Researchers developed a new nanoparticle drug formulation targeting specific receptors on cancer cells, dispersing chemotherapy drug paclitaxel evenly throughout tumors. The study found the 'DART' nanoparticles significantly increased median overall survival compared to Abraxane treatment in animal studies.
Patients treated in a specialized resuscitation unit received faster treatment and better health outcomes, including a 36% lower risk of dying than those transferred directly to traditional intensive care units. The CCRU improved access to critical care resources and definitive surgical treatment.
A landmark study by the Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) found that even mild cases of diarrheal illness can be fatal to young children. The study, published in Lancet Global Health, suggests that more aggressive action is needed to prevent and treat all cases of diarrheal illness, regardless of severity.
Researchers have identified the structure of a lethal toxin produced by C. difficile bacteria, paving the way for new drugs to neutralize it. The finding uses cryo electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography to map out delivery and binding components of the toxin.
Researchers at UMSOM are testing a combined Shigella-ETEC vaccine to offer protection against diarrheal diseases, which cause millions of deaths worldwide. The vaccine has been developed with $4.5 million funding from Emergent BioSolutions.
Researchers identified a potential new therapy for lymphatic filariasis, a disabling parasitic disease, using innovative RNA sequencing techniques. The experimental cancer drug JQ1 effectively kills adult worms in laboratory settings and may be more effective than standard treatments.
Dr. Kathleen Neuzil's pivotal research informed global vaccine policy, saving millions worldwide. As a member of the National Academy of Medicine, she will continue to shape public health policy.
Researchers discovered a delayed and prolonged inflammatory response in diabetic mice infected with MERS-CoV, indicating a malfunction in the body's response to infection. This finding highlights the importance of managing glucose levels in patients with diabetes experiencing respiratory infections.
Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine identify new pathway to destroy cancer cells using PARP inhibitor and DNA methyltransferase inhibitor combination. The therapy has a synergistic effect when combined with radiation therapy, potentially expanding treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer patients.
Researchers discovered a neurosteroid drug can correct behavioral problems and brain abnormalities caused by prenatal exposure to THC. This finding suggests a therapeutic approach for children born to mothers who used cannabis during pregnancy, highlighting the need for caution and guidance for pregnant women using cannabis.
A clinical trial found that an experimental growth factor increases knee cartilage thickness, preventing further loss and pain. The therapy may be effective for higher-risk patient populations with severe pain and narrow joint space.
The University of Maryland School of Medicine has been awarded a $200 million contract from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to develop and test new influenza vaccines. The research aims to protect against emerging flu strains and improve seasonal vaccines.
A new study from the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that treatment solely based on sleep studies is unreliable in children with sleep apnea. Resolution of airway obstruction measured by a sleep study after adenotonsillectomy does not correlate with improvement in sleep apnea symptoms.
A new University of Maryland School of Medicine study examines the impact of food insecurity among children from birth to age four, finding a steady rise in obesity rates as they grow. Despite food insecurity, toddlers are more likely to experience poor overall health and developmental problems.
Researchers found that 23% of participants in one group and 18% in another could walk over 300 meters in six minutes after a 16-week home-based intervention. While both groups showed significant improvement, the difference was not statistically significant.
Severe malaria cases in the US are increasing, with limited access to IV treatment. Malaria expert Mark Travassos calls for improved access to intravenous quinidine gluconate, a critical medication for serious cases.
A novel mechanism has been discovered that explains how specific types of cervicovaginal microbiome can protect women against chlamydial infection. The research found that certain bacteria in the vagina can produce D-lactic acid, which down-regulates cell cycling and blocks the entry of Chlamydia trachomatis into human cells.
The University of Maryland School of Medicine has been awarded a $750,000 grant to establish a rural residency program in Maryland's Eastern shore communities. The program aims to develop a sustainable pipeline for primary care physicians in rural areas, addressing the growing shortage of providers in the region.
A new study suggests that elevated estrogen levels in early pregnancy can lead to placenta abnormalities, but treating pregnant women with the growth factor VEGF could halt preeclampsia and preterm birth. Researchers found that VEGF treatment increased uterine artery remodeling and improved blood flow to the placenta.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have discovered pigment-producing stem cells that can regenerate myelin sheaths in mice, potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis. The discovery could offer a less invasive and simpler alternative to embryonic stem cells.
The UMD Institute for Genome Sciences has been awarded $17.5 million to continue its genome-based investigation of polymicrobial infectious disease outcomes. The grant will support research into host-pathogen-microbiome interactions, focusing on multiple bacteria, fungal pathogens, and parasitic tropical diseases.
Researchers at UMSOM have discovered a crucial receptor called mGlu2 that is critical to the mechanism of fast-acting antidepressants like ketamine. The discovery could lead to better treatments for depression by understanding how the brain reacts to Ketamine.
Researchers discovered that allergic reactions trigger changes in brain behavior development in unborn males and females. This study, published in Scientific Reports, found that immune cells play a critical role in sexual differentiation and may contribute to natural variations in male and female sexual behavior.
A University of Maryland School of Medicine study has identified seven bacteria associated with increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, while higher levels of a natural antimicrobial peptide may lower this risk. The findings hold promise for early diagnosis and prevention of premature births, particularly in African American women.
A new international consortium, led by Dr. Kathy Neuzil of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, aims to introduce the typhoid conjugate vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. The research highlights challenges such as surveillance, antibiotic resistance, and cost-effectiveness.
A new study by Dr. Margaret McCarthy's Lab reveals that male sex steroids play a key role in shaping brain development, particularly in the amygdala, which controls emotions and social behaviors. The research shows that testosterone eliminates newborn cells in males, while females' cells differentiate into glial cells.
Researchers analyzed gene expression profiles of P. vivax malaria patients to understand transmission and treatment response. The study revealed complex transmission dynamics and differences in how the parasite responds to chloroquine treatment.
A clinical trial tested the effectiveness of topical antibiotic mupirocin in eliminating Staphylococcus aureus colonization in hospitalized infants. The study found that mupirocin is safe and highly effective in reducing SA infection, with over 90% of treated infants testing negative for SA after treatment.
Researchers are investigating the impact of prebiotics on immune system function in people with schizophrenia, focusing on the production of short chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate. The study aims to improve understanding of the brain-gut connection and potential treatments for cognitive impairments.
Researchers discovered that a bacterial protein, DnaK, interferes with cell response to and repair of DNA damage, increasing cancer risk. The study suggests that bacterial infections may contribute to more cancers than previously thought.
A joint US-African effort to test the Bharat Biotech typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) on 250 children aged 9-36 months in Burkina Faso. The study aims to evaluate the TCV's efficacy when co-administered with other routine vaccines, such as yellow fever and meningitis A vaccines.
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered changes in brain activity linked to the brain's reward memory response in depression. The research found that the strength of signals between two brain regions is critical for processing rewarding stimuli.
Researchers identified the Ikzf2 gene as a key regulator of special cells needed for hearing. Introducing a virus engineered to overexpress helios into inner ear hair cells transformed some mature inner hair cells into outer hair cells, exhibiting critical characteristics. This discovery may lead to therapies for age-related hearing loss.
A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that exposing newborn mice to vaginal microbes from stressed female mice can transfer the effects of stress to the newborns. The study indicates that maternal stress affects brain development in offspring and may be influenced by the vaginal microbiota.
Researchers have identified O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) as a key molecule responsible for the sex-specific patterns of gene expression. High levels of H3K27me3 in the female placenta produce resilience to stress, which may explain why females are less susceptible to neurodevelopmental disorders than males.
Researchers discovered that asymptomatic malaria infections do not protect against new infections, and treating these cases could help prevent the spread of malaria. Treating asymptomatic malaria carriers reduced the risk of malaria illness by 50%.
A study at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found a correlation between certain gut microbes and resistance to typhoid fever. Those with higher levels of methanogens were significantly less likely to become sick after exposure to virulent bacteria.
Historians have long been puzzled by Saladin's sudden death in 1193, but expert Stephen J. Gluckman has shed new light on the mystery. Typhoid fever is believed to be the most likely culprit, a bacterial disease common in the region at the time.
Researchers discovered that dopamine drives animals to avoid unpleasant situations, including electric shocks. This finding expands the role of dopamine in aversively motivated behaviors and sheds light on brain disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. The study also highlights the potential benefits of i...
A massive international study of 520,000 people has identified 22 previously unknown genetic contributors to stroke, shedding light on the complex biology of the disease. The findings suggest that stroke shares common genetic influences with other vascular conditions and may lead to personalized treatments.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine are conducting trials to test the safety and efficacy of an H7N9 influenza vaccine. The vaccine, developed by Sanofi Pasteur, will be evaluated in healthy volunteers and elderly adults, with different dosages and adjuvant combinations tested.
Scientists have identified genetic patterns in Haemophilus influenzae that make certain strains more dangerous than others. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments and vaccines for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients.
Despite significant increases in female radiology research, rates of publication have leveled off since 2000. The proportion of female authors in top radiology journals has increased, but progress remains slow.
Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new military vehicle shock absorbing device that may protect troops from traumatic brain injury after a land mine blast. The technology, which reduces blast acceleration by up to 80 percent, has the potential to be adapted for use in vehicle bumpers and other applications.
New research reveals that a father's stress alters his sperm, leading to changes in the brain development of his child. This finding provides insight into the crucial role fathers play in their offspring's brain development.
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have discovered a significant link between mitochondrial changes and cocaine addiction. By blocking these changes, researchers were able to reduce cocaine-induced behavior in mice.
A high-dose live oral vaccine has been found to be more effective in rapidly protecting individuals from cholera than the standard two-dose killed vaccine approach. This breakthrough could lead to improved control of outbreaks and lower mortality rates, particularly in low-income countries.
Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine identified a type of cell in the brain's primary processing area that responds to sound, providing new insights into early sensory development. This breakthrough has implications for diagnosing autism and other cognitive deficits emerging early in development.
Three new studies have identified key proteins in microbes found in extremely salty environments, enabling them to survive in cold, dry conditions. These findings have applications in green biotechnology and could lead to the removal of toxic contaminants like perchlorate from groundwater.
Researchers at UMD School of Medicine are studying a new approach to tackle antibiotic resistance by targeting the immune system's response to harmful bacteria. They aim to prevent inflammation and white blood cell activation using special molecules or peptides, which could pave the way for treating a wide range of infections.