Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a critical molecule that, when absent in T-cells, can cause autoimmunity. This finding has significant implications for stem-cell transplantation treatments used for autoimmune diseases and cancer.
A recent study published in PubMed found that swiping contaminated plates three times significantly reduced bacterial counts. The mechanical removal of bacteria, not the disinfectant itself, was key to this effect. Saline wipes were found to be as effective as disinfectant wipes when swiped multiple times.
UBE4B is a molecule that binds to p53 and MDM2, allowing them to degrade the tumor-suppressing protein p53 in cancer cells. This discovery could lead to novel anti-cancer therapies and improve prognosis for cancer patients.
A U of Alberta researcher is working towards developing a pharmacological target for cholera by understanding the bacteria's mechanism of infection and survival. He has discovered how Vibrio cholerae uses molecular nano-syringes to infect host cells, providing a potential vaccine target.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new method to analyze biopsies from heart transplant patients by examining their genes, allowing for early prediction of treatment success. This approach uses software algorithms to reduce data to key numbers necessary for diagnosis and prognosis.
Researchers found that majority of heart failure patients pass away in acute care hospital, resulting in significantly higher costs. The study examined data from over 30,000 elderly patients with heart failure who died between 2000 and 2006 in Alberta, highlighting the need for discussions about end-of-life care options.
A University of Alberta research team has found a mechanism underlying both addiction and obesity, which could lead to new treatments for these diseases. The study revealed that dopamine plays a key role in the formation of spatial memories in the brain, and its release is associated with feelings of reward.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a crucial mechanism for fighting infections, revealing that an amino acid called arginine is essential for immune function. The study's findings could have significant implications for people in third world countries with limited access to nutrition.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society recognizes Dr. Gavin Y. Oudit's groundbreaking research on a new class of drugs for treating heart failure, with the potential to also treat kidney and lung diseases. Oudit's innovative program has yielded major discoveries and established him as a world leader in this exciting area of research.
A team of scientists led by Dr. Michael Walter discovered that WDR36 gene variations affect cell function only when combined with changes in another gene, STI1. This finding explains why some people with WDR36 gene variations get glaucoma while others don't.
A new classification system aims to provide a more accurate picture of a patient's health issues, complementing body measurements. The Edmonton Obesity Staging System has five stages, from stage 0 to stage 4, and offers specific treatment approaches for each stage.
A recent study found that eating fast food more than twice a week negates the protective effects of breastfeeding on asthma in children. The research suggests high fat and salt content in fast food may contribute to increased asthma risk. Long-term breastfeeding duration also appeared crucial for reduced asthma risk
Researchers found that older adults remember fewer negative events than younger counterparts due to differences in brain activity. The study suggests that seniors' brains use thinking rather than feeling processes to store emotional memories, which may improve understanding of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
A Canadian scientist has made a significant breakthrough in treating intellectual disabilities by manipulating the genes of fruit flies. The research found that disrupting a specific gene called FMR1 leads to long-term memory loss, and that a class of drugs can help restore memories.
Researchers found that teens engaging in risky behaviors like sex, smoking, and drinking are more likely to use crystal meth. In high-risk youth, family history of alcohol abuse, psychiatric treatment, and juvenile detention were associated with methamphetamine use.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered how copy number variations contribute to pediatric glaucoma, a disease that can lead to blindness. The study's findings may help improve detection and treatment of childhood glaucoma, paving the way for earlier intervention and better outcomes.
Researchers found that Sharpie tips do not spread infection due to alcohol-based ink. In contrast, sterile markers with non-alcohol base ink were contaminated after 24 hours. The study suggests that reusable Sharpies can be used safely with proper cleaning and disinfection.
Researchers found that older adults' brains show increased activity in regions involved in emotion control, allowing them to regulate emotions better than younger counterparts. This 'positivity bias' helps seniors cope with emotionally challenging situations.