Researchers at the University of Iowa used a multidisciplinary approach to identify 90 FDA-approved drugs that may have potential as anti-seizure treatments. Gene expression profiling and bioinformatics revealed that these drugs significantly reduced seizures in zebrafish models.
Researchers found that even extensive thalamus damage does not severely impair consciousness, challenging decades-old medical dogma. The study identifies a new pathway from the brainstem through the hypothalamus and basal forebrain into the cortex as critical for maintaining wakefulness.
Researchers discovered a self-protection mechanism in failing heart cells that triggers the regulation of genes promoting heart failure. The study reveals that one fragment of the protein junctophilin-2 protects against damage by traveling to the cell nuclei.
A clinical trial showed AI detected diabetic retinopathy as accurately as expert clinicians, with a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 90%. Early detection may prevent vision loss, which affects 24,000 Americans annually.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have discovered glandular myoepithelial cells that can regenerate airways after severe injury. These reserve stem cells can develop into new replacement cells in both submucosal glands and the lining of the airway, offering a potential therapeutic target for lung diseases.
Researchers found that de-identified smart thermometer data was highly correlated with traditional public health surveillance systems, improving flu forecasting by up to four weeks. The data also revealed age-group specific incidence and estimated the duration of fevers during flu season.
Researchers have identified a method to prevent posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by reducing oxidative stress after fractures in an animal model. By inhibiting mitochondrial metabolism or boosting antioxidants, they demonstrated that PTOA can be significantly blunted.
A University of Iowa study reveals how excess fat in the heart's mitochondria leads to impaired energy production and cardiac damage. Researchers found that lipid overload causes small, misshapen mitochondria that don't produce energy efficiently.
A multidisciplinary neuroscience study found that low frequency brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus can improve cognitive symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease. The research also reveals a new connection between the frontal cortex and the subthalamic nucleus, which may be targeted to improve cognitive function.
A neuroprotective compound has been shown to protect against nerve cell death, depression, and memory problems in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease. The treatment also prevented the development of depression-like behavior and delayed cognitive decline.
Researchers discovered a genetic cause of autism that affects male mice more severely than females, leading to abnormal reward-learning behavior. This study sheds light on the sex differences in autism and may lead to new treatments for the disorder.
Researchers found that targeting the CTLA-4 molecule at the right time during malaria infection allows mice to quickly clear the disease and develop lasting immunity. The study suggests a new approach for combating malaria, potentially involving immunotherapy drugs or small molecules.
Researchers successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 to eliminate the mutated myocilin protein, which led to lowered intraocular pressure and prevented glaucomatous damage in mouse eyes. This breakthrough study could pave the way for a new therapy to treat myocilin glaucoma in humans.
Researchers have discovered that Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) can inhibit leukemia stem cells, which are resistant to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Combining PGE1 with standard chemotherapy may improve treatment outcomes for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia.
The University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma SPORE is one of the nation's longest-standing programs, funded for five years at $12.4 million. The team conducts translational and clinical studies to develop new approaches to lymphoma prevention, detection, and treatment.
Researchers have discovered ultra-rare gene mutations associated with eating disorders, targeting a pathway involved in appetite regulation and inflammation. The findings suggest potential new treatments for these conditions, particularly for bulimia nervosa.
Researchers found a significant decrease in white matter volume and integrity in infants who underwent general anesthesia and surgery, with implications for long-term brain development. The study suggests that further research is needed to understand the full impact of early anesthesia on human brain development.
Researchers found that elevated levels of protein Cdk8 in heart muscle cells lead to declining heart function and heart failure. The study suggests modifying gene expression may provide a path to preventive treatments for heart failure.
Researchers found that glucose metabolism is critical for platelet production, function, and clearance. The absence of glucose metabolism leads to lower platelet counts, defective megakaryocyte generation, and increased platelet clearance.
Researchers at the University of Iowa found that mildly stressing muscle metabolism boosts levels of fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21), a beneficial hormone that prevents obesity and diabetes in mice. FGF21 production reversed conditions and returned mice to normal weight and blood sugar levels.
Research from the University of Iowa finds that cystic fibrosis changes the structure of mucus in airways, making it harder for lungs to clear particles. This abnormal mucus production contributes to lung infections and inflammation, a major cause of life-threatening illness in CF patients.
Researchers at the University of Iowa discovered a protein that controls glucose uptake in fat cells based on cell swelling, leading to insights into the relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes. Mice lacking this protein developed insulin resistance and glucose intolerance despite having smaller fat cells.
Researchers used financial math models to accurately predict changes in HIV surface proteins over 30 years. By analyzing structural properties and 'volatility,' they can design vaccines that match the virus's evolving targets.
A study from the University of Iowa Health Care found that cerebellar stimulation in rats with schizophrenia-like thinking problems restored normal brain activity in the frontal cortex and corrected timing deficits. The researchers used optogenetics to stimulate the rats' cerebellar region, which led to improved cognitive function.
Researchers discovered a neuroprotective compound that reduces brain cell loss and boosts newborn neurons after stroke. The P7C3-A20 compound improves physical balance, coordination, learning, and memory in rats.
Researchers found that nicotinamide riboside supplementation prevented nerve pain in rats treated with chemotherapy, which could lead to improved outcomes for patients. The supplement increased levels of NAD+, a cell metabolite that protects against nerve damage.
A recent study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine found that injuries are more likely to occur in youth flag football than in youth tackle football. The research team compared over 3,800 participants and found no significant difference in severe injuries and concussions between the leagues.
Research at the University of Iowa shows that high-dose vitamin C selectively kills cancer cells by generating hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species. Cancer cells with low catalase activity are more susceptible to damage and death when exposed to high amounts of vitamin C.
A new study reveals that brain stimulation can improve timing abilities in mice lacking dopamine, a key player in Parkinson's disease. The breakthrough finding suggests that targeted brain stimulation could be used to treat cognitive problems caused by PD and possibly other conditions.
A recent study in mice suggests that protecting axons may prevent the development of neurological problems associated with TBI. The researchers used mice with a genetic mutation that protects axons and found that they did not develop vision or cognitive problems after blast-related TBI.
A study using genetically altered female mice found that a mutation in the histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) gene causes feeding and behavior abnormalities similar to those seen in patients with eating disorders. The research also identified a biological pathway associated with the risk of developing an eating disorder, which could lead to...
The first controlled clinical trial of nicotinamide riboside (NR) demonstrated that the compound is safe for humans and increases levels of a critical cell metabolite. NR supplementation has been shown to produce multiple health benefits, including improved control of blood sugar and cholesterol.
A clinical trial at the University of Iowa will compare the effects of two popular diets on multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. The 36-week trial will recruit 100 people with relapsing-remitting MS and follow their health for 24 weeks, monitoring their health and activities.
A new study published in Cell Reports explains how a blood pressure hormone system can promote obesity. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) controls energy balance and metabolic rate, with elevated brain RAS increasing energy expenditure and weight loss, while peripheral RAS suppressing resting metabolism and increasing weight gain.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found a distinct gut microbiome in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that patients with MS have reduced levels of beneficial bacteria, which are associated with overall health benefits.
A new study found that vitamin nicotinamide riboside (NR) can protect mice from diabetes complications by lowering blood sugar levels, reducing fatty liver, and preventing peripheral nerve damage. NR is a precursor to NAD+, an important cellular metabolite required for energy conversion.
A new study suggests a genetic overlap between bipolar disorder and autism, adding to the growing understanding that many psychiatric diseases share common roots. The research identified 84 rare genetic variations linked to bipolar disorder that were also associated with schizophrenia and autism.
A new study reveals that a genetic risk factor for five major psychiatric diseases may be linked to the death of newborn brain cells, which can disrupt learning, mood, and anxiety. The researchers found that a compound currently being developed could potentially prevent this cell death and have therapeutic value for these diseases.
A new study reveals that nerve damage occurs before vessel damage in the retina due to diabetes, contradicting long-held beliefs. This finding has significant implications for treatment and prevention strategies.
Researchers found patients with autism have higher gene mutations that drive cancer, but lower cancer rates. Autistic patients have significantly higher rates of DNA variation in oncogenes and are less likely to have a co-occurring diagnosis of cancer.
A new University of Iowa study shows that telehealth can help parents with children on the autism spectrum address challenging behavior at a lower cost. Specialists can train parents in applied behavior analysis via computer, reducing travel expenses and staff hours.
A research team at the University of Iowa uses proteomics to create personalized molecular diagnoses, tailoring treatments to individual patients. By analyzing protein profiles, doctors can identify specific disease causes and develop targeted therapies.
Scientists discovered that a proton pump called ATP12A causes problems in CF lungs by increasing airway acidity. This discovery may lead to new therapies targeting this protein to halt lung disease progression. The finding builds upon earlier work using CF pigs, which showed an abnormally acidic airway liquid.
Researchers have successfully corrected a blindness-causing gene mutation in stem cells derived from a patient's skin cells, offering hope for personalized, precision medicine. The technology uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to repair the damaged gene, and the corrected tissue can be transplanted without harm.
A new study reveals that musclin, a peptide released during exercise, improves muscle's capacity for energy production and increases exercise tolerance. The research shows that increased levels of circulating musclin trigger a signaling cascade that promotes muscle performance.
A University of Iowa study found that changes in the gut microbiome can cause obesity by reducing the resting metabolic rate, leading to weight gain. The researchers discovered a significant decrease in non-aerobic resting metabolic rate sufficient to account for the animals' weight gain.
A new study found that gamma interferon, an FDA-approved drug, completely protects mice from death when given either before or up to 24 hours after exposure to Ebola. The treatment targets macrophages and blocks the infection of those initial cell targets, preventing a second round of infection.
The University of Iowa has received a $10.67 million SPORE grant to research neuroendocrine tumors, which have seen a five-fold increase in incidence over three decades. The grant aims to develop new diagnostic and treatment approaches through analyzing gene expression profiles and identifying important mutations.
Researchers at the University of Iowa have identified a protein that causes age-related muscle weakness and loss. They also discovered two natural compounds, found in apples and green tomatoes, which reduce this protein's activity and can restore muscle mass and strength.
A University of Iowa study reveals that disabling a critical biological checkpoint, Mitochondrial Pyruvate Carrier (MPC), reduces blood sugar levels in mouse models of type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that inhibiting MPC activity could be a new target for drugs to treat diabetes.