A multi-disciplinary team of researchers is exploring natural compounds from marine organisms to develop non-opioid drugs for chronic pain management. The team aims to identify novel drugs with the beneficial effects of opioids but lack the adverse actions, such as addiction and respiratory depression.
A new HCI study reveals that a two-drug combination significantly reduces precancerous polyps in FAP patients, leading to near-complete blockade of cancer growth pathways. The treatment also activates immune responses aimed at destroying pre-cancerous polyps.
The study identified a protein called ARF6, which plays a key role in the development of diabetic retinopathy. When inhibited with compound NAV-2729, vessel leakage and blood vessel overgrowth were significantly reduced in diabetic mice.
A national cancer survey found 23% of childhood cancer survivors experienced job lock, staying at jobs for health insurance coverage. Female survivors and those with chronic conditions were more likely to report job lock. The study highlights the need for education and literacy about insurance options to support employed cancer survivors.
A study by University of Utah Health found that 7% of US athletes and staff infected with mosquito-borne viruses during the 2016 Rio Olympics were positive for West Nile virus, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya. Most had mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, highlighting the importance of post-travel diagnostics.
Scientists have characterized the complex process of human sperm stem cell development, revealing four distinct cellular phases. The study's findings may lead to better tools for diagnosing and treating male infertility, as well as uncovering genetic changes underlying cancers associated with male infertility.
Researchers test antiviral therapy to halt progressive hearing loss in children with confirmed CMV infection, finding that treatment may prevent further damage and improve outcomes for those infected.
Researchers at University of Utah Health discovered a molecular pathway responsible for cleft palate formation and identified a new treatment to reverse this defect in mouse pups in-utero. The Wnt-based treatment restored palate fusion in all tested pups without adverse health effects.
Researchers at University of Utah Health found that boosting levels of acylcarnitines, a new lipid source for brown fat, restores youthful ability to adapt to cold in older mice. This discovery could lead to a therapy for cold sensitivity and potentially aid in obesity prevention.
A clinical trial conducted by researchers at the University of Utah Health found that radiofrequency catheter ablation lowered hospitalization and mortality rates by 47% and 44%, respectively, in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study suggests that catheter ablation may be a more effective treatment option than traditional drug t...
A new study by University of Utah Health and University of New Mexico School of Medicine found that hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not negatively impact lactation or breastfeeding. Women who received IUDs immediately after birth were able to breastfeed just as well as those who waited several weeks.
Researchers have developed a system allowing zebrafish to self-administer doses of hydrocodone, leading to increased drug-seeking behavior and signs of anxiety. The study provides a new approach to explore the biological pathways behind addiction and withdrawal.
Researchers found that removing the Lef1 gene disrupts nerve cell development in the hypothalamus, leading to increased anxiety-like behaviors in mice and zebrafish. The study suggests a new pathway to understanding human brain disorders and potential treatments.
Two studies provide strong evidence that lowering systolic blood pressure to 120 mmHg is well-tolerated by patients and cost-effective. Participants on intensive therapy reported feeling as well as those receiving standard blood pressure control, and were equally satisfied with their care.
A team led by Dr. Rena D'Souza aims to identify the relationship between PAX9 and WNT pathways in permanent tooth formation. The goal is to develop new therapies that reestablish normal interaction between genes and pathways to restore tooth development.
Researchers at University of Utah Health successfully rejuvenated the plasticity of adult mouse brains, specifically in the visual cortex, by triggering a shift with a single gene. This breakthrough suggests a potential target for new treatments that could recover brain youthful potential and reduce cognitive decline with aging.
The University of Utah Health has been awarded a $4 million grant to conduct comprehensive research on congenital heart defects. The project, led by Martin Tristani-Firouzi, will focus on discovering causes and developing strategies for prevention and treatment.
A survey of 16,510 participants from 11 countries showed that the way health information is communicated matters. Participants who read about 'horse flu' were significantly less motivated to get vaccinated compared to those who read about other names.
Researchers have developed a rapid screening method to identify beneficial pairs of existing FDA-approved drugs to combat multi-drug resistant bacterial infections. The approach identified 14 drugs that could be paired synergistically, with the most promising pairing combining azidothymidine and floxuridine.
Erhu Cao, a University of Utah biochemist, has been named a Pew Scholar to explore the dynamic interactions within cell membranes. His research focuses on ADPKD, a genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 people, and may lead to new therapeutic approaches.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered a new science that could provide better therapeutic options for Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL patients. The new drug inhibits DNA repair proteins, reducing leukemia load by 50-70% in mouse models.
Researchers developed an automated drill that can make complex cranial surgeries 50 times faster than standard procedures, reducing time and increasing safety. The drill uses software to set safe cutting paths and has an automatic emergency shut-off switch.
Researchers uncover giant sulfur-powered shipworm with unusual energy source, living in a stinky environment where it relies on bacteria for nourishment. The discovery expands biodiversity knowledge in the Indo-Pacific region and sheds light on unique transitions between organisms.
Scientists develop a targeted therapy that slows disease progression in mice with ataxia and ALS, suggesting potential benefits for humans. The treatment targets the ataxin-2 gene, which may also be important for maintaining brain cell health.
The University of Utah will receive a cryo-electron microscope, enabling precise imaging of life's building blocks at an atom-by-atom scale. The instrument will help researchers study protein complexes and understand biological processes.
Researchers tested over 10,000 women and found that transvaginal cervical measurement and fetal fibronectin tests do not accurately predict preterm birth. The studies findings challenge the use of these tests in routine screening for low-risk pregnancies.
A new study from the University of Utah School of Medicine shows that brain cells often activate one copy of a gene over the other's, breaking basic genetic principles. This finding suggests new ways in which genetic mutations might cause brain disorders, including mental illness and intellectual disability.
Researchers found that preeclampsia in pregnant rats led to less severe retinopathy and normal retinal vascular development in offspring. The combination of preeclampsia and oxygen fluctuations reduced features of ROP. Growth factors needed for retina development came from the pups, not the mothers.
Research from University of Utah Health reveals that mechanical tensions regulate cell division and death, with stretching cells dividing and crowding causing cell death. Understanding this process is essential for understanding cancer formation and developing new treatments for diseases like asthma.
Researchers project that intensive blood pressure control can save over 100,000 lives each year in the US. By lowering blood pressure to less than 120 mmHg, the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death can be significantly reduced. However, this approach may require additional medication and more frequent health check-ups.
A new study found that most vertebrate genomes exhibit dynamic behavior, with some species losing and gaining DNA over time. This study provides the first comprehensive comparison of warm-blooded vertebrates, revealing surprising similarities between birds and mammals.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute identified a protein called Macrophage Stimulating Protein (MSP) that causes bone destruction in metastatic breast cancer. A new drug, Ron inhibitor, blocks the activity of MSP, showing promising results in early clinical trials.
A recent study by University of Utah Health investigators found that up to three-quarters of surgery patients may not need anti-clotting medications, which could lead to harm. High-risk patients, however, showed significant benefits from the treatment.
Scientists at the University of Utah have discovered a unique biomarker in the hearts of patients with advanced heart failure who have shown signs of recovery. The biomarker is related to the transverse system, which appears relatively intact in responders.
A new study by University of Utah Health found that commercial truck drivers with three or more medical conditions are quadruple their chance of being in a crash compared to healthier drivers. The research suggests that a driver's poor health can increase the risk not only for themselves but also for others around them.
Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered distinct types of tumors within small cell lung cancer that respond differently to treatment. A targeted drug combination showed improved outcomes for one specific tumor type, suggesting a need for genetic testing and personalized therapies.
A new study finds that individuals with symptoms at increased risk for heart disease are more likely to have shoulder problems, including joint pain and rotator cuff injury. The research suggests that controlling blood pressure and other heart risk factors may alleviate shoulder discomfort.
The ColoCare study, led by Huntsman Cancer Institute, aims to identify elements that impact colorectal cancer patients' survival and recovery. The study analyzes health and lifestyle factors to predict patient outcomes and determine the most effective treatments.
Researchers have created a virus-like delivery system that can transport custom cargo from one cell to another, using blueprints that instruct human cells to assemble the system. The system uses self-propelled nanocages that mimic how viruses transfer their infectious contents between cells.
A study published in Social Neuroscience found that devout Mormons' spiritual experiences are associated with activation in the nucleus accumbens, a critical brain region for processing reward. The researchers also found that spiritual feelings activate regions linked to focused attention and moral reasoning.
The University of Utah Health has received a five-year contract renewal from the NIH to test drugs for treating refractory epilepsy, with the goal of identifying novel compounds. The program aims to address unmet medical needs in epilepsy patients and develop new therapies for different types of epilepsy.
A recent study published in Cell Metabolism suggests that accumulation of ceramides may make people more prone to type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that patients with higher ceramide levels were more likely to develop the condition, even if they were obese.
A case report reveals that high-dose lutein supplements can cause the formation of crystal deposits in the eyes, highlighting the importance of balanced intake. The study suggests that patients should follow a diet rich in eye-healthy foods and only take AREDS2 supplements as recommended by their ophthalmologist.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute have identified a group of existing drugs that reduce or eliminate childhood brain tumors while sparing normal brain tissue. The zebrafish animal model system developed by the researchers closely resembles an aggressive subtype of pediatric brain tumors.
A study analyzing over 80 million Twitter messages found that communities expressing positive sentiments about healthy foods were more likely to be healthier overall. Tweets about fast food restaurants, on the other hand, were often associated with poorer neighborhoods and larger households.
Researchers have identified a factor in umbilical cord blood that can counteract harmful inflammation and sepsis, with tripled survival rates in mice. The newly discovered factor, nNIF, is present for just two weeks after birth and may offer insights into controlling the inflammatory response.
Researchers found that a simple saline solution twice daily was just as effective as three medications in reducing the frequency and severity of chronic nosebleeds. The study's results suggest that simple hydration may be enough to prevent nosebleeds, making saline nasal spray a potential treatment option.
The University of Utah School of Medicine's Data Coordinating Center has been awarded a $25 million grant to form one of three Trial Innovation Centers (TICs) to improve clinical research. The TICs aim to streamline trial protocols, eliminate bottlenecks, and support randomized drug trials.
Researchers found that circulating tumor DNA is smaller than healthy DNA in cancer patients, allowing for more accurate detection through a simple blood draw. This advancement could enable earlier detection of solid tumors, potentially saving lives.
A new treatment shows promise against a rare and deadly eye cancer by blocking the protein ARF6, which distributes cancer-promoting signals. The study found that inhibiting ARF6 inhibited eye tumors in mice, suggesting a potential strategy for treating other cancers as well.