Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a genetic marker on chromosome 4 associated with sporadic breast cancer in Alberta women. The study, published in PLoS One, used DNA scans from over 7,200 women and found that those with sporadic breast cancer frequently carried this marker.
A Canadian study found that more than half of lower-back MRIs ordered at two hospitals were either inappropriate or of questionable value for patients. Family doctors were more likely to order these tests compared to specialists, highlighting the need for better education on when to use MRI scans.
A new study in Canada has found that over 40% of healthy individuals are taking daily aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease, despite recent literature suggesting its limited benefits. The study's authors hope to raise awareness among physicians and patients about the importance of discussing anti-platelet medication use.
A one-day training program designed by U of A medical researchers led to officers being more likely to recognize mental health issues during calls and less likely to use physical force. The training resulted in long-term behaviour change and saved the police force $80,000 due to increased efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have made a breakthrough in understanding how prion diseases spread between different types of animals. By studying the adaptation process, they aim to determine why certain strains can infect one type of animal but not another.
Researchers have discovered that gateways in the nucleus control chromosome structure and gene expression, impacting disease triggers.
A UAlberta research team found that medications for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) could have adverse effects on the heart. ERAs decrease the strength of contraction in diseased right ventricles, which may be beneficial due to increased endothelin levels.
Researchers identified a genetic marker in over 300 women with breast cancer, finding that those with this marker were more likely to experience recurrence. This breakthrough could enable doctors to tailor treatment strategies for high-risk patients based on their unique genetic profiles.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that 71% of pediatric patients attending specialty clinics in Edmonton used alternative medicine, while only 42% did so in Ottawa. The study highlights a need for better communication between doctors and parents about alternative medicine use, which can lead to potential drug interactions.
A research team led by Professor Zamaneh Kassiri has discovered that boosting TIMP3 levels can prevent the development of abdominal aneurysms. The study found that a protein called MMP2, despite being a contributor to heart and vascular disease, did not cause aneurysms when combined with TIMP3 deficiency.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a rare type of cancer suppressor that can trigger cell death when targeted. By inactivating this gene, cancer cells are destroyed while healthy cells remain intact.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease, finding that a diabetes drug can restore memory in brain cells. The team tested the drug on animal models with Alzheimer's and found significant improvements in memory function.
A UAlberta researcher has developed 'homing beacon drugs' that selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. These smart drugs use nano-technology to identify cancer cells based on a unique protein found only in them, allowing for targeted treatment and potential reduction in side effects.
Researchers found that children need at least seven minutes a day of intense physical activity to prevent weight gain and obesity. The study tracked over 600 kids aged 9-17 and showed that vigorous activity reduced the risk of unhealthy weight, while sedentary behavior was common.
A study by University of Alberta researchers found that providing educational information to physicians and patients improved osteoporosis treatment rates. The intervention led to a significant increase in follow-up testing and treatment, especially among men who are often overlooked as having the condition.
University of Alberta medical scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the structure of molybdenum, a critical metal in human health. The research reveals two forms of the molecule with distinct functions, providing new insights into diseases such as metabolic and respiratory disorders.
Researchers found that individuals with a history of kidney stones are more susceptible to developing serious kidney problems and kidney failure, particularly women under 50. The study's results highlight the importance of screening for risk factors in patients with a history of kidney stones.
Medical researchers at the University of Alberta found that parents prefer terms like 'large' or 'gaining too much weight' when discussing their child's weight, rather than the term 'obese'. This suggests that using more neutral and descriptive language can reduce stigma and improve the physician-patient relationship.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered a link between sodium and calcium regulation in the body. Excessive sodium intake can lead to calcium depletion, causing thin bones and osteoporosis, while high urine calcium levels increase the risk of kidney stones.
West Nile virus infection causes breakdown of two vital proteins, claudin and JAM, leading to accelerated degradation of the blood-brain barrier. Researchers hope to design drugs that prevent brain infection by understanding this mechanism.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered a link between DHA intake and improved memory, with higher levels of DHA in the hippocampus leading to better cell communication. Supplementing with DHA may help prevent age-related declines in brain DHA levels.
Researchers found that cancers with disorganized traffic systems result in lower survival rates and are more difficult to treat. A mathematical equation could help doctors determine the best course of treatment by identifying the complexity of each cancer type.
Researchers discovered how bacteria release proteins to spread infections, providing a new target for antibiotic development. The discovery sheds light on the mechanism by which normal, non-pathogenic bacteria can release proteins through their membrane pores.
A natural compound found in fruits, nuts and red wine has shown improved physical performance and endurance in lab models. Researchers plan to test resveratrol on diabetics with heart failure to improve heart function and exercise capabilities.
A new telehealth program by the University of Alberta helps rural COPD patients in northern Alberta communities. The program uses telehealth technology to conduct pulmonary rehab sessions and provide consultations with pulmonologists, resulting in improved quality of life and increased exercise tolerance after two months.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a genetic mutation that can predict heart failure in certain individuals. The team, led by Howard Young, will screen blood samples from 750 patients to identify mutations in phospholamban, a protein linked to heart disease.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that omega-3 fatty acid DHA in fish prevented toxic buildup in the retina, a common cause of age-related vision loss. The discovery could lead to a therapeutic use for supplementing the diet with DHA.
A study found that ACE2 is protective against diabetic complications in both lab models and human patients. High levels of ACE2 in vascular reparative cells prevent heart function decline and renal failure in diabetics.
A two-year study is underway to identify genetic biomarkers that can predict autism risk in infant siblings. Researchers are examining DNA samples from children with autism and their older siblings to determine if there are any genetic markers that could provide a more accurate estimate of the sibling's risk.
Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that some breast cancer tumors with weak 'survival' systems responded better to taxane chemotherapy than those with strong survival systems. This finding could lead to new strategies for identifying patients who may not respond to this common treatment.
Researchers found that removing Bim allowed autoreactive T-cells to survive but remain inactive. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new therapies for autoimmune diseases like diabetes.
A new study reveals that South Asians living with coronary disease in Alberta experience a lower quality of life compared to Canadians of European descent. The study, published in American Heart Journal, found that they have more frequent and severe chest pains, and are less physically active.
A University of Alberta researcher is investigating the potential link between long-term exposure to disinfected water and an increased risk of bladder cancer. She will develop new tools to detect toxic DBPs in drinking water, with the goal of eliminating their formation.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a treatment that restores motor skills in lab models with Huntington disease by restoring normal levels of brain molecule GM1. The therapy has shown promise in improving cognitive symptoms as well, suggesting it could be effective for patients.
Scientists at the University of Alberta have shed light on the structure and function of PNKP, a key DNA repair enzyme. By understanding how this enzyme repairs damaged DNA, researchers hope to develop new therapies that target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact.
Research reveals that cirrhosis patients losing muscle mass have a significantly shorter survival rate than those with normal muscle mass. The study's findings suggest that muscle mass should be considered alongside current scoring systems when assessing transplant list placement.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a new way to track the progression of multiple sclerosis by using powerful MRI to measure iron levels in brain tissue. The study found that high iron levels are associated with physical disabilities and may be an early marker of MS.
Medical researchers created 'conversation cards' to facilitate open discussions between parents and health professionals about pediatric weight management. The deck of cards, piloted in January 2012, aims to reduce power differentials and promote a more supportive conversation.
Medical researchers have discovered a hidden process that erases the shadoo protein in infected brains, up to seven months before physical symptoms of prion diseases like BSE or mad cow disease appear. This new understanding opens up research opportunities into attenuating the disease.
Researchers discovered that crocin in saffron exerts protective effects on brain cells and prevented damage in models of MS. The study also found a link between an ancient virus and cell stress leading to inflammation in the disease.
A potential new drug target has been discovered to stop debilitating effects of MS by preventing brain cell death caused by granzyme B. The target is the M6PR receptor, which allows granzyme B to enter neurons and wreak havoc.
Researchers from the University of Alberta and Cambridge have discovered a fifth adaptin protein complex involved in membrane trafficking, which has been present for billions of years. This finding opens up new avenues for understanding neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Huntington's disease, and ALS.
A literature review suggests that some stroke patients can receive treatment beyond the standard 3-hour window, with brain cells remaining structurally intact and potentially revivable if normal blood flow is restored. This finding could enable doctors to provide better patient care by considering the 'tissue window' rather than just time
Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a multi-cellular model of Zellweger's syndrome, a rare and deadly genetic disease, using fruit flies. The model mimics the human phenotype and is ideal for medical research due to its rapid development and low cost.
Researchers have found that brain wiring continues to develop well into our 20s, with structural changes in the white matter being detected in healthy adults using magnetic resonance imaging. This challenges the long-held belief that brain development stops at adolescence.
Recent studies by Sanjay Kalra demonstrate that ALS damages neurons in cognitive and behavioral areas of the brain, contradicting previous assumptions. MRI scans reveal decreased levels of neural markers NAA and increased mIns, indicating biological changes responsible for behavioral symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that resveratrol prevents a metabolic syndrome in offspring born growth-restricted, characterized by glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. The study suggests resveratrol may be a potential pharmacological treatment to prevent future metabolic problems.
Researchers are conducting a clinical trial called MANTICORE to detect and treat cardiovascular disease in breast cancer patients before treatment begins. The study aims to use special blood tests and imaging scans to identify potential cardiac risk factors.
Scientists at the University of Alberta discovered the first step in a bacterial immune response, where RNA is cut into pieces to target invading viruses. This finding has implications for controlling bacterial growth and fighting human infections.
Researchers have discovered that a specific type of T-cell can kill neurons, raising concerns about the potential effectiveness of an MS therapy. The study found that these protective T-cells, which are meant to regulate the immune system, can instead cause autoimmune diseases like MS.