help children with severe and persistent milk allergy tolerate the allergen, reducing symptoms and building tolerance. The study suggests oral immunotherapy may be a promising treatment option for food allergies.
Hydrogen sulfide is produced in the endothelial lining of blood vessels and regulates blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. The discovery has potential applications for designing drug therapies to enhance its formation as an alternative to current hypertension treatments.