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University of Calgary


New tool to diagnose genetic mutations

Researchers have developed One-pot DTECT, a compact kit that can detect genetic signatures with high accuracy, enabling rapid point-of-care diagnosis for various applications. The tool has been shown to identify genetic mutations in sickle cell anemia patients and carriers with 100% accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeNews article·DateFeb 6, 2024

Research shows infants exposed to certain biologics during pregnancy can safely receive rotavirus vaccine

A Canadian study found that infants exposed to biologic agents during pregnancy have normal immune development and can safely receive the rotavirus vaccine. The study, involving 191 infants across six sites in Canada, aimed to change vaccination guidelines to protect more babies from severe illness.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2023

Children’s IQs not diminished by concussion

A new study published in Pediatrics suggests that pediatric concussions do not impact intelligence or IQ levels. The research, which combined data from two cohort studies in Canada and the US, found no significant difference in IQ scores between children with concussion and those with orthopedic injuries.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 17, 2023

How fit is your gut microbiome?

A recent study found that moderate exercise duration (≥150 minutes/week) improves gut microbiome richness and diversity, with no significant impact from exercise intensity. Additionally, normal-weight individuals showed the most beneficial changes, while overweight individuals' microbiomes were influenced by poor dietary habits.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 22, 2023

Emergency department visits for attempted suicides rose globally among youth during pandemic

A study led by the University of Calgary found a 22% increase in children and adolescents seeking emergency department care for suicide attempts and an 8% increase for suicidal ideation during the pandemic. This trend contradicts the overall decrease in pediatric ER visits, highlighting the need for mental health resources and services.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 9, 2023

UCalgary researchers develop new imaging technique for clearer picture of “brain in the gut”

Researchers have designed a novel imaging and experimental preparation system to record the activity of the enteric nervous system in mice, providing new insights into the complex processes of digestion and waste elimination. The findings suggest that physical distention of the gut controls how the entire neural network is coordinated.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2023

UCalgary and WHO researchers find hybrid immunity is the best protection against COVID-19

Researchers from UCalgary and the World Health Organization found that people with hybrid immunity have the highest level of protection against severe illness and reinfection, offering a key finding for public policy makers. The study suggests vaccination should be prioritized even among those who have had COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 20, 2023

UCalgary study offers new insight into deadly fungal invasion of the lungs

Researchers discovered that viral infections like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza destroy a natural immunity needed to resist fungal infections. This leads to impaired cooperation between white blood cells, allowing fungi to take root. The study reveals potential repurposing of current therapies to replace damaged antibodies.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023

UCalgary study points to potential new treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases

Researchers at UCalgary have discovered a potential new treatment for fibrosis, a condition that causes thickening of the gut wall and life-threatening blockage in people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The study suggests that drugs targeting specific sensors may prevent inflammation-associated gut blockage.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2022

Flu vaccine lowers risk of stroke

Researchers at the University of Calgary found that vaccination against influenza significantly lowers the risk of stroke among adults. The study analyzed health records of over four million Albertans and showed that the risk of stroke was reduced in all age groups, not just those at high risk.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022

UCalgary researchers with the Calgary Stroke Program make another breakthrough in the treatment of stroke

Researchers with the Calgary Stroke Program have made a breakthrough in treating acute ischemic stroke with Tenectepele, a safe and well-tolerated drug that can be administered as a single dose. The study shows that TNK works better than current recommended drug tPA, restoring blood flow faster and for a longer period.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 29, 2022

UCalgary researchers discover molecule in the nervous system that may hold key to treating chronic pain

Researchers at University of Calgary have identified a molecule in the nervous system that enhances sensitivity to pain, potentially treating chronic pain with existing anti-cancer drugs. The discovery could offer an alternative to opioid-based pain medication, which can lead to tolerance and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2022

UCalgary study finds probiotic supplement helps to form a mature microbiome in extremely preterm infants

A randomized clinical trial found that a specific probiotic supplement accelerated the maturation of the microbiome in extremely preterm infants, leading to reduced intestinal inflammation and improved feeding tolerance. The study also showed potential benefits for reducing the risk of food allergies in these vulnerable infants.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2022