Researchers propose a two-stage screening approach to identify individuals with low bone mineral density and increased risk of osteoporotic fractures. This could lead to improved cost-effectiveness in treatment, reducing the economic burden of fractures on individuals and society.
The ACRF Dynamic Imaging Facility for Cancer Biology will enable cutting-edge research into cancer biology using two technologically advanced microscope systems. The facility is part of the Institute for Molecular Bioscience and aims to improve Queensland's capacity for internationally competitive research.
An international team of scientists has discovered the gene PfRh4 that allows the malaria parasite to switch between potential invasion points on red blood cells. The inactivation of this single protein could block multiple entry points currently open to the parasite, paving the way for new anti-malarial vaccine designs.
A new trial has found that artesunate is more effective and has fewer side effects than the standard treatment of quinine in treating severe malaria. The study involved over 1,400 patients from four countries and showed a significant reduction in mortality rates with artesunate treatment.
Researchers have identified two genes that enable P. falciparum parasites to switch from sugar-dependent to sugar-independent invasion of red blood cells. The PfRh4 gene is required for this switching mechanism, which provides the parasite with adaptability in the face of receptor changes and immune system responses.
UQ researchers received top honors in e-research grants, developing AI for breast cancer detection and improving data management. The university's initiative aims to overcome barriers to E-Research adoption.
A new project in Australia is exploring the economic benefits of treating depression in employees. The WORC Project has surveyed 80,000 employees and found that treating depression can recoup $338 per employee per year, improving morale and reducing costs associated with absenteeism and work under-productivity.
A recent study found that 71% of younger women with early-stage breast cancer discuss fertility-related information with healthcare professionals, while 86% discuss menopause. The research aims to educate women about fertility preservation methods and manage menopausal side-effects after treatment.
A four-year trial in Papua New Guinea is investigating the use of Fansidar as a preventative measure against malaria in children under five and pregnant women. The study suggests that giving just one tablet can reduce the impact of subsequent malaria infections by up to 50%, saving thousands of lives annually.
Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment option for haemophilia and heart disease by targeting the P-selectin protein. Infusion of P-selectin could provide an affordable and effective means of achieving clotting to stop bleeding incidents in haemophiliacs.
A new study involving 30,000 people worldwide will investigate travel-related DVT and its prevention. Professor Harry Büller's research has made significant advances in diagnosing and treating blood clots, with 90% of patients now able to be treated outside hospital
Scientists have discovered a way to regrow the thymus, which produces T cells required to fight infection, through inhibiting sex steroids. This breakthrough offers new hope for treating cancer, AIDS, and other immunodeficiencies by improving T cell responses and recovery following bone marrow transplants.
Research shows that cocoa's flavinoids can inhibit platelet function, potentially preventing coronary heart disease. In contrast, people with non-O blood types are at increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly those carrying the Factor V Leiden variant protein.
Researchers have discovered a novel probucol-analog that effectively protects against atherosclerosis without the same side effects as its predecessor. This breakthrough compound induces an anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory pathway in blood vessel walls, offering new hope for treating people with or at risk of heart disease.
Researchers have achieved a cure for haemophilia in dogs using gene transfer strategies. The study identified key problems to overcome before applying this approach in humans, including mode of delivery.
Research reveals that aspirin resistance is a significant concern for certain patient groups, particularly those with coronary heart disease or high cholesterol levels. An alternative treatment option, Clopidogrel, has shown promise in reducing blood clotting and inflammation in these patients.
Researchers found a disrupted brain wave pattern in patients with schizophrenia, which may help understand attention deficits. The study aims to develop a biological test to distinguish patients with schizophrenia from those with bipolar disorder.
Researchers have discovered that quinolinic acid neurotoxicity is present in all dementia patients' brains, leading to brain dysfunction and death. This finding may lead to the development of new treatments for Alzheimer's disease, which currently affects over 200,000 Australians.
Researchers are exploring a new approach to treating blood cancers by exploiting the natural process of programmed cell death, known as apoptosis. This could potentially kill tumour cells more effectively and improve treatment outcomes. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is providing strong support for this research.
Researchers have found a way to increase the potency of Khellinone, a naturally occurring substance with anti-inflammatory properties. By disrupting rogue T cell potassium channels, the compound reduces myelin damage and may help tackle multiple sclerosis.
A team of researchers will use a comprehensive approach to tackle neuroblastoma, aiming to develop new treatments and potentially prevent the disease. The study will focus on understanding the molecular basis of neuroblastoma and identifying compounds that can inhibit cancer growth.
The company will use the investment to accelerate its drug development program for neuropathic pain, a prevalent condition affecting an estimated 45% of diabetics and 75% of those over 70. With a significant worldwide market valued at US$3 billion, Spinifex aims to deliver a novel solution to this unmet medical need.
Scientists at MIMR have identified adult stem cells in the uterus, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like pelvic floor prolapse. The discovery may also aid in understanding how diseases of the uterus develop and further general studies into adult stem cells.
Researchers at the Queensland Brain Institute have identified a key protein involved in regulating emotions and memories. Blocking this protein enhanced connections between cells in the amygdala, potentially leading to novel treatment strategies for anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions.
The Australasian Kidney Trials Network will focus on new and innovative clinical research to provide better treatments and outcomes for patients. The network aims to address the growing health issue of chronic kidney disease affecting one in seven Australian adults.
Researchers are developing genetically altered malaria parasites to stimulate immunity against the disease. The goal is to boost the immune system in a similar way to how the altered polio bacteria triggers immunity against polio.
The WEHI team will conduct research on parasite behavior, drug targets, and vaccine development to combat malaria and leishmaniasis. The ultimate goal is to prevent infection or reduce illness severity with effective treatments.
Eight Melbourne scientists, including six from WEHI, have been awarded five-year grants to tackle infectious and parasitic diseases like malaria. The $23.3 million international program aims to understand disease mechanisms, identify new drug targets, and develop vaccines.
Menzies Research Institute director Professor Foote awarded $17.5 million US grant to expand genetic research program on malaria. He will investigate how humans' immune systems fight malaria by infecting lab mice with rare genetic mutations.
Researchers found that senior players aged over 27 were more likely to suffer further hamstring injuries. The study also discovered that flexibility had no impact on the risk of such injuries in elite footballers, who account for 13% of all AFL player injuries.
The Sydney Melanoma Unit has been awarded a National Health and Medical Research Council Program Grant, providing $7.8 million to support its vital research. The grant aims to identify molecular factors that determine an individual's risk of melanoma and develop more effective treatments.
A $1.84 million NHMRC grant will enable the development of a secure, efficient national online database for cancer clinical trials. This system aims to revolutionize data management and increase patient access to trials, ultimately saving lives by accelerating evidence-based treatments.
The Australian Government has allocated $100 million for medical research, funding universities and research institutes across the country. This investment aims to enhance health and economic outcomes, with a focus on cancer, heart disease, and other key areas of research.
A recent study found that 33% of people over 55 had undiagnosed asthma, with severe symptoms affecting their quality of life. The lack of specific asthma management plans for older people has significant implications for the growing Australian population living with asthma.
The five-year project aims to develop innovative tools for measuring population health, particularly in resource-poor settings. It will provide governments and communities with practical strategies to understand their health state and prioritize spending, ultimately improving global health outcomes.
A new research project aims to introduce the Wolbachia bacteria into mosquitoes that carry the deadly dengue virus, reducing its lifespan and transmission. The five-year study, led by UQ, seeks to develop a cost-effective, self-perpetuating control strategy for large regional areas.
Scientists have successfully developed ovarian structures containing eggs from embryonic stem cells, a breakthrough that could provide new hope for infertile couples. The method uses growth factors derived from testicular cells to induce the development of female reproductive cells.
A recent study published in the Journal of Physiology reveals that muscle fatigue can significantly impact limb control, particularly when visual cues are absent. This finding has significant implications for athletes involved in high-speed, precision-based sports like serving a tennis ball or shooting a bow and arrow.
A leading researcher is presenting data on a new infertility drug that has shown promising results in reducing miscarriage rates in mice. The drug, PV903, contains an active ingredient found in semen and aims to instruct the mother's immune system to tolerate the fetus.
Research by Dr Rosa Alati links heavy drinking to higher rates of anxiety and depression in women. Contrary to previous findings, the study suggests that moderate drinking is associated with lower symptoms of mental illness when women are in their early 30s.
Research suggests that trained meditative practices can alter perception and influence the conscious experience of visual perceptual rivalry. Monks practicing 'one-point' meditation showed major increases in durations of perceptual dominance, indicating improved ability to focus their minds.
A new project provides a comprehensive map of the rat spinal cord, allowing for seamless navigation between rat and human cords to test hypotheses and relate data. The study will also create a 3D stereotaxic space for experimental and clinical observations.
A joint paper from Research Australia calls on the Federal Government to boost its investment in health and medical research, following a review that showed significant healthcare and economic successes. The organization argues that continued growth of Commonwealth funding is essential to stay in the global race and attract top talent.
A new study published in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology found that dysfunctional family relationships and poor communication styles have a limited impact on childhood depression. Most children exposed to high risk of depression do not appear to become depressed, instead showing resilience.
A comprehensive survey of schizophrenia rates around the globe debunks a popular textbook definition that the disorder affects 10 in every 1000 people. The study reveals the incidence and prevalence of schizophrenia varies greatly between regions, with poorer countries having more women affected than men.
Researchers at UQ's IMB have discovered a new pathway for particle and nutrient uptake into cells, which is vitally important for cellular survival. This finding presents unexplored avenues for developing new drugs to fight certain viral infections and opening up possibilities for drug delivery or gene therapy.
A new study found that slow recovery of normal white blood cells and high levels of leukaemic cells are predictive of relapse. The researchers discovered that these two factors predict outcome by distinct mechanisms, offering potential for personalized therapy adjustment.
A study by PhD student Rebecca Cramp found that the green-striped burrowing frog can maintain its gut function despite prolonged starvation, allowing it to digest massive meals efficiently. The discovery has implications for human survival during starvation, as humans often experience severe gastrointestinal issues after re-feeding.
Researchers at Monash University have developed a new class of drugs that stop the formation of blood clots without increasing bleeding risk, offering a safer alternative to aspirin. The PI 3-kinase inhibitors may prove vital in treating heart attack and stroke patients, with promising results from animal studies and phase I trials.