A new method by USF researchers can detect anthrax spores in under 8 hours, reducing turnaround time from days. This breakthrough enables more laboratories to test samples, alleviating backlog and anxiety caused by long wait times.
The USF team, led by Dr. Jeffrey Nadler, is conducting a national study to assess the safety and ability of an HIV vaccine to stimulate immunity in healthy adults. The vaccine, developed by Merck & Co., uses a prime boost regimen and boosts the activity of killer cells in the immune system to target and kill HIV-infected cells.
Researchers at USF Center for Aging and Brain Repair investigate whether stem cells from human umbilical cord blood can reverse age-related declines in learning and memory. The 5-year study aims to determine the effectiveness of these cells in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Researchers at the University of South Florida found that individuals with the E4 type of apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene experience worse recovery of general memory function after brain injury. The study, which genotyped 110 head-injured patients, suggests common cellular responses in both traumatic brain injury and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that statins block the vasoconstrictive effects of A-beta protein and have anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against dementia. Statin treatment has been linked to a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in populations studied.
Researchers have identified a key gene that increases the risk for drug abuse, affecting not only alcohol but also nicotine. The 'AA' configuration of the mu-opioid gene was found in nearly 90% of individuals with substance abuse issues.
Researchers found that mice lacking the SHIP gene survived allogeneic bone marrow transplants without rejecting the graft or experiencing graft-versus-host disease. The study suggests a novel approach to preventing and treating this life-threatening reaction, potentially increasing the availability of bone marrow donors.
The American Society for Neuroregeneration and Transplantation (ASNTR) has published guidelines to ensure the development of novel cell and gene replacement therapies for brain disorders. The recommendations focus on preliminary study design, clinical trial methodology, and conflict of interest disclosure.
The USF report ranks 66 Florida counties based on overall health ratings, with top-scoring counties having better healthcare and lower poverty rates. The report also highlights deficiencies in high-performing counties, such as lack of health screening and primary care measures.
Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells improved motor and sensory abilities in rats after stroke, even when administered a week after onset. The study suggests these cells may be used to treat early stroke and other traumatic brain injuries through less invasive IV administration.
Researchers aim to better understand cellular immunity in fighting Alzheimer's disease using a new mouse model jointly developed by USF and the University of Pennsylvania.
The Suncoast Developmental Center will analyze data on patient falls and medication errors among elderly patients to improve patient safety. Researchers aim to identify checks and balances in the healthcare system to prevent or reduce mistakes.
A unique gene has been identified as a regulator of stem cell growth, suggesting that embryonic and adult stem cells share key genes and properties. This discovery could lead to the development of new therapies for cancer patients in need of stem cell transplants.
The US Department of Defense has awarded the University of South Florida $4 million to develop a statewide public health system capable of responding to bioterrorism threats. The project aims to create a surveillance system that can detect and track both naturally occurring infectious diseases and potential bioterrorist attacks.
A low-dose nicotine patch was found to be effective in controlling the severity and frequency of motor tics in children with Tourette's syndrome. The study showed that patients with active nicotine patches did better than those with control patches, even when receiving reduced doses of haloperidol.