Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center created a large battalion of tumor-seeking immune system cells that can locate and attack melanomas in real-time. The genetically engineered lymphocytes were injected into mice and found to kill the cancer within two to three days, paving the way for potential treatment in humans.
Researchers have discovered that silicon oil can absorb nearly 50% of radioactive rays during radiation therapy for ocular melanoma. The study, published in Archives of Ophthalmology, suggests that the substance acts as a physical shield to reduce radiation exposure to the eye.
A new study found that ultrafine particles from vehicular emissions can boost allergic inflammation in the lungs, exacerbating asthma. The researchers used a real-time testing method to isolate the effects of ultrafine particles on the immune response in mice, and found significant enhancement of allergic airway inflammation with expos...
Female human embryonic stem cells show variations in X chromosome inactivation as early as five passages, suggesting culture conditions can impact cell safety. The study's findings may have implications for cancer development and disease treatment, prompting further research on uniforming X chromosome inactivation patterns.
In a three-year study, UCLA scientists found that networks of brain cells in culture can learn to generate simple timed intervals after being stimulated with patterns. The research provides new insights into how the brain tells time and enhances understanding of its workings.
A recent study found rare genetic changes in autistic children that are often not present in their parents, occurring nearly 20% more frequently. The research, involving over 60 institutions worldwide, suggests that tiny errors during egg and sperm formation may contribute to autism.
A study found that a 10% increase in cigarette pricing resulted in an 18.2% decline in smoking among individuals with alcohol, drug or mental disorders. This suggests that increasing tobacco taxes could be an effective way to curb smoking among vulnerable populations.
A UCLA team of scientists discovered a relationship between DNA methylation and nucleosome positioning, which compact and regulate access to DNA. This finding could lead to techniques to control DNA methylation patterns and prevent cancer.
Research found that sarcopenia, low skeletal muscle mass and strength, is associated with insulin resistance and high blood-sugar levels in both obese and non-obese individuals. Muscle mass and strength are crucial in preventing type 2 diabetes.
A new study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in family-centered care for children with special health care needs. African American and Latino children are less likely to receive adequate time with their provider and culturally sensitive care compared to white children.
A new study from UCLA's Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program found significant improvements in surgical outcomes for pediatric epilepsy patients over the past two decades. The researchers attribute the success to advancements in diagnostic technology and experience in selection and operations.
Young adult survivors of childhood cancers are four times more likely to develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) than their control group siblings. The study found that 589 survivors reported significant functional impairment and clinical distress, consistent with a full diagnosis of PTSD.
A recent study by researchers at UCLA Health Sciences has found that over a third of drinkers aged 60 and older consume excessive amounts of alcohol, posing health risks. The study also highlights demographic factors, such as age, education level, and income, that contribute to at-risk drinking among the elderly.
A UCLA study found that health fair referrals, especially those assisted by phone, significantly improved blood pressure in middle-aged low-income immigrants. This approach helped these individuals make timely appointments with doctors and adjust their medications, leading to a notable reduction in systolic blood pressure.
Operation Mend provides life-changing surgeries to military personnel severely injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. The program also offers treatment for post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries, as well as patient support and family accommodations.
A new study identifies women and patients with diabetes and dementia as most likely to fall into Medicare's 'donut hole', a gap in coverage where beneficiaries face unsubsidized medication costs. Researchers recommend doctor-patient counseling to manage drug regimens and prevent adverse effects on patients' health.
A novel 'medical home' program at UCLA significantly reduced emergency room visits among participating families, with a 55% decrease in ER visits. The program's effectiveness was attributed to continuous, accessible outpatient care and coordinated care coordination.
Researchers at UCLA successfully removed CCR5 receptor, which HIV binds to, from human immune cells using a gene-based approach. This strategy shows promise for treating HIV-infected individuals by reducing the virus's ability to infect cells.
A new evaluation tool helps clinicians decide whether to surgically remove or monitor asymptomatic pancreatic cysts. The tool considers overall health, age, cyst size, surgical risk, and patients' quality of life preferences.
Researchers at UCLA use mathematical modeling to analyze urban crime patterns, identifying two types of 'hotspots' that respond differently to policing. The model predicts when increased policing efforts will displace or suppress crime, providing valuable insights for law enforcement.
A UCLA study sheds light on why gene variants can only partly explain common disorders, and how environmental factors contribute to disease risk. The research highlights the importance of considering interactions between genes and their environment in genetic research.
A study by UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that specific histone modifications can predict prognosis and response to treatment in pancreatic cancer patients. The findings suggest that low levels of these modifications are associated with poor survival, while high levels may indicate a favorable response to chemotherapy.
Researchers have identified a broad-spectrum antiviral compound effective against HIV-1, influenza A, filoviruses, poxviruses, and other deadly diseases. The compound, LJ001, targets enveloped viruses by exploiting their biogenic reparative ability, resulting in permanent and irreversible damage.
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have performed the first complete genomic sequencing of a brain cancer cell line, revealing a unique biological signature that may lead to new therapies. The study also holds promise for developing patient-specific diagnostics to monitor for cancer recurrence.
Researchers at UCLA's Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program have found that a non-invasive approach to pre-surgical testing, combined with earlier consideration for surgery, is associated with the best seizure-free surgical outcome in patients with TSC. Approximately two-thirds of TSC patients became seizure-free after surgery.
A joint UC study found that three-quarters of medical students believe conventional Western medicine would benefit from integrating more complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. The survey revealed that CAM can enhance patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and increase the effectiveness of healthcare systems.
Researchers found that patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol who ordered medications by mail were more likely to take them as prescribed. Mail-order pharmacy users had a financial incentive to fill prescriptions and lived farther from local pharmacies.
A new UCLA study has found that metformin is safe for use in treating patients with both diabetes and advanced heart failure, suggesting improved survival rates. The study involved 401 patients who were followed for 14 years and showed a lower risk of death among those taking metformin.
Researchers found that volunteering was associated with lower rates of frailty after three years, even after accounting for physical and cognitive function. The study suggests that participating in volunteer activities may help older adults maintain their health and prevent frailty.
Researchers have identified two cellular proteins that are important factors in hepatitis C virus infection. The natural compound Quercetin inhibits the synthesis of these proteins, significantly inhibiting viral infection in tissue culture. A Phase I clinical trial will be launched to determine if the compound is safe and effective.