Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a path to safer drugs for heart disease and cancer. By analyzing the structure of an extracellular matrix protein and its interaction with an integrin, they have discovered a high-affinity version that can bind strongly without inducing unintended receptor activation.
A multi-institutional study found that newly diagnosed Crohn's disease patients have an imbalance in their intestinal microbial population, with increased levels of harmful bacteria and decreased levels of beneficial bacteria. This imbalance is associated with the development of symptoms and may be exacerbated by antibiotic use.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study identifies factors that increase the risk of subsequent overdoses requiring emergency department visits. Analysis found that repeat ED visits for opioid overdose are associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and respiratory failure.
A new cancer vaccine has demonstrated prolonged survival in animal models of both tumors by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells. The vaccine combines a molecule targeting a tumor-cell-surface antigen with another protein that stimulates several immune functions.
A phase 2 clinical trial found that patients with ALS receiving a high-calorie, high-carbohydrate tube-feeding formula lived longer and had fewer adverse events than those on a standard formula. This preliminary evidence suggests improved nutrition could extend survival in ALS patients.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that cognitive behavioral therapy addressing mood and treatment management skills improved blood sugar control and reduced depression symptoms in poorly-controlled type 2 diabetes patients. The integrated approach showed faster relief of depression symptoms compared to usual care.
A new study finds that rural primary care physicians are committed to professionalism and quality improvement, contrary to common perceptions. They were more likely to participate in quality improvement activities, discuss costs of care with patients, and report having added Medicaid or uninsured patients to their patient panels.
A year-long study found that pregabalin reduced RLS symptoms and was less likely to cause worsening symptoms compared to pramipexole. Dopaminergic drugs were associated with symptom augmentation in some patients, highlighting the need for caution when treating RLS patients.
A phase II clinical trial found creatine safe and well-tolerated by most participants, with neuroimaging showing a treatment-associated slowing of regional brain atrophy. The study also enrolled participants without knowing their genetic status, allowing them to participate while respecting their autonomy.
Researchers found that malignant astrocytoma patients with the IDH1 mutation benefit greatly from surgical removal of as much tumor tissue as possible. This approach significantly improves survival, with average patient survival rates of 13.5 years for those with mutant tumors compared to less than 1.5 years for non-mutant tumors.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have found that shortening the guide RNA component of CRISPR-Cas nucleases can substantially reduce off-target DNA mutations. Truncated gRNAs, or tru-gRNAs, are just as efficient as full-length gRNAs in reaching their intended target but with greatly reduced off-target effects.
Gary Ruvkun, PhD, and Victor Ambros, PhD, discovered that microRNAs regulate gene expression by binding to messenger RNAs, controlling protein-coding genes in animals. The researchers' work is recognized as a significant contribution to understanding the human genome and its role in disease.
Researchers have developed a novel DNA-barcoded antibody sensing approach to analyze hundreds of cancer-related protein markers from miniscule patient samples. This technology enables comprehensive analysis of protein expression patterns in single cells, revealing significant differences between tumors and predicting treatment response.
A recent study identified a population of stem-like T memory cells where HIV persists despite treatment. These cells have the ability to regenerate new HIV-infected cells, fueling the virus's persistence in the human body. The findings suggest that targeting these cells could lead to novel interventions for future treatment.
A multi-institutional team has discovered a gene mutation associated with several cancers also drives a rare brain tumor called papillary craniopharyngioma. The BRAF mutation was found in 94% of tested papillary tumors, suggesting it could be targeted by existing therapies.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a procedure to induce immune tolerance to hand and face transplants, which could free recipients from lifelong immunosuppression. The study successfully tested this approach in miniature swine, paving the way for expanded availability of these complex transplants.
Extended varenicline treatment improved tobacco abstinence rates among individuals with serious mental illness. Participants who received varenicline and cognitive behavioral therapy for 40 weeks had three times more success maintaining abstinence than those receiving only cognitive behavioral therapy.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that 'traffic light' food labels and strategic placement of healthy items led to lasting changes in customer choices. After two years, purchases of healthier options increased by 12%, while sugar-sweetened beverage sales dropped by 39%.
A Phase 2 trial found that inosine treatment successfully raised participants' urate levels without serious side effects. The study suggests that urate elevation may slow Parkinson disease progression and supports further investigation into its potential as a disease-modifying strategy.
A study of over 4,400 physicians found that those who would personally enroll in hospice care are more likely to discuss it with patients, but delays remain. Despite personal preferences, many physicians do not have timely discussions about end-of-life care with terminally ill cancer patients.
A recent study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that HIV-infected women have a greater prevalence of noncalcified coronary artery plaques, which are more vulnerable to rupture. Immune system activation is also increased in these women, particularly with age.
Pretreating intradermal vaccination with near-infrared laser light improves vaccine effectiveness by increasing immune system activity and survival rates in a mouse model. The treatment also increases antibody production and dendritic cell concentrations, indicating a safe alternative to chemical adjuvants.
A microchip-based device developed by MGH researchers may simplify the monitoring of patients' response to treatment for ovarian cancer. The team isolated and identified tumor cells from ascites, an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen that often occurs in abdominal cancers.
Scientists have successfully replicated nonenzymatic RNA copying inside fatty acid vesicles, overcoming a critical problem in creating primitive synthetic cells. The team used citrate as a chelator to protect the membrane from degradation by magnesium ions, allowing RNA chemistry to proceed.
A protein called GEF-H1 is critical for macrophages' ability to respond to viral infections. Mice lacking this protein were unable to mount an effective immune defense against influenza and other viruses.
Researchers found that introducing protective variant APOE2 into brains of animals with established plaques reduced amyloid beta deposition, retention and neurotoxicity. This suggests the potential for gene-therapy-based treatment to alleviate Alzheimer's disease progression.
Researchers found that genetic differences in a vitamin D carrier protein referred to as D-binding protein could explain the discrepancy between diagnosed vitamin D deficiency and lack of symptoms in black Americans. The study suggests that current methods may not accurately determine vitamin D deficiency, leading to unnecessary treatm...
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed an approach to increase beneficial HDL cholesterol levels in non-human primates by targeting shared nucleotide sequences that inhibit microRNAs. This strategy showed a nearly 40% increase in HDL levels, outperforming current therapies.
A recent study identified TRPC5, a molecule that plays a key role in the breakdown of the kidney filter, as a potential therapeutic target for stopping damage. The researchers found that blocking TRPC5 channels can prevent cytoskeletal collapse and subsequent kidney damage.
A new sequencing method identified a set of genes used by microglia to sense their environment, called the 'sensome'. As aging increases, microglia's expression of neuroprotective genes becomes more active while toxic actions are downregulated. This discovery may lead to better understanding and treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.
A new study finds that treatment with abatacept appears to halt the course of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in patients, preventing proteinuria and promoting remission. Abatacept has been shown to be effective in treating patients with recurrent disease and those at high risk for kidney failure.
A study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that postoperative pain can contribute to temporary impairments in learning and memory in surgical patients. Researchers identified a probable mechanism for pain-induced cognitive impairment, suggesting pathways that may be targeted by potential preventive measures.
Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to determine which patients with glioblastoma would benefit from anti-angiogenic drugs. Persistent improvement in vessel perfusion and oxygen delivery was found to be associated with longer survival rates among patients.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a computer-controlled system to automate the process of administering anesthesia, promising more precise and efficient control. The system uses brain activity monitoring to adjust drug infusion and maintain a deep state of anesthesia, reducing the need for manual intervention.
A study found that early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-infected individuals with uninfected sexual partners can be a cost-effective strategy to prevent viral transmission. In South Africa, the treatment was projected to save money during the first five years, while in India, it was determined to be cost-effective o...
A recent study published in PLOS Genetics has shed new light on the genetic causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette syndrome (TS). The research team found that OCD heritability is concentrated in chromosome 15, while TS heritability is spread across multiple chromosomes. The study's findings have significant implicat...
Scientists have created an implantable hydrogel that can deliver a light signal to specific tissues deep within the body, enabling photomedicine to treat brain disorders. The system uses genetically engineered cells that respond to light, and has shown promising results in mice with diabetes.
A traffic-light labeling system in a hospital cafeteria increased customers' attention to nutritional quality and encouraged purchases of healthy items. The study found that 61% of respondents considered health/nutrition important factors in their choices after the intervention, compared to 46% before.
Researchers found that a combination of anemia and high altitude increases the risk of poor outcomes, including persistent pneumonia and secondary infections, in children with pneumonia. The study analyzed data from 958 children and found that this combination causes a fourfold increase in treatment failure risk.
The MGPO Quality Incentive Program, funded by redirected physician earnings, offers modest financial incentives for achieving quality improvement targets. The program achieved consistent use of electronic medical records and improved communication with patients.
Losartan opens up collapsed tumor blood vessels, improving chemotherapy delivery and oxygenation. Combining losartan with standard treatments delays tumor growth and extends survival in animal models.
Researchers identify two rare gene mutations that increase generation and accumulation of toxic amyloid beta protein, impairing neural cell growth. The findings suggest the enzyme ADAM10 as a promising therapeutic target for treatment and prevention.
A CDC and Massachusetts General Hospital study finds that pretravel consultations and preventive medications can save money for both payers and most travelers. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 travelers to West Africa and found that the costs associated with contracting malaria outweighed the costs of preventive care.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that colonoscopy significantly reduces the risk of developing or dying from colorectal cancer compared to sigmoidoscopy. The comprehensive exam visualizes the entire colon, reducing risk throughout its entirety.
A new gene-expression-based biomarker, the Breast Cancer Index (BCI), accurately identifies patients at continued risk of breast cancer recurrence after five years of treatment. The BCI distinguishes between high and low-risk patients, enabling prolonged treatment for those who remain at risk and avoiding unnecessary side effects.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers finds that insufficient estrogen is partly responsible for some age-related symptoms in men. Testosterone levels regulate lean body mass, muscle size and strength, while estrogen regulates fat accumulation.
A substudy found that pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can be highly effective in preventing HIV infection with high adherence rates. Participants who received counseling and support showed 100% efficacy, while those who did not showed significantly lower rates of adherence.
A new study found that a home-based program improved household routines, slowing weight gain in young children. The 'Healthy Habits, Happy Homes' program encouraged families to have regular meals together, ensure adequate sleep, and limit screen time.
A blood test developed by MGH researchers can detect levels of mutant huntingtin protein, which causes Huntington's disease. The assay uses HTRF technology and may predict symptom onset or progression.
A new MR analysis technique called vessel architectural imaging (VAI) can identify changes in brain tumor blood vessels within days of anti-angiogenesis therapy initiation. VAI has shown that 10 out of 30 patients with recurrent glioblastoma responded to the treatment, surviving six months longer than non-responders.