A lower glycemic index diet has been shown to delay the development of age-related retinal lesions in mice, which are similar to those seen in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The study found that mice on a lower GI diet had fewer and less-severe lesions than those on a higher GI diet.
Researchers found reduced levels of SP4 protein in the brains of patients with bipolar disorder, which may contribute to altered patterns of nerve cells and cellular structure. Normalization of SP4 levels could be a relevant pharmacological strategy for treating mood disorders.
Researchers identified the cellular origin of a rare form of breast cancer, metaplastic carcinomas, which originate from basal epithelial cell types. The study used mouse models and cancer-causing genes introduced into healthy breast cells to understand the cellular beginnings of cancer.
A new study by Tufts University researchers found that 19% of restaurant food samples contained at least 100 calories more than listed. Lower-calorie foods purchased in sit-down restaurants also tended to have more calories than stated.
Scientists at Tufts University found that mice born to mothers fed a B vitamin-rich diet had fewer intestinal tumors, while those from deficient diets showed more aggressive tumors. The study suggests epigenetic effects of maternal B vitamin intake may protect against colorectal cancer in offspring.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine found that disease-causing germs survive on commonly shared wind instruments for one to two days. To minimize germ growth, instrumentists should have their own instruments and use proper cleaning methods.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine developed a gene therapy approach that significantly reduces uncontrolled blood vessel growth and cell death typical of AMD, slowing its progression. The treatment uses CD59 to block the formation of 'membrane attack complex' in cell membranes.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have developed a protein-based inhibitor that blocks HPV protein expression in cell culture, paving the way for a topical treatment. The inhibitor, E2R, prevents viral gene transcription and has shown promise against various strains of HPV, including high-risk and low-risk types.
The study identified a microRNA that may elucidate the biological mechanism behind obesity-related traits in individuals carrying the PLIN4 gene variant. Higher omega-3 fatty acid intakes were associated with lower body mass index and weight in carriers of the gene variant.
Researchers at Tufts University discovered that astrocytes play a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. The study found that disrupting astrocyte function in fruit flies led to altered daily rhythms, indicating the importance of these glial cells in controlling circadian behavior.
A recent study by Tufts researchers found that episodic physical and sexual activity are associated with a short-term increase in the risk of heart attacks. Regular physical activity, however, was not shown to have this effect.
Researchers propose using patterns of mild weight loss as an early-warning signal for underlying public health threats, such as disease epidemics or changes in child feeding practices. The study found that changes in the number of mildly undernourished children were more closely linked to child mortality than extreme cases.
A multidisciplinary faculty group at Tufts University School of Medicine recommends a strategic approach to teaching personalized genomic testing in medical school curricula. The group emphasizes the need for responsible use and privacy protection when introducing personal genotypes into education.
A study by researchers at Tufts University found a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in low-income urban community in Ecuador, with vitamins C and E showing a significant relationship. Limited consumption of nutrient-dense foods such as chicken, vegetables, and legumes contributes to the risk.
Researchers at Tufts University discovered bioactive peptides that stimulate the healing process by promoting angiogenesis and epithelialization. The peptides, synthesized from collagenase treatment of extracellular matrix, show promise in treating acute and chronic wound healing.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that perinatal bisphenol-A exposure may decrease fertility and fecundity in female mice. The researchers compared the effects of BPA to diethylstilbestrol (DES) and concluded that they were comparable, with low doses causing reproductive problems only when evaluated over mult...
Researchers at Tufts University discovered that estrogen stimulates breast cancer stem cells through a pathway mirroring normal stem cell development. By disrupting this signaling mechanism, they were able to halt the expansion of breast cancer stem cells and prevent tumor growth.
Researchers developed a new approach to vaccination for rotavirus, inducing an immune response in mice and protecting them from infection. The heat-stable vaccine is low-cost and can be delivered as nasal drops or spray, addressing challenges in developing countries.
Two compounds, called PITs (non-phosphoinositide PIP3 inhibitors), show promise in halting cancer growth by inducing cell death and limiting tumor growth in mice. These compounds interfere with cell signaling pathways, positioning them as a promising new approach to cancer treatment.
Research by Tufts University found a significant difference in childhood asthma prevalence between U.S.-born and foreign-born children. Foreign-born children were less likely to develop asthma due to factors such as lower socioeconomic status and exposure to pests, which was not observed in U.S.-born children.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consume several servings of whole grains per day and limit their intake of refined grains appear to have less visceral adipose tissue, a key factor in cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The study observed a 10% lower VAT volume in...
A landmark study reports that many US states have inadequate policies and practices governing psychotropic medication use for foster care youth, with estimated rates of 13-52% compared to 4% in the general population. The report calls for a national approach and resources for medication oversight.
A protein called APC plays a key role in synapse maturation, and dysfunction prevents the synapse function required for typical learning and memory. Mutations in genes related to neuroligin and neurexin are associated with autism, but little was known about their mechanisms at the synapse.
Researchers discovered that galectin-3 promotes angiogenesis by binding to specific cell-adhesion proteins, suggesting potential therapeutic targets. Targeting the protein with inhibitors significantly reduced angiogenesis in mice, offering new approaches for treating diseases caused by excessive blood vessel growth.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine have discovered an RNA sequence that promotes increased numbers of specific microRNAs, which regulate cell growth and stress response. This finding provides new insights into the links between miRNA expression and disease, including heart disease and cancer.
Researchers at Tufts University develop nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic genes to the retina, delaying onset of eye disease and preserving vision. The treatment, using a gene for GDNF, shows temporary but significant protection against photoreceptor cell death.
A review article debunks common dental myths, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet in preventing tooth decay, osteoporosis, and gum disease. Carole Palmer, a professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, outlines how nutrition affects oral health in children, teenagers, expectant mothers, adults, and elders.
Public health researchers at Tufts University describe cutting-edge methods for addressing obstacles in disease surveillance, enabling earlier detection and improved preparedness. The new tools facilitate the analysis of vast data streams from various sources, including satellite images and social media.
Scientists have mapped the herpes virus protein complex that allows it to invade cells, revealing a new target for antiviral drugs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapeutics to restrict herpes virus access to mammalian cells.
Researchers found an association between physical fitness and lower metabolic risk factors, such as triglycerides and blood glucose levels, in college students. Even those with higher than desirable body fat percentages can benefit from exercise to reduce chronic disease risk.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identified a protein that regulates the accumulation of an enzyme linked to Alzheimer's disease. Increasing levels of this protein may prevent the progression of the neurodegenerative disorder.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine highlight the carcinogenic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which can cause harm during organ formation. EDCs, such as bisphenol A, have been linked to increased cancer rates, obesity and infertility.
Researchers at Tufts University have identified a hormone-like signaling system in the ear that helps protect against noise-induced hearing loss. The system, which mirrors the body's fight-or-flight response, works at lower intensity sounds than previously thought.
Dental providers can prepare for medical emergencies by stocking essential medications and equipment, such as automated external defibrillators and portable oxygen delivery systems. The new guidelines provide a detailed list of emergency medications and equipment to ensure timely and effective treatment.
Pericytes, contractile cells surrounding capillaries, use mechanical forces to initiate angiogenesis, a crucial process in cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. The study suggests that local contractions could serve as initiating mechanical signals influencing angiogenesis.
An analysis of hospitalization records found that seasonal flu tends to peak earliest in western states like Nevada and later in New England states like Maine. The study identified patterns between peak timing and intensity of seasonal flu, enabling healthcare providers to prepare for outbreaks.
A study by Tufts University researchers found that employees who were more informed about their copayments for office visits and emergency room visits were more likely to have more office visits and fewer emergency room visits. This suggests that transparency about healthcare costs could help contain expenditures on health services.
Researchers at Tufts University developed a novel antitoxin strategy using 'tagged binding agents' that can bind to Botulinum toxin molecules and flush them out of the system. This approach has the potential to create more efficient therapies against toxins used in bioterrorist events, snake bites, and chronic diseases.
A new tool called PEG-POD significantly increases gene delivery to retinal cells, outperforming existing carriers and DNA alone. This breakthrough may help develop therapies for conditions like retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.
A study by Tufts University found significant variation in calorie density among 'low-calorie' pet foods, ranging from 217 to 440 kcal/cup. This can lead to confusion among pet owners and may result in pets not losing weight or even gaining weight if owners follow the recommended feeding directions.
A study by researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identifies two populations of progenitor cells that propose a new model for breast cell differentiation. One population appears to be the cell of origin for luminal-like breast cancer, which is sensitive to hormones and tends to grow more slowly.
A dynamic mapping tool helps investigators uncover associations between diseases and environmental exposures, such as Salmonella infections and broiler chicken sales. The study reveals seasonal fluctuations and geographic clustering of the disease.
A genetic locus on chromosome 7 has been linked to canine compulsive disorder, a condition characterized by repetitive behaviors. The neural cadherin-2 gene, CDH2, is involved in mediating synaptic activity and neuronal adhesion, suggesting a possible connection to human obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Researchers at Tufts University analyzed the calorie content of restaurant dishes and packaged foods, finding that publically available data is often 18% less accurate than their own analysis. This discrepancy could lead to significant weight gain and undermine health initiatives.
Researchers at Tufts University discovered that maternal behavior can stimulate new neuron creation in the brains of adult female rats who have never given birth. The study found increased numbers of new neurons in the subventricular region of the brain in these rats, which exhibited maternal behavior when exposed to foster pups.
A new study found an association between low plasma cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) activity and increased risk of heart disease in the Framingham Heart Study population. Participants with low CETP activity were 18% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Tufts University have discovered how the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi prolongs its life in human host cells by activating anti-apoptotic molecules, enabling it to evade death. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms behind Chagas' disease.
A questionnaire study by Tufts University found that half of barn workers experience coughs or other respiratory ailments, with higher exposure linked to increased symptoms. The study's results suggest poor air quality in horse barns may affect human health, particularly among equine industry workers.
Tufts University researchers identified a gene-diet interaction linked to body weight and obesity, replicated in three independent studies. Men with the CC genotype consuming high-saturated fat diets showed higher BMI scores and obesity risk compared to those with low-saturated fat intake or other genotypes.
A study at Tufts University found that training local leaders in research practices, especially human subjects protections, improves university-community relationships. Community-based participatory research partnerships strengthened the ability of local organizations to seek additional funding and conduct independent research.