A new study found that adolescent sleep timing preferences and patterns can be a significant risk factor for obesity and cardiometabolic health. Teenagers who prefer to go to bed late had higher waist circumference and greater abdominal fat deposition than those who prefer to go to bed early.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers has identified slowing brain rhythms as a biomarker for detecting delirium and predicting poor clinical outcomes. The study found that generalized EEG slowing was associated with longer patient hospitalizations, worse functional outcomes, and increased mortality.
A new technique has been developed to improve donated liver preservation by super-cooling it to subzero temperatures, allowing for a significant extension of the time it can be stored outside the body. This breakthrough could greatly expand organ availability and reduce discard rates.
A new study finds that growing up as a minority in the US can increase the risk of depression and anxiety, even under similar conditions to those in Puerto Rico. Factors such as perceived discrimination, cultural identity, and social support play a significant role in shaping mental health outcomes.
A new study published in Neurology provides unprecedented insights into brain connections disrupted in comatose patients. Researchers used advanced MRI techniques to image brain pathways connecting the brainstem to the thalamus and hypothalamus, revealing disruption in specific neuronal pathways associated with consciousness.
Treatment with sacubitril/valsartan significantly improves cardiac structure and function in patients with reduced ejection fraction heart failure. The drug's neprilysin inhibition also reduces blood levels of biomarker NT-proBNP, associated with lower risk of death and hospitalization.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a lab-on-a-chip platform to study non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression. The platform allows for detailed studies of NAFLD's effects on liver cells and evaluates the potential of investigational drugs.
A randomized controlled trial of Positive Minds-Strong Bodies (PMSB) intervention shows improved functioning and mood in racial and ethnic minority and immigrant older adults. The culturally tailored intervention significantly improves mood symptoms and functioning.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered a gene that regulates the behavior of an enzyme involved in Alzheimer's disease, which also causes a rare neurological disorder. The study suggests that targeting this enzyme could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's.
Researchers at MGH develop a new, possibly safer contrast agent for MRI exams using a manganese-based compound that provides comparable tumor contrast enhancement to state-of-the-art gadolinium-based agents. The new agent is designed to be more quickly and thoroughly cleared from the body, reducing concerns about long-term safety.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers has found a mutation in the RABL3 gene linked to hereditary forms of pancreatic cancer. The discovery may lead to earlier diagnoses and improved treatments for patients with strong family histories.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital finds that more than one in four US adults with diabetes were not diagnosed, while nearly one in three received inadequate care. Younger, female, and non-white adults were particularly affected by disparities in meeting treatment targets.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that pediatricians can significantly impact parents' ability to quit smoking. The 'CEASE' program, developed by Dr. Jonathan Winickoff, shows a 2% decline in smoking rate per year among all patients, not just those who try quitting. This intervention, implemented at family practice offices acr...
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that depression symptoms in cognitively healthy older individuals, combined with brain amyloid, can lead to changes in memory and thinking over time. The study suggests that depression symptoms could be a target for delaying the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that the timing of HD onset is determined by a property of the expanded CAG repeat in an individual's DNA, not its length. The study also identified multiple genes involved in DNA maintenance and repair as modifiers of HD onset, offering potential targets for treatments.
A new imaging tool provides detailed images of the nasal airways in cystic fibrosis patients, showing impaired mucus clearance and cilia dysfunction. The technique enables clinicians to diagnose diseases earlier and optimize treatment for individual patients.
A nationwide study found that individuals with opioid use problems require more intensive medical, psychological, and social support services over a longer period. Those who achieved longer-term recovery were more likely to use formal treatment, pharmacotherapy, and recovery support services compared to those with alcohol use disorder.
Researchers created novel mouse models to study health effects of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, finding a higher risk of metabolic disease and cancer with over-production of n-6 PUFA. The ratio of these fatty acids influences chronic disease risk, and balancing the ratio may be a safe solution.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that dietary fat quality and genetic risk of diabetes work independently, and a diet high in polyunsaturated fats can reduce type 2 diabetes risk. The study's findings support the deployment of lifestyle or dietary interventions for all gradients of genetic risk.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have created a new method for immune therapy that targets two antigens on the surface of brain tumors, eliminating 80% of tumors in models. The technique holds promise for treating other solid tumors and overcomes issues with blood-brain barrier penetration.
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital's Tobacco Research and Treatment Center shows that daily e-cigarette use helps US smokers quit regular cigarettes. Smokers who used e-cigarettes every day were more likely to quit combustible cigarettes within one year and stay quit for at least another year.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a new class of probes, laser particles, to tag and track cells in complex biological samples. These biocompatible laser particles emit light that can produce many distinguishable colors, allowing for more precise tracking and study of individual cell movement.
Early treatment with stimulant medication has strong protective effects against mood disorders, conduct disorders, substance use disorders, driving impairments, and academic failure in children and young adults with ADHD. The study found that three participants needed to be treated to prevent one from developing serious outcomes.
A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers reveals that Misr2+ cells play a critical role in forming a healthy uterus. The cells, which express the receptor for Mullerian Inhibiting Substance (MIS), are found to continue expressing MIS past sexual differentiation, contributing to uterine development.
A new AI tool, CXR-risk, analyzes chest X-ray images to predict health and mortality, providing independent information that surpasses radiologists' readings. The study found that CXR-risk identified people at high risk for future heart attack, lung cancer, or death with accuracy.
Higher levels of daily physical activity may slow cognitive decline and brain tissue loss in people with high amyloid plaque in the brain. The study suggests that physical activity might reduce b-amyloid-related cortical thinning and preserve gray matter structure.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified markers that can distinguish between major subtypes of lung cancer and accurately predict lung cancer stage. The study's findings could help physicians decide whether an individual patient with lung cancer benefits from standard treatment or needs more aggressive therapy.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered a key gene interaction that fuels neuroinflammation, leading to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. CD33 and TREM2 genes regulate microglia activity, with CD33 acting as the 'on' switch for inflammation.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that labeling food choices with simple 'traffic-light' symbols reduced the number of calories purchased by employees in the hospital cafeteria. The intervention was associated with a sustained reduction in calories over two years, with estimated weight loss ranging from 1-2 kg per year.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that DNA single strands can be highly sensitive to mutation by gene-editing enzymes. Many mutations occur in genes unrelated to cancer development, highlighting the need to distinguish between 'driver' and 'passenger' mutations.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that age itself facilitates the spread of Alzheimer's-disease-associated protein tau in the brain. The study also identified increased vulnerability in specific brain regions, particularly the entorhinal cortex, which is where Alzheimer's-related tau pathology first appears.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital identifies a biological pathway linking socioeconomic status to cardiovascular risk. The pathway involves brain stress centers, immune cell production, and arterial inflammation, which can be targeted by lifestyle approaches such as exercise, meditation, and statins.
Researchers identified factors contributing to placental transfer of antibodies, including a preference for NK-activating antibodies that activate natural killer cells. This knowledge can be used to develop more effective maternal vaccines and deliver them during pregnancy to protect newborns from serious diseases like polio.
A novel protocol combining intensive chemotherapy, radiation therapy and blood-pressure drug losartan has allowed complete removal of tumors in 61% of participants with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The treatment significantly improved survival rates and was found to activate immune system pathways.
A study found that pancreatic cancer cells can behave differently based on their surroundings, with some responding better to chemotherapy and radiation. The stroma of tumors consists of connective tissue cells that contribute to tumor growth and spread.
A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that early antiretroviral treatment can preserve functional CD8 T cells and stimulate robust CD4 T cell responses. This could lead to the development of effective HIV vaccines by stimulating long-term immune memory.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered a method to repurpose immunosuppressive regulatory T cells into inflammatory cells that intensify an antitumor immune response. This approach primes tumors for immune checkpoint blockade, increasing the effectiveness of cancer therapies.
PrEP has already proven effective in reducing HIV acquisition by over 85% globally. A new study proposes making it available to MSM and PWID in India as a cost-effective way to combat the epidemic. The strategy is estimated to improve survival substantially, preventing over 270,000 transmissions in 15 years.
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a 3D mini-gut model that reflects the autoimmune response to gluten in celiac patients. The study identified novel genes associated with epithelial functions related to celiac disease, including gut barrier maintenance and stem cell regeneration.
A Massachusetts General Hospital survey found that feeling valued and respected were crucial factors for physician job satisfaction. The study suggests that social capital investments may be more effective than financial incentives in boosting workplace satisfaction.
Researchers at the Ragon Institute identified specific viral peptides critical to HIV function that are targeted by immune cells of individuals naturally able to control the virus. This finding could lead to the development of broadly protective vaccines and a deeper understanding of natural immunity.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that stressful experiences before age 3 have a greater effect on gene expression than those in later years. Adversity during this period is associated with increased DNA methylation, which reduces gene expression and may lead to mental health problems.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study reveals significant price disparities in facial moisturizer products targeted at men and women, with women's products costing an average of $3.09 more per ounce. The study suggests that discriminatory pricing persists despite recent government efforts to restrict such differences.
Researchers found that combining tumor-selective angiotensin blockers with immune checkpoint blockers significantly improves breast cancer treatment in mouse models. The combination treatment normalizes the tumor microenvironment, inducing changes in gene expression and activating immunosupportive pathways.
A new zebrafish model has been developed to visualize drug responses at single-cell resolution in live animals, identifying a promising treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma. The model allows for the assessment of combination therapies and direct visualization of drug responses, reducing costs and time required for clinical trials.
A study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children finds that dual-using parents are more likely to quit smoking, plan to quit in the next six months, and have attempted to quit in the past three months. However, they may not be getting the necessary help, as few pediatric offices deliver evidence-based tobacco control treatments.
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown mechanism by which cells sense proteasome dysfunction and respond by editing the amino acid sequence of a key sensing protein. This finding has important applications for treating cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers identified unique genetic signatures in patients with active celiac disease and those in remission, revealing differences in gene expressions. The study uncovered potential targets for therapeutic intervention and shed light on the underlying mechanisms of celiac disease.
Researchers found that CRISPR base editors can induce widespread off-target effects in RNA beyond targeted DNA, but developed variants with less impact. The SECURE variant significantly reduces unwanted RNA edits while increasing precision of on-target DNA editing.
Researchers develop QC-01-175, a molecular tool that clears abnormal tau protein from human neurons, providing a new approach for studying disease progression and potential therapeutic benefits. The findings suggest targeted protein degradation technology can be used to transform a protein binder into a functional molecule with pharmac...