A new Penn Medicine study finds that preventative brain radiation therapy can significantly improve overall survival for Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) patients. The research also reveals the most common genetic mutation in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is likely to progress at the primary site if left untreated.
Researchers propose a $10 billion public-private partnership to fund new research on pain biology and development of non-addictive medications. The plan focuses on understanding individual variability in response to pain, biomarkers for drug efficacy, and complementary approaches such as acupuncture and mindfulness techniques.
A new perspective paper warns that the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act poses a threat to critical mental and behavioral health services for people with autism and other disabilities. The author, David S. Mandell, calls on the scientific community to use evidence to guide policy in this area.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that racial disparities in firearm injuries are more strongly associated with race than neighborhood income levels. The researchers argue that establishing a national database on gun violence incidents is crucial to understanding and addressing this public health problem.
A Penn study found that a high-fat diet causes epigenetic changes in fat cells, leading to obesity and type 2 diabetes. The research also identified a genetic defect in the Ucp1 gene that contributes to obesity, which can be overcome with treatment.
A study found that female emergency medicine residents receive lower scores than males across all sub-competencies, despite initial equality. The gap widens as training advances, with males receiving higher evaluations and milestone attainment rates.
A new reconstructive procedure has been developed to help women with female genital mutilation (FGM) restore their physical and psychological well-being. The technique, which involves separating the labia majora and leaving the clitoris raw to promote regeneration, has shown promising results in three patients.
A study reveals widespread conflicts of interest among US-based patient-advocacy organizations, including funding from industry makers and board members with ties to pharmaceutical companies. The findings highlight the need for laws forcing organizations to disclose these connections.
A team from the University of Pennsylvania has demonstrated a new method to deliver safer and more cost-effective therapeutic antibodies using messenger RNAs. The technique involves injecting modified mRNAs into cells, which then produce the therapeutic proteins in a controlled manner.
A preclinical study has established a link between gene variants in African American populations and kidney disease risk. The G1 and G2 APOL1 variants, found almost exclusively in West African descent individuals, cause human-like kidney disease when expressed in filtering cells.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that the Affordable Care Act improved primary care access for Medicaid patients, increasing appointment availability from 57.9% to 63.2% between 2012 and 2016.
Research reveals that sons of cocaine-using fathers are at risk for learning deficits and memory loss. Epigenetic mechanisms alter gene expression in the brain, depleting essential molecules like D-serine, leading to impaired synaptic plasticity.
Researchers found that a shorter course of radiation therapy, known as moderate hypofractionation, is just as effective at treating prostate cancer while costing less. This approach can help patients recover more quickly and reduces the burden on treatment centers and payers.
A study published in JAMA and JAMA Internal Medicine found that testosterone treatment improved bone density and anemia, but not cognitive function, in older men with low testosterone. However, it also increased plaque buildup in coronary arteries, raising concerns about cardiac risk.
A new, multidisciplinary model of cervical cancer care developed by a University of Pennsylvania team in Botswana cut the delay between diagnosis and treatment by more than 50 percent. The model streamlined care and communication between providers, reducing delays in treatment and simplifying the overall process.
A team from the University of Pennsylvania identified circulating helper immune cells in blood after an annual flu vaccine, tracking their contribution to antibody strength. The study found that these cells play a crucial role in antibody development and could inform future vaccine design.
Researchers found that stem cells collected directly from human fat (ASCs) can make more proteins, replicating and maintaining their stability. This discovery holds promise for new therapies against aging-related diseases, with the goal of understanding how ASCs maintain an open chromatin profile with aging.
A team of experts has developed a set of diagnostic criteria for idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease, a life-threatening condition often misdiagnosed as other illnesses. The new criteria will help doctors diagnose the disease more accurately, leading to timely treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Researchers analyzed genetic data of 173 patients and identified CSDE1 and fusion genes in MAML3 as drivers of the disease, providing opportunities for molecular diagnosis and prognosis. The study also found four distinct subtypes, each driven by mutations in distinct biological pathways.
A new therapeutic agent, ST266, has been shown to prevent loss of cells in the optic nerve and reduce inflammation in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Early treatment with ST266 improved visual function and prevented damage to the optic nerve.
A recent study by Penn researchers has found that signaling proteins in cells lining the heart play a key role in preventing excessive scarring after a heart attack. The proteins, YAP and TAZ, regulate immune responses to prevent inflammation and fibrosis, which can lead to heart failure.
A new Zika vaccine candidate has shown promising results in preclinical tests, protecting mice and monkeys with a single dose of mRNA-based vaccine. The innovative approach induces strong immune responses without adverse events, offering a potential solution to the global fight against Zika virus.
A new study reveals that certain bacteria in the cervix and vagina may increase or decrease the risk of premature birth. Researchers found that some species, such as bifidobacterium and lactobacillus, lower the risk, while others, like anaerobic bacteria, significantly increase it.
A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine finds that internalizing negative weight stereotypes increases the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease in obese patients. Patients who experience fat shaming are more likely to avoid exercise, consume extra calories, and develop conditions like metabolic syndrome.
Primary care physicians strongly endorse prohibiting insurance denials for pre-existing conditions and allowing young adults to stay on parents' plans until 26. Most favor policy changes increasing consumer choice, such as a public option and tax credits.
Blocking inflammation after radiation therapy led to improved survival in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer. The study found that a form of inflammation triggered by the tumor in response to treatment helps keep tumor cells alive, and that blocking this inflammation can slow tumor growth and prolong survival.
A new trivalent vaccine induces antibodies against three different parts of the virus, including two components that help HSV2 evade immune attack. The vaccine provides strong immune response and potent neutralization of four isolates of HSV2 from sub-Saharan Africa.
A new study finds that despite a 2011 pledge by US chain restaurants to improve the nutritional value of children's menu options, little progress has been made. Many restaurants have replaced soda as the default beverage but offer similar amounts of sugar in other drinks.
A study published in eLife reveals that a single nerve cell named ALA coordinates an organism-wide response to sickness, causing sleepiness by releasing FLP-13 and other neuropeptides. Researchers found that FLP-13 triggers sleep by turning down activity in nervous system cells that help keep organisms awake.
Researchers have identified nanchangmycin as a potent inhibitor of Zika virus entry into human cells, including endothelial and placental cells. This finding represents a 'stepping stone' towards the development of a new class of anti-virals that target the same mode of entry used by other viruses like West Nile and dengue.
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania has successfully grown live adult human neurons in a cell culture, identifying five known brain cell types. The findings hold promise for personalized approaches to understanding and treating brain disorders, such as epilepsy.
A Penn Medicine study found that older adults walked 2,348 steps and 2,562 steps per day with financial incentives and charity donations, respectively. The study suggests that goal-based interventions can motivate older adults to exercise more effectively.
A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that enhancer RNAs play a crucial role in regulating CBP activity and gene expression. The researchers identified eRNAs as the most common type of RNA binding to CBP, suggesting their importance in guiding protein production.
A study found that women with higher incomes and social support are more likely to choose surgery over medication for miscarriage. Patients who have been pregnant before tend to know how they want the miscarriage managed, while those without prior pregnancy rely on doctors' advice. The research emphasizes the need for evidence-based, p...
A Penn study identifies specific biological properties of HIV-1 strains that facilitate infection, including increased infectivity and resistance to interferons. This research may aid in the development of vaccines against HIV-1 by targeting these key characteristics.
A study revealed that it takes two years or more for one-third of women with PCOS to receive a diagnosis, highlighting the need for improved education and support. The authors call for international guidelines and resources to improve diagnosis experience and health outcomes for women with PCOS.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have made a groundbreaking discovery in wound healing by transforming myofibroblasts into fat cells. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize dermatology and develop new treatments for conditions such as HIV-related complications and aging skin.
The study found that bundled payment models can reduce healthcare costs without compromising quality, with a 20.8% decrease in average cost for joint replacements and improved post-acute care spending. The hospital system's use of evidence-based data and incentivizing physicians also played a key role in achieving these savings.
Molecular imaging techniques have the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment by providing non-invasive alternatives to traditional biopsies. By identifying specific biomarkers, these methods can help doctors choose the most effective treatments, minimize side effects, and predict patient outcomes.
Experts at Penn Medicine propose a five-step ladder to engineer social incentives that promote health, citing the potential of spouses and friends in encouraging healthy behaviors. The approach aims to tap into existing relationships rather than increasing interactions with physicians or clinicians.
Researchers have identified rare genetic variants linked to observable physiological characteristics in over 50,000 individuals. This approach has the potential to inform healthcare and prevent undiagnosed single-gene disorders like familial hypercholesterolemia.
The Human Pancreas Analysis Program (HPAP) aims to study diabetes and pancreatic islets with unparalleled resolution. The program will procure and phenotype pancreatic tissues from individuals with or at risk for Type 1 diabetes.
Researchers found that online reviews on Yelp reveal insights into patients' experiences with hospital amenities, staff compassion, and family care, areas neglected by standard surveys. By incorporating these comments, healthcare providers can enhance patient satisfaction and differentiate their services.
Researchers confirm the use of a simple sniff test as a supplementary tool for diagnosing mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's dementia. The study found that combining the sniff test with a standard cognitive assessment significantly improved diagnostic accuracy, particularly in identifying people at high risk of worsening.
A new study by Penn Medicine found that delaying surgery after a diagnosis of uterine cancer can increase a woman's risk of death, while operating too soon can also be detrimental. The study suggests prioritizing pre-surgical care and specialist referrals over timing.
A Penn Medicine study found that elevated levels of mutations in essential genes are significantly associated with an increased risk for ASD and decreased social skills. Researchers identified high-priority essential genes that could serve as targets for future studies and treatments.
A new study reveals that many breast cancer survivors experience unmet needs for symptom management, leading to increased levels of anxiety and depression. Researchers are calling on healthcare providers to incorporate symptom management into routine follow-up care.
A new Penn study sheds light on racial disparities in cancer-causing genetic mutations, finding differences in mutation patterns between African American and Caucasian women. The research suggests biological differences and potentially different genetic factors may be at play, guiding targeted care for at-risk patients.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a molecular trigger that can activate a 'browning program' in white adipocytes, making them more like energy-burning brown adipocytes. This discovery could lead to new treatments for obesity and diabetes.
A combination of the prostaglandin-like drug misoprostol and a balloon catheter could reduce delivery room time by several hours, potentially saving thousands of days of labor per year. The study found no significant differences in cesarean deliveries or medical complications between the methods.