Researchers found that hyaluronic acid is not only present in pancreatic tumors but also serves as a nutrient source for cancer cells. This discovery indicates potential new treatments for pancreatic cancer by targeting the sugar scavenging pathway.
A study by Michigan Medicine reveals that 25% of young American men experience both delivering and receiving technology-facilitated abuse. Healthcare providers should consider addressing this issue, as men who have mental health care visits are more likely to be involved in abusive relationships.
Scientists have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas3 editor from the bacteria Neisseria lactamica that improves editing efficiency and is more easily produced. The tool enables 50% editing efficiency in stem cells and 95% efficiency in other human cell lines, paving the way for research in genetic diseases and developmental biology.
Researchers found that glioma cells with mutated ATRX have reduced Chk1 activity, leading to dysregulated cell cycle and heightened sensitivity to ATM inhibitors. The study suggests that combining radiation therapy with these inhibitors may improve treatment outcomes for patients with this gene mutation.
A new study reveals that health insurers are covering most of the cost of ivermectin prescriptions for COVID-19, despite the drug's ineffective treatment against the virus. The study estimates that U.S. private and Medicare plans may have paid $2.4 million for ivermectin prescriptions in a single week alone.
Researchers discovered that bacteria use an ancient molecule called polyphosphate to silence problematic genetic elements, similar to heterochromatin in eukaryotes. This process helps protect the bacterial cell from harm and could enable scientists to develop new antibiotics.
A new study suggests that combining two drugs can reduce postoperative opioid use and side effects in adolescents with scoliosis. The combination of intrathecal morphine and oral gabapentin provides more effective pain control, resulting in fewer side effects and lower narcotic consumption.
Researchers discover a chromatin degrader that blocks cancer-causing genes, offering potential treatment for over 90% of prostate cancers. The study found that blocking the SWI/SNF complex slowed cancer cell growth and induced cell death, especially in tumors driven by FOXA1 or androgen receptor.
Children who require intensive care miss days to weeks of school during hospitalization while parents miss work to be at their side. Even after discharge, the impact on family continues, with two-thirds of children missing school for up to two weeks and half of primary caregivers missing work.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine have developed a new genetic tool to study Candida auris, revealing key factors behind its shape-shifting abilities and drug resistance. The study could aid in understanding the fungus's transmission on hospital surfaces.
A common mutation in a rare cancer subtype has led researchers to an already-approved drug that shows promise against uterine serous carcinoma. The RNR inhibitor clofarabine effectively stops the highly aggressive type of cancer in its tracks.
Patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease may benefit from Belzutifan, a daily oral medication that shrinks tumors and keeps patients from undergoing surgery. The drug targets the molecular defect in the VHL gene, producing few side effects and showing long-lasting anti-cancer effects.
Scientists have developed a new method using CRISPR-Cas9 to target specific fat cells, reducing the time and cost of genetic discovery in obesity research. The technique allows researchers to study genes in brown adipose tissue, which plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature.
A new poll of people over 50 finds most are finding joy and staying resilient amid the pandemic, but a sizable minority feel significant stress, particularly about COVID-19 risk. The poll highlights the importance of focusing on those in poor health and finding safe ways to enjoy favorite activities.
A study found that nearly a quarter of pregnant and postpartum women in the US reported unmet healthcare need due to cost. Women with private insurance and lower incomes were more likely to experience unaffordable healthcare, while those with public insurance and higher incomes had better access.
Researchers found that defibrotide suppresses neutrophil release of NETs and reduces downstream blood-clotting in mice with antiphospholipid syndrome. The treatment neutralizes toxic histones, preventing activation of blood vessel cells.
Research suggests that severe maternal morbidity rates continue well into the late postpartum period, particularly among Black women, those with anxiety and depression. The study found alarming data showing increasing rates of maternal mortality later in the first year postpartum.
A new study reveals how design bias can affect medical data used in artificial intelligence tools and personalized healthcare. The research highlights the need for more inclusive recruitment strategies to ensure diverse patient populations are represented.
Researchers developed a web-based toolkit to integrate SafERteens into routine clinical care, which showed promising results in emergency departments and primary care settings. Both adapted interventions decreased violent behaviors among youth in diverse communities.
A Michigan Medicine study combined genetic samples from patients of different ethnic backgrounds, identifying two new psoriasis genetic signals. The inclusion of South Asian subjects allowed researchers to pinpoint several genetic variations within HLA genes that are likely to play a causal role in psoriasis.
Pathologists have discovered that some patients with lingering COVID-19 symptoms may have underlying chronic lung disease prior to their infection. This finding suggests that clinicians should carefully consider alternative explanations for respiratory symptoms beyond long COVID.
A Michigan Medicine study found that only 7.4% of patients received naloxone and 8.5% received buprenorphine prescriptions within 30 days of an opioid overdose. The low rates highlight missed opportunities for equipping patients with rescue medicines to use in case of future overdoses.
Researchers found no significant difference in mortality rates between rural and urban emergency departments for life-threatening conditions like stroke and heart attack. Despite facing funding challenges, rural ERs have proven lifesaving for patients treated at these facilities.
Researchers found that cerebral palsy patients with low muscle mass often have inaccurately calculated kidney function, leading to missed diagnoses of advanced kidney disease. This association increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in this population.
Many older adults plan extended trips, considering COVID-19 cases at their destination. Vaccinated adults face a lower risk of severe infection compared to unvaccinated peers. Most respondents would make necessary preparations for travel, such as bringing enough medications and medical supplies.
A 13-year study tracked the mental health of new doctors during their most stressful time, showing a significant reduction in depression scores over the past decade. The study suggests that reduced work hours, increased sleep, more feedback from supervisors, and greater use of mental health care contributed to this change.
A new study reveals that 90% of COVID-19 patient rooms have detectable coronavirus on at least one surface, with the virus persisting days later on TV remote controls and nurse call buttons. Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent spread among vulnerable populations.
A new study reveals that female physician-parents were more likely to experience disruption to their home and work lives, and suffered from higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to male counterparts. The study also found that motherhood contributed to a significant increase in depression symptoms over time.
Researchers found that nearly 75% of pregnant women with stretch marks reported moderate to prominent embarrassment, which impacted their social activities, self-esteem, and clothing choices. The study highlights the need for open discussions about stretch marks to normalize them and identify potential mental health issues.
The MC3 program provides a lifeline for primary care providers in Michigan, connecting them with psychiatrists and behavioral specialists for consultation and training. This has led to improved diagnosis and care for young people with mental health concerns, including those who express suicidal thoughts or have harmed themselves.
A new study suggests that parent conversations during shared TV viewing are linked to higher curiosity levels in preschoolers, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This association was found despite increased TV time, which has been previously linked to poorer development outcomes.
A new poll reveals that most people over 50 have received or plan to receive flu shots, with a majority also planning to get additional COVID-19 vaccine doses. The poll highlights differences in vaccine attitudes among older adults of different age groups and backgrounds.
A study found that racial bias in oxygen readings during the pandemic can lead to unequal access to life-saving ECMO therapy. The analysis, using a comprehensive international database, revealed higher rates of discrepancies in Black patients compared to white patients.
The MIPACT study analyzed data from thousands of participants, revealing differences in heart rate, blood pressure, and activity levels by age, race, ethnicity, and clinical conditions. The study's findings have significant implications for clinicians, providing a more complete picture of daily life and resulting health.
During the pandemic, registrations for alcoholic hepatitis and deceased donor liver transplants increased by over 50%, associated with rising alcohol sales. Alcoholic hepatitis can lead to permanent scarring and long-term damage if left untreated, highlighting the need for public health interventions around excessive alcohol consumption.
Overdose deaths involving cocaine or methamphetamine increased triply in the shadow of the opioid epidemic. Most fatal overdoses (70%) involved multiple substances, with most being opioids and stimulants. The study highlights disparities in overdose risk from stimulants among Black veterans and rural residents.
Researchers found that adding interferon to bone marrow transplant significantly reduced leukemia relapse among high-risk patients, improving outcomes. The study suggests a potential new strategy for treating advanced acute myeloid leukemia, with further research needed to confirm the findings.
A Michigan Medicine study found that perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are associated with significantly higher rates of first-time cesarean deliveries among low-risk pregnant women. The study suggests that identifying and treating these disorders in pregnant women may help reduce the risk of cesarean section deliveries.
A new study analyzed 4,000 COVID-related hospitalizations and found that patients with private insurance could face $3,800 bills, while those with Medicare Advantage plans might owe $1,500. The lack of waivers for hospitalization costs could lead to increased financial burden on patients.
A study of emergency department residents reveals a lack of emphasis on understanding and caring for diverse populations. Residents reported gaining cultural competency through modeling senior residents or faculty and the importance of community-based partnerships.
Researchers have discovered three new genetic variants linked to fibromuscular dysplasia, which affects women in their prime and is often associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications. The study provides new insights into the disease's genetic basis and potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers have found a small-molecule inhibitor that can suppress tumor growth in animal models of H3.3G34R/V glioma, offering new treatment options for pediatric patients. The compound has the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier and is currently being tested in clinical trials.
The University of Michigan's Injury Prevention Center has developed a free online course on pediatric injury prevention, which has gained significant popularity. The course offers tailored learning pathways and covers dozens of injury topics, making it accessible to learners worldwide.
Researchers found that only a quarter of patients were scheduled for primary care follow-up prior to discharge during the second wave, highlighting the need for improved healthcare system navigation. Outpatient care can help screen for physical and emotional impairments common among COVID and sepsis patients.
A study published in Annals of Surgery found that gender-affirming mastectomies significantly improved mental health measures, body image, and self-confidence in transmasculine patients. The procedures also led to increased satisfaction with appearance and social functioning.
Researchers identified specific mesenchymal stromal cells within the bronchovascular bundle of lungs that play a crucial role in creating scarring through interaction with epithelial cells. These cells are thought to be triggered by immune cell attacks, leading to fibrotic scarring and rejection.
A new poll found that more than half of older adults with high-risk health conditions don't check their blood pressure at home or are encouraged to do so. Regular home monitoring can help control blood pressure and reduce risk of death, strokes, and heart attacks.
A new study highlights the challenges faced by unpaid caregivers of chronically ill or disabled loved ones during the pandemic. The survey found that 60% of caregivers experienced at least one challenge related to accessing medical care for their loved ones, leading to increased stress, depression, and isolation.
Researchers found that metformin suppressed glucose metabolism and killed cancer cells in group A posterior fossa ependymomas, a type of childhood brain tumor. The study's senior author believes this opens a promising possibility for therapeutic suppression of the epigenetic changes driving these tumors.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine found that sleeve gastrectomy is associated with lower risks of death and complications compared to gastric bypass surgery. However, patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy were more likely to require follow-up surgery.