A study by Medical College of Georgia researchers found a chain of events linking excess fat to increased sodium retention and higher blood pressure. The team identified prostasin, a protease that activates the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), which regulates salt excretion in the kidneys.
Researchers found that CDP-choline can reduce cell death and ceramide levels, preventing damage when exposure to alcohol is stopped. The study suggests a potential preventive measure for fetal alcohol syndrome.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have identified a rare hybrid cell that can switch the immune system on or off, expressing indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase to turn off T cells. This unique cell has properties of both dendritic and B cells, with potential implications for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis therapies.
Researchers found that anti-inflammatory drugs can preserve kidney function in hypertensive rats by regulating blood pressure on tiny filters called glomeruli. The study aims to understand how kidneys autoregulate pressure and explore the role of inflammatory factors in arteriole dysregulation.
Researchers have identified a unique set of proteins in glaucomatous eyes that may help diagnose and treat the condition. The protein profile is linked to changes in the trabecular meshwork, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers found that higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) decrease bone mineral density by increasing cytokines, leading to bone breakdown. Exercise has been shown to retain greater bone density in women who engage in more than 180 minutes of physical activity per week.
Researchers found that older rats take twice as long to recover their sense of taste compared to younger counterparts. A balanced response between neutrophils and macrophages enhances recovery, but the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
Children with more body fat and less endurance have stiffer arteries than their fitter counterparts, according to new research. The study found that identifying these children early could help prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Researchers have discovered that heat shock protein 90 inhibitors could be effective in treating cardiovascular disease by blocking chronic inflammation. By targeting NFкB, they aim to find a less toxic alternative to existing anti-inflammatory agents.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have developed a synthetic peptide that mimics the body's natural ability to reduce excess fluid accumulation in lung transplant patients. The peptide, called TIP, has been shown to improve oxygenation and reduce inflammation, potentially reducing mortality rates.
Researchers found that wearing a pedometer to inspire walking and spending minutes a day meditating can lower important numbers like blood pressure, heart rate, and even weight. A positive attitude and family environment increases the effectiveness of these interventions.
Researchers explore the link between diabetes treatment and eating disorders, finding that insulin therapy can cause weight gain, increase hunger, and dysregulate appetite hormones. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as skipping or reducing insulin doses, which can exacerbate diabetes complications.
Researchers develop culturally-tailored intervention program to reduce tobacco exposure, improve medication adherence and enhance attack readiness. The program has already proven useful in other populations, resulting in significant reductions in emergency department visits, hospitalizations and school absences.
Researchers have identified five SIBLING proteins that can predict oral cancer development in premalignant lesions. The study found that certain SIBLINGs, such as dentin sialophosphoprotein, increase the risk of oral cancer fourfold, while others, like bone sialoprotein, significantly decrease it.
Researchers report that black women are significantly more likely to develop peripartum cardiomyopathy, a potentially deadly weakening of the heart muscle around childbirth. The study found that African-American race was the most important predictor, with 93% of those who developed cardiomyopathy being black.
A clinical trial is underway to determine if infusing stem cells from umbilical cord blood can improve the lives of children with cerebral palsy. The study will include 40 children aged 2-12, who will receive either a real or placebo infusion of cord blood.
A recent study found that early life stress can predict an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Researchers used a proven model of chronic behavioral stress on rat pups and found that animals with early life stress had increased blood pressure and inflammation in their blood vessel walls upon reaching adulthood.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have discovered celastrol's potential to target cancer cells by inhibiting the heat shock protein 90. Celastrol induces protein clustering, which inactivates it, helping to reduce cancer growth. Future studies aim to use more potent derivatives in combination with other therapeutic agents.
Researchers are testing whether simulation driving can improve Parkinson's patients' driving skills and reduce their threefold increased risk of car accidents. The five-week training program involves simulator-based driving tests and on-road evaluations to assess the impact of cognitive-improving activities.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia identified neogenin as a key player in regulating iron levels, providing a new target for drugs to treat iron deficiency and overload. Studies showed that neogenin inhibits the secretion of an RGM gene called hemojuvelin, which controls circulating iron levels.
Interleukin-6 is a key mediator of inflammation in diabetic retinopathy, inducing vascular inflammation and tissue destruction. An interleukin-6 antibody may prevent damage by targeting this inflammatory response.
Researchers found a significant correlation between mammography center availability and breast cancer mortality rates, with lower rates in counties with more facilities. Mammography availability was linked to a decrease in breast cancer mortality rates, suggesting that increasing access to these services can lead to better outcomes.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that exhibits schizophrenia-like behavior, allowing for better understanding and potential treatments. The mouse's impaired short-term memory and increased movement are similar to those seen in human patients with schizophrenia, providing a valuable tool for studying the disorder.
MCG scientists decoded memory-forming brain cell conversations using new technology and computational methods. The breakthrough enables researchers to identify the components of a memory and its retrieval at the network level, potentially pinpointing flawed memory formation stages.
The Medical College of Georgia is accelerating diabetes research with a $1.8 million stimulus grant, which will support the development of animal models and sophisticated testing procedures. The grant also enables scientists to analyze large datasets and identify key missteps in prostate cancer progression.
The initiative seeks to improve care for patients with sickle cell disease by establishing medical homes, providing comprehensive education, and encouraging specialization in the field. The project aims to reduce pain crises and hospitalizations through better prevention and treatment strategies.
Researchers developed a new combination therapy that blocks autophagy in breast cancer cells, leading to increased cell death rates. This approach may help overcome resistance mechanisms in breast cancer, providing a promising treatment option.
A dietitian recommends a balanced diet rich in fiber, protein, and low-fat foods to maintain a healthy gut microbiota. Key findings include the importance of monounsaturated fats and adequate protein intake for optimal gut health.
A multi-year study of 428 thyroidectomy patients found only slight differences in rates of complications and hospital readmissions between older and younger patients. Elderly patients had a slightly higher hospital readmission rate due to transient calcium levels issues, not age-related complications.
A transgenic rat named Hobbie-J was created by over-expressing the NR2B gene, which enhances communication between brain cells. This results in improved memory and learning capabilities, including remembering novel objects and navigating complex tasks.
Developed by Drs. Richard Schwartz and Harsha Setty, the Video Rigid Flexible Laryngoscope helps navigate airways in patients with head and neck cancer or anatomical variations, reducing trauma risk.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia say blocking a protein that battles infection may help prevent a common cause of vision loss in chronic diseases like diabetes. The protein interleukin-6 prompts inflammation, which can lead to complications such as diabetic retinopathy.
Researchers found that obese children with larger waists are more likely to develop risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including high triglycerides and low HDL levels. Routine waist measurements may help identify which children are at a greater risk of developing the warning signs of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have found that deleting or mutating the gene PTP1B puts mice at risk for hypertension by interfering with an endogenous mechanism that should prevent it. The study suggests that PTP1B is a vulnerability gene, and its status could help identify individuals at risk for hypertension.
Researchers found that elevated arginase levels contribute to vascular eye damage in diabetic retinopathy by reducing nitric oxide production. Normalizing arginase levels could potentially halt disease progression by preventing inflammation and vascular constriction.
A proven intervention program will be expanded to more women in public housing through a new $3.1 million grant. The Sister to Sister program, which utilizes help from former smokers and provides nicotine patches and group support, has shown promising results in helping women quit smoking.
Scientists believe that molecular chaperones, which help make and manage proteins, are crucial in both cancer and Alzheimer's. Disabling these molecules may lead to effective treatments for both diseases. Researchers are also exploring the potential of increasing their activity to halt disease progression.
Researchers found that estrogen suppresses p53 after stroke, preventing cell death and reducing damage. The study used female rats treated with estrogen versus placebo to induce global cerebral ischemia, a common type of ischemic stroke.
Researchers have discovered a method to deliver a natural suppressor of the immune response, HLA-G, directly to dendritic cells using microscopic beads. This approach shows promise in creating 'designer' immune cells that can tolerate transplanted organs. The therapy could potentially replace current anti-rejection drugs and improve pa...
Researchers develop nanotechnology process to prevent bonding failure in composite resin fillings. By feeding minerals back into the collagen network, they aim to create a delivery system that can repair cavities on their own.
Sexual medicine experts focus on treating causes of sexual dysfunction beyond physical issues, exploring relationship dynamics and hormonal imbalance. New treatments and options for women and men are being developed to address complex sexual health needs.
Researchers are exploring how targeting Hsp90's helpers could lead to therapies for hormone-driven cancers like breast and prostate cancer. Understanding how these interactions work may allow for modulation of the function of steroid receptors, Hsp90, or both.
Researchers found significant improvements in rigidity, movement, fine motor skills, and energy levels among Parkinson's patients playing Wii games. Most participants experienced a decrease in depression levels to zero.
The Virtual Dental Implant Training Simulation Program uses multiple patients and clinical scenarios to teach diagnostics, decision making, and treatment protocols. Research shows that healthcare providers who practice clinical skills via simulation have better patient outcomes than those who don't.
Alpesh Patel, a senior at MCG School of Dentistry, has identified proteins responsible for inhibiting oral cancer cell growth when exposed to blue curing light. He found that this phenomenon reduces tumor growth in mice, offering a promising alternative treatment.
IDO enzyme can hinder flu vaccine efficacy by suppressing T-cell response, researchers say. The team plans to block IDO using inhibitors to build better vaccines.
Researchers found elevated aldosterone levels in overweight male teens, associated with early signs of heart damage and thickened heart walls. Early intervention could prevent cardiovascular disease in these young people.
Researchers found a protein, βarrestin2, that suppresses androgen receptor expression in prostate cancer cells, potentially halting disease progression. Increased levels of βarrestin2 may lead to improved staging and treatment of testosterone-fueled prostate cancer.
A Medical College of Georgia nurse researcher has received a two-year, $147,000 grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to investigate cocaine-related renal disease in African-Americans. The study aims to identify early signs of renal disease and develop targeted treatments for patients with cocaine addiction.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have identified a critical protein called erbin that regulates insulation in the peripheral nervous system. Impaired myelin formation is linked to neurological and psychiatric diseases, while erbin's role in cancer therapy provides a potential new site for targeted treatment.