Researchers found that violent deaths from homicide and suicide exceed traditional maternal mortality causes like hemorrhage and preeclampsia. Mental health awareness and treatment are crucial for preventing these deaths, particularly among younger, unmarried women.
Researchers have discovered a critical protein called calpain that contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension in adults. Blocking this protein may prove effective in preventing narrow, scarred blood vessels and treating the condition.
Researchers found that a mushroom compound, verticillin A, improves the efficacy of cancer drugs like TRAIL and etoposide by sensitizing cancer cells to cell death. The compound works by upregulating a gene called BN1P3, which promotes cell death and makes cancer cells more responsive to TRAIL.
A new study correlating circadian clocks with transplant success found that arteries of mice with dysfunctional internal clocks became diseased within weeks after transplantation. Transplanted blood vessels from healthy mice remained healthy in mutant mice, suggesting optimal organ function may be key to successful transplants.
Research reveals that immunotherapies like CTLA4 strengthen the immune system's attack on cancer by blocking proteins that prevent T cells from activating. The study also shows that these therapies can keep tumors from benefiting from IDO, an enzyme used to suppress the immune response.
A study aims to utilize Galectin-3 and HBME-1 proteins as biomarkers for thyroid cancer diagnosis, enabling earlier detection and reducing surgical interventions. The research has the potential to improve patient outcomes by accurately identifying patients at risk of cancer.
Researchers have discovered a way to starve breast cancer cells by blocking their efficient amino acid delivery system. This approach could provide new treatment options for patients resistant to standard therapies.
Acute lung injury is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood vessels leak into the lungs, causing fluid buildup. Researchers are exploring new therapies to improve patient odds by identifying key events and developing treatments to block them. Potential treatments include HSP90 inhibitors and adenosine agonists.
A study of 188 teenagers in rural Georgia counties found that nearly 54% preferred receiving contact via phone with a recorded message from a known researcher. This approach proved more efficient and effective than text messaging or social media platforms like Facebook.
Researchers found that prolonged estrogen deprivation in aging rats reduces brain receptors for the hormone and its ability to prevent strokes. Early estrogen replacement therapy can forestall this damage. The study's results suggest a critical window for estrogen therapy, either right before or right after menopause.
Researchers are working to improve lung function in babies with heart defects by boosting the recycling system that enables blood vessels to handle excess blood volume. They've found that a key enzyme is insufficiently energized, and PPAR agonists may provide the necessary boost.
Pomalidomide increases production of fetal hemoglobin, boosting red blood cells in patients with sickle cell disease. Unlike hydroxyurea, pomalidomide preserves bone marrow function without suppressing it.
Inhibiting heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) prevents liver cancer in mice by reducing access to glucose and lipids, which are critical for tumor growth. This finding supports the idea that altering metabolism can be an effective cancer treatment.
Scientists have identified a protective mechanism that tries to collect and detoxify high levels of toxic amyloid beta peptide found in Alzheimer's disease. The molecular chaperone HspB1 works like a waste management company to protect brain cells from damage.
A recent study by the Medical College of Georgia found that depressed pregnant women often receive inconsistent treatment, leading to longer hospital stays. The lack of uniformity in addressing perinatal depression is attributed to providers feeling burdened and isolated in making decisions about complex issues.
Aging stem cells struggle to produce strong bones due to malnutrition and inadequate signals. Researchers explore the role of amino acids and satiety hormone leptin in rejuvenating these cells.
Researchers have discovered that protein kinase C inhibitors can block kidney damage caused by the cancer drug cisplatin. This finding suggests using these inhibitors as an adjunct therapy to reduce toxicity and improve treatment outcomes.
Georgia Health Sciences University surgeons developed a robotic facelift incision technique for removing diseased thyroid tissue, reducing the risk of neck scars and other complications. The procedure is considered safe for some patients, particularly those with larger thyroids or known cancers.
Georgia Health Sciences University researchers are exploring whether low levels of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) can identify children at risk for developing type 1 diabetes. They also plan to investigate using IL-1 inhibitors to prevent the disease.
Scientists are investigating a novel treatment approach for traumatic optic nerve damage, with the goal of preventing permanent vision loss. By targeting an enzyme that regulates adenosine production, researchers hope to strengthen the body's natural anti-inflammatory response.
Seven GHSU investigators will present their research on schizophrenia and psychiatric disorders, including Dr. Peter Buckley's National Institutes of Mental Health-funded study on relapse prevention. Researchers also explore potential treatments for stress-induced anxiety behavior and prenatal stress-related neuropsychiatric illnesses.
Researchers examine if lowering blood pressure reduces kidney disease progression in a federally funded study. About half of the 100 patients will have their systolic pressure below 120 to measure its impact.
A clinical trial is underway to evaluate the effectiveness of an all-natural lozenge containing green tea polyphenols and xylitol in treating dry mouth. The study aims to improve salivary gland function, reduce inflammation, and promote saliva production in patients with this condition.
A four-year study aims to develop drugs that inhibit the degradation of protective metabolites in the kidneys, which are damaged by diabetes. Researchers hope these inhibitors could halt the progression of diabetic nephropathy and slow the rise of end-stage renal disease.
A study of 143 overweight adolescents found those with risk factors like insulin resistance and low HDL cholesterol have less bone mass than their peers. The study suggests that increasing vigorous physical activity can help improve bone mass and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers have found a bone-creating protein that can improve dental implant success when used to augment the maxillary sinus. The protein, BMP, induces superior bone quality and improves chances for successful implants compared to conventional bone grafting.
Researchers have discovered that the brain's 'reward' center also responds to negative experiences, such as fear, which can lead to increased dopamine production. This finding could help explain thrill-seeking behavior and inappropriate habits like drug addiction.
Exercise has a positive impact on cognition and academic performance in overweight children. Intelligence scores increased by an average of 3.8 points in those exercising 40 minutes per day after school for three months. The study also found improved executive function and math skills, with no improvements in reading skills.
Researchers have developed an aptamer that blocks P-selectin receptors, reducing adhesion of sickle-shaped red blood cells and white blood cells. The compound may prevent debilitating pain crises and associated mortality in sickle cell disease, offering a potential new therapy for patients.
Fat is linked to distinct DNA chemical changes, which may help explain why obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The study identified two genes, UBASH3A and TRIM3, with altered methylation patterns in obese individuals.
Medical College of Georgia researchers explore the role of aquaporin-4 in traumatic brain injuries, discovering that curcumin and brilliant blue G can block inflammation and swelling. The findings hold promise for improved treatment options for patients with TBI.
Ischemic retinopathy is characterized by uncontrolled blood vessel formation in the retina. Researchers found that inhibiting an enzyme can prevent this by restoring balance between 'good guy' and 'bad guy' growth factors.
Researchers found that UV light activates an enzyme called protein kinase D, which helps skin cancer cells survive and proliferate. This discovery suggests a new target for treating non-melanoma skin cancers, with potential benefits for the millions of people diagnosed annually in the US.
A study using fat yet muscular mice aims to understand how more muscle can reduce cardiovascular risk in obese individuals. The research suggests that increased muscle mass improves blood vessel function, glucose disposal, and heart health.
Scientists have discovered how kidney filters become damaged in renal failure, leading to increased permeability and protein loss in the urine. A new class of drugs called endothelin A receptor antagonists shows promise in reducing protein levels, promising relief for patients with diabetes and high-salt diets.
Scientists are exploring the therapeutic potential of (+)- pentazocine in treating diabetic retinopathy. The study aims to determine if the drug can block or promote sigma receptor action and improve retinal health in patients. Researchers also want to know if the drug is effective when given later in the disease process.
Researchers found daily whole body vibration improves bone density around the hip joint and femur, reducing a biomarker of bone breakdown. The technique also stimulates stem cells to differentiate into bone cells, potentially aiding fracture healing. Vibration has shown promise in improving glucose uptake and reducing fatty liver disease.
A study of 18 patients with sickle cell disease found that inhaling nitric oxide for four hours reduced pain control compared to standard self-administered morphine. Nitric oxide may help restore hemoglobin's natural shape and charge, addressing the root cause of pain.
Temporary combativeness in anesthetized children may be prevented by reducing epinephrine production with specific drugs, according to a medical expert. This can improve post-surgery experience for both children and their families.
Researchers found that oxygen therapy can increase peroxynitrite levels in the lungs, leading to inflammation, hemorrhaging, and swelling. A new compound, peptide 326, has been developed to interfere with this process, offering hope for reducing lung damage.
Researchers identified the WRD11 gene as a key player in normal puberty development and its connection to the sense of smell. Chromosomal break helped clear up why some patients with delayed puberty have no sense of smell.
A safety study in 60 stroke patients found minocycline well-tolerated even at three-and-one-half times the dose currently used. The researchers aim to find a dose that can be given easily, regardless of weight, and reduce stroke damage in multiple ways.
A team of scientists is investigating the role of endothelin in salt excretion to develop new antihypertensive therapies. They are studying rats deficient in B receptors, which can lead to unbalanced salt levels and hypertension.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia found that daily minocycline treatment can help diabetics avoid strokes or minimize damage by reducing blood vessel remodeling. This could benefit diabetics who are already at increased risk for bleeding and stroke damage.
A study of 140 overweight children found that those with signs of poor blood sugar regulation had less bone mass, a measure of bone strength. Higher abdominal fat was linked to lower bone mass and more body fat overall was associated with higher bone mass.
Researchers identify neogenin as a crucial protein in skeletal development, which can disrupt cartilage and bone formation if mutated. This finding offers new insight into treating osteoarthritis and provides potential therapeutic targets.
A study found that deleting a viral element from human genes can increase production of fetal hemoglobin in red blood cells, which could help alleviate symptoms of sickle cell disease. The researchers believe this natural mechanism may be the key to developing targeted therapies for patients.
Researchers developed a new cochlear implant with more electrodes and a thinner, more flexible wire, which can improve the quality of sound and preserve residual hearing. This innovation allows for more precise stimulation of the auditory nerve, resulting in better sound resolution.
A custom-fit mouth tray with carbamide peroxide can combat plaque accumulation, cavities, and periodontal disease in vulnerable populations. Regular tooth whitening can also lead to improved gingival health.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia are investigating a link between hemochromatosis and the wet form of macular degeneration. They suspect that excessive iron levels accelerate aging in the eyes, leading to increased risk of vision loss.