A study by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University has established a link between inflammation in pregnant women and the way the newborn brain is organized into networks. The results may provide promising avenues to explore treatments with potential to change negative impacts on newborn brain function.
A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology suggests that telemedicine can accurately diagnose a rare cause of blindness in premature babies. The study found no significant difference between in-person and remote exams for diagnosing retinopathy of prematurity, which affects up to 16,000 US babies each year.
Researchers at OHSU discovered the tumor microenvironment's impact on breast cancer cell growth and response to treatment. The study found that targeting resistance factors from the microenvironment could improve clinical outcomes for patients treated with HER2-targeted drugs.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered the atomic structure of acid-sensing ion channels, which play a role in pain sensation and psychiatric disorders. The study's findings could inform the development of new therapeutic agents targeting these channels for stroke and pain treatments.
A new special publication compiled by leading hearing experts highlights the latest research on drug-induced hearing loss. The study reveals that ototoxicity affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those age 75 or older, and emphasizes the need for better monitoring and detection of hearing loss over time.
A five-year research project aims to help new bus operators succeed early in their driving careers and avoid health pitfalls. The study will assess working conditions, measure the impact of driving on eating, exercise, sleep, and weight, and provide tools for operators to stay healthy.
A 26-year-old Oregon woman became the first known human to be infected with Thelazia gulosa, a type of cattle eyeworm, after possibly being bitten by an infected fly while fishing in Alaska. She underwent treatment at OHSU and removed all 14 worms from her eye over the course of a month.
Researchers at OHSU Vollum Institute discovered the atomic structure of the serotonin transporter bound to SSRIs, revealing a pathway for developing new therapeutic agents. The study provides insight into how chemically diverse antidepressants interact with the protein that transports serotonin in the brain.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection in pregnant rhesus monkeys caused placental tissues to become thickened and inflamed, leading to decreased oxygen levels and impaired fetal development. The study's findings may provide important insights into preventing Zika virus infection and disease during pregnancy.
A new TB vaccine has shown promising results in a study of nonhuman primates, providing 41% protection and reducing overall disease by 68%. The vaccine uses a weakened form of a common Herpes virus to create high immunity against the pathogen.
The American health care system must address the stigma associated with opioid use disorder to effectively treat the nation's opioid epidemic. Opioid prevention and treatment efforts remain hindered by federal restrictions, addiction stigma, and chronic pain management limitations.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that activity monitors have no impact on physical activity when used without a goal. However, tracking steps and moderate intensity activity with clear objectives can lead to significant increases in physical activity and improved heart health.
A systematic review of evidence reveals important gaps in knowledge about the safety and effectiveness of widespread off-label use of naloxone among patients, families, friends, and emergency responders. The study found that the majority of naloxone being administered nasally is probably the non-approved formulation, but little is know...
Researchers at OHSU have successfully performed stem transplants on monkeys, offering a critical tool to explore the Berlin patient's unexpected cure. The findings provide hope for improving stem cell transplant outcomes for human patients with blood-related conditions.
Researchers identified a specific network in the brain tied to risk assessment, which can lead to anxiety or impulsivity. The study found that when there was no risk of punishment, coordination between dopamine neurons and prefrontal cortex activity was high.
A new study at Oregon Health & Science University found that brain activity patterns are inherited, with heritable relationships demonstrated within five brain systems. This discovery may lead to personalized and targeted treatment approaches for conditions like ADHD and autism.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience suggests that low oxygen levels, not limited blood flow, cause preterm brain cells to fail normal development. This finding opens up opportunities to restore oxygen loss and potentially reduce life-long impacts of preterm brain injury.
A new study by OHSU researchers suggests that performing brain surgery on patients who are asleep can produce comparable or even better clinical outcomes than procedures conducted while the patient is awake. This approach has improved speech fluency and reduced motor function issues for patients undergoing deep-brain stimulation. The s...
Researchers identified two cytokines and genetic markers associated with progressive MS, which may enable the development of a treatment to prevent disease progression. A simple genetic test could identify patients at risk, and a medication is already in development.
Researchers discovered postzygotic mosaic mutations, which occur after conception, contribute to autism risk in 3-4% of individuals. These 'silent' mutations alter genetic message stitching and may increase risk by 1-2% for genes essential for development.
A new study has identified four key strategies for preventing overcrowding in emergency rooms, including the involvement of executive leadership and a data-driven approach. High-performing hospitals use coordinated strategies, gather data to adjust operations in real-time, and hold staff accountable to reduce crowding.
Researchers found that serotonin can make neurons hyperactive and hypersensitive to stimuli in the brain, worsening tinnitus. The study has implications for treating anxiety or depression with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may compound feelings of anxiety in patients with tinnitus.
Researchers successfully corrected a genetic mutation causing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in human embryos, preventing its inheritance. The technique could apply to thousands of inherited genetic disorders and increase IVF success rates.
Researchers find that a high-fat diet during pregnancy alters brain and endocrine system development in offspring, leading to anxiety and depression. A control group showed no such effects.
Researchers have discovered a new role for an enzyme called Axundead in promoting axon degeneration. However, blocking its function preserved the integrity of injured axons and allowed them to maintain signal transmission within the brain's complex circuitry for weeks.
A randomized double-blind study involving 51 participants found a 68% improvement in slowing whole brain atrophy in patients with secondary progressive MS. Lipoic acid also improved walking times and reduced falls compared to placebo.
A systematic review found no definitive standard for identifying veterans at risk of suicidal behavior, nor a clear standard of treatment to prevent suicide. Several promising approaches were identified, including screening methods with fair accuracy and interventions like restricting access to lethal means.
Researchers at OHSU developed a process to engineer new blood vessels in teeth, creating better long-term outcomes for patients. This innovation eliminates the need for synthetic biomaterials and restores biological response, potentially leading to improved tooth survival rates.
Oregon's end-of-life care approach is characterized by higher rates of home hospice use and fewer hospitalizations, while Washington lags behind in implementing similar initiatives. The state's POLST Program has been instrumental in honoring patients' wishes and improving symptom management.
A study published in the Public Library of Science Pathogens found that Zika virus targets neuronal, lymph, joint, muscle and genital/urinary/reproductive tissues, persisting for at least 35 days. The research provides insights into the growth and distribution of the virus in human tissues.
A nearly 11-year follow-up study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows an estimated overall survival rate of 83.3% among 1,106 patients with chronic myeloid leukemia treated with Gleevec. The treatment has been proven effective against multiple forms of cancer, including pediatric CML and gastrointestinal stromal tumor.
A new study measures cumulative dosage over a patient's lifetime and finds that high exposure increases the risk of permanent hearing loss in cystic fibrosis patients. Researchers suggest alternative treatment strategies to mitigate this risk.
The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute research team discovered a previously unreported flaw in the standard leukemia assay, which can lead to non-functional mutations appearing functional. They recommend an additional sequencing step to improve the assay's accuracy and reproducibility.
Researchers at OHSU developed a method for quickly mapping single cell genomes, expanding the analysis of cancerous tumors and other diseases. This breakthrough enables precise targeting of cancer cells, offering new avenues for personalized medicine.
Researchers have identified a non-addictive pathway to pain relief by targeting endocannabinoid receptors in the brain. The study suggests that selective activation of CB2 receptors can contribute to the medicinal benefits of cannabis while minimizing the risk of tolerance and withdrawal.
A lack of psychiatric healthcare providers in rural areas is leaving patients without access to necessary treatment options, exacerbating the impact of untreated mental illness. The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is working to address this issue through innovative approaches to cancer care and mental health support.
A team of researchers has discovered microRNAs play a critical role in tumor progression and response to radiation therapy in a mouse model. The findings suggest that microRNA biomarkers could be used to predict cancer response to radiation, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
Researchers at OHSU discovered a correlation between aquaporin-4 prevalence in brains of older people without Alzheimer's compared to those with the disease. The protein's disorganization in Alzheimer's brains may reflect impaired waste clearance, suggesting it as a potential target for treatment or prevention.
A new study published in Nature provides key insights into mitochondrial replacement therapy, a gene-therapy technique that aims to prevent the transmission of harmful mitochondrial gene mutations from mothers to their children. By selecting egg donors with compatible haplotypes, clinicians may achieve higher success rates for producin...
Using statin drugs provided wide-ranging prevention benefits, reducing risk of death, heart attacks, and strokes. Statins were effective in people at highest risk for heart attacks and strokes, as well as those at lower risk, with no significant harmful effects found.
Researchers at OHSU and Salk Institute develop a new method to transmit a mother's genetic material into donor eggs, potentially increasing the success rate of infertility treatments. The technique could benefit women of advanced maternal age and those with mitochondrial mutations.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have received a $9.9 million grant to investigate new treatments for Fanconi anemia, a devastating genetic disease affecting children. The five-year study aims to identify viable drug compounds and eventually lead to human clinical trials.
The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology published a special issue commemorating the 25th anniversary of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology. OCT has revolutionized eye disease diagnosis and treatment, enabling early detection of devastating conditions like age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.
Researchers at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute have reported promising results from a Phase II clinical trial of pembrolizumab, a PD-1 antibody, in men with metastatic prostate cancer. Three out of ten participants showed significant responses to treatment, including rapid decreases in PSA levels and tumor shrinkage.
Researchers have discovered at least four separate subtypes of human insulin-producing beta cells, which could lead to a better understanding of the disease process and the development of new treatments for type 2 diabetes. The study found that these cell subtypes produce different amounts of insulin and may regenerate at varying rates.
Scientists have confirmed that as people age, they accumulate gene mutations in their mitochondria, which can limit energy production and impair cellular function. Researchers recommend screening stem cells for mitochondrial DNA mutations to ensure their therapeutic value.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered the precise structure of the serotonin transporter, a key player in regulating mood and behavior. This breakthrough provides a platform for designing new, more effective small molecule therapeutics to treat depression and anxiety.
The Oregon law allows pharmacy prescription, reducing barriers and costs. However, limitations on age and types of contraception remain. Experts emphasize the need for further expansion to ensure equal access and safe use of all contraceptive methods.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University recommend revisiting current adult vaccination schedule due to long-lasting immunity against tetanus and diphtheria. A revised 30-year schedule could reduce healthcare costs by two-thirds, saving approximately $280 million annually.
Scientists administered anti-HIV-1 human neutralizing monoclonal antibodies to infant rhesus macaques exposed to SHIV and found that the treatment completely cleared the virus within 14 days. This study shows that early administration of powerful antibodies can effectively clear a nonhuman primate virus similar to HIV.