Taxonomer analysis software rapidly identifies pathogens and profiles gene expression, revolutionizing infectious disease diagnosis. This technology can help reduce mortality rates of children in resource-limited settings by quickly detecting treatable infections.
A new study finds that lowering blood pressure below current guidelines can reduce cardiovascular events and deaths in adults aged 75 and older, including those with poor health. Intensive blood pressure treatment did not increase risk of falls or serious side effects among the frail group.
Researchers found no association between cancer and a decreased risk for Alzheimer's disease, contrary to previous studies. Higher mortality rates among cancer patients suggest other factors contribute to the development of the neurodegenerative disorder.
Researchers found that babies whose moms receive flu vaccinations while pregnant have a significantly reduced risk of acquiring influenza during their first six months of life. The study, published in Pediatrics, showed that infants born to vaccinated mothers had a 70 percent reduction in laboratory-confirmed flu cases and an 80 percen...
A study of 601,892 veterans found that those who reported military sexual trauma (MST) were more than twice as likely to experience homelessness within five years. The association with homelessness was independent of other factors and remained significant even immediately after discharge.
A new study finds that end-stage heart failure patients who received stem cell therapy experienced a 37 percent reduction in cardiac events, including deaths and hospital admissions. The treatment showed fewer side effects and complications compared to the placebo group.
A new two-drug combination significantly reduces the number and size of precancerous polyps in the small intestine of hereditary cancer patients. Researchers found a 71% overall reduction in polyps, with most side effects being tolerable, offering a promising prevention treatment for this high-risk patient group.
Researchers discovered a new class of common variable immunodeficiency disorder (CVID) caused by IKAROS gene mutations, enabling definitive genetic diagnosis and potential personalized treatment. The study found six unrelated families sharing similar symptoms and changes in the same gene, highlighting the need for early intervention.
Scientists at University of Utah Health discovered that spironolactone, a medicine for heart failure, can also inhibit Epstein Barr virus by blocking a key step in viral infection. This finding has broader implications, suggesting that spironolactone could be developed into a new class of anti-herpesvirus drug.
Researchers at the University of Utah are developing a 'smart' insulin that can automatically lower blood sugar levels after consumption. The grant-funded project aims to create an insulin that deactivates when blood glucose drops below a certain level, reducing the risk of serious health threats associated with improper dosing.
A new study reveals that ancient viral elements embedded in our genome have become important for mounting a proper defense against today's viral infections. The research found that these endogenous viruses have repurposed their DNA into virus-derived switches that regulate genes integral to our innate immune system.
The Patient Empowered Precision Medicine Alliance (PEPMA) aims to rapidly match patients with the right drugs for their condition. The project leverages University-derived technologies to determine whether existing drugs can be repurposed to treat rare conditions.
A new paper outlines how the University of Utah hospitalists used a tool developed at University of Utah Health Care to reduce unnecessary lab testing, decreasing lab costs by nearly 10 percent per patient visit. The approach resulted in significant cost savings and improved resource allocation.
Researchers found hyperconnectivity between brain networks in adolescent boys with Internet gaming disorder, which may help them respond to new information but also increase distractibility and poor impulse control. The study provides insights into the neural basis of compulsive video game play.
Researchers found that family members of CUP patients have a higher risk of developing cancers such as lung, pancreas, and colon cancer. The study identified specific sites where these cancers may originate, providing new guidance for physicians and potentially improving treatment outcomes.
A new study found that openly sharing patient satisfaction metrics created a culture of empathy, communication, trust, and shared decision making between patients and providers at University of Utah Health Care. This led to improved patient outcomes and cultural change in healthcare.
Researchers have identified a biochemical pathway regulated by aspirin, which decreases the level of 2-hydroxyglutarate, a driver of cancer development. This study adds to the evidence for aspirin's importance in cancer prevention and highlights a new pathway worth further investigation.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120 mmHg significantly reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in adults, especially those over 75. However, intensive treatment also increased the risk of hypotension, fainting, and acute kidney abnormalities.
A new study suggests that lowering systolic blood pressure to 120 mmHg could benefit up to 16.8 million Americans, who meet specific eligibility criteria for intensive blood pressure management. The study found that this lower target could have a significant impact on reducing risk of heart failure, heart attack, and death.
The FDA has approved talimogene laherparepvec (T-VEC), a herpes cold sore virus designed to kill tumor cells, as a treatment for late-stage melanoma. The therapy showed a durable response in 16% of patients, with some experiencing no signs of cancer after treatment.
A study by the University of Utah Health found that truck drivers with high pulse pressure and fatigue are at increased risk for crashes. Cell phone use while driving and unhealthy working conditions also contribute to crash risk.
Helper T cell proteins Oct1 and OCA-B work together to put immune response genes on standby, allowing for rapid activation upon re-exposure. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms controlling immunological memory in CD4+ cells.
Researchers discovered elephants have 38 additional modified copies of the p53 gene, which encodes a well-defined tumor suppressor. This unique genetic feature may protect elephants from cancer by enhancing their ability to kill damaged cells.
Researchers have developed an informatics platform to crowdsource data on pediatric asthma triggers, combining air quality and environmental exposure data with clinical information. The system aims to help doctors tailor recommendations for patients based on real-time pollutant exposure.
Researchers at the University of Utah are exploring the link between congenital heart defects and neurological disorders in children, discovering genetic mutations that affect both heart and brain function. The goal is to develop precision medicine for CHD patients and tailor treatment based on genomic sequence.
A study by the University of Utah Health found that households with children are more likely to experience viral infections throughout the year. On average, people in childless households were infected for 3-4 weeks, while those with one child were infected for 18 weeks, and those with six children were infected for up to 45 weeks.
Researchers developed a model to project number of CRE infections when hospitals work together to enhance infection controls, showing a 74% reduction compared to independent approach. The model highlights the importance of coordination and communication among facilities in preventing antibiotic-resistant infections.
Researchers discovered noncanonical genomic imprinting in mice brains, affecting serotonin and dopamine production. The study highlights a targeted form of genetic control that can influence offspring behavior and may contribute to brain disorders like autism.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that genetic variation in the gene FOPNL is associated with poorer survival rates in multiple myeloma patients. The study, which included over 1,600 patients from North America and Europe, identified a significant link between the FOPNL variant and reduced survival.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that 10% of health care providers write an antibiotic prescription for nearly every patient (95 percent or more) who walks in with a cold, bronchitis or other acute respiratory infection. This variation is driven by individual provider habits rather than differences in patient char...
The American Society of Human Genetics recommends genetic testing for children only when results could have an immediate impact on healthcare decisions. Predictive testing is particularly complicated and may affect family relationships and mental health. ASHG advises against direct-to-consumer DNA testing, especially in healthy children.
A study published in The Lancet found that readmission to the same hospital after surgery is associated with improved survival rates. Patients who underwent a range of common operations fared better when treated by the same surgical team and returned to their original hospital for post-operative management.
The nation's research funding squeeze jeopardizes patient care, eroding time to conduct research and discouraging innovative science. Deans of leading academic medical centers call for predictable and sustainable funding indexed to inflation to support research and teaching.
A rare genetic syndrome is associated with increased blood vessel resistance, which may contribute to hypertension. The study identifies mutations in the PDE3A enzyme that alter its activity and increase blood pressure. The findings suggest new avenues for investigating hypertension causes and developing targeted therapies.
A new study found that adding two minutes of walking each hour can help offset the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. The research suggests that even light activities like casual walking or gardening can provide significant health benefits and potentially increase life expectancy.
A recent study from Huntsman Cancer Institute found that childhood cancer survivors are more than five times as likely to be enrolled in federal social security disability assistance programs compared to individuals without a cancer history. The study identified survivor socio-demographic and treatment characteristics associated with a...
Researchers at the University of Utah Health have discovered patterns in DNA anomalies that predict a woman's outcome significantly better than tumor stage, also indicating how well she'll respond to platinum therapy. The new method could lead to personalized prognostic and diagnostic laboratory tests.
A study has identified a molecular signature that drives the growth and survival of triple negative breast cancer cells. The research reveals that high levels of Myc protein and low levels of TXNIP correlate with poor patient outcomes.
A new University of Utah study found that exposure to killing and death while deployed is correlated with a 43% increased suicide risk compared to general deployment. The research suggests that seeing death and killing contributes to feelings of guilt, shame, regret, and negative self-perceptions.
Researchers found that ADHD prevalence decreases substantially at higher elevations, correlating with increased dopamine levels. The study suggests that hypobaric hypoxia, a condition caused by lower oxygen levels at high altitudes, may serve as an environmental stressor and potentially protect against the disorder.
Researchers found that hypobaric hypoxia caused increased depression-like behavior in female rats at high altitudes. The study suggests that altitude is an independent risk factor for depression and suicide, and physiological changes triggered by low oxygen may contribute to the issue.
Researchers discovered that genetic mutations affect the development of the diaphragm by altering the expression of the Gata4 gene, leading to a defective diaphragm and the herniation of organs. The study's findings offer new hope for the prevention and treatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
A large study found that viral infections are more common than bacterial infections in children with pneumonia, with respiratory syncytial virus and rhinovirus being major culprits. The results suggest a need for improved prevention and treatment strategies to address the growing burden of childhood pneumonia.
A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that short-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter increases the risk of suicide among middle-aged men. The study also revealed that individuals between 36-64 years old experienced a higher risk of suicide following air pollution exposure.
A recent study found that methamphetamine chronically used by adolescents causes greater brain damage and alterations in the 'executive function' area compared to adults. The research, conducted on South Korean participants, revealed significant changes in gray matter thickness and white matter integrity in adolescent users.
Researchers have developed a long-lasting, glucose-responsive insulin derivative called Ins-PBA-F, which self-activates when blood sugar levels rise. Tests on mouse models show that one injection works for up to 14 hours, automatically lowering blood sugar levels.
A research collaboration found that induced or augmented labor does not increase the risk of children developing autism spectrum disorder. The study, which analyzed data from over 167,000 births, suggests that labor induction or augmentation is safe for mothers and babies.
Scientists at the University of Utah and Georgia have discovered a pharmacological target that could enable development of novel drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens, including MRSA. The target is based on a unique pathway for making heme, an essential iron-carrying molecule specific to Gram-positive bacteria.
Defects in extrusion, a process that helps cells die when overcrowded, may be a common hallmark of invasive tumor types. FAK inhibitors rescued cell death rates to normal and eliminated large cell masses.
Research reveals that a balanced gut bacterial community is crucial for digestive health, and the immune system plays a key role in shaping this balance. Fecal transplants may also offer new hope for treating IBD by restoring a healthy gut microbiome.