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McGill University


Biological markers for teen depression

A novel lab method developed by McGill University researchers has identified nine molecules in the blood that were elevated in teens diagnosed with depression. These molecules also predicted how symptoms might progress over time, providing a potential tool for early detection and treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBiological Psychiatry Global Open Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 22, 2025

Study links dementia care gaps in Quebec to socio-economic status

A new study found stark differences in dementia care received by people in richer and poorer neighborhoods in Quebec. People in more deprived areas were more likely to be hospitalized, receive inappropriate medications, and die within a year of diagnosis, while those in wealthier neighborhoods had more visits to cognition specialists.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Behavior & Socioeconomics of Aging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2025

Researchers identify two new crocodile species

Two new species of crocodiles have been identified on the island of Cozumel and the atoll of Banco Chinchorro in Mexico. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the American crocodile and emphasizes the importance of protecting these isolated populations.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateMay 6, 2025

What links cannabis use and psychosis? Researchers point to the brain’s dopamine system

Researchers have found that people with cannabis use disorder have elevated dopamine levels in a brain region associated with psychosis. This could explain why frequent cannabis use increases the risk of hallucinations and delusions. The study's findings may help doctors educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis u...

SourceMcGill University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2025

COVID-19 boosters help avoid breakthrough infections in immunocompromised people, McGill-led study finds

A new study by researchers at McGill University found that annual COVID-19 vaccine booster doses help avoid breakthrough infections in people with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. The study tracked 366 patients across Canada and used saliva PCR tests and antibody measurements, offering a more precise picture of infection risks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalVaccine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2025

Latest Alzheimer’s drug shown less effective in females than males

A recent study published in The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association found that lecanemab, a new Alzheimer's-modifying drug, was less effective in female patients compared to males. The Phase 3 clinical trial showed a significant benefit in males, but little to no benefit in females, with the cause of the difference still unknown.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2025

Blood test shows promise for early detection of dementia

Researchers have discovered a blood test that can identify patients with a sleep disorder who are most likely to develop Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The blood test analyzes two proteins in the blood associated with Alzheimer's disease and predicted dementia risk in almost 90% of patients, four years before symptoms appeared.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBrain·DateMar 11, 2025

In preparing children for a racially unequal society, families of colour can benefit from more support, study finds

Researchers at McGill University found that parents of colour need information and support to teach their children the skills they need to survive and thrive in a racially unequal society. The study identified three key messages that focus on feeling pride, valuing diversity and recognizing and responding to discrimination.

SourceMcGill University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2025

New discovery could help protect against influenza

A preclinical trial has uncovered how beta-glucan can 'reprogram' immune cells to prevent lung inflammation and reduce the risk of illness and death from influenza. The study's findings highlight beta-glucan as a promising therapy for influenza and other emerging viral pathogens.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2025

An open solution to improving research reproducibility

A consensus platform for antibody characterization has been developed to evaluate antibody specificity and tackle the challenge of non-specific antibodies in life sciences. The Open Science approach supports large-scale collaboration among competitors in the antibody industry, resulting in an estimated $1 billion annual savings.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Protocols·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2024

Pregnancy enhances natural immunity to block severe flu

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that pregnancy enhances the body's natural immunity to block severe flu infection. By activating a powerful molecule in the nasal cavity, pregnant women may benefit from stronger antiviral defenses against the Influenza A virus.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

How vitamin D deficiency can lead to autoimmune diseases

A McGill University study reveals that vitamin D deficiency early in life can lead to a higher risk of autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes. The research found that an aging thymus causes the immune system to become less effective, increasing the risk of misdirected immune cells attacking healthy tissues.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2024