A UNC-led research team developed a searchable database of more than 200 commonly used antibodies to help genetic scientists precisely test DNA. The database addresses the issue of specificity in antibody tests, which can affect gene regulation and human diseases.
Researchers found that common genetic variants near aging-related genes influence the production of circular RNAs, which control INK4/ARF gene expression and risk of diseases like heart attack and stroke. Individuals with more of these circular forms have increased INK4/ARF gene expression.
Scientists found that extreme temperature variations greatly impact chemical reactions, with some taking over 2 billion years to occur without enzyme assistance. This discovery challenges traditional views on life's origins and may influence future research on artificial catalysts.
Dr. Arjun Deb received the prestigious Louis N. and Arnold M. Katz Basic Science Research Prize for his groundbreaking research on Wnt1-mediated dynamic injury response in epicardium activation and mammalian cardiac repair. His work has significant implications for understanding adult stem cell biology and organ regeneration.
Researchers discovered that bacteria produce unique proteins to inhibit growth and end life of other bacteria, suggesting a primitive form of kin selection. These proteins are acquired through horizontal gene transfer, allowing bacteria to adapt and evolve.
Researchers discovered that a genetic error causing cystic fibrosis also affects the flow of sodium ions, preventing excessive mucus buildup. This finding has implications for developing better therapies for the disease.
A new study found that African Americans are three times more likely to have corns or flat feet than whites, with twice the likelihood of having bunions and hammer toes. The study, led by Yvonne M. Golightly, suggests a real racial difference in foot disorders beyond obesity.
Researchers at UNC identify cellular communicators for cancer virus, revealing a new mechanism by which the Epstein-Barr virus manipulates cells and induces uncontrolled growth. The study shows that infected cells can produce altered exosomes that enter recipient cells, changing their growth patterns.
The study found significant benefits of Tai Chi for individuals with arthritis, including improved pain, fatigue, stiffness, and sense of well-being. Participants showed moderate improvements in physical function performance measures, such as timed chair stands and gait speed.
A UNC research team has identified RGL2 as a critical protein in the KRAS signaling pathway, which could lead to the development of effective pancreatic cancer treatments. The team's findings suggest that blocking this pathway may hold promise for halting the growth of pancreatic tumors.
A team of researchers has discovered a way to target and block the enzyme beta glucuronidase, which causes severe diarrhea in patients taking CPT-11, a widely used colon cancer treatment. The breakthrough approach could improve anticancer drug efficacy and tolerance without harming beneficial gut bacteria.
Women with anorexia nervosa more likely to experience unplanned pregnancies and induced abortions due to misconceptions about their fertility. Healthcare providers must be aware of this increased risk and provide proper care, including prenatal screening for eating disorders.
A recent study from the University of North Carolina Health Care found that current infertility tests may label many women as infertile who actually get pregnant naturally. The researchers suggest using another hormone, antimullerian hormone (AMH), as a more accurate predictor of fertility.
Researchers have elucidated the atomic structure of a major cell signaling pathway, revealing how it converts molecular signals into cellular responses. The study's findings have implications for understanding cancer and developing new treatments.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine found a gene variant associated with increased sensitivity to alcohol, suggesting a new mechanism for perception and brain effects. This discovery could lead to the development of drugs that enhance sensitivity to alcohol, while also offering insights into the complex nature of alcoholism.
A new study found that women aged 67 and older with normal bone mineral density scores may not need re-screening in 10 years. The researchers calculated estimated times for 10 percent of the women to transition to osteoporosis, finding that it would take about 16 years for this group to develop osteoporosis.
Routinely giving ondansetron to children with gastroenteritis-induced vomiting can prevent thousands of hospitalizations. The medication also saves millions of dollars each year due to reduced need for intravenous fluids and hospital admissions.
A biomarker called TCF21 has shown promise in developing a potential screening test for early-stage lung cancer. The biomarker's abnormal expression was found in over 80% of non-small-cell lung cancers, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic tool.
A $12 million grant is being used to develop a disease registry for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in children. The registry will provide real-time information on thousands of IBD cases across the country, allowing doctors and researchers to assess treatment strategies and identify the most successful approaches.
A clinical trial of gene therapy for muscular dystrophy has uncovered an unexpected aspect of the disease, revealing that some patients mount an immune response to the dystrophin protein even before receiving treatment. The study suggests that tailoring treatment approaches to suit individual patient needs could lead to better outcomes.
The $1.5 million grant will fund Ben Major's work to identify functional human genes contributing to specific cellular processes, such as cancer growth and migration. The goal is to develop a low-cost approach to determine gene function in the human genome.
A UNC study found that radio frequency tags on surgical sponges can aid in preventing sponges from being left behind in patients following surgery. The researchers used a radio-frequency detection device in 1,600 operations and detected one sponge in an operation where manual counting was correct.
A team of UNC scientists has received a $2,308,800 grant to develop targeted nano-particle technology for early detection and more effective treatments of pancreatic cancer. The goal is to design nanoscale metal-organic frameworks capable of carrying imaging and therapeutic cargoes or multiple drugs.
A large international study has identified hundreds of genes contributing to human height, revealing that a combination of multiple genes determines an individual's stature. The research points the way for future studies exploring how these genes interact to impact growth and development.
The National Cancer Institute has awarded a five-year, $13.6 million grant to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Carolina Center of Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment through nanotechnology advances. The grant will support research efforts led by Dr. Joseph DeSimone and Dr. Joel Te...
A large clinical study found patients with specific genetic variations in the IL-1Ra gene were almost twice as likely to progress to severe osteoarthritis. The study suggests using genetic patterns to identify high-risk patients for clinical trials and personalize treatment plans.
A new study has uncovered the genetic mechanisms controlling the growth of collateral circulation, which can provide oxygen to starved tissues in the event of a heart attack or stroke. The researchers identified a section of DNA involved in variation in collateral vessel density and diameter.
Researchers found two mechanisms altering HIV-1 population in semen, including clonal amplification and compartmentalization. The study suggests the viral population in semen may be distinct from that in blood, affecting our understanding of transmission and selective pressures.
A new report highlights concerns about home genetic tests making exaggerated claims to consumers. Medical professionals argue that individuals should be protected from misinterpretation of complex genomic data. Experts call for a balance between public access and responsible marketing practices.
Research led by UNC studies found that corporal punishment is prevalent globally, with 79% of preschool children in the US and varying rates in other countries. Harsh physical discipline was epidemic in all communities, and mothers with fewer education years were more likely to use physical punishment.
A UNC physician authored an editorial on a cost-effectiveness study comparing colonoscopy and computed tomographic colonography (CTC) for colon cancer screening. The analysis concluded that CTC is not cost-effective compared to colonoscopy if reimbursed at the same rate.
Researchers at UNC Health Care have made a breakthrough in understanding the role of Tet 1 protein in maintaining stem cell pluripotency. The study found that Tet 1 helps stem cells renew themselves and stay undifferentiated, paving the way for personalized therapies.
Two UNC School of Medicine faculty authored an editorial discussing the results of two clinical trials using Rituximab to treat small-vessel vasculitis, a rare autoimmune disease. The trials showed that Rituximab was effective in inducing remission compared to other treatments.
A six-gene signature associated with metastatic disease has been identified in patients with pancreatic cancer, enabling earlier prediction of survival prognosis and potential therapeutic targets. This finding may inform treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.
A study by the University of North Carolina Health Care found that simple interventions, including a color-coded BMI chart and a questionnaire, can change parents' perspectives on their child's weight and behavior. The study showed improved dietary behaviors and reduced screen time in overweight children.
A recent study by UNC researchers provides evidence that a specific gene, MAGE-11, interacts with proteins to promote androgen receptor activity in advanced prostate cancer cells. This finding opens the door to additional targets for new therapies and broader clinical applications of new drugs.
Engineered allosteric regulation provides precise control of kinase activity in living cells, enabling scientists to understand cellular processes and dissect the functions of kinases. This new method has exciting applications in basic research and promises to open doors to new scientific insights into cancer and other human diseases.
Researchers at UNC Health Care have identified a simple, non-toxic pill that decreases radiation toxicity when given after radiation exposure. The drug, called PQ, temporarily stops bone marrow cells from dividing, protecting against radiation-induced damage.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill discovered a link between altered gut microbiota and colon cancer, finding higher bacterial diversity and richness in individuals with adenomas. The study suggests that manipulating the microbiota through diet could help prevent colon cancer.
Brain signs of schizophrenia found in babies with larger brains and lateral ventricles in high-risk group, differing from girls in the study. Early detection could lead to new approaches to prevent or treat the disease.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that giving antiretroviral drugs to HIV-infected breastfeeding mothers is as effective as administering an HIV-fighting syrup to their babies in preventing HIV transmission. Both methods were shown to increase infant HIV-free survival rates.
A new UNC study found that African Americans with two or more medical conditions had almost zero surgeries, while white patients in the same situation had surgery just as often. The study also found that lack of a regular source of care led to significantly lower surgical rates for black patients.
A new study by UNC researchers found that post-deployment anger and hostility are associated with PTSD hyperarousal symptoms, such as sleep problems and irritability. Veterans who experienced traumatic brain injury or childhood abuse were also at higher risk for aggressive behavior.
The University of North Carolina has launched a new imaging center with advanced microscopes and equipment, providing researchers with cutting-edge technology and collaboration opportunities. The center is designed to stimulate scientific inquiry in fields such as cancer, neuroscience, and pharmacology.
A UNC study finds that most kidney dialysis patients are unprepared for emergencies like hurricanes, which could disrupt life-saving treatment. The survey of North Carolina patients highlights the need for better disaster preparedness education and awareness.
Researchers discovered that the key signaling molecule nitric oxide is crucial for maintaining the number of collateral vessels and their growth into natural bypass vessels. The study found that a lack of nitric oxide impairs collateral remodeling, which can lead to reduced blood flow and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
A new technique developed by UNC researchers uses light to manipulate protein behavior in cells, enabling precise control of cell movement. This discovery has significant implications for understanding embryonic development, nerve regeneration, and cancer metastasis.
Dr. Patrick Sullivan is leading a research project to identify genetic links to psychosis in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. He will analyze DNA from four families with a high number of affected members to uncover rare genetic variants and compare them to unrelated samples.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have received a $100,000 Grand Challenges Exploration Grant to develop a long-term, reversible male contraceptive. They plan to use therapeutic ultrasound instruments to depletion testicular sperm, making it impossible for men to father children.
Research reveals brain changes indicative of Fragile X syndrome can be seen in one to three year olds through MRI scans, continuing to evolve during childhood. This breakthrough provides potential targets for early intervention and monitoring of the effects of interventions on individuals with Fragile X syndrome.