Researchers have identified a key molecule called Liar that leads other molecules into the nucleus of blood cells, offering a potential treatment for cancer. A cellular enzyme known as Lyn has also been found to 'turn on' blood cell development, highlighting a new target for cancer therapy.
A new Australian study reveals a significant rise in neonatal withdrawal syndrome among newborns, with 906 cases diagnosed between 1980 and 2005. The research highlights the need for early identification and intervention to prevent abuse and neglect.
A research collaboration has identified a genetic variation that influences Rett syndrome severity, providing potential new target for treatment. Patients with the normal BDNF genetic variant experienced less severe symptoms, including later onset and fewer seizures.
A recent breakthrough in mammalian genome research has revealed a complex network of genetic regulators that subtly influence gene expression in different cells. The discovery of tiny RNAs and retrotransposons has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms behind cellular development and transformation.
A recent study published in Osteoporosis International found that the bone density of vegan Buddhist nuns was identical to that of non-vegetarian women, despite lower protein and calcium intakes. The researchers noted that fruits and vegetables may have positive effects on bone health.
Researchers at UQ have found a new treatment approach for dysarthria patients who have suffered a stroke or brain injury. The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment program has shown positive effects on voice clarity and communication confidence, improving quality of life for those affected by the disorder.
Researchers have successfully tested a method to adjust the immune system to accept transplanted cells as 'self' in mice. The complex combines IL-2 with an antibody to stimulate T regulatory cells, boosting specific populations and subduing others.
Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT), a rare inherited heart disorder that causes sudden cardiac deaths. Flecainide, a drug used to treat heart arrhythmias, has been found to reduce calcium release in heart cells, counteracting the cause of CPVT.
Dr Crouch, a 2009 Advancing BioBusiness Award winner, seeks to improve scientific discovery in Australia through state-of-the-art assays and automation. He hopes to develop new tests for bio-markers of diseases like cancer, improving the efficiency of research in Australian university laboratories.
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that intensively lowering blood glucose in critically ill patients increases the risk of death by 10%. The research, which followed over 6,000 ICU patients, found that targeting very low levels of blood glucose is not safe.
A recent study found that media health reporting is improving in terms of accuracy, with online news services showing a notable five percent increase over four years. However, the overall quality of health reporting remains poor, particularly for commercial current affairs programs.
A new study found that nearly four percent of ACT kindergarten children have a peanut allergy, while some parents take inappropriate action when dealing with their child's allergy. Parents should administer oral antihistamines and seek medical attention in case of severe allergic reactions.
A recent study by Research Australia found that simple cooperation between agencies and local governments is crucial for good health care aid in the Solomon Islands. The research suggests that longer-term commitment and alignment of priorities are necessary to improve the health landscape in the region.
Asthma prevalence has declined among children and young adults, while Indigenous Australians face higher risks of asthma-related hospital visits and deaths. Asthma action plans are crucial for patients, yet many still lack them.
Researchers at the Centenary Institute have discovered a mechanism controlling endothelial cell growth and function. The process of differentiation, triggered by high levels of sphingosine kinase-1, allows cells to mature into functional endothelial cells, potentially leading to new treatments for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Researchers at Burnet Institute develop a potential new treatment for prostate cancer using a monoclonal antibody targeting the PIM-1 molecule, which plays a critical role in cell survival and proliferation. Laboratory models show significant inhibition of cancer cell growth, paving the way for clinical trials.
A new study published in JAMA found that osteoporotic fractures can double or triple mortality rates for up to 5-10 years after the fracture. The risk is particularly high for hip fractures in women and men over 75, with a nearly threefold increase in mortality.
Researchers found that fat molecules clog up muscle cells' cytosol but not mitochondrion. By increasing mitochondrial ability to burn fat, muscles become more responsive to insulin. The discovery opens doors to developing new therapies for Type 2 diabetes.
A new study found that binge drinking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of preterm birth, regardless of when alcohol consumption stops. Women who drank heavily or binged had a higher incidence of preterm birth compared to those who abstained from alcohol.
Researchers have discovered a plant model that mimics human DNA patterns, allowing for the study of genetic diseases such as Huntington's and Fragile X syndrome over multiple generations. This breakthrough could pave the way for better understanding and potential treatments for these debilitating conditions.
Researcher Stacey Walters finds that boosting BAFF levels in mice can alter their immune systems to accept tissue transplants. Increased B cells stimulate T regulatory cells, controlling killer cells and preventing rejection.
Researchers at UQ found that speech and language disorders can be validly and reliably assessed over the internet using a telerehabilitation application. This technology holds promise for addressing inequities in access to rehabilitation services, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Scientists identify a common vulnerability in rotaviruses, enabling the development of a broad-spectrum treatment for severe diarrheal diseases. This breakthrough could lead to improved vaccines and medications to prevent or treat rotavirus infections.
Researchers identified a small molecule called sfRNA that controls host response to viral infection. Targeting this molecule could lead to effective antiviral therapy for flavivirus diseases.
Researchers at Centenary Institute in Australia used high-powered multi-photon microscopy to visualize the spread of a parasite through the body, gaining insights into how pathogens are recognized by the immune system. This discovery has potential to improve current vaccinations and inform vaccine design.
Researchers discovered a greater level of genetic complexity for diseases than thought, focusing on iminoglycinuria and hyperglycinuria disorders. The study found that up to four different pumps in the kidney determine the disorder's occurrence, suggesting a need for integrated complex genetic information.
A study by Associate Professor Katherine Samaras reveals that HIV treatment causes inflammation, leading to increased cardiac and metabolic risk. Patients with HIV-infection tend to gain weight around their abdomen, increasing their risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Researchers discovered a significant genetic link between male to female transsexuals and a longer version of the androgen receptor (AR) gene, which modifies testosterone action. This study provides evidence for a biological basis of how gender identity develops.
A new protocol, PAST, reduces pre-hospital delays for stroke patients, increasing those treated with thrombolytic therapy from 4.7% to 21.4%. The protocol could save an estimated $31.2 million annually by enabling more patients to receive brain-saving treatment within the three-hour window.
Researchers have found a potential treatment for ciguatera poisoning using the compound brevenal, which can block the effect of the toxin on sodium channels. Currently, there are few effective treatments available for acute impact of ciguatera poisoning on humans and marine mammals.
Asthma affects over 2 million Australians, with a plateauing prevalence among children and declining hospital admission rates since 1993. Despite positive trends, asthma remains a major concern due to smoking habits, lack of written action plans, and higher mortality rates among Indigenous Australians.
The genome sequence of Plasmodium knowlesi has been defined, providing new research opportunities for comparisons with P. vivax. Establishing similarities and differences between the parasites' genomes will assist in the selection of genetic targets for vaccine and drug development.
Researchers have discovered how bacteria respond to stress, shedding light on their infectious potential and the development of new drugs to combat bacterial infections. The stressosome molecule protects cells from external danger, triggering a response to adapt to changes in environment.
The Notch pathway plays a crucial role in regulating breast stem cell fate, controlling both stem cell number and the production of luminal cells. Errant activation of Notch leads to uncontrolled growth of luminal precursors, resulting in breast tumour formation.
The University of Queensland's new center, the Pacific Malaria Initiative Support Centre (PacMISC), is part of a global effort to eliminate malaria in low and middle-income countries. PacMISC will focus on Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, providing flexible assistance to national malaria control programs.
Australian scientists identified four groupings of genes related to breast cancer cell behavior and their impact on tamoxifen treatment. This discovery could help clinicians predict which women will respond well to anti-oestrogen therapies.
A world-first trial has proven that regular physical activity can lead to a lasting improvement in memory function. Older adults who engage in 20 minutes of aerobic exercise daily outperform those who don't, with improved recall of shopping lists and social interactions.
Researchers at the University of California and the University of Newcastle are sharing their work on telomerase, a protein that allows cancer cells to grow. The lecture aims to improve treatment outcomes for breast cancer through early detection and prevention.
A new approach is required to address the growing issue of child abuse and neglect in Australia, with a focus on preventing abuse before it occurs. The current system's emphasis on intervening after harm has been done is deemed unethical and ineffective.
Research by Dr Jane Fowler found strikers experienced higher levels of depression and anxiety, but those actively involved in union activities showed lower symptoms. Unions can support members with financial assistance and counselling to reduce psychological impact.
Gary Banks argues that a more cost-effective health system is necessary to address increasing demand and costs. The Productivity Commission Chairman suggests potential solutions include policy initiatives in various areas of healthcare.
A new study found that up to 90% of people with asthma use their inhalers incorrectly, leading to poor control and increased healthcare costs. Pharmacists who received training on correct inhaler technique and provided personalized stickers for patients showed significant improvements in asthma severity and patient behavior.
Researchers found that environmental enrichment reduced coordination and movement problems in Rett syndrome mice. The study also showed that BDNF levels were similar in enriched and normal mice, suggesting a gene-environment interaction.
A team of Australian researchers has received funding to develop new treatments for epilepsy, with a focus on compounds that block brain cell communication. The project aims to create effective therapies for the one-third of epilepsy patients who do not respond to current treatments.
The Australian Dementia Research report recommends increasing funding for dementia research three-fold to $36 million to keep pace with rising treatment and care costs. By 2030, dementia's projected healthcare cost is expected to reach $8.2 billion, with the number of people with dementia set to double to over 460,000.
Researchers are developing unique brain maps using microscopic imaging to enhance accuracy of brain surgery and disease diagnosis. The new technology will revolutionize the field by providing detailed views of individual brains.
Research using Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology has confirmed Huntington's disease before symptoms appear, allowing for early treatment. The study identified extensive white matter degeneration, a hallmark of the disease, which can help explain its complex motor and cognitive problems.
Researchers found that older adults are just as socially satisfied as younger counterparts, contrary to conventional wisdom. The study suggests that older adults' perception of their experiences brings them more satisfaction, enabling them to find uplift in everyday life.
Research reveals inaccurate or incomplete information about CAM in Australian media, highlighting the need for clearer communication between scientists and journalists. The study's findings emphasize the importance of accurate, unbiased, and complete health news reports to influence public behavior.
Researchers have found that adult stem cells from Parkinson's patients' noses can differentiate into dopamine-producing brain cells when transplanted into the brain of a rat. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating the debilitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease.