A new UAB trial demonstrates promising results for a novel immunotherapy in treating glioblastoma. The treatment, DeltEx DRI, has been shown to more than double progression-free survival, with median overall survival reaching up to 19.5 months.
A recent study published in Neuron provides new insight into how tau tangles spread from one brain region to another in people with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that tau seeds travel along individual's natural communication pathways, influencing the spread of Alzheimer's pathology and suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
A study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham reveals that individual cone photoreceptors in the retina send precise visual signals to the brain, allowing for high-resolution vision. The research resolves a long-standing puzzle and has implications for future eye care and vision correction.
A new study reveals that NFAT controls uterine natural killer cells, which guide embryo implantation and placental growth. The findings offer fresh insight into preeclampsia, implantation failure, and inadequate placental blood flow, potentially benefiting all pregnant patients.
Researchers at UAB have published a study suggesting one dose of benzathine penicillin G is as effective as the three-injection regimen at treating early syphilis. The study found that one dose is sufficient to treat patients, reducing time and inconvenience associated with multiple injections.
Scientists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham created novel mouse models with mutations in the DHDDS gene to study retinitis pigmentosa (RP) 59, a genetic cause of blindness. The studies revealed that both T206A/K42E and K42E/K42E mouse models exhibited changes in retinal structure and function similar to human RP59 disease.
A unique toggle switch was identified to assign divergent cell fates and drive assembly into cellular 'neighborhoods' in olfactory stem cells, integrating signaling at multiple scales. This finding reveals how stochastic signaling networks regulate sustained neurogenesis in the intricate organ system of the human nose.
A new study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham reveals that an antibody designed to fight dengue virus may also block Zika virus spread in reproductive organs. The therapy significantly reduces Zika replication in male and female reproductive tracts, providing a potential countermeasure against future outbreaks.
A recent study reveals that ORC2 subunit regulates epigenetics and gene expression by compacting chromatin and attracting repressive histone marks at some sites, but activating gene expression at others. This regulation also prevents CTCF binding at certain sites, leading to changes in chromatin structure and gene expression.
A new diagnostic schema for COPD improves patient identification by incorporating CT lung imaging and respiratory symptoms. This approach identified additional individuals at risk of poor respiratory outcomes and excluded those with airflow obstruction without respiratory symptoms.
Researchers at University of Alabama at Birmingham identify Gfi1 as a crucial regulator of exhausted CD8+ T cell subsets. Fine-tuning Gfi1 activity may prevent or reverse T cell exhaustion, bolstering immune checkpoint blockade therapy. The study suggests potential for improving cancer treatment and controlling chronic infections.
Researchers found that T-bet expression is crucial for preserving the protective memory response in lung and lymph node memory B cells. Continuous T-bet expression in these cells enables their rapid differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells upon a second flu virus infection.
Research found that macrophages use two independent pathways to regulate inflammatory and lysosomal responses to toxic particles. The study identified key transcription factors and signaling pathways involved, offering potential therapeutic opportunities to quell inflammation.
Researchers identified reelin as a marker for cocaine-activated medium spiny neurons in the nucleus accumbens, which controls drug-related behavior. Knocking down reelin expression impaired excitability of these neurons and abolished cocaine-induced behavioral changes.
Researchers created a zebrafish model of XMEA, an ultra-rare genetic disease that progressively weakens muscles. The study found that two compounds improved symptoms in the zebrafish, and autophagy antagonists showed promise for treating the disease.
The study establishes a consensus nomenclature and characterization framework to advance mitochondria transfer and transplantation biology. It defines types of mitochondrial transfers and reviews methods to define and enforce these processes.
Researchers developed ProteinReDiff, an AI-powered method to redesign proteins for improved ligand binding. The approach uses initial protein sequences and ligand SMILES strings, reducing reliance on detailed structural data.
Researchers found that injecting infarcted pig hearts with specially bioengineered cells significantly decreased the infarct area and improved heart function. The therapy worked by stimulating the proliferation of endogenous pig cardiomyocytes, which had previously been unable to divide in adult hearts.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have identified HIF1α as a key regulator that induces cancer-killing capacity in T cells under hypoxic conditions. In this study, they found that HIF1α-glycolysis is indispensable for IFN-γ induction in hypoxic T cells.
Researchers discovered that BKPyV's large tumor antigen is expressed after the first round of cellular DNA replication, suggesting new drug targets to prevent kidney transplant failure. The study offers a possible solution by targeting host proteins required for re-replication, reducing the likelihood of virus resistance.
Researchers assess 20 years of clinical trials for cell therapy's safety and efficacy in treating heart failure, highlighting progress despite challenges. The field continues to evolve through lessons learned from past studies, with ongoing trials taking novel directions.
Researchers developed a 36-gene predictive score that surpasses conventional methods in predicting tamoxifen treatment resistance. The polygenic score UAB36 has potential as a tool for personalized medicine, helping identify patients at higher risk of poor survival and suggesting alternative treatment strategies.
Researchers identified hundreds of brain proteins associated with inter-individual differences in functional connectivity and structural covariation. The proteins were enriched for those involved in synapses, energy metabolism, and RNA processing, providing insights into the mechanistic basis of human cognition and behavior.
Researchers have identified new pathogenic pathways in gout through a genome-wide association analysis, providing promising targets for the prevention and treatment of this painful form of arthritis. The study highlights the importance of genetics in gout research and offers potential insights into other illnesses and disorders.
The study describes the full molecular structure of the phage DEV, which infects and lysates Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. The researchers discovered a genome ejection motor that pulls the DNA out of its head after infection, with conserved design principles across all Schitoviridae phages.
Researchers found that reducing sialic acid levels on MUC5B mucin protein can alter its structure, leading to entangled polymers and impaired mucus transport. This study identifies a possible therapeutic strategy for treating cystic fibrosis and other muco-obstructive diseases.
Endomimetics is developing a Bionanomatrix coating to accelerate aneurysm occlusion and minimize thrombus formation in brain aneurysm patients. The coating promotes endothelialization through five synergistic elements, reducing inflammatory responses and platelet adhesion.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham will develop a credentialed curriculum for research administration and grants management through a three-year, $2.8 million NSF grant. The program aims to provide a professional career path for future research administrators and managers.
Inhalation of live Lactobacilli bacteria attenuates pulmonary inflammation, improves lung function, and structure for COPD and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The treatment reduces neutrophilic inflammation, MMP-9, and pro-inflammatory markers.
A study published in Science Advances found that the quality of synapses, specifically dendritic spine head diameter, predicts episodic memory performance in older adults. Researchers suggest targeting pathways that maintain spine head diameter or synaptic strength may yield greater therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease prevention.
A UAB study found that lower transthyretin levels are associated with an increased risk of heart failure and all-cause mortality. The research highlights the importance of TTR levels in predicting heart disease risk, particularly for individuals carrying the V142I gene variant.
Researchers found that a tiny deletion in the titin protein causes developmental defects in embryonic ventricles, leading to increased potassium ion current and abnormal ANP expression. This remodeling leads to impaired atrial contractility and an increased risk of adult atrial fibrillation.
A nationwide study from University of Alabama at Birmingham compares two cardiovascular health metrics, Life’s Simple 7 and Life’s Essential 8, with the well-established Pooled Cohort Equation to determine their predictive values for mortality. The researchers found that PCEs outperformed LE8 and LS7 scores in mortality risk prediction.
A study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that blocking a protein called Activin A can halt dyskinesia symptoms and effectively erase the brain's 'bad memory' response to certain Parkinson's treatments. This could lead to longer-term use of L-DOPA for patients.
Researchers at UAB have developed a method to assess cardiac dynamics in fruit flies using deep learning and high-speed video microscopy. The study uses this approach to analyze the effects of aging and dilated cardiomyopathy on heart function, with potential applications for human cardiovascular research.
Researchers found a significant association between carpal tunnel syndrome and the risk of developing heart failure and amyloidosis. Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome were at a 13% higher risk of heart failure and a threefold higher risk of amyloidosis compared to those without the condition.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have discovered that the protein SRSF1 can bind and unfold complex RNA Guanine-quadruplexes. This finding could provide new avenues for treating illnesses such as cancer, which is often linked to misfunctioning splicing processes.
Researchers report that dupilumab substantially decreases exacerbation frequency and improves lung function as well as symptom burden in COPD patients with type 2 inflammation. The study's findings are promising for these patients, who have a high risk of exacerbations.
Researchers have identified a subset of intestinal epithelial cells that act as both the major target and responder in a mouse model of gut infection by Citrobacter rodentium. These cells, known as distal colonocytes, trigger a unique gene-expression program when infected with the bacteria.
Researchers found a correlation between prolonged postdelivery elevation of corticosterone and behavioral changes in postpartum mice who experienced social isolation in adolescence. A novel treatment using a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist shows promise in blocking behavioral changes.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that blocking Tiam1 activity in spinal neurons abrogates morphine tolerance and hyperalgesia in a mouse model. Prolonged morphine treatment increased activated Tiam1 levels, leading to dendritic spine morphological changes.
A nationwide study finds that individuals diagnosed with colon cancer who resided in previously redlined neighborhoods are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage disease and have worse survival rates. The research highlights the long-lasting impact of institutional racism on access to quality cancer care.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham discovered that the ALG6 variant is associated with altered phenotypes in patients with RP59, including delayed peripheral rod degeneration and diminished macular cone photoreceptor health. This study highlights the complex effects of modifier genes in human genetic disease.
Researchers found that Black individuals carrying genetic variants in the Titin, TTN gene have a high risk of developing atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and dilated cardiomyopathy. The study used data from the All of Us Research Program to examine the role of these genetic mutations in African ancestry individuals.
The study reveals that two neural pathways in the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus participate in dynamic regulation of goal pursuits, with PVT+ neurons encoding execution and termination of actions, respectively. Activity in these neurons mirrors motivation parameters such as vigor and satiety.
A new study found that high-dose inhaled nitric oxide improves oxygenation and reduces mortality risk among critically ill Black patients with COVID-19. The treatment was more effective for Black patients, who have a suppressed nitric oxide system at baseline.
Researchers identify five grand challenges in biomedical engineering to address social needs, existing gaps, and technological limitations. The Convergence Revolution and Fourth Industrial Revolution are expected to shape the future of medicine, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaborations and next-generation training.
A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers discovered that protons are the primary signals transmitting tactile sensations from Merkel cells to nerves. Protons bind to ASIC receptors on nerve endings, triggering an influx of sodium ions that propagate action potentials up the nerve towards the brain.
In a mouse model of multiple system atrophy, alpha-synuclein overexpression induces neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. IFNγ produced by infiltrating CD4+ T-cells mediates these changes. The study suggests that IFNγ is a potential future disease-modifying therapeutic target.
Cadmium exposure from cigarette smoke can lead to increased ANO1 expression in airway epithelial cells, exacerbating COPD. MicroRNA-381 negatively regulates ANO1, but its downregulation by cadmium could worsen disease severity.