Scientists have developed a new computational method that reveals genetic patterns in individual cells, enabling the diagnosis of specific genetic defects and potentially rectifying them with CRISPR. This breakthrough advances precision medicine by providing personalized treatment options for patients with unexplained infertility.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the alpha-synuclein protein's function in repairing DNA breaks, which may lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The study reveals that alpha-synuclein plays a critical role in binding broken strands of DNA within the cell's nucleus.
A weakened form of a CMV-based vaccine has been shown to provide similar protection against SIV in 59% of vaccinated rhesus macaques, with long-lasting immunity observed. The vaccine's attenuated version is key for human testing due to safety concerns.
Researchers have created an animal model for a devastating autoimmune brain disease, offering new hope for diagnosis and treatment. The model allows for the specific blocking of the immune system's attack on the NMDA receptor, paving the way for targeted therapeutic strategies.
A new antibody treatment for high-frequency migraines has been found to be ineffective in reducing headache frequency among patients. Only six out of 28 patients reported a reduction of at least 25 percent in headache days, with none achieving a 50 percent reduction.
Researchers have discovered that Schwann cells can spread myelin across multiple axons, overturning the traditional understanding of these cells' function. This finding could lead to new gene-therapy techniques to repair damaged myelin in peripheral nervous system disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Researchers at OHSU discovered a short burst of exercise enhances brain function by increasing connections between neurons in the hippocampus. The study found that this 'gene' promotes small growths on neurons, allowing for better learning and memory.
A recent survey of American neurologists reveals that over half carry the mistaken belief that a patient's sexual orientation and gender identity have no bearing on treatment of neurologic illness. This lack of awareness can lead to substandard care, particularly for LGBTQ individuals who face persistent disparities in healthcare.
Shoukhrat Mitalipov, a germline gene therapy pioneer, argues that existing regulations can be strengthened to allow safe treatment. His 17-year-old son Paul also co-authored the editorial, highlighting the importance of understanding gene editing for non-scientists.
A new survey of over 200 internal medicine residents suggests that better training is needed to increase the prescribing of PrEP, a proven tool to prevent HIV transmission among high-risk individuals. The study's findings highlight the importance of improving residency training programs nationwide.
Scientists have developed a new method to quickly map brain connections, enabling systematic study of connection patterns within single individuals. The technique, combining infrared laser stimulation with functional MRI, reveals the direction of information flowing in the brain, critical for understanding brain processing.
Scientists have discovered the three major shapes of the serotonin transporter using cryo-EM technology. The study provides new avenues for developing medications to treat addiction without hallucinogenic properties.
A scientific breakthrough provides new hope for people with multiple sclerosis, as researchers have developed a compound that stimulates repair of the protective sheath that covers nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The study, published in JCI Insight, shows promising results in repairing damaged myelin without severe side effects.
Scientists have discovered the native structure of AMPA receptors in rodent models, which may lead to new insights into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. The research could provide novel approaches for therapies by understanding how these receptors differ in people with devastating diseases.
A rare condition, situs inversus with levocardia, has been discovered in a 99-year-old body donor. This condition is often associated with life-threatening cardiac ailments and occurs about once in every 22,000 births. The discovery of this unusual anatomy offers valuable lessons on human variations.
A new study reveals dopamine generates sustained activity in ensemble of cells in the prefrontal cortex, lasting up to 20 minutes. This coordinated activity supports complex functions such as motivation and attention to complete a task.
Heavy alcohol use among adolescents and young adults slows brain growth by 0.25 milliliters per year for every gram of alcohol consumed. Researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to measure brain growth in 71 rhesus macaques and found a significant reduction in brain volume due to ethanol consumption.
Researchers at OHSU test video chat to stave off dementia in seniors, showing promise in improved cognitive tests. Social isolation is a major problem for seniors, and this study aims to identify healthy but isolated individuals and see if regular conversation can prevent age-related cognitive decline.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that mosaic embryos can adapt to abnormalities and persist in development, resulting in positive IVF outcomes. Mosaic embryos, which contain both normal and abnormal cells, were previously considered non-ideal candidates for IVF transfer due to the risk of aneuploidy.
A new dental filling material made with thiourethane could significantly extend its lifespan, reducing the need for frequent fillings and related complications. The material has been shown to be two times more resistant to breakage than standard fillings.
Severe pediatric TBI affects approximately 7,000 childhood deaths annually, while survivors may suffer from long-term health conditions. The updated guidelines include eight new treatment recommendations to promote high standards of care and improve survival rates.
A study by OHSU researchers found that insurance industry cost-control measures have restricted access to buprenorphine, a vital medication for treating opioid use disorder. The proportion of insurance plans offering buprenorphine without restrictions decreased from 89% in 2007 to 35% in 2018.
Researchers at OHSU discovered a gene linked to lower expression in primates who consumed heavy amounts of alcohol, which reduced consumption by almost 50% when increased in mice. The study highlights a novel target for treating alcoholism and mood disorders.
Researchers found that Medicare patients with multiple sclerosis spend $6,894 a year out of pocket for treatment. This is attributed to the lack of incentives for companies not to raise prices, leading to restrictive policies and high coinsurance cost-sharing models.
The American Geriatrics Society recommends excluding feeding tube preference from Physician Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms due to research showing that they harm patients with dementia. PEG tubes can increase discomfort and agitation, leading to restraints and bedsores.
A new malaria vaccine using a cytomegalovirus-based platform has shown promising results, reducing the parasite's release by 75-80% in infected rhesus macaques. The vaccine could offer lifelong protection against malaria, a disease that claims hundreds of millions of lives each year.
Research found that more Oregonians filled out POLST forms between 2015-16, with a 45% increase compared to 2010-11. The study also showed changes in how people use the form, including increased use by middle-aged individuals and those with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that video chat technology, such as Skype, significantly reduces the risk of depression among older adults. Researchers compared four online communication technologies and discovered that video chat had almost half the estimated probability of depressive symptoms.
A study by OHSU researchers found that patients with diabetes or prediabetes in states with Medicaid expansion programs had better access to healthcare services, including preventive screenings and medication. This increase was particularly notable for patients with lower socioeconomic status.
Patients with sleep apnea who experience short interruptions in breathing while sleeping are at a higher risk of death than those with longer interruptions. The study found that patients with the shortest apneas were 31% more likely to die during follow-up.
A study led by OHSU has published the largest cancer dataset of its kind, involving hundreds of patient samples and revealing new insights into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The dataset may help researchers and physicians solve specific questions about AML treatment options.
Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism that leads overweight female rats to experience early-onset puberty. The study found that the SIRT1 enzyme plays a crucial role in transmitting body weight information to the brain, affecting the expression of the Kiss1 gene.
Research reveals that a single dose of cocaine can irreversibly alter brain circuits surrounding neurons associated with addiction. This discovery may lead to the development of medications targeting the extracellular matrix to reverse addiction.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a membrane channel critical in controlling blood pressure. The breakthrough provides a starting point for developing better treatments for diseases associated with this channel, including severe hypertension and heart failure.
A new Perspective in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the slow response of medical institutions to sexual harassment. Key factors contributing to this resistance include myopia, money and power dynamics, and organizational complicity. The authors urge institutions to rethink their approach to creating safe workplaces.
Researchers at OHSU used 3D imaging to investigate airway nerves in asthma. They found that denser nerves are associated with more severe symptoms and increased eosinophils. This new insight could lead to better treatments for asthma.
Researchers found that an antioxidant called apocynin can cut plaque buildup in half and lower inflammation to pre-attack levels. This treatment could help reduce the risk of a second heart attack or stroke, particularly in mice that have experienced a first attack or stroke.
Researchers examined federal payment databases to determine payments made to oncologists who authored studies in high-impact journals. The study found that a substantial proportion of payments were not disclosed, which could lead to bias and influence clinical trial results.
A large-scale patient population study reveals that palliative care is associated with a significantly reduced risk of suicide in veterans diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer. The findings show that patients who received at least one palliative care visit had an 81% lower rate of suicidal death.
A nationwide health study found that service workers, particularly those who rely on tips, are more susceptible to mental health issues such as depression and stress. The research team suggests that the precarious nature of service work, including lower wages and lack of control over work hours, may contribute to these findings.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered a naturally occurring neurodegenerative disease in monkeys that mimics Batten disease, a fatal childhood disorder. The study confirms the CLN7 gene mutation and provides a promising model for developing new gene therapies.
Oregon Health & Science University researchers recommend routinely screening and treating patients for opioid abuse when they come to clinics and hospitals seeking other services. This approach can save lives and turn around the national opioid epidemic by addressing opioid use disorder as a chronic medical condition.
A collaborative study published in Nature Medicine found that 26 percent of nonhuman primates infected with Zika during early stages of pregnancy experienced miscarriage or stillbirth. This is the first time such a finding has been demonstrated, highlighting the importance of understanding how the Zika virus damages the placenta.
A research team, led by OHSU physician-scientists, has discovered a drug compound that inhibits cancer cell movement and prevents them from spreading throughout the body. The compound was developed using a multidisciplinary approach, combining chemistry and biology to create a highly effective therapeutic.
Researchers at OHSU have identified the molecular basis linking a pregnant mother's nutrition to her child's growth. A key protein called DLX1 was found to impact GHRH and AgRP neuron development, affecting growth and metabolism in infants.
The new Pacific Northwest Center for Cryo-EM will provide state-of-the-art technology and training to researchers nationwide. The facility will enable scientists to see molecules in breathtaking detail, with resolution near atomic levels, revolutionizing the understanding of disease at the molecular level.
A new AI-powered algorithm has been developed to diagnose retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of childhood blindness, with an accuracy rate of 91% compared to 82% for human experts. The algorithm uses deep learning to analyze images of infant eyes and can help prevent blindness in more babies worldwide.
A new study finds that a hospital-based addiction medicine team significantly reduces burnout and frustration among healthcare providers, while improving patient engagement and care. The team's approach fundamentally reframes substance use disorder as a treatable chronic disease.
Researchers discovered a new molecule that blocks brain repair after injury, halting myelination and causing dramatic disruption to brain function. The molecule prevents the development of brain cells needed for repair, but FoxO3 may serve as a biomarker for its effects.
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a new method to quickly and efficiently recognize the subtypes of cells within the body. This technology, led by Andrew Adey, allows for profiling thousands of cells simultaneously, improving our understanding of disease at the molecular level.