A new area of the cerebral cortex has evolved to enable complex movements, such as picking up small objects and using tools, in humans and higher primates. This new area is home to cortico-motoneuronal cells that directly control spinal cord motor neurons, bypassing limitations imposed by spinal cord circuitry.
Researchers have discovered genetic markers associated with risk for ulcerative colitis, bringing them closer to understanding the biological pathways involved in the disease. The study's findings may lead to the development of new treatments specifically targeting these pathways.
Researchers identified a faulty brain circuit and developed an experimental agent that improves working memory and EEG signals in people with schizophrenia. The study found the drug MK-0777 to be well-tolerated, but further trials are needed to verify its value.
A large multicenter trial led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that Ginkgo biloba extract did not reduce the risk of dementia or Alzheimer's disease in either healthy elderly individuals or those with mild cognitive impairment. The study, which involved over 3,000 participants, also showed no impact on coronary ...
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh discovered that exposure to EPA-approved levels of arsenic in drinking water can lead to cardiovascular disease by closing pores in liver blood vessels. The study found that mice exposed to arsenic had impaired sinusoidal cell functions, leading to a loss of nutrient exchange and waste removal.
The study finds that Pittsburgh Compound B can detect amyloid deposition in the brains of clinically older adults, potentially opening the door to early diagnosis and prevention strategies. Detailed tests show no decrease in functioning among participants with Alzheimer-associated plaques, suggesting a window of opportunity to slow or ...
A new study suggests that genetic factors may influence the size of a brain region involved in emotional processing and impulsivity in teenagers. Researchers found that those with a family history of alcohol dependence had reduced volume of the right orbitofrontal cortex, an area critical for regulating impulsive behavior.
The Center for Minority Health (CMH) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health has developed innovative programs to improve the health and well-being of racial and ethnic minorities, including a prostate cancer prevention program that trains barbers to deliver accurate health information. The organization also partnered w...
Herpes simplex virus type I is kept under constant guard by the immune system, which actively holds the infection in check without destroying the neurons harboring it. CD8 T cells target infected sensory neurons with lytic granules that attack viral infections without killing the neurons.
A study led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has found that acetylated resveratrol can protect cells from radiation damage in mouse models. The researchers hope to develop a small molecule radioprotector that can be easily administered in emergency situations.
A study by the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found that Medicare HMO costs can be a significant barrier for cancer patients participating in clinical trials. The research suggests that the payment policy under these plans may be preventing vulnerable members of society from accessing state-of-the-art care.
Family members of ICU patients experience high rates of post-traumatic stress and complicated grief that persist over time. Symptoms of anxiety and depression in these individuals tend to diminish with time, but screening is crucial to identify those at risk.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have found that a virus, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV), is the cause of Merkel cell carcinoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. The virus infects normal cells before they turn into cancer cells, and its replication can lead to the death of cancer cells.
Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine have identified a series of genetic mutations associated with significant risk for cleft palate and other dental abnormalities. The study, published in Genetics in Medicine, analyzed DNA sequences from over 500 individuals and found more than a dozen gene mutations...
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research are testing vaccines designed to protect against the deadliest strain of avian flu, H5N1. The $3.6M grant will support animal studies using virus-like particles that could potentially offer enhanced protection against new strains.
The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health has received a $10 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to create computer simulations of epidemics, evaluating new vaccine technologies and modes of delivery. The project will focus on diseases affecting millions of people globally.
A study published in the journal AIDS has found that long-term antiretroviral therapy for HIV may offer protection against atherosclerosis. The Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study measured coronary artery calcification in nearly 950 HIV-positive and HIV-negative men, finding CAC scores were almost 60% lower in those on HAART.
A study found that high omega-3 fatty acid intake from eating large quantities of fish may explain Japan's very low levels of heart disease. This is due to a strong anti-atherogenic effect observed in Japanese men, who consume an average of 100g of fish daily.
Researchers discovered that hepatitis C infection causes fatty liver by elevating an enzyme called fatty acid synthase (FAS) in human liver cells. Elevated FAS levels may help determine which patients are at risk of developing life-threatening diseases like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study found that individuals with schizophrenia have lower levels of a key neurotransmitter GABA, which is impaired by the activation of the cannabinoid 1 receptor activated by marijuana. This impairment worsens cognitive symptoms and may lead to new drug targets for improved treatments.
After a motorcycle helmet law was repealed, the number of head injuries among motorcyclists increased by 32% and hospitalizations rose by 42%. The study suggests that universal helmet laws can help protect riders and lower healthcare costs.
Researchers found that patients who gained weight over time had lower mortality rates, suggesting that a reasonable amount of weight gain may be a sign of adequate insulin control. The study also found no significant difference in mortality between those with an overweight or normal BMI and those with an underweight BMI.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a monkey that can feed itself using only its brain signals. The advancement in brain-machine interface technology could lead to better prosthetics for people with spinal cord injuries and those with locked-in conditions.
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study found that men with pneumonia are more likely to die than women, even after adjusting for health behaviors and chronic conditions. The researchers discovered differences in immune response between the sexes, which could explain the gender disparity in survival rates.
A study published in New England Journal of Medicine identified efavirenz with NRTI as the most effective initial therapy for HIV-1 infection, achieving high viral suppression rates. The finding offers a valuable alternative to traditional triple-drug regimens and could lead to simpler treatment regimens.
A University of Pittsburgh School Medicine study identified a key molecule, c-Kit, that plays a central role in the allergic response. Targeting this element could lead to more effective drugs for treating asthma and allergies.
A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has identified a unique combination of blood proteins that distinguish IPF patients from normal controls with extraordinary sensitivity and precision. The five protein signature may help monitor lung fibrosis, detect disease progression, and evaluate treatment e...
The Armed Forces Institute of Regenerative Medicine (AFIRM) will focus on repairing battlefield injuries through regenerative medicine. Researchers aim to develop clinical therapies for burn repair, wound healing without scarring, craniofacial reconstruction, limb reconstruction, and treating compartment syndrome.
Pittsburgh researchers present study findings on preeclampsia, a condition affecting 5% of first pregnancies, and elevated maternal cardiovascular risk persisting after preterm birth. Researchers also explore healthcare provider conversations about substance use during pregnancy.
Researchers confirm that Pittsburgh Compound-B binds to beta-amyloid deposits found in Alzheimer's brains, enabling definitive diagnosis. The finding aids in early detection and treatment of the disease.
The University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research has received a $11.4 million grant to study tuberculosis using new imaging technologies. The goal is to develop more effective treatments that can be tailored to individual patients, potentially improving survival rates and curtailing the global TB epidemic.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have deciphered the three-dimensional structure of a membrane-bound enzyme crucial to glycerol metabolism, a vital source of energy. The breakthrough could lead to advances against obesity, diabetes, and other diseases.
A multi-center study of 500 women found that more women preferred the contraceptive ring over the skin patch due to lower complication rates and higher satisfaction. The ring was also reported to have fewer side effects compared to the patch.
Researchers identified a significant association between genetic mutations in the TLR4 gene and inflammatory injury to the placenta, increasing the risk of preterm birth. Women with this mutation were five times more likely to experience placental inflammation, while babies with the mutation faced nearly five times the risk.
Researchers identify genetic mutations in MTHFR and Factor V as significant contributors to blood clots and tissue injury in the placenta. These mutations may lead to increased risks of preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction, and preeclampsia.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Vaccine Research have developed a vaccine against the deadliest strain of avian flu, H5N1. The vaccine produced a strong immune response in mice and protected them from death following infection with the virus.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have identified a novel virus strongly associated with Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare but deadly skin cancer. The Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) was discovered using a novel sequencing technique and has similarities to human papillomavirus (HPV).
A study found that bright light therapy can ease symptoms of bipolar depression in some patients, with optimal response observed at midday. Six out of nine women treated achieved full recovery from depressive symptoms, highlighting the potential of light therapy as an augmentation strategy for improving treatment response.
A bone mineral density test given 15 years earlier predicted a woman's risk of developing fractures to her spine over time. More than half of the women with low BMD and existing spinal fractures developed new fractures over the 15-year study period, highlighting the importance of BMD testing for women over 50.
Researchers found that former anorexics showed distinct brain pattern differences, particularly in emotional response regions. Their brains were more focused on consequences and planning, suggesting a persistent risk of obsessive thinking. This study may lead to better understanding and treatment development for anorexia nervosa.
A nationwide survey of epidemiologists found that the HIPAA privacy rule is delaying or curtailing clinical studies, making them more costly and time-consuming. The study, commissioned by the Institute of Medicine, reported that two-thirds of respondents believed HIPAA had made research 'a great deal' more difficult.
A study by the University of Pittsburgh found that commercially sold white bass contained higher levels of mercury, arsenic, and selenium than those caught near former industrial areas. The pollutants were linked to coal-burning pollution through air emissions and water pollution.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found higher-than-acceptable levels of mercury and selenium in channel catfish from areas near a coal-fired power plant. Ingesting these fish can increase the risk of neurological disorders, birth defects, and developmental problems.
Researchers found that extracts of channel catfish caught in polluted waters can activate estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells, leading to cell growth. The study suggests that pharmaceutical estrogens and xeno-estrogenic chemicals are contaminating local waterways.
Researchers developed an approach based on negotiation skills to manage conflicts between physicians, patients, and families. Clinicians can use skillful negotiation techniques to reach a balanced solution that satisfies all parties.
A new gene, GPD1-L, has been identified as responsible for a rare form of cardiac arrest known as Brugada syndrome. The mutation impairs the heart's natural electrical ability to beat in a coordinated manner and maintain a stable rhythm.
Gene therapy administered intravenously protected healthy tissues in mice during whole-body irradiation, with 90% survival rate at 30 days. The therapy offered no harm to systemic function and could potentially provide wide-reaching public protection in radiation emergencies.
A new integrated approach to intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has been shown to provide high-quality care for head and neck cancer patients in community centers. The study found no significant differences in treatment outcomes or survival rates between academic and community centers.
An education program for African-Americans showed significant improvement in cancer knowledge and attitudes, with 36% of participants demonstrating better understanding after four months. Younger participants showed greater improvement than older adults, highlighting the crucial role of education in addressing cancer disparities.
A new study suggests that viruses may contribute to cancer by causing excessive death to normal cells while promoting the growth of surviving cells with cancerous traits. The Phoenix Paradigm model proposes a separate mechanism where viral infection selects pre-existing mutated clones, promoting their further growth and multiplication.