Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine discovered the AHI1 gene mutation responsible for Joubert Syndrome, characterized by excessive brain folds. The study also identified a potential link between the disorder and common childhood brain abnormalities like autism.
Researchers at UCSD successfully treated muscle spasms in rats with ischemic spinal cord injury using brain cell transplants. Fifty percent of the animals experienced significant improvement in motor function.
Researchers are building a cyberinfrastructure to link communities of oceanographers via high-speed wireless and optical networks to observatories in the Northeast Pacific and offshore Southern California. The prototype grid will enable routine ocean access to researchers, educators, students, and the general public.
Researchers at the Center for Internet Epidemiology and Defenses will measure and analyze live Internet epidemics to develop robust defense mechanisms. They plan to construct large-scale monitoring instruments to provide early warning of incipient outbreaks and craft practical solutions to counteract new outbreaks.
Researchers found that inhibiting NF-kB or TNFα can prevent inflammation-induced tumor growth, allowing TRAIL to tip the balance in favor of cancer killing. The study suggests using NF-kB inhibitors with anti-TNFα drugs and TRAIL-inducing cytokines to promote tumor killing.
The study reveals that Strep bacteria employ a dual strategy to outsmart the immune system: producing a toxic 'sword' called hemolysin to kill immune cells, and an antioxidant 'shield' made of carotenoids to protect itself from oxidative damage. This unique approach makes GBS a more lethal pathogen.
A study of 4,223 individuals found that subclavian artery stenosis is a significant risk factor for hypertension. Patients with peripheral arterial disease are five times more likely to have SS.
Researchers at UCSD developed genetically modified mice with superior endurance capabilities by deleting the HIF-1 gene, which enables aerobic energy production. These 'super mice' can run and swim longer than normal counterparts but exhibit muscle damage after prolonged exercise, highlighting a double-edged effect.
A new UCSD study found that general pediatricians and specialists frequently miss diagnosing Kawasaki disease in children under six months and over eight years old, leading to preventable coronary artery damage. The study aims to raise awareness and provide recommendations to improve diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Researchers at UCSD and VA San Diego Healthcare System have developed a novel method of transcriptional gene silencing in the nucleus, utilizing short interfering RNA (siRNA). This approach may provide a long-lasting solution for gene regulation, with potential applications in treating diseases such as cancer and HIV.
A novel method developed by UCSD biologists allows for the simultaneous visualization of multiple genes' activity in individual cells, revealing their fate and potential applications in understanding tumor growth and stem cell therapy. This technique enables researchers to quantify gene expression and infer genetic makeup.
Researchers found that IKK beta deletion in epithelial cells decreases cancer incidence and tumor growth in mice by up to 80%. In myeloid cells, IKK beta deletion also reduces pro-inflammatory molecule expression, leading to smaller tumors. This study establishes the role of IKK beta in inflammation-associated tumor promotion.
A combination therapy of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin achieved a 40% sustained virological response in co-infected patients, the highest ever reported. The treatment did not interfere with the effectiveness of HIV drugs, offering hope for previously untreated patients.
Researchers used a new mass spectrometry technique to determine how CENP-A turns a chromosome's center section into a stable centromere. The study sheds light on the process of cell division and its connection to birth defects and cancer.
The von Liebig Center has awarded six grants totaling $1.2 million to UC San Diego engineers to commercialize cutting-edge technologies. These projects focus on improving cell phone camera capabilities, developing a video instant-messaging system for emergency responders, and enhancing solar energy efficiency.
Researchers successfully stimulated nerve cell regeneration after spinal cord injury using a combination of treatments. The study showed that axons can regrow into a cell graft placed in the lesion site, extending into the spinal cord and surrounding tissue.
Biologists at UCSD have discovered a natural defense mechanism in animal cells to ward off certain types of bacteria that secrete toxins. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for bacterial diseases such as pneumonia and strep throat.
Nine UCSD students are conducting nine-week research projects in Japan, Taiwan, and Australia through the Pacific Rim Undergraduate Experiences (PRIME) program. They will work with local researchers to develop their skills in cyberinfrastructure and cultural understanding.
Mitochondria are targeted by a mutant protein called SOD1, leading to the progressive degeneration of motor nerve cells in spinal cord. The study provides the first explanation for how this mutant protein causes ALS, a disease characterized by wasted muscles and premature death.
A UCSD research team found that a specific transcription factor plays a crucial role in cells' ability to adapt to osmotic stress, which can lead to immune system dysfunction and cancer progression. The study's findings offer new possibilities for developing drugs to treat autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and cancer.
A study by the Rebecca and John Moores UCSD Cancer Center found that on-screen smoking by popular actors encourages young girls to smoke, with a 80% increase in smoking likelihood. In contrast, boys showed little influence from on-screen smoking due to their preference for action films with lower levels of star smoking.
Researchers at UCSD have identified a promising set of inhibitors that may overcome drawbacks of previous compounds. The new molecules are less likely to cause side effects, such as one being the food additive Maltol.
A study by UCSD and Brazilian biologists found that bees can use scent markings from other species to find food. This ability allows aggressive stingless bee species to take over food sources previously discovered by competitors, providing a clear evolutionary advantage in scarce floral resources.
Researchers developed a new approach to interpreting brain electroencephalograms that provides an unprecedented view of thought in action. The technique uses Independent Component Analysis to separate signals from different areas of the brain, enabling detailed insights into neural dynamics.
The partnership aims to enhance Peruvian research capacity in biomedical research, including lab-based and fieldwork. The project will cover research ethics, health economics, and train local researchers, physicians, biologists, nurses, and students.
Researchers retrieved clues to ancient ocean chemistry and global greenhouse gas accumulation from 130-million-year-old sediments. The study provides a high-resolution record of seawater sulfate changes, shedding light on the interactions between the Earth's atmosphere, land, and ocean systems during the Cretaceous period.
A UCSD study uncovers how neurons in the brain sort information from electrical impulses, enabling coherent perception. Different neurons specialize in processing specific portions of the information, mimicking a musician reading their part in an orchestra.
Researchers at UCSD find that altering neural activity can change the type of neurotransmitter produced by nerve cells, raising hope for treating disorders caused by problems with neurotransmitters. This discovery could provide flexibility for the growth and operation of the nervous system.
Researchers have identified six essential genes for cilia formation in humans, which could help diagnose and treat diseases such as infertility, pulmonary diseases, and vision problems. The discovery provides a critical new tool for medical researchers to understand the genetic basis of these disorders.
The team developed a genome-scale computational model of gene regulation in E. coli, uncovering surprising new details about how the cell responds to oxygen deprivation. The model includes 1,010 genes, including 104 regulatory genes, which regulate the expression of 479 genes involved in metabolism.
A recent study found that obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of auto collisions by 28%. Treating the condition with CPAP could prevent 980 fatalities each year, saving $11.1 billion in collision costs.
A study published in Cell found that genetic defects in Nkx2-5 lead to progressive heart failure by degrading the electrical wiring of the heart, particularly the atrioventricular node. The researchers also identified a growth-factor gene called BMP-10 as a key contributor to this process.
A Phase I study conducted at UCSD showed promising early indications of reduced disease advancement in patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. The subjects who successfully completed the surgery showed a 50% reduction in their annual rate of decline on one of the measured cognitive scales.
A multinational team of scientists has found microscopic life colonized in ancient volcanic lava dating back nearly 3.5 billion years. The discovery was made in the Barberton Greenstone Belt, a location that was previously thought to be inhospitable for life.
Fibrin depletion delays MS-like paralysis and increases lifespan in transgenic mice, suggesting its role in disease progression. The study identifies fibrin's contribution to inflammatory response and nerve tissue damage in the nervous system.
The NSF-funded Collaborative Undergraduate Experiences program pairs US students with international mentors at top institutions in Japan, Taiwan, and Australia. Students work on projects related to cyberinfrastructure, exploring its potential impact on science and global collaboration.
A UCSD study found that adolescents who engaged in less vigorous physical activity were more likely to be overweight or at risk for obesity. The researchers also discovered that fiber intake was closely linked to weight, with normal-weight teens consuming more fibrous foods like whole grains and fruits and vegetables.
Researchers from UC San Diego have generated and analyzed the rat genome, paving the way for comparisons with human and mouse genomes. The study reveals that around 40% of the modern mammalian genome derives from a common ancestor, with the rat data showing similarities to human and mouse genomes.
A new study found that only 41% of schizophrenia patients take their antipsychotic medication on a regular basis. Non-adherence is linked to higher medical costs and hospitalizations, with African-Americans and Latino patients more likely to be non-adherent than Caucasians. Living independently or being homeless are also associated wit...
A study by UCSD psychologists found that when people pick a dog, they seek one that resembles them, and purebred dogs are more likely to match their owners. The researchers used randomized photo matching techniques to confirm the high incidence of resemblance between owners and purebreds, but not mixed-breeds.
Researchers at UCSD and TSRI have developed a method for creating highly specific inhibitors of the AChE enzyme, a key target for treating neuromuscular and cognitive disorders. The new approach utilizes click chemistry to bring reactant components into proximity on an enzyme template, resulting in potent and selective inhibitors.
The US Army has awarded UCSD a five-year grant to develop innovative wireless networking technology for tactical environments. The project aims to create cross-layer algorithms and new antenna technologies to enhance network adaptability and resilience in the face of enemy jamming and eavesdropping attempts.
A recent international declaration from the OECD Committee highlights the critical need for an open and systematic approach to access scientific data. Researchers in various fields will benefit from cost-effective access to digital research data, which is essential for new knowledge creation.
UCSD School of Medicine researchers have identified a mechanism leading to life-threatening infections, where PKR protein causes macrophages to die, allowing bacteria to spread. The discovery may help develop inhibitors for PKR, controlling nasty infections and reducing flu-related deaths.
Two UCSD professors, Stefan Savage and Henrik Wann Jensen, join a prestigious group of Sloan Fellows with expertise in computer networking and graphics. The fellowships recognize outstanding research in various fields, including the neural control of movement, differential geometry, and level set methods.
A team of physicists and engineers created metamaterials that respond magnetically to terahertz radiation, extending their properties to the terahertz range. This discovery has the potential to enable new applications in areas like weather guidance, security, and biomedical imaging.
Dr. Leon Thal, Chair of the UCSD Department of Neurosciences, will receive the Potamkin Prize for his groundbreaking research on Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative diseases. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of the cause, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
A groundbreaking study reveals a previously undetected divergence between Pacific and Atlantic corals, finding that about one-third of Atlantic corals constitute their own unique family. This discovery highlights the need to reconsider current conservation efforts due to the severe threats faced by this distinct group.
The von Liebig Center has awarded six grants totaling $1.2 million to UC San Diego faculty for commercializing their research. These grants support projects in various fields, including bioengineering, computer science and engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical aerospace engineering.
Recent research on aerosols suggests they can have substantial impacts on local heat budgets, exceeding those of greenhouse gases. Aerosol compositions and effects are being studied for their implications on regional climate change and human health.