Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a pattern to protein manufacture in the hippocampus, which may help explain how memories are stored. The study found that protein synthesis in dendrites is exponentially faster than in the cell body, with specific patterns emerging.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that a combination of Vitamin E and aspirin can significantly delay the development of atherosclerosis in mice with high cholesterol levels. The study found that the production of plaque in blood vessels was lowered by over 80%.
A recent study has identified a protein called Akt1 that promotes the growth and increase in size of pancreatic β cells, which can help prevent or treat type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that mice bred to produce excess Akt1 protein were more tolerant of glucose and resistant to diabetes.
The center investigates factors that predispose elderly patients to hospitalizations due to medication errors, as well as sociological and organizational causes of medication errors among physicians. Its research focuses on reducing internal bleeding and kidney failure caused by medication errors.
A large study found that antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may reduce the risk of heart attacks in smokers by 65%. The study also suggests that SSRIs may work by thinning blood and preventing clotting, similar to aspirin.
SLAP-130 protein plays a crucial role in bridging chemical pathways to activate T cells, generating an immune response. This discovery may lead to new treatments for cancers and autoimmune disorders by learning how to control T cell activation.
Researchers discovered that the Nf1 gene serves two major purposes: preventing tumor growth and regulating the body's rest-activity cycle. In its absence, the body is unable to keep time, highlighting a crucial role of Nf1 in maintaining circadian rhythm.
QSulf1 enables embryonic cells to express muscle-specific proteins by modifying signaling co-factors. This discovery sheds light on the complex process of cell differentiation and has implications for regenerative medicine.
A new study published in the Journal of Women’s Health and Gender-Based Medicine found that oral contraceptive Yasmin significantly reduces premenstrual pain, acne, and food cravings associated with PMDD. The study enrolled 82 women aged 18-40 who experienced severe PMS symptoms.
Researchers found no significant differences in sexual development between children fed cow milk and soy formulas, despite concerns over phytoestrogens. The study, spanning nearly three decades, suggests long-term exposure to soy-based infant formula may not have a 'feminizing' effect on children.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that activation of vitamin A receptors can regulate the human circadian clock. This discovery provides an important clue to how the master clock in the brain regulates distal organs by controlling clocks throughout the body.
A new partial voice box resection procedure shows excellent local control and significant improvement in quality of life for patients with intermediate to advanced stage larynx cancers. This approach can provide a less drastic treatment option, reducing hardship on patients.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that the human myelocytomatosis (MYC) gene can induce spontaneous mutations in other genes, such as Nras or Kras2, leading to more tumor growth even after the MYC gene is shut off. This has implications for the search for therapeutics in cases of MYC-induced breast cancer.
The Penn Head Injury Center will study the long-term effects of concussions with a $110,000 grant from NFL Charities. The center aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for traumatic brain injury and improve treatment outcomes.
A study by Penn researchers found that a common gene delivery system for muscular dystrophy can trigger an immune response in mice unless paired with a muscle-specific promoter. The use of restricted promoters is crucial before expanding clinical trials.
Researchers found that obese women who used weight loss medication MERIDIA in combination with a comprehensive lifestyle modification program lost an average of 24.4 pounds, compared to 8.4 pounds for those treated by medication alone. Lifestyle modification included diet and exercise, as well as weekly group sessions to plan meals and...
Researchers develop new therapies targeting related virus proteins, aiming to neutralize the effects of smallpox. The US population is highly susceptible due to low vaccination rates and limited vaccine stockpiles.
Researchers discovered a plausible mechanism for a cancer-causing gene found in aberrant bone marrow cells. The study reveals the function of SET, a protein that helps regulate gene activity and protects cell integrity.
Eye attacks, also known as Ischematic Optic Neuropathy (ION), are a sudden lack of blood flow to the eye resulting in painless but catastrophic consequences. A new multi-center clinical trial aims to determine whether neuro-protection can minimize collateral damage and prevent second eye involvement.
A recent Penn study reveals that bone is actively involved in the process of sinus disease, confirming a link between bone involvement and disease spread and chronicity. The study suggests that removal of bony partitions during endoscopic sinus surgery may be crucial for effective treatment.
Researchers at Penn have found a simple urine test that can help track and treat Alzheimer's disease by measuring isoprostane levels. This non-invasive method provides an easier alternative to spinal taps, allowing doctors to diagnose the disease earlier and prepare better treatment.
Scientists discover a solution to protect healthy human liver cells from destruction by the promising cancer treatment TRAIL, opening up a new direction for clinical trials. The treatment triggers a sweeping death response in its target, destroying cancerous and pre-cancerous cells.
A new study found that blacks have a higher mortality rate than whites after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), with hypertension being a significant factor. The study suggests that blacks may be more prone to severe and frequent ventricular hypertrophy, an enlargement of the heart's chambers.
Researchers found that alpha-synuclein, a key component of Parkinson's lesions, is targeted by oxidative stress, specifically nitration. This discovery provides conclusive evidence for the role of oxidative damage in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
A University of Pennsylvania study suggests that taking ibuprofen before aspirin can inhibit the cardioprotective benefits gained from a daily aspirin regimen. The study found no competitive interaction between aspirin and Tylenol or Vioxx when taken separately.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine are investigating the potential cholesterol-lowering properties of gugulipid, an extract from the mukul myrrh bush. The study, led by Dr. Philippe Szapary, aims to determine whether gugulipid is safe and effective in reducing mild-to-moderately elevated cholesterol levels.
The study found that the Gz protein conveys signals from epinephrine, supporting the body's ability to stave off lethal blood clots and avoid strokes. The research also sheds light on human drug dependency and holds promise for the development of more effective painkillers, anti-depressants, and clot-busters.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that the hair follicle and epidermis may originate from the same cache of cells. The finding suggests that daughter cells in the upper follicle migrate upward to form and maintain the new epidermis, and down to form the hair shaft.
University of Pennsylvania researchers have found that loss of consciousness is linked to specific angles of head rotation during car crashes. The study suggests that designing safer airbags and sports headgear could prevent or minimize coma in such incidents.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School Medicine have discovered that the transforming growth factor-beta protein stimulates the development of sclerosis in the kidneys, leading to renal failure in diabetic mice. By neutralizing this protein, the study suggests that kidney disease in diabetes can be prevented.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have created a stealth-like molecule called BSB that can effectively breach the blood-brain barrier and bind to amyloid plaques, enabling visualization using PET or SPECT imaging. This breakthrough paves the way for the refinement of BSB as a diagnostic tool for Alzheimer...
Researchers from Penn University School of Medicine investigated the safety of Viagra in men with severe coronary artery disease. The study revealed no direct adverse cardiovascular effects from Viagra use, but a small beneficial effect on coronary blood flow reserve was observed.
A study found that 40% of cancer patients use unconventional medical therapies and do not report this information unless specifically asked by their physicians. These therapies, such as mega-doses of vitamins and herbal supplements, can potentially interfere with radiation treatment.
Maternal mortality remains a global health problem, despite significant international efforts. A new $4.95 million grant will aid in developing tools to diagnose and treat ectopic pregnancy, prevent preeclampsia, and identify women at risk of life-threatening infections.
Researchers are conducting a nationwide study to identify genes that predispose individuals to major mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The study aims to develop better treatments and tailored medications for these disorders, which often run in families.
Researchers at Penn School of Medicine have developed a prototype of an integrated database that can instantly retrieve and store digital breast images from mammography facilities across the country. The project aims to improve detecting and diagnosing women with breast cancer in a more controlled and cost-effective manner.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center have successfully conducted a Phase I clinical trial on combretastatin A4 phosphate, a vascular targeting agent. The study found that patients with solid tumors were able to safely tolerate the treatment and showed evidence of decreased blood flow to the tumor.
Researchers develop a mouse model for intrauterine growth retardation and find that administering indomethacin during pregnancy can rescue underweight fetuses. The study provides promising insights into the underlying biochemistry of IUGR and identifies a potential therapeutic approach.
Researchers discovered that injured spinal neurons establish gap junctions to communicate with each other, but not with healthy neighboring cells. This finding suggests a new approach to re-establishing connectivity between neurons and muscle after peripheral nerve damage or spinal cord injury.
A new Penn study found that over 50% of violently assaulted women were attacked by non-intimates, and most knew or were acquainted with their attackers. The majority of these victims were beaten in public, highlighting the need for crisis interventions within Emergency Departments and long-term community programs.
A new transgenic mouse model develops damaging tau protein tangles as it ages, exhibiting clinical symptoms similar to tauopathies. The tau mouse is expected to aid in understanding the role of tau tangles in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have shown that neurotrophin signaling is essential for maintaining normal synapse health. The study used a novel gene therapy technique to block neurotrophin activity and demonstrated the disassembly of synapses in adult mice, highlighting the potential therapeutic benef...
Biological molecules move electrons through proximity alone, with redox centers no more than 14 angstroms apart. This finding simplifies the design of new biologically active molecules for drug development.
Heart cells secrete substances to regulate oxygen-rich blood flow, triggering vessel constriction or dilation as needed. Research reveals an optimal oxygen concentration of 6%, with narrow permissible windows above or below this level.
Researchers have discovered that myosin VI moves backwards on actin filaments, toward the minus end, challenging current understanding of protein movement. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of cellular assembly and maintenance, particularly in structures with single-orientation actin filaments.
Armstrong's groundbreaking work elucidated the physical processes underlying electrical signaling in and between cells. His research has contributed significantly to our understanding of ion channels and their role in transmitting nerve impulses, with implications for drug development and treatment of various diseases.
A new study found that heavy alcohol consumption initiates free-radical mediated processes associated with heart disease, stroke, cirrhosis of the liver, and other chronic diseases. Vitamin C may help quell this activity, potentially limiting organ injury.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have solved the molecular intricacies of how a fruit fly controls its internal clock to cycles of light and dark. The team found that the proteosome plays a key role in TIM protein degradation, which is controlled by exposure to light.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center found that bilateral prophylactic oophorectomy reduces breast cancer risk in women with a BRCA1 gene mutation. After 10 years, the incidence of breast cancer among women who had their ovaries removed was significantly lower than those who did not.
Researchers found that brain trauma causes microscopic damage in the brain, leading to the formation of Alzheimer's-like plaques. The study supports previous evidence linking brain trauma to increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life.