Researchers at the University of Louisville have successfully treated stage IIIb to IV melanoma patients with a modified cold sore virus, resulting in improved survival rates. The therapy, talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), stimulates the immune system to fight cancer cells and has been shown to extend patient survival by 20 months.
Researchers at the University of Louisville have detailed a crucial connection between silica exposure and rapid lung cancer progression, highlighting the role of inflammatory mediator LTB4 and its receptor BLT1. The study's findings suggest that novel treatment strategies for both silicosis and associated lung cancers may be possible.
A study by the University of Louisville found that children with neurological disorders experience a higher risk of flu complications, yet vaccination rates remain suboptimal. Parents and healthcare providers often have misconceptions about the vaccine's safety and effectiveness.
The University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences has been selected as Kentucky's Local Performance Site within the Region IV Public Health Training Center. The program aims to strengthen the public health workforce in the southern US region, providing education and training for healthcare professionals.
Researchers will investigate biophysical factors, environmental exposures and allergens associated with asthma control in older adults. The five-year study aims to develop interventions to improve symptoms, reduce emergency room visits and enhance overall well-being for seniors with asthma.
The University of Louisville is conducting a study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational device called Zephyr Endobronchial Valve (EBV) for treating emphysema symptoms. The EBV blocks off diseased lung sections, allowing healthier parts to expand.
Researchers are developing a new reference genome sequence for domestic horses to better understand genetics in animal health and well-being. The new sequence aims to improve the ability to identify diseases and traits in horses.
Researchers at the University of Louisville have identified mutations that destabilize a DNA structure, turning a gene off in over 75% of glioblastomas and melanomas. This discovery provides a new model for understanding cancer-specific activation of telomerase, an enzyme promoting cell division.
Researchers investigate why Kentucky children are prescribed psychotropic medications at a higher rate than the national average. The study aims to identify patterns and potential causes, with a focus on improving care for vulnerable children.
The University of Louisville Department of Pediatrics has received a one-year, $50,000 grant from the St. Baldrick's Foundation to hire a nurse coordinator for neuroblastoma and sarcoma patients on clinical trials. The grant aims to provide additional access to clinical trials for local patients without having to travel elsewhere.
The Affordable Care Act has led to improved health care access for Kentucky's lowest-income residents, with 413,000 people gaining medical coverage. Residents are now able to seek non-urgent medical attention and receive guideline-based care, reducing financial stress.
Researchers have identified a new protein, THSD7A, that turns the immune system against itself in kidney disease called membranous nephropathy (MN). This discovery enables the development of a blood test to diagnose MN, which can reduce the need for kidney biopsies by up to 85%.
The UofL Trover Campus has received a national award for its innovative programs to address the shortage of physicians in rural areas. The campus offers training, mentorship, and clinical opportunities to medical students from underserved regions.
A new breast cancer radiation trial offers once-weekly regimens with no adverse effects, resulting in better completion rates and lowered costs. The study found that this approach allows for more convenience and choice for patients, improving their ability to complete treatment, while reducing costs by up to 50-60%.
A UofL research team led by Valerie Lander McCarthy proposes a new definition of successful aging that goes beyond traditional measures of physical and cognitive function. The concept emphasizes the importance of coping with challenges, maintaining social connections, and finding meaning in life.
The University of Louisville has received a three-year, $5.5 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to develop new treatments and vaccines for various forms of cancer. Researchers will focus on plant-based pharmaceuticals and vaccines for cervical and colon cancer.
Researchers have identified two new biomarkers for acute kidney injury (AKI) in urine, allowing for earlier detection and treatment. The markers, TIMP-2 and IGFBP7, were validated using clinical adjudication and tested in independent labs.
A study of over 57,000 people identified five new genes associated with increased waist-to-hip ratio, a precursor to diseases like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The research found that one gene, SHC1, is linked to abdominal fat and may play a role in metabolic imbalance.
A new plasma thermogram test has been developed by researchers at the University of Louisville, indicating the presence or absence of cervical cancer. The test measures unique protein signatures in blood plasma, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional Pap smear screening.
A University of Louisville School of Nursing team is collaborating with the Office of Child Advocacy and the Louisville Fire Department to enhance fire prevention education. The goal is to reduce burn injuries in newborns and senior adults through in-home inspections and education programs.
A virtual simulation program is being developed to train home health workers in recognizing and responding to risks. The program will use realistic scenarios and interactive elements to equip workers with the skills to evaluate home environments and adapt their tasks to protect themselves.
Researchers discovered that Porphyromonas gingivalis produces an enzyme that enhances collagen-induced arthritis, leading to earlier onset and greater severity of rheumatoid arthritis. The bacteria worsens joint destruction by changing proteins into citrulline, triggering an immune attack.
The University of Louisville Diabetes & Obesity Center has won a second $11.25 million COBRE grant to continue its research on diabetes and obesity. The center aims to develop new prevention methods and treatments for these conditions, which are major health threats in the US.
A team led by University of Louisville doctoral student Karen Collins discovered KELT-6b, a hot Saturn-like planet with an orbit that transits its star every 7.8 days, in the constellation Coma Berenices near Leo.
Researchers create nanoparticles using natural lipids derived from grapefruit, which can transport therapeutic agents to specific cells without causing adverse effects. The technology has been validated in a Phase 1 clinical trial for colon cancer patients and may be applied to treat inflammation-related autoimmune diseases.
A study published in Early Human Development found that massage therapy increased heart rate variability in male preterm infants, similar to term infants, suggesting improved stress response. However, female preterm infants did not show a significant increase in HRV after massage therapy.
A large-scale genetic study has identified three new genetic variants linked to obesity in individuals of African descent, also influencing BMI in the US population with no known African ancestry. The study suggests that these variants are present in nearly all previously identified European-derived obesity genes.
The University of Louisville's interdisciplinary curriculum for oncology palliative education (iCOPE) prepares students to work together as a team, addressing psycho-social-spiritual and physical needs. This innovative program aims to improve patient care and graduate students who demand interdisciplinary teams.
Researchers at the University of Louisville have identified H1N1 strain variations that hijack the body's immune system. The study found that these variants differ in their ability to fight off infection, with some more severe than others.
Researchers discovered that basal cells initiate repair and serve as progenitor cells after chlorine gas exposure, helping restore new tissue in the airways. Understanding this process can aid in developing treatments to prevent scarring and asthma-like breathing problems.
Researchers at UofL School of Dentistry have discovered a way to prevent inflammation and bone loss surrounding teeth by blocking the natural signaling pathway of enzyme GSK3b. This finding has implications for preventing periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition causing tooth loss.
A University of Louisville study reviewed medical literature to debunk fears about drive-thru flu clinics. The researchers found no evidence of fainting episodes or related auto accidents among over 50,000 vaccine recipients since the program's inception in 1995.
The University of Louisville Hospital has implemented new guidelines to guide perinatal nurses in caring for women at risk of postpartum depression (PPD). The guidelines, developed by a team led by M. Cynthia Logsdon, aim to improve PPD assessment, education, and referral policies.
The University of Louisville has received a $6.3 million grant to develop technology to help paralyzed people regain movement in their limbs, with the goal of improving quality of life. Researchers aim to advance research and treatment options for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
The University of Louisville has established a cardiac clinical research center thanks to a $3.4 million NIH grant. Researchers will test the safety and effectiveness of adult stem cell therapies for cardiovascular disorders.
A new pig model has been developed to study and potentially treat the debilitating eye disease retinitis pigmentosa. The miniature swine model expresses classic features of the disease and can be used to screen novel therapies for this devastating condition.
According to UofL research, substituting smokeless tobacco can save lives by reducing the risk of disease and death among smokers. Decades of epidemiologic research support this finding, with smokeless products being 98% safer than cigarettes.
The University of Louisville will receive a $576,800 grant to develop a low-cost, simple test for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) in developing countries. Researchers aim to identify and validate TB biomarkers using a disposable sampling plate and breath test.
Jan Potempa's discoveries on Porphyromonas gingivalis have led to a new understanding of the origin of gum tissue inflammation. His research may lead to the development of more effective medications to combat periodontal disease and reduce the risk of heart disease and arthritis.
The University of Louisville Health Sciences Center's Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) have a significant economic impact on the western half of Kentucky, with a value of over $5.7 million. The AHECs provide donated services and training to healthcare professionals in underserved areas, improving the lives of those in need.
Christian Davis Furman, a leading geriatrician at UofL, has been chosen for the CMS Innovation Advisors Program to enhance healthcare delivery and reduce costs. She will receive a stipend of up to $20,000 to support her activities during the one-year program.
The University of Louisville has introduced a new transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR) procedure to treat severe aortic stenosis, allowing patients to avoid traditional open-heart surgery. The procedure involves implanting a biological valve through a catheter and expanding it with a balloon.
Alyssa Turner, a pediatric emergency department fellow, has been awarded the Willis Wingert Award for her platform presentation on the impact of ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks. Her research found that this technique improves pain control in children with femur fractures and reduces adverse effects.
Researchers identified a process by which Legionella bacteria trick host cells into generating amino acids, necessary for growth and infection. The study's findings could lead to the development of new antibiotics and vaccines.
Researchers used adult stem cells to treat patients with heart failure after a myocardial infarction. The trial showed an average improvement of 12% in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and a decrease in scarred regions, suggesting that heart tissue can regenerate.
A UofL researcher is developing an oral health plan for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The pilot study aims to improve oral hygiene and prevent respiratory infections. Caregivers will receive education and support to help their patients with IDD maintain good oral health.
Paleontologist Guillermo Rougier and his team have reported the discovery of two skulls from the first known mammal of the early Late Cretaceous period in South America. The fossils provide a complete picture of the skull for the group, including extremely long canine teeth and a narrow muzzle.
Researchers are examining genetic variations that may predispose Hispanic women to greater breast cancer risk. Additionally, they're assessing the impact of obesity on breast cancer incidence rates among different ethnic groups.
The University of Louisville and Frazier Rehab Institute have been awarded a $2.2 million grant to establish a Spinal Cord Injury Model System, which aims to provide comprehensive rehabilitative care and advance research into treating spinal cord injuries. The program will serve the states of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee.
A new model for emergency preparedness staffing plans has been developed by UofL associate professor Ruth Carrico, PhD, utilizing nursing, pharmacy and public health students. The plan aims to increase the reliability of volunteers in participating in training exercises and real-time events during emergencies.