Researchers at OHSU have discovered that a type of herpes virus may be causing a central nervous system disease in monkeys similar to multiple sclerosis in humans. The study found T cells linked to myelin loss, a critical component of MS, paving the way for potential antiviral therapies.
A compound developed at Oregon Health & Science University appears to protect nerve fibers and the fatty sheath of myelin that covers nerve cells. The discovery suggests the compound may also prevent damage from occurring, reducing inflammation and degeneration in multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases.
A new protocol has been established to evaluate patients for elective surgeries following COVID-19, taking into account the high risk of complications and clinical uncertainty. The guidelines include minimum recovery times, patient history assessments, and objective testing to determine safe surgery procedures.
A recent study by Oregon Health & Science University researchers found that NBA teams perform significantly better at home due to the alignment of their internal body clock with the new time zone. This is attributed to disruptions in sleep quality caused by traveling across time zones, which can impact accuracy and impair performance.
A long-term study of gene therapy in monkeys reveals no adverse health effects, bolstering the scientific basis for mitochondrial replacement therapy in human clinical trials. Researchers found varying levels of carryover maternal mitochondrial DNA, but it was not enough to cause health effects.
A study from Oregon Health & Science University found that damage to a small number of brain cells can stop activity across a vast network of neural circuits. This effect, known as the bystander effect, may help explain temporary but severe loss of cognitive function in traumatic brain injury or disease cases.
A systematic review published in Annals of Internal Medicine confirms health disparities in COVID-19 outcomes among Black and Hispanic populations, attributing the disparity to increased risk of exposure and transmission. The study highlights the need for targeted efforts to reduce exposure to the virus in vulnerable populations.
A new report argues that better access to home health services through Medicare could reduce exposure to COVID-19 and improve care for seniors. The report recommends expanding telehealth coverage, bolstering the home health workforce, and enhancing quality oversight.
A review of 77 studies worldwide confirms people with mild symptoms may be infectious for up to 10 days, while those severely ill may remain contagious for 20 days. The CDC's guidance is in line with these findings.
Non-invasive ventilation use increased nine-fold between 2000 and 2017, but data on its effectiveness for cancer and dementia patients is lacking. The therapy may prolong suffering for patients near the end of life.
A nationwide study led by OHSU finds that the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement model improves health outcomes for Black patients, with reduced spending and hospital readmissions. Hispanic patients showed mixed results, but overall disparities persisted despite improvements in post-acute care use.
Researchers found that varied appointment reminders and direct telephone connections with advance reminders can significantly reduce no-shows. These recommendations are based on patient feedback from systematic interviews conducted at the VA Portland Health Care System.
Researchers from OHSU have identified astrocytes in zebrafish, a key cell type for brain development and function. This discovery will enable studies on neurodegenerative diseases like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that three-quarters of hospitalized patients with opioid use disorder reported using more than one substance. The research highlights the complexity of substance use patterns and suggests that a singular focus on opioids may overlook this issue, particularly among people of color.
New research has developed a Lego-inspired scaffolding system using tiny, 3D-printed blocks to promote faster and more efficient healing of broken bones. The study found that growth factor-filled blocks placed near repaired rat bones led to about three times more blood vessel growth than conventional scaffolding material.
Researchers successfully edited RNA to correct mutations in the MeCP2 protein causing Rett syndrome, a condition affecting 1 in 10,000 live births. The technique holds promise for treating neurological disorders with genetic mutations spread across thousands of cell types.
A new Medicaid payment model in Oregon reduced imaging services by 42%, allowing clinics to redirect resources towards more valuable patient care. The alternative payment model provided clinics with flexibility to reduce low-value services and explore new forms of care.
A survey of over 1,000 MS patients in Oregon found that an overwhelming majority use complementary and alternative medicine, including dietary supplements, mind-body therapies, and exercise. The study suggests a shift towards greater openness between patients and healthcare providers about the use of alternatives.
Scientists have developed a promising vaccine using HydroVax technology, conferring 83% immunity against Campylobacter-associated diarrhea. The vaccine targets a disease associated with infant growth stunting and malnutrition in developing countries, potentially improving the health of millions.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed an AI algorithm that uses data from continuous glucose monitors and wireless insulin pens to provide guidance on adjustments. The algorithm, paired with a smartphone app called DailyDose, generated recommendations in agreement with physicians 67.9% of the time.
A new lab-grown human skin cell model has been developed at Stanford University, allowing researchers to study hair growth and development in greater detail. This breakthrough could potentially provide insights into reversing hair loss and developing new treatments.
The National COVID Cohort Collaborative aims to turn coronavirus patient data into effective treatments and predictive tools. The secure database will enable diverse experts to analyze the data, identifying potential new drugs and treatments.
Researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to detect fetal brain impairments in rhesus macaques exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. The study suggests that early detection of fetal-alcohol syndrome could lead to timely therapy and improved outcomes.
A nationwide study reveals that only 2% of hospitalized patients with opioid use disorder receive life-saving medications during and after discharge. This finding highlights a critical gap in care, as evidence-based treatment is rarely prescribed in US hospitals.
A new evidence review by Oregon Health & Science University researchers shows that using personal protective equipment combined with proper training can lower the rate of coronavirus infections among healthcare workers. The study also found that infection control training and education are crucial in reducing transmission risk.
Project Nurture, a novel treatment and social services program, has been shown to reduce child maltreatment and foster care placement by more than 8 percentage points. The program also increases prenatal visits and hospital length-of-stay for new mothers with opioid use disorder.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University developed a synthetic molecule that targets and corrects a mutated gene causing Usher syndrome in mice. The technique may be used to deliver drug therapy through amniotic fluid to the fetus, potentially treating and preventing several types of congenital hearing and balance disorders.
Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking milestone in treating inherited blindness by using CRISPR gene editing within the human body. The BRILLIANCE clinical trial aims to repair mutations causing Leber congenital amaurosis type 10, a rare form of blindness. This permanent approach avoids passing on genetic changes to offspring.
A systematic evidence review by OHSU researchers found that new direct-acting antiviral therapies are highly effective in eliminating the Hepatitis C virus infection. The review informed a new recommendation for universal screening of Hepatitis C, with the therapy being more than 95% effective even in young people.
A new study found pregnancies among women with disabilities are 42% more likely to be unintended, linked to societal views on sexuality and parenting. Women with independent living challenges, hearing loss, or cognitive disability showed higher proportions of unintended pregnancy.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that adults who completed their childhood vaccination series against tetanus and diphtheria are protected for life. The researchers compared data from millions of people across North America and Europe between 2001 and 2016, concluding that booster shots are not necessary.
Researchers at OHSU assess barriers to care in 10 preventive services, finding enhanced services like patient navigation increase cancer screening rates. Additional research is needed to better understand patient and provider barriers and the role of health information technology.
Experts propose a clear definition of hikikomori to improve treatment worldwide. The new criteria emphasize the importance of addressing social withdrawal as a health issue, despite modern tools providing alternatives to in-person interaction.
A single dose of antibody-based treatment can prevent HIV transmission from mother to baby, according to new research. The study found that administering a combination of two antibodies 30 hours after viral exposure prevented SHIV infection in rhesus macaque newborns.
A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that HIV-positive women who received a childhood smallpox vaccine still retained some immunity to the virus, despite receiving antiretroviral therapy. This limited response suggests that while HIV treatment can boost overall immune function, it may not restore specific memor...
Researchers discovered hair bundle development occurs in a feedback loop where form follows function and function drives form. In mice, stereocilia widen simultaneously with the onset of mechanotransduction, suggesting a critical importance of early development for reversing hearing loss.
Researchers have found that cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes reduced blood cell production in bone marrow, increasing the risk of life-threatening infections. The study identified a specific genetic material called microRNA US5-2, which leads to the suppression of TGF-? expression.
A miniaturized tooth system, called a 'tooth-on-a-chip,' mimics a human molar to study how teeth respond to dental materials and bacteria. The device could lead to more effective cavity fillings that last longer and work better for each patient.
Researchers estimate that 10% of the world's population suffers from a rare disease, yet accurate diagnosis remains challenging due to lack of standard definitions. A new commentary proposes a coordinated effort to define rare diseases, which could lead to better diagnosis and treatment for millions affected.
A study found that MS drug prices are increasing due to profit-driven business models, with executives citing the US market as a key factor. The researchers noted that prices in the US continue to rise despite decreased production costs.
OHSU researchers have been awarded $2.1 million to develop new adjuvants that can enhance immune responses against infectious diseases. The goal is to create a range of adjuvants that can be used with different vaccines to protect against various pathogens.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation in monkeys that causes Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, a devastating eye disorder. The discovery provides a promising animal model for developing gene and cell therapies to treat the condition in humans.
A new study found that military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to experience a rare sleep disorder called REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), which is also linked to an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease. Researchers hope that identifying patients with ...
Researchers have observed the molecular level workings of a protein associated with many health problems, including P2X7 receptor. The discovery could lead to new treatments for conditions like inflammation, coronary artery disease, cancer, and multiple sclerosis.
A three-year pilot study is evaluating a new opioid overdose prevention program, ROAR, specifically designed for incarcerated women. The program aims to reduce the risk of post-incarceration opioid overdose by providing treatment and recovery support prior to release.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a compound that successfully promotes rebuilding of damaged nerve cell protective sheath, reversing MS symptoms. The discovery may lead to clinical trials in humans with MS or other neurodegenerative conditions.
Researchers at OHSU are developing a new flu vaccine using the CMV-based platform, which has shown promise in fighting tuberculosis and an HIV-like virus. The goal is to create a longer-lasting, universally effective vaccine that could replace annual shots.
Research published in Journal of Neuroscience shows brief periods of hypoxia persistently disrupt the hippocampus, vital for learning and memory, but brain cells do not die as previously thought. Instead, cells fail to mature normally, reducing long-term potentiation, a cellular basis of learning.
Patients who receive addiction medicine consultation in hospital are twice as likely to participate in treatment for substance use disorder after discharge. OHSU's innovative program has significantly increased treatment engagement, leading to better health outcomes.
Engineers create bone-like tissue in a dish to study disease processes and potential treatments for large bone injuries. The material has a 3D mineral structure populated with living cells, providing insights into cancer initiation, metastasis, and bone regeneration.