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Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University


Microscopic blood vessel disease in the brain’s white matter associated with worse cognition in Alzheimer’s

Researchers found that microscopic blood vessel disease in the brain's white matter is associated with worse cognitive function and memory deficits in individuals with Alzheimer's. Lifestyle changes such as reducing hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and inactivity may help prevent or slow disease progression.

Increase in leptin levels in preeclampsia prompts cardiovascular cascade that puts mother and baby at risk

Researchers discovered that midgestation leptin surge in preeclampsia leads to endothelial dysfunction, blood vessel constriction, and restricted fetal growth. This finding highlights the crucial role of leptin in pregnancy and its potential consequences on maternal and infant cardiovascular health.

New clues about how a high-salt diet contributes to cardiometabolic diseases found deep in the brain

A new study suggests that a high-salt diet can lead to the hyperactivity of brain cells, resulting in increased constriction of blood vessels and worsening of cardiometabolic diseases. The research also found that excessive salt consumption can trigger an unusual response in which neurons become more active despite reduced blood flow.

Small group of genetic variants found in extremely ill patients with COVID may help explain big differences in how sick people get

Researchers identified seven rare structural variants affecting 31 genes in severely ill COVID-19 patients, shedding light on individual responses to the virus. These genetic variations may help explain differences in illness severity and suggest potential targets for early intervention.

New method gives rapid, objective insight into how cells are changed by disease

A new 'image analysis pipeline' called TDAExplore gives scientists rapid insight into how cells are changed by disease, using a combination of microscopy, topology, and artificial intelligence. This approach can provide objective information on cell changes, such as the movement of proteins like actin, even with limited training data.

Patients with kidney transplants more vulnerable to common, usually harmless bacterium

A national review of nocardia infection in kidney transplant patients found that those with compromised immune responses are more vulnerable to the opportunistic agent. Nocardiosis can lead to pneumonia and brain abscess, and screening is crucial, especially in combination with pneumonia symptoms.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateOct 11, 2021

Glycerin is safe, effective in psoriasis model

Researchers found glycerin, a natural ingredient in many skin lotions, reduces psoriasis symptoms by calming scaly patches and promoting healthy skin cell maturation. The study's results support anecdotal reports from patients with psoriasis, providing objective evidence of glycerin's effectiveness in combatting the condition.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 4, 2021

Mathematical constructions of COVID virus activity could provide new insight for vaccines, treatment

Researchers developed a mathematical model to study the action of SARS-CoV-2, enabling the examination of individual virus particles and their spikes. This analysis can help fine-tune prevention and treatment by providing insights into viral load, spike distribution, and cell infection potential.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications·DateSep 23, 2021

Mutated enzyme weakens connection between brain cells that help control movement

Researchers found a mutation in ELOVL4 enzyme impairs communication between neurons, leading to impaired motor control and coordination. The study provides new insights into the essential role of ELOVL4 in motor function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 17, 2021

Copper transporter potential new treatment target for cardiovascular disease

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia discover that copper transporter ATP7A plays a crucial role in new blood vessel formation and restoring blood flow in ischemic cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that increasing and stabilizing ATP7A levels could lead to the development of new treatments for heart attack, peripheral art...

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 20, 2021