Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that macrophage proliferation within plaques drives the growth of atherosclerotic lesions. This challenges the previous assumption that monocytes are solely responsible for plaque development.
A small study at Massachusetts General Hospital found evidence of nerve damage in approximately half of fibromyalgia patients, leading to the identification of a treatable disease called small-fiber polyneuropathy (SFPN). Researchers hope that this discovery will lead to better treatments for some with chronic pain syndrome.
Researchers developed digital PCR technology to detect IDH1 mutation in CSF of patients with brain tumors, improving treatment choice and patient care. The technique has potential for noninvasive biomarker identification and personalized medicine.
Scientists have developed a method to generate functional blood vessels lasting up to nine months using human induced pluripotent stem cells. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Researchers found regions of genome associated with cholera susceptibility, including pathways regulating water loss and innate immune system responses. The findings suggest a potential fingerprint for cholera's genetic impact, such as the relative rarity of blood type O, which may confer increased risk of severe symptoms.
Researchers identified a key role for Scara1 in clearing amyloid beta from the brain, which may lead to a new therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's. In mouse models, Scara1 deficiency accelerated A-beta deposition and death, while upregulation enhanced clearance.
A high HOXB13/IL17BR ratio in tumor tissue indicates increased risk of recurrence after tamoxifen therapy, but drops significantly if a patient receives letrozole. This biomarker can help identify patients who may benefit from extended treatment with letrozole.
A study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children found that pediatric practices can effectively implement a smoking cessation program for parents, reaching nearly half of smoking parents. The program, CEASE, was trained in 20 practices and resulted in significant increases in tobacco control assistance and physician referrals.
A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has found that CRISPR-Cas RNA-guided nucleases can cause off-target mutations in human cells, with rates potentially higher than at targeted sites. This limitation highlights the need to improve the precision of these gene-editing tools for therapeutic applications.
A novel treatment using resolvins has restored appropriate neutrophil motion in burn-injured rats, significantly improving survival rates. The treatment may help determine risk of septic complications in patients and prevent associated deaths.
A study at MassGeneral Hospital found significant disparities in the use of specialty services among African-American and Hispanic children with autism. Minority children were less likely to receive subspecialty care or procedures related to gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Researchers discovered unique copy-number variants (CNVs) in genes important to neuronal function, affecting 10 families with early-onset Alzheimer's. CNVs were found to be associated with novel gene mutations not previously linked to the disease.
A study found that early-life risk factors, such as rapid infant weight gain and non-exclusive breastfeeding, account for the disparity in childhood obesity rates among black and Hispanic children compared to white children. The researchers suggest designing interventions during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood could help elimin...
Two MGH-led studies show crizotinib is superior to chemotherapy for advanced ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer, with over double the progression-free survival. A second study reports the first crizotinib resistance in a ROS1-positive lung tumor, revealing the mechanism underlying that resistance.
A survey of internal medicine residents at Massachusetts General Hospital found that more than half rated their addiction and substance use disorders training as fair or poor. The majority felt unprepared to diagnose or treat such disorders. In response, the hospital increased residents' training in addiction medicine.
A new measure of genetic diversity within tumors has been found to predict treatment outcomes in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Higher levels of genetic heterogeneity were associated with shorter overall survival, and the relationship was seen across different risk groups.
A survey of nearly 1,000 primary care clinicians reveals significant disagreements between physicians and nurse practitioners on the scope of nurse practitioner responsibilities, including leadership roles, reimbursement levels, and service provision. The study highlights the need for further analysis of the economic implications and c...
A combination of two FDA-approved osteoporosis drugs, denosumab and teriparatide, was found to increase bone density more effectively than single-drug therapy in a small clinical trial. The treatment produced significant improvements in bone mineral density at multiple measured sites, including the lumbar spine and hip.
Researchers identified mutations in two genes involved in cellular metabolism as the cause of a rare syndrome characterized by reproductive failure, cerebellar ataxia, and dementia. The study found that blocking either gene had similar effects on brain development, suggesting they operate in a common pathway.
A handheld diagnostic device uses microfluidic technology with nuclear magnetic resonance to diagnose TB and other bacterial infections in under 3 hours, improving on standard culturing practice. The device also detects antibiotic-resistant strains and has potential applications in resource-limited settings.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a gene variant that predicts weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. The variant, located on chromosome 15, is associated with an average weight loss of nearly 40% in individuals who carry two copies of the beneficial version.
Researchers at MGH and BIDMC found changes in gene expression related to inflammation, energy metabolism, and insulin secretion during a single session of relaxation response practice. The study suggests that the relaxation response induces physiological hubs that may contribute to its benefits for stress reduction and wellness.
Researchers discovered a protective CD33 gene variant that enhances the brain's immune system to clear away toxic A-beta protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. This finding raises the possibility of using CD33 inhibitors as a potential new approach to treating and preventing Alzheimer's.
Massachusetts General Hospital researchers have been recognized for their groundbreaking work in developing a brain-control system for paralyzed patients, delaying melanoma treatment resistance, and advancing genetic diagnosis. The Clinical Research Forum's Top 10 Clinical Research Achievements of 2012 award recipients include Leigh Ho...
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified a genetic signature associated with the risk of tumor recurrence or spread in men surgically treated for prostate cancer. The 32-gene index proved to be the most accurate method, predicting actual incidence of tumor recurrence (47%) and metastasis (14%) among high-risk patients.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital successfully developed implantable, bioengineered rat kidneys that produced urine and functioned in living animals. The approach uses donor organs stripped of cells, repopulated with human or animal cells, and cultured to mimic native organ structure and function.
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that feeding intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) to mice on a high-fat diet prevents the development of metabolic syndrome and reduces symptoms in those already affected. IAP blocks inflammatory factors, reducing systemic inflammation.
The CTC-iChip system rapidly produces a purified solution of tumor cells for pathological and molecular analysis. This technology enables the analysis of single metastatic cells, providing insights into cancer evolution and metastasis.
A Phase 1 clinical trial tested an antisense treatment for ALS, blocking production of a mutated protein that causes the progressive neurodegenerative disease. The treatment was successfully distributed throughout the central nervous system and showed no serious adverse effects.
Research from Massachusetts General Hospital finds that gastric bypass changes microbial populations in obese mice, leading to weight loss and improved metabolism. Transferring altered microbiota into germ-free mice reproduced the effects of bypass surgery.
A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital found that quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. Despite potential weight gain, the benefits of stopping smoking far outweigh any associated risks, according to the research.
A new syndrome, juvenile-onset small-fiber polyneuropathy (JOSeFINE), has been identified as a possible cause of widespread chronic pain in children. Diagnostic tests including skin biopsies and autonomic function testing have been found to be useful in diagnosing the condition.
Researchers found that melanoma cells develop resistance to BRAF inhibitor treatment by shifting to alternative energy production methods. By targeting mitochondrial metabolism, combination treatments may improve the efficacy of current therapies.
A study found that adding folate and vitamin B12 to antipsychotic medication improved negative symptoms of schizophrenia, particularly in individuals carrying specific genetic variants. The results suggest a potential new avenue for treatment, as well as the need for personalized medical approaches.
Researchers identified specific EEG signatures that indicate loss and regain of consciousness under propofol anesthesia. The study provides precise markers for monitoring patient unconsciousness and predicting recovery, potentially revolutionizing general anesthesia care.
Researchers identified placental growth factor (PlGF) as crucial for medulloblastoma growth and spread. Blocking this pathway led to regression of all four molecular subtypes in mouse models.
High estrogen levels during IVF pregnancy increase the risk of small birth weight and preeclampsia. Freezing embryos for later transfer when hormone levels were lower reduced the incidence of these complications in a small study.
Researchers found that omega-6 fatty acids stimulate autophagy in both C. elegans roundworms and human cells, leading to increased lifespan and improved immune response. This discovery suggests that balanced intake of omega nutrients may benefit human health.
Studies show that mouse models do not reflect the human genomic response to inflammatory injury, including major burns and trauma. Despite similar responses among humans, mouse models exhibit limited correlation with gene expression changes.
Researchers associate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) with breast cancer disease progression and treatment response. EMT was detected in breast cancer patient samples and found to oscillate between epithelial and mesenchymal states, influencing tumor spread and invasiveness.
A new analysis of over 38,000 patient records reveals the effects of various antidepressants on heart rhythm, confirming associations with some medications but not others. The study supports FDA warnings and provides guidance for patients taking antidepressants like citalopram and escitalopram.
Animal studies suggest that type of anesthetic used, number of exposures and age contribute to risk of inflammation, cognitive deficits. Research findings indicate potential safer alternatives for young children.
Replacing branded antiretroviral drugs with generics could reduce healthcare costs by nearly $1 billion annually, but may diminish the effectiveness of HIV treatment. The switch could lead to a more complicated treatment regimen, increasing the risk of treatment failure and loss of antiretroviral effectiveness.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital finds reduced local and long-range brain activity coordination in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Local connectivity was previously thought to be higher in autistic brains, but the current research reveals a more complex connection between brain regions.
A recent study by Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program found that drug overdose deaths have surpassed HIV as the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston, with a significant increase in opioid-related overdoses. The study highlights the dire need to address the epidemic of drug ov...
Researchers developed an imaging system enclosed in a capsule about the size of a multivitamin pill that creates detailed, microscopic images of the esophageal wall. The system has several advantages over traditional endoscopy and reveals subsurface structures not easily seen with endoscopy.
A national survey found that over a third of US physicians fulfill patient requests for brand-name drugs, which are up to 80% more expensive than generics. Industry marketing relationships and personal connections with pharmaceutical companies also contribute to this practice.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that mice with elevated urate levels showed significantly less neurodegeneration and improved movement abnormalities compared to those with low urate levels. The results support the possibility that increasing urate levels may slow progression of Parkinson's disease.
A team of researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital has discovered that intestinal immune cells collect and process antigens from both the bloodstream and the intestine, inducing the production of T cells that suppress inflammation. This regulatory system is crucial for preventing autoimmune disorders and inflammatory bowel disease.
Patients who viewed a simulated CPR procedure were less likely to choose CPR, while those watching the video found it helpful. The study suggests that educational videos can supplement patient-doctor relationships and provide patients with more knowledge to make informed decisions about end-of-life care.