Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created an artificial jumping gene that can randomly silence genes in mice, offering a new way to study genetic function and evolution. The discovery has the potential to reveal how genes interact with each other and contribute to human health and disease.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that lost sperm-making stem cells in fruit flies can be replaced by reversing their specialized state. The team found that temperature changes can trigger a process called dedifferentiation, where more specialized cells retrace the path taken by stem cells.
Researchers identified 13 possible protein markers present in most urine samples from patients with organ rejection, but absent from those without. A urine test using a combination of biomarkers correctly identified 91% of samples, offering a risk-free and more accurate alternative to traditional kidney biopsy.
A study published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science found that breathing supplemental oxygen for three months reduced fluid buildup and swelling in the macula, and improved visual acuity in some cases. The therapy was found to reduce excess thickness of the macula by an average of 43 percent.
A study published in Cancer Research identified a cancer-causing gene, HMG-I, that contributes to the development of leukemia and lymphoma in humans. The researchers found that overexpression of the gene led to the rapid development of tumors in genetically engineered mice.
Researchers have identified 688 genes involved in building human cilia, which help push fluid and molecules around outside cells. This discovery sheds new light on the causes of a rare condition called complex obesity syndrome.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that showing graphic images of actual trauma to at-risk youth reduces their quantified beliefs supporting aggression. The research also suggests a reduction in the likelihood of youths resorting to violence to settle conflicts.
Researchers found a significant association between high blood testosterone levels and an increased risk of prostate cancer in older men. The study, which followed over 3,000 men for 40 years, also showed that the protein sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was associated with a slightly decreased risk for prostate cancer.
Moderately and severely obese patients experienced higher Gleason scores and rising PSA levels after surgery, indicating aggressive prostate cancer. Men with a BMI of greater than 35 kg/m2 had a 60% risk of cancer recurrence within three years.
A study found that robotic doctor visits increased patient comfort and accessibility to medical information, with 57% suggesting it should become a standard practice. Patients preferred having their own physician conduct telerounds over others.
A Hopkins study found that most household cleaners effectively removed peanut allergen Ara h 1 from surfaces. However, the use of hand sanitizers was shown to leave residual allergen on hands and potentially spread it around.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center report successful treatment of six HIV-positive children using customized medication regimens created through genotype analysis and a web-based algorithm tool. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of a salvage therapy approach in managing drug-resistant HIV infection.
The study found that combination PET/CT correctly identified 94% of malignant lesions, but only 36% of benign nodules. It also showed that the technique accurately determined the stage of cancer in 61 patients, but may overstage or understage tumors.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a gene defect, PASG, is linked to premature aging in mice. The researchers discovered that the mutated gene causes cells to age and die prematurely, leading to growth problems and early death.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully coaxed new motor neurons out of embryonic stem cells and into the spinal cords of paralyzed rats. The study, funded by various organizations, aims to overcome a major hurdle in clinical therapy for motor neuron diseases like ALS and SMA.
A team of scientists found that a single genetic mutation in the BBS4 protein can cause complex disorders like obesity, diabetes, and retinal degeneration. The researchers discovered that the mutation affects microtubule function, which is essential for cellular division and cell death.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have overcome a major obstacle to creating large libraries of drug-like peptides. By modifying naturally occurring amino acids with a methyl group, they can produce up to 10 billion stabilized peptides in a single reaction. This breakthrough enables the rapid testing of potential medicines and has s...
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that nitric oxide attaches to parkin protein, reducing its ability to mark proteins for destruction. This process may contribute to Parkinson's disease progression, providing a potential new target for treatment.
A genome-wide screen reveals new functions for old genes associated with chromosome cohesion, a process keeping chromosomes together until cell division. The study identified 17 genes involved in this critical aspect of genetic material manipulation.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that mesenchymal stem cell shape is a critical factor in determining which type of cell they will become. By using micropatterning technology, the team showed that spherical stem cells efficiently transform into fat cell precursors, while those allowed to stretch and flatten move closer to be...
Researchers found that exercise-induced high blood pressure may be caused by cells failing to relax and expand blood vessels. This impairment can be a common factor among various risk factors for heart disease, including aging, menopause, and diabetes.
The study found that Experience Corps volunteers experienced increased physical, cognitive, and social activity, which could lead to improved health outcomes. Volunteers also reported feeling stronger and had a reduced need for canes. In contrast, the control group showed a decline in social activity and an increase in TV viewing.
The TPN Calculator significantly reduced medical errors and saved time for healthcare providers. With the online calculator, errors decreased by nearly 90%, allowing caregivers to dedicate more time to patient care. The system's development preserved the existing ordering process while improving efficiency and reducing calculation errors.
A study found that almost one-fifth of asthma parents believe exercise is dangerous for their children, leading to lower physical activity levels. Children with moderate or severe asthma are also less likely to engage in high levels of physical activity due to parental misconceptions.
Researchers developed a biomarker to detect HBV mutations that speed up liver cancer development. Studies found HBV mutations predicted major liver disease, including liver cancer, up to eight years before diagnosis.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have found a link between the HOXB7 gene and increased activity in breast cancer biomarkers. The study shows that the gene is overexpressed in more than 60% of breast cancer cell lines and 90% of primary breast cancers.
Researchers found no signs of impending brain injury from fetal heart rate monitoring, highlighting the need for alternative diagnostic methods. White matter brain injury is a common cause of cerebral palsy, but current monitoring systems may not be effective in detecting it.
A genetic mutation in the ABCA3 gene is linked to severe surfactant deficiency in infants, leading to fatal lung disease. Researchers found mutations in 16 infants, with 15 dying from their illness, and discovered a potential mechanism for the defective transport of phospholipids critical for surfactant function.
Scientists identify site-specific growth signals that promote capillary formation in the developing retina and inner ear, providing a potential new approach for treating blinding diseases and improving treatment outcomes for conditions like cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that a low-dose combination of arsenic and bryostatin can kill APL cell lines by activating the cancer cells' natural self-destruct mechanism. This therapy has potential for treating treatment-resistant acute promyelocytic leukemia, a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia with poor outcomes.
Researchers found that switched-off SFRP genes allow the WNT pathway to stay active, leading to colon cell growth and tumor formation. The study suggests that reactivating SFRPs may prevent colon cancer by stopping this chain reaction.
Scientists have pinpointed a new cancer gene target, PIK3CA, which is mutated in 32% of colon cancers and may be involved in tumor growth. The study suggests that targeted therapies could be more effective with fewer side effects, leading to personalized cancer treatment.
A study published in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases found that gadolinium-enhanced MRI (G-MRI) was highly accurate in diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children, with 92% accuracy for ulcerative colitis and 96% accuracy for Crohn's disease. This non-invasive diagnostic tool could replace conventional tests like colonoscopy.
A new imaging technique uses MRI and spectroscopy to analyze choline levels in tumors, accurately identifying malignant carcinomas in 8 out of 8 cases. The study suggests MRSI may aid physicians in diagnosing breast cancer and could potentially replace biopsy in certain cases.
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that patients on peritoneal dialysis rate their care as excellent, citing independence, access to staff, and quality of treatment. In contrast, hemodialysis patients report lower satisfaction rates, with many citing inadequate information and economic factors as barriers.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have identified a new compound that accelerates genetic discovery by reducing the time and cost associated with DNA separation. Sodium boric acid has been found to replace outdated solutions in electrophoresis, resulting in significant improvements.
Researchers found that manual techniques can reduce permanent brachial plexus damage in babies by up to 50% compared to episiotomies. This approach also minimizes severe perineal injuries in mothers. The study suggests a safer and more effective alternative for managing severe shoulder dystocia during childbirth.
Research finds that neonatal white matter injury is associated with culture-positive infections and rare instances of metabolic acidosis. The study refutes the idea that delivery complications cause these injuries.
A study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that people with higher CRP levels were more likely to develop colorectal cancers over an 11-year period. Median CRP levels were higher among those who developed colon cancer, and inflammation was linked to increased risk without being mediated by diabetes.
A nationwide study found that most pediatric residents are satisfied with their primary care training, attributing it to positive preceptor experiences. The study highlights the importance of selecting effective teachers and providing sufficient teaching opportunities for optimal outcomes.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery that prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) protects brain cells from damage caused by stroke. The finding provides a new strategy for tackling and understanding the condition, which affects 4 million Americans annually.
A study found that medical students lack sufficient training in critical skills like communication and interviewing, while another study showed course directors vary in teaching chronic care preparedness. To address these gaps, a new course at Johns Hopkins aims to improve patient-physician communication.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified two new alleles and four existing ones among the Lakota Sioux tribe, increasing the likelihood of finding compatible organ donors within their population. This study could facilitate transplantation in Native American populations with high rates of diabetes and end-stage renal disease.
Researchers discover a variant of the NFKB1 gene associated with ulcerative colitis, a condition characterized by intestinal inflammation. Additionally, a second study links the MDR1 gene to Crohn's disease and possibly ulcerative colitis.
The HapMap project aims to create a catalog of common genetic patterns, or haplotypes, which will simplify and accelerate efforts to identify genes associated with chronic diseases. By analyzing DNA samples from over 270 individuals from four countries, the project hopes to provide insights into human genetics.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified malonyl-CoA as a key chemical regulator of appetite in mice. By injecting the compound C75 into the brain, they found that levels of malonyl-CoA increase immediately after feeding, triggering appetite signals. This breakthrough understanding could lead to new ways to control appetite.
Screening for proteinuria is not recommended for the general population due to high costs and false positive/negative test results. However, targeted screening for hypertensive patients aged 30+ and adults 60+, or less frequent screenings every 10 years, can be cost-effective.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a multiparametric MRI technique combining T1, T2, and 3D imaging with contrast agents to improve breast cancer detection. The study successfully identified benign and malignant tissue clusters in all 36 patients, revealing the effectiveness of the combined approach.
A limited study of six patients found that the Atkins diet helped two children and one young adult remain seizure-free for up to 20 months. The researchers suggest that the diet may be a trial run for individuals considering the ketogenic diet, but its use should be cautious due to the small study size.
Researchers found that early treatment reduced the likelihood of poor vision from 19.5% to 14.5% and structural damage from 15.6% to 9.1% in high-risk premature infants. The study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, identified risk factors for ROP and showed that prompt treatment can prevent severe vision loss.