A study by University of Minnesota researchers has identified distinct structural features among seven types of retroviruses, including HIV and HTLV-1. The findings could inform the development of new antiviral treatments and vaccines for various diseases caused by these viruses.
Researchers discover USP14 as a promising biomarker for predicting endometrial cancer recurrence. Women with high levels of USP14 are seven times more likely to recur than those with low levels, highlighting the potential for tailored treatment approaches.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have created a new model to study the human immune system, using 'dirty mice' that mimic the exposure to microbes found in humans. This new model has shown to improve the accuracy of potential therapeutics and vaccines.
A pooled analysis of 13 studies covering 33,571 subjects found a significant association between pre-labor cesarean delivery and an increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children. The study suggests that the stress response in the fetus caused by labor may be involved in this correlation.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers identified the mechanism of 5-azacytidine, a DNA-based drug that blocks HIV's ability to spread. The drug converts to a DNA form and infiltrates HIV when it turns RNA into DNA, stopping replication.
A new study from the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center found DNA imprinting defects in children with osteosarcoma and their parents. The researchers suggest that these defects may be a cause of the disease's pathobiology, and could lead to targeted treatments using DNA- and chromatin-modifying drugs.
Researchers at UMN identified two key mutations in MERS virus enabling its transmission from bats to humans. These mutations allowed the virus to infect human cells, highlighting a crucial evolutionary strategy used by the virus.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center have developed a new genetic mouse model that reveals genes and pathways driving osteosarcoma. The model identifies SEMA4D and SEMA6D as key proteins to target in osteosarcoma treatment.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center have developed a new reporter system to study bone regeneration potential in human embryonic stem cells. The system allows for better monitoring of cell properties and may lead to the creation of new therapies for diseases such as leukemia or genetic blood disorders.
A multi-center trial found similar survival rates in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who received one or two units of partially matched cord blood. The study revealed improved recovery rates and lower risks of complications when using a double cord blood approach.
University of Minnesota researchers have identified microRNAs miR-182 and miR-503 that contribute to the development of colon polyps into cancerous tumors. By targeting these microRNAs, physicians may be able to provide earlier and more specialized treatment for patients with a higher risk of colon cancer.
UMN researchers have created an animal model for facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle loss. The model allows for the testing of potential therapies and has revealed new insights into the disease mechanism, including a possible link to skeletal muscle regeneration.
Researchers have discovered a potential MERS transmission mechanism between bats and humans, highlighting the need for understanding animal origins and preventing human infections. The study found that MERS virus adapts to human cells more efficiently than related bat virus HKU4, which struggles to infect human cells.
Researchers identified specialized ribbons of four protofilaments within cilia microtubules, linking proteins to human disease. The discovery sheds light on the microstructure of cilia and their role in human function and disease.
Researchers have discovered a partnership between MYC and non-coding RNA PVT1 that fuels cancer cells. This finding could lead to the development of drugs targeting PVT1, potentially controlling major cancer genes like MYC.
A new US study found that nearly 4% of babies born in the US are delivered early without a medical reason, with sociodemographic differences identified between women having early elective labor inductions and cesareans. Early elective deliveries are linked to increased health risks for mothers and babies.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota found that rats were willing to wait longer for certain flavors, indicating individual preferences. The study suggests that regret is a fundamental cognitive process shared among mammals.
A study from the University of Minnesota found that sex-specific transcription factors perform lifelong work to maintain sexual determination and protect against reprogramming of cells. The researchers identified key transcription factors responsible for maintaining sexual differentiation, including DMRT1 and FOXL2.
Research found that drugs used to treat HIV penetrate poorly into lymphatic tissues, allowing persistent low-level virus replication. This replication may contribute to chronic immune activation and accelerated aging in patients.
University of Minnesota researchers have discovered a series of compounds with anti-HIV activity that block HIV DNA synthesis or induce lethal mutagenesis. The compounds, known as ribonucleoside analogs, stop the replication and spread of HIV by preventing it from reproducing.
Researchers found that HIV protein Tat alters synaptic connections between nerve cells, leading to neurocognitive impairment in infected patients. The changes appear to be a protective response resulting from the over-excitation of the network by Tat.
A study published in Nature Immunology has identified two key proteins, KLF2 and S1P1, that influence immune response strategies. The findings suggest that cytokines play a major role in determining whether lymphocytes become resident memory cells or recirculate.
The University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine has uncovered the role of ORMDL3 in asthma, linking it to inflammatory cell recruitment and airway inflammation. The study found that silencing or over-expressing ORMDL3 in eosinophils reduces inflammation by decreasing integrin expression.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Academic Health Center have developed a new delivery system for a combination of two FDA-approved drugs that may serve as an effective treatment for HIV. The discovery allows for a pill-form combination of decitabine and gemcitabine, marking a major step forward in patient feasibility.
U of M researchers identified infection-fighting and inflammation-suppressing functions for the PTPN22 gene, which could impact treatment strategies for autoimmune diseases. The study found that a variant of PTPN22 impacts immune system function in health and disease.
Researchers identified clear risk factors for suicidal behavior among youth being bullied, including self-injury, emotional distress, and previous trauma. However, strong parental connections, positive school experiences, and perceived caring from adults were found to be significant protective factors.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a way to correct genetic defects in skin cells of patients with epidermolysis bullosa. They used engineered transcription activator-like effector nucleases to target and fix mutation-causing genes, resulting in the production of missing proteins in living skin models.
Researchers developed a mouse model to study MPNST, identifying genes FOXR2 and NF1/PTEN pathways involved in its development. The study aims to repurpose existing therapeutics for MPNST treatment and explore new targeting strategies.
A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota has discovered that a single gene, Mesp1, can be used to create different cell types, including heart, blood, and muscle cells, from stem cells.
A new study from the University of Minnesota School of Nursing has found that an 18-month preventive intervention program can significantly reduce social bullying among all girls, including those with strong family ties. The program also increased college enrollment and reduced risk for violence during early adulthood.
U of M researchers have successfully generated stem cells capable of muscle regeneration using induced pluripotent stem cell technology and genetic correction. The approach has shown promise in treating muscular dystrophy, paving the way for testing in reprogrammed human pluripotent cells.
A recent study by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health found that hospital cesarean delivery rates varied widely across US hospitals, with lower-risk patients experiencing even greater variation. The study's findings suggest potential quality issues and highlight the need for improved data on maternity care quality.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified a genetic variation in CD33 that significantly affects the clinical outcome of AML patients who received gemtuzumab ozogamicin chemotherapy. This discovery may help predict which patients are most likely to benefit from the treatment and improve therapeutic efficacy.
State Medicaid programs offering coverage for birth doulas may capture cost savings associated with reduced cesarean rates, benefiting diverse, low-income women. Doula support improves birth outcomes and enhances the mother's birth experience.
Researchers created an optimized parvalbumin protein, ParvE101Q, that acts as a 'calcium sponge' for heart muscle, allowing efficient relaxation after contraction. This discovery offers a promising step forward in solving diastolic heart failure, a common killer of both men and women.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified an enzyme called APOBEC3B as a key player in causing DNA mutations found in most breast cancers. The discovery may lead to new diagnostic methods and treatments that can prevent or block these harmful mutations, offering hope for improved breast cancer outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota's Center for Drug Design developed a synthetic compound, psi-GSH, that prevents neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease in a mouse model. The compound enables the brain to use its own protective enzyme system against the disease process.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new drug called Minnelide to target and destroy tumor cells in pancreatic cancer. The drug works by inhibiting heat shock protein HSP 70, which aids tumor cell growth, effectively disintegrating the cancer.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers found that antimicrobial growth promoters in swine alter intestinal bacteria composition, leading to accelerated growth and development. The findings suggest a possible alternative to antibiotics in animal production without compromising animal health.
Researchers have discovered a link between reactivated R-spondin proteins and colon cancer development, potentially leading to more personalized therapies. The discovery involves gene mutations that trigger cell proliferation in the colon.
Researchers analyzed medical group practices providing care for over 133,000 diabetic patients and found a significant reduction in healthcare costs with improved quality of care. The study suggests that investing in quality care can lead to cost savings without compromising patient outcomes.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that consuming fast food even once a week increases the risk of dying from coronary heart disease by 20 percent. Eating fast food two or more times a week also boosts the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 27 percent, especially among younger and better-educated individuals.
University of Minnesota researchers found that patients with high levels of good cholesterol but low levels of the GPx3 enzyme were six times less likely to develop cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that measuring this enzyme may become a common blood test to determine risk for cardiovascular disease.
University of Minnesota public health researchers found two high-signal genetic markers correlated with coronary artery disease, which may help define genetic fingerprints for increased risk. The study analyzed data from over 75,000 patients and offers biological and clinical data supporting future research into the genetic markers.
Researchers discovered that giant cells called titan cells protect the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans during infection, shielding it from the immune system. This finding could lead to the development of new treatments for infections caused by Cryptococcus, a deadly concern for immunocompromised individuals.
Researchers from the University of Minnesota and Washington University found that folic acid fortification of grain products does not increase childhood cancer rates but may be protective against certain cancers. A notable decrease in Wilms tumor and primitive neuroectodermal tumor was observed following the start of fortification.
Researchers from the University of Minnesota have effectively treated muscular dystrophy in mice using human stem cells derived from a new process that makes the production of human muscle cells efficient and effective. The study outlines a strategy for developing a rapidly dividing population of skeletal myogenic progenitor cells, set...