Scientists have developed a method to amplify vCJD prions from human brain tissue extracts, enabling recognition by existing detection methods. This breakthrough could aid in confirming whether someone is infected with variant CJD, crucial for preventing further disease spread through infected blood donations.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have shown that hormone therapy can prolong the life of some ovarian cancer patients by up to three years. The study found that targeted use of an anti-oestrogen drug could slow the growth and spread of disease in highly sensitive cancers.
Researchers have pinpointed how different types of damage to the DISC1 gene can cause schizophrenia and major depression. The study, published in Neuron, provides further evidence that these illnesses are inherited and may help doctors tailor treatments.
Researchers found a significant decline in death rates and heart failure among patients with severe heart attacks, with reductions of 4.5% and 11%, respectively. The study also showed improvements in stroke and further heart attack risk.
Scientists identified four Antarctic glaciers posing a threat to future sea levels, with East and West Antarctica's glaciers retreating in unison. A 0.35mm/year sea level rise due to the two ice sheets is about 12% of the current global trend.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have made a groundbreaking discovery in treating Rett syndrome, reversing symptoms in mice. By activating the MECP2 gene, they were able to eliminate breathing and mobility difficulties, leaving mice undistinguishable from healthy counterparts.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have created a nanomachine that traps molecules as they move in a specific direction, powered by light. This breakthrough builds on previous work and could lead to lasers moving objects remotely using molecular force.
A new study has identified dihydrocodeine as an equally effective alternative to expensive methadone treatment for heroin addiction. The prescription painkiller is cheaper, safer and less toxic, with estimated annual costs of £713 compared to £1,500 for methadone.
A study published in Nature Medicine has found that certain non-biological drugs can dramatically reduce tissue inflammation by inducing apoptosis in inflammatory cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for patients with lung and joint diseases, including fibrosing alveolitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
A new study recruiting up to 2,000 people from the remote Isles of Orkney aims to discover genes that predispose individuals to osteoporosis. The research will utilize a unique population isolated from the UK mainland, allowing for easier tracking and identification of genetic factors.
A new synthetic treatment has been discovered that uses cooling chemicals to kill pain, targeting the TRPM8 receptor in human skin. This approach may offer a more effective and safer alternative to conventional painkillers for chronic pain patients.
Incomplete vaccination of poultry flocks can lead to undetected spread of deadly avian flu strains like H5N1, according to a new study published in Nature journal. The research suggests that nearly all birds must be vaccinated to prevent silent transmission between farms.
MDM2 overproduced leads to unbalanced p53 regulation, promoting cancer cell growth. The study identifies protein fragments binding to MDM2, inhibiting its destructive effect on p53.
The University of Edinburgh's Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility will establish a national database for clinical research training opportunities across Scotland. This initiative aims to enhance the skills of NHS Scotland healthcare teams, particularly those involved in primary care.
Researchers are investigating how type 2 diabetes affects brain function and memory. The Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study aims to identify risk factors linked to altered brain function in people with diabetes, which could inform the cause of diabetes-related memory problems.
Severe sepsis is a significant health problem causing death and ill-health in UK hospitals. Reliable data tracking is needed to plan resources and campaigns to improve outcomes.
The SUPREMO trial will investigate the benefits of postoperative radiotherapy after mastectomy in women at intermediate risk of breast cancer recurrence. The study aims to identify a molecular signature that can refine selection for radiotherapy and explore its impact on quality of life.
Researchers have discovered that frog proteins can rescue mouse embryonic stem cells from dividing without limit, highlighting an ancient mechanism that may hold the key to understanding human disease. The study also shows that mammals have adopted this function from amphibians, suggesting a long history of stem cell regulation.
In Scotland, attainment levels at 16 have narrowed slightly over the past 20 years, but social inequality in attainment at 18 has widened. Despite this, working-class youngsters consistently outperform their English peers.
A new MS Research Centre will be established at the University of Edinburgh to develop therapies for Multiple Sclerosis using latest techniques and investigate repairing damaged nervous system parts. The centre aims to unlock MS mysteries and potentially lead to a cure, with £2.5m funding from JK Rowling and MS Society Scotland.
Scientists are sounding the alarm on the dangers of animal movement in spreading diseases, citing examples such as avian 'flu and diseases of pets through international travel. They call for improved communication and regular screening of animals before movement to prevent disease spread.
A study by Dr. Faulkner highlights the challenges faced by women in engineering, including feeling left out socially and needing to conform to male-dominated norms. To improve retention, companies are advised to introduce diversity training and create more inclusive workplace cultures.
Researchers found that people with smaller anterior cingulate cortex had higher levels of stress hormones, suggesting a potential cause-and-effect relationship. The discovery deepens understanding of ageing, depression, and Alzheimer's diseases, and may lead to treatments targeting reduced stress hormone levels.
The Generation Scotland project is a multi-million pound initiative that will follow the health of 50,000 Scots family members over the next generation. The study aims to explore the causes of common diseases and identify those at high risk of developing genetic conditions.
Researchers have identified two proteins found in the Neurofascin gene that link glial ensheathment of nerve fibers to node formation. This breakthrough discovery may help find ways to improve nerve conduction in patients with conditions like MS.
Research reveals that highly stimulated brain cells reactivate dormant survival genes, making them healthier and more resilient. This discovery holds implications for developing therapies to halt neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as well as mitigating the effects of maternal substance abuse on unborn babies.
The IUPHAR database provides comprehensive information on GPCRs, including drugs that act on them, target locations in the body, and diseases they may be involved in. This knowledge is freely available to all scientists and drug discoverers worldwide, offering a powerful tool for future research.
Researchers have identified a new genetic link between PDE4B and DISC1 genes and mental illness, shedding light on the root causes of schizophrenia. The discovery suggests a potential new way of thinking about developing better treatments for this debilitating disease.
Dr Cleaveland's project seeks to eliminate rabies by targeting its primary source: dogs. The research also sheds light on the role of wildlife in transmitting diseases between species.
Researchers explore role of worm parasites in immune system regulation, discovering potential cure for tropical diseases like filariasis and schistosomiasis. The study also holds promise for treating autoimmune conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and hay fever.
Researchers seek to improve bowel cancer screening rates among socio-economically disadvantaged groups in Scotland. The study will help fill a knowledge gap on the effectiveness of primary care strategies targeting these groups.
A £2.6m project will examine early life events affecting farm animal stress and quality of life. The research aims to create standards for risk periods and understand the interaction between genetics and environment to optimize animal health and welfare.
Researchers at University of Edinburgh develop simpler way to produce negatively-refracting materials for lens construction, enabling cost-effective exploitation of negative refraction technologies. This breakthrough has significant implications for fields like telecommunications, microwave engineering, and optics.
The University of Edinburgh is partnering with universities worldwide to launch Masters Degrees in Legal Medicine and Forensic Science. The programs aim to equip students with comprehensive skills and expertise in forensic education, including courses on human identification, chemical evidence, and crime scene management.
A new study finds that ethnic minorities in Scotland experience a 60-70% higher incidence of heart attacks compared to non-South Asians. Poorer socio-economic status, environmental factors, barriers to healthcare, and genetic factors contribute to these disparities.
A study found that South Asian diabetics in Britain face challenges such as language barriers, cultural identity issues, and limited physical activity due to societal norms. The project aims to provide guidance on the use of interpreters in consultations to improve diabetes services for this community.
A two-year project at the University of Edinburgh aims to understand the cultural practices and needs of Sikh and Muslim patients nearing the end of life. The study will explore how caregivers can better support these communities, highlighting the importance of transcultural training for healthcare professionals.
Researchers found that Scots are more likely to have poorer economic situations, drink problems, and smoke more than English people. Despite controlling for these factors, the study revealed a 50% higher heart disease rate in Scotland compared to England.
Research investigates how an Atkins-type high meat, low carbohydrate diet in late pregnancy affects offspring's response to mental stress tests. The study, focusing on the 'Motherwell babies,' explores the long-term effects of maternal nutrition during pregnancy on adulthood health outcomes.
A three-year study aims to better understand the hormonal influences on post-natal psychiatric disorders in women. Researchers suspect that hormone signals within the brain play a key role in behavioral change following childbirth.
Researchers will investigate the spread of 'superbugs' and develop more effective antimicrobial agents and vaccine strategies to treat lung infections. The goal is to determine when segregation of CF patients is necessary, reducing social strain on families and individuals.
Researchers have identified two types of immune cells in the liver that can cause scarring or repair it. Understanding these cells may lead to new treatments for cirrhosis, a major cause of liver failure.
Researchers are conducting a study to examine the effects of fish oil supplements and increased fish consumption on blood vessel function in men. The study aims to investigate whether fish oil supplementation can counteract the negative effects of smoking on heart health.
The Usher Institute has played a significant role in advancing public health in Edinburgh, with a particular emphasis on the study of human genetics and its impact on health outcomes. The institute's research programs have contributed to the University of Edinburgh's reputation as an international research centre.
A University of Edinburgh health study found that people with previously undiagnosed diabetes are at a similar increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease as those with known diabetes. The researchers suggest using simple fasting blood sugar tests to identify individuals at high risk of heart disease and stroke.
A new study, ORCADES, will investigate the roles of inheritance and environment in causing three major killer diseases. The study aims to identify genes that predispose individuals to illness and understand the impact of lifestyle factors on disease development.
Scientists uncover vital role of Periaxin gene in causing CMT, a disabling disease affecting 23,000 people in the UK. The new research provides insight into how nerves work and may lead to development of gene therapies to correct faulty genes.
Professor Ken Donaldson proposes the creation of a new discipline, nanotoxicology, to study the potential harmful effects of nanoparticles. The importance of nanotechnology is debated, but its adverse impacts need to be studied to ensure sustainable development.
A study of 137 newborns found significant brain damage in 36% of early-born and 61% of term-born babies, suggesting that birth-related injuries are often overlooked.