A recent study from the University of California, San Francisco has discovered a novel mechanism by which the drug ribavirin kills viruses by generating excess mutations that overwhelm the virus. This unexpected finding may lead to the development of more effective anti-viral treatments for hepatitis C patients.
A new study led by UCSF researchers suggests that prescribing beta-blockers to most people who have had heart attacks could save seven times more years of life than mammography screening over 20 years. The study projects 4,000 lives saved and 3,500 averted heart attacks at a reasonable cost.
A team of researchers found that the protein alpha1-antichymotrypsin doubles the accumulation of Alzheimer's disease-associated amyloid plaque in mice brains, indicating a potential therapeutic target. The study suggests that reducing or inhibiting this protein's activity could help prevent plaque formation and brain damage.
A survey of 300 smokers and nonsmokers aged 14-22 found that concern for others' health is a stronger motivator to quit smoking than fear of one's own health. The study suggests educating young people about secondhand smoke's effects and encouraging nonsmoking teens to speak out should be key elements of anti-tobacco programs.
A new study by UCSF/SFVAMC researchers found that mammography is equally effective in detecting breast cancer in women with and without a family history. The study analyzed data from over 389,000 women and showed that mammography detects nearly 85% of cancers in women aged 50-69, regardless of family history.
A new study by UCSF researchers found that delivering the VEGF growth factor into mice with coronary heart disease prompted the growth of blood vessels in damaged heart tissue without causing side effects. This approach could lead to a treatment strategy for severe coronary heart disease that has been met with setbacks.
A novel therapy employing the immune system to attack prostate cancer cells has been found to slow disease progression in some men and decrease PSA levels. The study's results show that modified dendritic cells can train lymphocytes to recognize prostate cancer cells, leading to a stronger immune response.
A UCSF study analyzed conflict of interest policies at top US medical schools, finding 'loopholes' in disclosure and conflict management. The researchers suggest prohibiting investigators from holding stock or decision-making positions in companies that may be affected by the trial.
The University of California, San Francisco has launched a groundbreaking Spanish/English smoking cessation research program on the Internet. The program aims to recruit bilingual smokers from around the world and provide them with a comprehensive online resource to help them quit smoking.
A UCSF study found that women who perceived themselves higher on the social ladder reported better physical health, lower stress levels, and less abdominal fat. The researchers suggest that this perception is linked to a lower cortisol response to stress, which can contribute to metabolic and cardiovascular disease.
UCSF researchers identified PSD-95 protein as key link between nerve cells, suggesting possible target for treating mental retardation and nerve damage. The protein stimulates maturation of synapses, enabling brain development, learning, and memory.
A new JAMA series aims to teach doctors and nurses how to manage end-of-life care issues, as physicians are not adequately trained in this area. The series will cover topics such as symptom management, hospice care, and cross-cultural differences in dealing with death.
A UCSF study finds that eptifibatide helps preserve microvasculature and blood flow into the heart muscle, improving oxygen supply to patients undergoing angioplasty. The drug improves large artery blood flow by 39% and microvascular blood flow by 84%, potentially reducing irreversible heart injury.
A fragment of a brain growth protein has been isolated that nurtures brain cells, potentially preventing loss of brain function caused by Alzheimer's disease. The fragment acts through mechanisms similar to its larger parent protein and has shown promise in maintaining nerve cell health.
A study found that ephedra-containing dietary supplements can cause cardiac arrests, strokes, and permanent brain damage, with some users experiencing unreported adverse effects. Researchers urge the FDA to establish safe daily doses and mandatory labeling.
The University of California, San Francisco strongly rejected claims made by a company that attempted to block publication of an important AIDS research study. The study found no evidence of clinical benefit for the drug HIV-1 Immunogen in boosting the immune system of patients with HIV-1.
A large randomized trial evaluating a compound intended to boost the immune response of HIV patients showed no effect on slowing disease progression. The study, led by UCSF and Harvard researchers, defied the sponsor's attempt to block publication, affirming the University's right to publish unfavorable or neutral research findings.
A new study by University of California, San Francisco researchers highlights the need for clear guidelines to manage potential conflicts of interest in academic research. The study found that nearly eight percent of UCSF scientists reported financial ties to industry sponsors in 1999, with complex relationships being seen as problematic.
A University of California, San Francisco study found that the herbal supplement PC-SPES significantly reduces PSA levels in men with hormone-independent disease, providing a new treatment option. The study also shows promise for shrinking tumors and improving quality of life.
Researchers argue that current HIV prevention resource allocations are not consistent with trends in the spread of HIV disease. They propose a shift in focus from AIDS case-based reporting to sentinel surveillance systems, citing data showing declining HIV prevalence and incidence among heterosexuals and stable rates among MSMs.
Researchers at UCSF have identified a fundamental decision-making unit in cells that integrates multiple signals to initiate cell movement. This protein, N-WASP, relies on cooperative action between two signal molecules to trigger actin polymerization and drive cell movement.
The UCSF Vietnamese Community Health Promotion Project has received a $3.6 million CDC grant to improve breast and cervical cancer screening among Vietnamese women in Santa Clara County. The project aims to address the high rate of cervical cancer in this population, which is five times that of Caucasian women.
The Ras oncogene's suppression of p53 could explain why some cancers are resistant to radiation therapy. The finding suggests that Ras may play an indirect role in many more cancers by regulating the tumor-suppressor gene, contributing to cancer development.
The researchers discovered a glycerol-conducting channel that selectively filters simple carbohydrates while blocking access to smaller water molecules and ions. This finding sheds light on how protein channels embedded in cell membranes work.
A UCSF study found that group appointments can improve the delivery of care to chronically ill patients, particularly low-income women. The pilot program included 90-minute sessions with a family physician and nurse practitioner team, resulting in increased patient engagement and better health outcomes.
A new obesity treatment program has resulted in sustained weight loss for six years by developing two fundamental internal skills: self-nurturing and effective limit setting. Participants lost an average of 13 pounds in the first 12 weeks and continued to lose weight after treatment ended.
Researchers found American astronauts and mission control personnel reported lower emotional health scores compared to their Russian counterparts. The study suggests steps NASA can take to boost morale, such as rotating leadership roles among three-person crews.
Researchers at UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center are testing an immunotherapy treatment that involves collecting stem cells from a patient's sibling to attack the cancer. The trial aims to confirm previous NIH study results and explore its potential in treating solid cancers, including prostate and melanoma.
Researchers at UCSF and Compugen identified a new chemokine CXCL16 that recruits immune cells to sites of infection. The novel molecule binds to the CXCR6 receptor, which is exploited by HIV viruses for entry into human cells.
Researchers have discovered a potential new target for therapy by understanding how Onyx-015 works against cancer cells. The study suggests that the drug's effectiveness may be linked to p14 ARF, which could lead to the development of new cancer treatments.
Researchers found that CPR training combined with social support significantly improved parental adjustment and reduced anxiety, compared to traditional instructor-led training. The study showed that parents who received CPR training felt more reassured and confident in caring for their high-risk newborns.
Researchers have developed a chemically switchable approach to study kinases, crucial for signal transmission in all cells. The technique allows precise experiments to determine the specific function of hundreds of kinases without disrupting overall cell function.
The Alliance For Cellular Signaling will map thousands of molecular interactions in cells using a collaborative approach. Researchers will publish data on the Internet immediately, enabling free access to enhance medical treatment discoveries.
A new UCSF study reveals that while combination antiretroviral therapy has improved patient outcomes, it also creates uncertainty and anxiety among healthcare providers. The researchers found that providers are struggling to make informed decisions due to a lack of resources and limited information on patient adherence.
The NIH has awarded a $6 million per year grant to create the Women's Health Interdisciplinary Scholarship Program for Research, aiming to increase quality research in women's health. The program will provide salary support, coursework, and mentoring to junior faculty-clinical researchers.
UCSF researchers found that working Latinos and African Americans are playing catch up to their white counterparts in terms of job benefits. Despite California's growing high-tech sector, many minority groups face poverty, poor health status, and limited access to pension plans and healthcare.
A UCSF study reports that despite a strong labor market, job loss, short tenures, and poverty-level incomes are common among some Californians with physical or mental health problems. Workers in poor health often face poorer working conditions and lower earnings, while those who lose jobs may develop symptoms of depression.
A recent study found that older women with high natural estrogen levels are less likely to suffer cognitive decline. The researchers measured free estrogen and loosely bound forms of the hormone, finding a 70% lower risk of cognitive decline in those with the highest levels.
The UCSF School of Medicine has developed a radical new curriculum that integrates disciplines, introduces clinical concepts early, and expedites students' entry into patient care. The new model will replace the traditional structure and include courses taught in integrated blocks centered on clinical cases.
A UCSF study found that women who have had a hysterectomy are at a higher risk of developing urinary incontinence by age 60, with a 60% increased risk compared to those who have not undergone the surgery. Incontinence often develops several years after the procedure and can significantly impact quality of life.
Researchers have identified the protein that transports glutamate, a key player in brain function, offering a potential new target for treating diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The discovery could lead to therapies that either reduce or increase glutamate release, depending on the specific condition.
A new UCSF study found that women with advance provision of emergency contraception are three times more likely to use it than those who only received information. The study also found no increase in high-risk sex behavior among women using the morning-after pill.
A US study found that women with recent normal Pap smear results have a similar low rate of significant cellular abnormalities regardless of the time interval between screenings. The study suggests that some women may not need to be screened annually, and that less frequent screening may be safe for low-risk women.
Scientists at UCSF have shown that deformed prion proteins can trigger normal proteins to change shape and become infectious. The researchers used a new system to introduce prions into yeast, eliminating the possibility of non-prion molecules contributing to infection.
Researchers refute earlier research suggesting high triglyceride levels increase heart disease risk in men. In a new study, triglyceride measurements were found to be no help in predicting heart disease in men, unlike women where it was a good predictor of risk of heart attack and death.
The California Family PACT program has significantly reduced the number of unintended pregnancies among low-income women in California. The program saved over $512 million in public expenditures by providing comprehensive family planning services to more than 1.5 million clients, including education, counseling, and clinical services.
A UCSF study found that insured minorities, particularly Hispanics and Asian Americans, face cultural barriers and limited insurance plan choices, leading to difficulty accessing healthcare. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
A recent San Francisco study found that antiretroviral treatment continues to significantly improve AIDS patient survival rates, with a 60% reduction in risk of death for those receiving HAART. The study also revealed increased survival benefits over time, particularly among those diagnosed between 1996 and 1997.
Research shows that Ugandan companies can save money by providing HIV drugs to their employees, with annual cost savings of $74 per skilled employee and $42 per unskilled worker. The study found that providing prophylactic treatment for HIV-infected workers is a cost-effective option.
A comprehensive study of HIV patients taking protease inhibitors found that marijuana use did not alter viral loads, with subjects who smoked or took oral dronabinol experiencing slightly greater declines in HIV RNA levels than those taking placebos. Adverse effects were minimal and not statistically significant.