A new study reveals how a 'transcription factor' called ELF5 causes aggressive breast cancer to develop, making it resistant to oestrogen therapies. Researchers found that manipulating ELF5 levels could be a potential treatment option for this type of breast cancer.
A new Australian study finds that large regions of the genome are epigenetically activated in prostate cancer, including genes like PSA and PCA3. The study also identifies 'epigenetic master controllers' that can switch on or off large regions of DNA, with significant implications for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers have identified a new mutation in the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency gene that could lead to better diagnosis and treatment of the disease. The finding extends understanding of Alpha-1 at the molecular level, potentially leading to new drug development.
Scientists have created a network map of genes involved in pain perception, showing remarkable similarity between humans and fruit flies. The map includes hundreds of known genes and dozens of new ones, highlighting the importance of phospholipid signaling in pain processing.
A new study reveals that individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome may have an impaired autonomic nervous system, leading to abnormal heart rate variability after meals. The findings suggest potential alternative treatments for the condition, which is characterized by insatiable appetite and high cardiovascular risk.
Scientists confirm that an infection can trigger an autoimmune disease by identifying the exact conditions for an autoantibody response to occur. The research reveals a unique problem with the immune system's ability to distinguish between self and non-self, leading to autoimmunity in certain cases.
A large-scale study has defined the complexity of underlying mutations responsible for pancreatic cancers, revealing that 'pancreatic cancer' is not one disease but many. The analysis found over 2,000 mutated genes, with some associated with poorer outcomes.
Researchers have tested a new asthma medication that improves fat and protein metabolism, increasing energy expenditure by over 10% and fat burning by more than 25%. The medication, formoterol, is selective for lung receptors and does not affect the heart rate, suggesting potential benefits for body composition and health.
Researchers identified a key role for hedgehog in breast cancer cellular cross-talk, finding that silencing the molecule slows tumour growth and spread. The discovery applies to all breast cancers, particularly basal breast cancer, which has no current targeted therapy.
Research from Research Australia found a link between stressful events during pregnancy and increased risk of behavioral problems in children. The study analyzed the timing, amount, and types of stressors to determine their impact on child behavior outcomes.
Deakin University scientists develop RNA aptamer, a chemical antibody that targets cancer stem cells, aiming to deliver drugs directly to them. The aptamer has potential to revolutionize cancer detection and treatment with early-stage diagnosis and targeted therapy.
A recent study found that people taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis treatment live an extra five years compared to those not receiving the medication. This significant benefit is attributed to bisphosphonates' ability to reduce toxic metal release, which may contribute to improved health outcomes.
Scientists from the Victor Chang Institute have discovered a key clue to understanding why certain medications cause abnormal heart rhythms. By studying the hERG potassium channel, they found that many common drugs bind to this channel when the outer gate is closed, blocking ions and increasing the risk of arrhythmia.
Researchers found a way to shrink tumors in certain cancers by blocking the production of microRNA 380, which disables the P53 gene. This breakthrough provides hope for new treatments and may return cells to normal when blocked.
A new study from Perth's Telethon Institute for Child Health Research found an association between a 'Western-style' diet and an increased risk of ADHD diagnosis in adolescents. The research examined the dietary patterns of over 1,800 adolescents and classified them into 'Healthy' or 'Western' patterns.
A simple diagnostic tool predicts type 2 diabetes in Vietnamese individuals based on high systolic blood pressure and waist-to-hip ratio. The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes is estimated to be around 11% for men and 12% for women, with approximately 350,000 people affected in Ho Chi Minh City.
Researchers have identified a previously undiagnosed condition and treated it with a stem cell transplant, saving the patient's life. The key to unlocking the reason for the patient's symptoms was contracting a rare version of glandular fever.
A study found that individuals with a family history of type 2 diabetes gain significantly more weight after consuming excess calories compared to those without such a history. Insulin resistance, a precursor to the disease, was also observed in the genetically prone group.
Researchers found growth hormone increases sprint capacity by 4-5% in athletes, but no effect on muscle mass. Athletes experienced swelling and joint pain with growth hormone use.
A significant study found that no single immunosuppressive drug regimen increases the risk of cancer among kidney transplant patients. However, factors such as age and smoking history contribute to increased cancer risk.
A new technique combining gentle tapping and emotional focus has been shown to significantly reduce food cravings in people who are overweight or obese. After just four two-hour sessions, participants experienced a long-lasting reduction in cravings, with some even forgetting their previous struggles.
Research reveals that pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) cause urinary tract infections by binding to bladder cells and triggering high levels of interleukin, an inflammatory cytokine. GBS infection may be more common than previously thought due to lack of clear risk factors.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology Metabolism found that modest weight loss can reverse many of the damaging changes seen in immune cells of obese people. This reversal is achieved through an 80% reduction of pro-inflammatory T-helper cells and reduced activation of other circulating immune cells.
A global consortium has cataloged genetic changes of 50 common cancers, making it possible to sequence partial or full genomes as part of clinical evaluation. This will enable targeted treatments and help understand why some treatments work and others do not.
A new study found that strong period pain experienced in adolescence doubles a woman's risk of developing endometriosis. Early menstrual cycle characteristics, including age at menarche, also play a significant role in the development of the disease.
Researchers have discovered that hepatitis C causes high insulin resistance primarily in muscles, not livers. This finding may lead to better management and prevention of diabetes among those with Hepatitis C, particularly for those at genetic risk.
A novel protein named haditoxin has been identified in King Cobra venom, showing promise for new drug discovery and advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms. The protein's unique structure suggests it may offer insights into treating various neurological disorders.
Scientists at Queensland Brain Institute have discovered an alternative mechanism for growth cone steering, which could lead to better understanding of nervous system development and cognitive disorders. The discovery has potential implications for research into Parkinson's disease and autism.
Researchers found that adolescent boys experience 'mean' behaviors through larger groups, direct teasing, and exclusion from sports. Both girls and boys understand the reasons behind relationally aggressive behaviors, including power and social dominance, as well as jealousy, anger, and insecurity.
A study by Garvan Institute of Medical Research reveals epigenetic changes in prostate cancer cells, silencing nearly 3% of the genome and targeting tumor suppressor genes, making treatment far more complex than imagined.
Researchers have developed a new technique to restore lost bone and gum tissue following periodontal disease, using layers of cells such as stem cells and gingival fibroblasts. The method has been shown to be successful in laboratory studies and has potential applications in other fields like skin grafts.
A recent study by Research Australia suggests that relying solely on fat oxidation for weight loss is ineffective. The research found that mice genetically altered to burn fats in preference to carbohydrates still converted unburned carbohydrates into stored fat, ultimately leading to the same weight and body composition as normal mice.
Australian scientists have discovered that the brain plays a crucial role in regulating bone formation, fine-tuning the process based on energy availability. The neural network controlling appetite and energy also influences bone density, with starvation reducing bone creation and overeating increasing it.
A new study from Research Australia found that moderate to heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of behavioral issues in children, including anxiety, depression, and aggressive behaviors. The study suggests that both timing and intensity of alcohol exposure affect the type of behavior problems expressed.
Scientists at Garvan Institute of Medical Research developed a mathematical model and microscopy method to reveal mechanisms behind dopamine release. The study found that dopamine release is regulated by factors such as the frequency of nerve impulses, making it possible to develop more effective treatments.
Scientists have discovered a mechanism that connects diet, gut bacteria, and the immune system, shedding light on how certain diseases can be alleviated by consuming insoluble dietary fibre. This breakthrough research suggests that altering diets could lead to significant changes in gut bacteria profiles.
A study of over 20,000 young drivers found that those living in rural areas are more likely to be involved in serious crashes than urban counterparts. Rural roads pose significant risks due to curved sections and speeding.
Two Australian research studies reveal that 50% of people over 30 do not have sufficient risk factor information recorded, and only 20% with high risk receive all recommended treatments. Indigenous healthcare sites show better patient management, with 44% prescribed appropriate medicines.
Chronic pain affects 80% of those living with it, and up to 10% gain access to effective treatments; a national strategy is long overdue to address the issue's significant economic and personal burden.
UQ researchers developed a rapid molecular assay to detect swine flu in under two weeks, diagnosing the first Australian case. The tests have been implemented at several hospitals and used to detect cases in the Northern Territory.
A study of 20,000 young drivers found that risky behaviors like speeding and text messaging while driving significantly increase the risk of crashes. Young drivers who engage in these behaviors, even with good safety knowledge, are more likely to crash.
Scientists at QIMR have discovered two genes that significantly increase the risk of developing melanoma in people with multiple moles. This groundbreaking research will help develop new screening techniques and potentially lead to new therapies for this deadly skin cancer.
A new study by The George Institute for International Health found Tai Chi to have positive effects on improving pain and disability among arthritis sufferers. Researchers are now conducting a trial to establish if similar benefits can be seen in people with chronic low back pain.
A groundbreaking new study is exploring the effectiveness of a high-protein diet in preventing type 2 diabetes in overweight adolescents. The research, funded by the MBF Foundation, will investigate whether a lower-carbohydrate and increased protein diet can delay or prevent the progression to insulin resistance.
Researchers at Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR) have cured mice with a congenital myopathy disorder that causes babies to be born without normal muscle function. They achieved this by replacing missing skeletal muscle actin with heart actin, allowing the mice to live normally into old age.
Deakin health expert Professor Boyd Swinburn argues that research funding should focus on testing potential solutions rather than understanding the causes of weight gain. He suggests 'rule-based' approaches, such as dietary rules or policies, may be more effective in preventing obesity and promoting sustainable environmental changes.
Researchers have identified a gene that controls abnormal sugar production in the liver, a major problem for people with diabetes. The study found that ARNT is decreased in both insulin-producing cells and liver cells of people with Type 2 diabetes.
A new study provides clear protocols for clinicians to follow, updating fracture risk algorithms and creating simple tables to guide doctors. The findings suggest that repeat bone density measurements can help prognosis of fracture in patients at risk due to age and other factors.
A study of ICU patients found that 45% were deficient in vitamin D, with lower levels associated with greater disease severity. Researchers believe that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to disease complications and suggest that raising vitamin D levels may be beneficial for critically ill patients.
Researchers found that blocking a hormone called BAFF can prevent the development of Type 1 diabetes in mice. By depleting B cells, regulators of the immune system rise, allowing T regulatory cells to function properly and making killer T cells tolerant of insulin-producing cells.