Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identified four biologically meaningful subtypes of RSV bronchiolitis, with one subtype linked to a 40% risk of developing asthma by age five. This study provides new insights into the complexity of bronchiolitis and may help improve care for affected children.
A study published in Science Advances found that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of opioid addiction and excessive sun-seeking behavior. Researchers discovered that modulating vitamin D levels can change addictive behaviors to both UV and opioids, and that patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to use opioids.
A new analysis by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that COVID-19 disproportionately affected people of color, low-income populations, and those with certain socioeconomic characteristics. The study, based on data from 394,536 patients, highlights the role of structural factors in the pandemic's spread.
Researchers found that the fear of catching COVID-19 led many smokers to cut down or quit, while stress caused others to increase their smoking. The study analyzed survey responses from 694 current and former daily smokers, revealing a complex relationship between perceived risk and smoking behavior.
A randomized clinical trial tested an automated, personalized intervention to improve health in hospital staff, finding that employees who received feedback on their cafeteria purchases made healthier choices. The study's results suggest that food purchasing data can be leveraged for delivering health promotion interventions at scale.
Researchers found that an insertable cardiac monitor can detect atrial fibrillation in 12.1% of patients compared to 1.8% through usual care. The chip detected episodes lasting at least one hour, recommending blood thinners for some patients.
A study of nearly 100,000 individuals found that wearing accelerometers showed a significant association between moderate physical activity and reduced risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. The researchers suggest that wearable devices could be used to promote public health by tracking and encouraging physical activity.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital has identified an enzyme that protects the brain from oxygen deprivation, leading to new potential therapies for strokes and brain injuries caused by cardiac arrest. The discovery was made serendipitously while researchers investigated techniques for inducing suspended animation.
A study found that viral particles remaining in the gut after COVID-19 can travel into the bloodstream, triggering a hyperinflammatory response and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). Researchers identified larazotide acetate as a potential treatment.
A community health worker intervention has been shown to reduce hospital readmissions among patients discharged to short-term rehabilitation. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found a 32.3% reduction in readmissions for this population compared to those discharged home.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that colorectal cancer screening after age 75 reduces incidence and death from the disease in most individuals. Screening is particularly beneficial for those without cardiovascular disease or multiple health conditions.
Researchers at MGH have discovered the role of mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAMs) in forming amyloid beta in axons and neuronal processes. The study suggests that targeting sigma-1 receptors or inhibiting palmitoylation may reduce Abeta production, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's d...
Researchers found epigenetic modifications driven by DNMT3A protein determine B cell fate, with implications for understanding diseases linked to B cells' dysregulation. Chronic lymphomic leukemia (CLL) risk arises when these modifications are lost.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that sevoflurane can cause tau to leave neurons and enter microglia, stimulating inflammation and cognitive impairment. The study suggests that inhibiting tau phosphorylation or extracellular vesicle generation could prevent this tau spreading.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a strategy to reprogram regulatory T cells in the brain to attack glioblastoma tumors. By targeting a specific receptor on these cells, they can convert them into tumor-fighting immune cells, offering a possible solution to overcome resistance to immunotherapy.
Researchers found that tumors can take up significant amounts of nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel and that manipulating signaling pathways involved in nutrient uptake can enhance its consumption, boosting treatment efficacy
Scientists discovered that elite controllers' myeloid dendritic cells display traits of trained innate immune cells, which enhance their ability to control HIV. The study also found a specific long-noncoding RNA, MIR4435-2HG, that may be an important driver of this enhanced state.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital have solved the 120-year-old mystery surrounding Sir Ernest Shackleton's failing health during his Antarctic expeditions. They attribute his bouts of breathlessness and weakness to beriberi, a serious condition caused by thiamine deficiency.
A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has identified a consistent protein signature in patients with severe COVID-19. The study found that this signature is associated with an immune response, but also with older patients who have chronic diseases and weakened immune systems.
Researchers have discovered the mechanism of follicle development by MIS, a key reproductive hormone that suppresses follicle growth and prevents ovulation. This understanding may lead to novel approaches to contraception, preserving eggs lost to aging or chemotherapy, and improving fertility treatment success.
A new test, called Guardant Reveal, can detect residual cancer DNA in the blood of patients after treatment without knowing the specific mutations present in their tumor. The study found that this approach was similar in sensitivity and specificity to traditional methods.
A study of 9,290 children found that those with multiple classes of prenatal exposures had a higher risk of psychiatric symptoms. The risk was highest among those with unplanned pregnancy, substance use, or obstetrical complications.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital develop a new radiation technique that carefully targets tumors while sparing surrounding tissues, reducing inflammation and preserving swallowing function. The study shows promising results in patients with localized lung cancer, with none developing severe esophagitis despite high-dose ra...
New research reveals that using both e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes increases the risk of developing respiratory symptoms like cough and wheeze. Dual users had a 1.9-times higher odds of developing respiratory symptoms compared to exclusive e-cigarette or tobacco smoker users.
A large study of hospital employees found that individuals tend to mirror the food choices of others in their social circles, influencing both healthy and unhealthy eating patterns. The researchers discovered that casual acquaintances can also shape eating behavior, with peer pressure being a key factor.
A global phase 3 clinical study confirms the effectiveness of targeted antibody drug conjugates against refractory metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. The ADC drug sacituzumab govitecan delivered a high dose of a cancer-killing drug to tumor cells, improving progression-free and overall survival.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers finds that a proposed law to regulate high-risk diagnostic tests could increase US healthcare costs by $565 million to $1.1 billion over a three-year period, depending on stringency of enforcement.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered three distinct types of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) that line the human airway, which may be involved in breathing-related diseases in infants. The study found higher numbers of certain PNECs in autopsied tissues from children who died from SIDS and other conditions.
A study published in JAMA Network Open explores the experiences of individuals with young-onset dementia and their partners, highlighting the importance of open communication and mutual problem-solving. The research team developed a couples-based framework to describe coping patterns, which can inform new interventions and increase qua...
A new study suggests that immunotherapies combined with phenformin may be an effective way to fight cancer. Researchers found that phenformin has structural and therapeutic advantages over its sister compound metformin, which was previously used as an anti-diabetic agent.
A large-scale study found that 25.1% of patients on immune checkpoint inhibitors developed skin-related side effects, including itching, inflammation, and rash. The study identified 10 specific conditions at higher risk among melanoma or kidney cancer patients.
Researchers found that exercise training in mice with human breast cancer grew tumors more slowly and responded better to immunotherapy, with increased anti-tumor immune responses. Exercise also enhanced the activity of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells), which killed cancer cells.
A new analysis found that younger age and specific types of cancer, such as melanoma and kidney cancer, increase the risk of severe side effects. Patients receiving multiple immune checkpoint inhibitors also faced a higher risk.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that medical cannabis products often contain more THC than expected, while some products labeled as CBD-only contained no detectable levels of THC or CBD. This raises concerns about the accuracy of product labeling and its impact on patient safety.
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a disruption in the brain's normal mechanisms for controlling the body and can be triggered by physical or emotional events, including vaccinations. Individuals with FND may experience symptoms such as limb weakness, gait problems, jerky movements, tremor and facial spasms.
Researchers have identified key mechanisms that enable cancer cells to resist therapies targeting mutated KRAS protein. The findings suggest a potential role for rational drug design and combination therapy in overcoming resistance.
A long-term study found that prenatal exposure to inflammatory substances affects stress circuitry function in male and female offspring, retained into midlife. Abnormal levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines produced in mothers during pregnancy affect brain development differences by sex.
A recent study published in Psychology of Addictive Behaviors found that 80% of Americans with resolved drug problems report significant personal achievements, including self-improvement, family engagement, and civic participation. These achievements accumulate over time and are associated with greater happiness and quality of life.
A study in red-haired mice reveals that a variant of the melanocortin 1 receptor affects pain sensitivity. The researchers found that lower levels of certain hormones lead to more opioid signals, elevating the pain threshold.
A study has identified 13 rare gene variants associated with Alzheimer's disease, which are linked to the functioning of synapses and neuroplasticity. These discoveries could help guide the development of new therapies for this devastating neurological condition.
Breast cancer cells that spread to the brain must boost fatty acid production to survive due to limited access to fats. Inhibiting this process with a fatty acid synthase inhibitor may lead to tumor shrinkage.
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital reveals that nonconvulsive seizures in COVID-19 patients are associated with worse outcomes, including higher rates of death and longer hospital stays. Seizures can occur even in patients without prior neurological history, highlighting the need for close monitoring and treatment.
Scientists have found that odontoblasts, cells forming dentin beneath the enamel, sense cold and trigger pain. By blocking this function, researchers can inhibit dental pain and create novel applications for eugenol-based treatments.
A new study reveals that increased stress-associated metabolic activity in the brain can lead to a higher risk of developing broken heart syndrome. The research found that brain areas with higher metabolic activity were more prone to producing stressful responses, which may contribute to the development of TTS.
A large study found that COVID vaccines produce high levels of antibodies in pregnant women, which can be passed to newborns through breastmilk and the placenta. The study also showed that lactating women receive a similar immune response, providing benefits for both mothers and infants.
A multinational study of nearly 200,000 people found significant sex-dependent differences in the genetics of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorders. The findings suggest that interactions between genes and sex may affect disease risk and progression.
A new gene therapy approach using zinc finger proteins has shown long-lasting effects in reducing tau protein levels and reversing brain damage in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease. The treatment involves a single injection and could potentially lead to a new treatment for patients with this devastating illness.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital highlights rumination syndrome, a behavioral problem where patients regurgitate food into their mouths while eating. The condition is often confused with other gastrointestinal disorders, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
A meta-analysis found that the frequency of dual allergies to penicillin and cefazolin was only 0.7%, making it safe for nearly all patients with a penicillin allergy history. Cefazolin is now considered a suitable alternative to other antibiotics in surgery patients.
Researchers found that several existing suicide risk prediction models are accurate enough to be implemented cost-effectively in clinical practice. The models could help identify individuals at high risk of suicide and offer effective interventions such as active contact and follow-up or cognitive behavioral therapy.