Vanderbilt study shows salt fights infection
Researchers found that salt accumulates in skin and tissue to control infection, increasing macrophage activation. High-salt diet also cleared up bacterial footpad infections in mice.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Vanderbilt-led study finds peanut consumption decreases mortality
A Vanderbilt University-led study has discovered that peanut consumption is associated with reduced total mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality across all racial and ethnic groups. The study, based on three large cohort studies, found a significant link between increased peanut intake and lower mortality rates.
Human antibodies target Marburg, Ebola viruses; 1 step closer to vaccine
Human antibodies have been isolated and characterized that can neutralize the Marburg virus, a close cousin to Ebola. The discovery could lead to the development of an effective treatment and vaccine against these often lethal viruses. Researchers hope to complete clinical safety trials by the end of the year.
Multicenter study finds respiratory viruses most common cause of pneumonia in children
A multicenter study found that respiratory viruses, particularly RSV and human rhinovirus, are the leading causes of pneumonia in children. The study, which included over 2,300 hospitalizations, revealed that viral infections accounted for 81% of cases, while bacterial infections were responsible for only 8%. The findings suggest that ...
Study sheds light on a 'guardian' protein of brain function
A recent study at Vanderbilt University Medical Center has identified a crucial 'guardian' protein called CHIP that monitors mitochondrial function in the brain. The absence of this protein leads to profound impairments in mice with the CHIP gene deleted, highlighting its critical role in maintaining healthy nerve cells.
Altered dopamine signaling a clue to autism
A new study has discovered genetic variations in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that disrupt dopamine signaling, leading to behavioral changes. The findings provide a potential target for developing more effective treatments for ASD.
Brain study sheds light on how children with autism process social play
A recent brain study has confirmed significant differences in play behavior, brain activation patterns, and stress levels between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing children. The research suggests that some children with autism may experience social engagement as stressful or aversive.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateJan 26, 2015
Study's findings do not support chlorhexidine bathing in ICUs
Vanderbilt University researchers found that chlorhexidine cloths did not reduce health care-associated infections in critically ill patients compared to non-antimicrobial cloths. The study analyzed data from over 9,300 ICU patients and showed no significant difference in infection rates between the two groups.
New signaling pathway provides clues to obesity
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered a novel cell signaling pathway that may provide new insights into obesity. The discovery centers on the melanocortin-4 receptor, which plays a key role in regulating appetite, and reveals a molecular mechanism for converting an on-off switch into a rheostat.
Vanderbilt-led team studies blood test for prostate cancer
A Vanderbilt-led team has developed a method for detecting 'cell-free' tumor DNA in the bloodstream, showing promising results in distinguishing prostate cancer from normal controls. The technique, called a 'liquid biopsy,' demonstrated over three times the sensitivity of current PSA screening and accuracy rates of up to 91 percent.
Natural 'high' could avoid chronic marijuana use
A Vanderbilt University study suggests replenishing 2-AG levels in the brain could alleviate mood and anxiety disorders. By restoring normal levels of 2-AG, researchers may have found a potential therapeutic strategy for treating depression and anxiety.
Vanderbilt team uses e-health records to search for hidden drug benefits
Researchers found that metformin use was associated with a 23% decrease in mortality compared to other treatments, and may have therapeutic benefits for certain types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateNov 25, 2014
Vanderbilt study finds more breast cancer patients opting for mastectomy
A Vanderbilt study reveals a significant increase in the number of women with early-stage breast cancer choosing mastectomy over breast conservation surgery. The trend was most pronounced among younger women and those with smaller tumors, suggesting factors other than disease burden are at play.
Vanderbilt study finds nationwide decline in one type of serious heart attack
A Vanderbilt University study found a nationwide decline of 30% in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients between 2006-2011. This decrease may lead to reduced experience among emergency doctors, potentially affecting the timeliness and quality of care for time-sensitive heart attacks.
Study finds traditional healers contribute to HIV care delays
A recent survey of symptomatic HIV-positive people in rural Mozambique found that those who initially consulted traditional healers had a 2.4 times longer delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis of HIV. The study highlights the need to engage traditional healers in HIV care and provide incentives for referrals.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateNov 11, 2014
'Darting' mice may hold clues to ADHD, autism and bipolar disorder
A transgenic mouse with a rare human genetic variation in the dopamine transporter protein may lead to improvements in ADHD, autism and bipolar disorder diagnosis and treatment. The mice exhibit unusual "darting behavior," which could be related to impulsivity and abnormal dopamine release.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2014
Pneumonia vaccine reducing pediatric admissions: Report
A new pneumonia vaccine has led to a 27% decline in hospital admissions among children under 2 in Tennessee, with an overall 72% reduction since introduction of the first vaccine in 2000. The success of pneumococcal vaccines challenges common assumptions about antibiotic treatments for childhood pneumonia.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateNov 6, 2014
Vanderbilt researchers explore links between grammar, rhythm
A recent study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that a child's ability to distinguish musical rhythm is related to their capacity for understanding grammar. The study, led by Reyna Gordon, suggests that rhythm could be used as an indicator of grammar skills in children with language disorders.
Staph 'gangs' share nutrients during infection: Vanderbilt study
Antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria can exchange nutrients with each other and even with normal microbes to increase virulence during an infection. This challenges existing dogma on infectious diseases and may inform new treatment strategies.
Study questions accuracy of lung cancer screens in some geographic regions
A new analysis found that FDG-PET technology is less accurate in diagnosing lung cancer versus benign disease in regions with high rates of histoplasmosis or tuberculosis. Misdiagnosis could lead to unnecessary tests and surgeries, with potential complications and mortality.
Skin cancer risks higher for soldiers serving abroad
A retrospective study found that 62% of veterans reported getting sunburned while deployed, and 29% noticed changes in their moles, highlighting a potential deficiency in sun protection among military personnel. The study suggests room for improvement in skin cancer prevention and early detection in the military population.
Study shows nationwide declines in central line infections and ventilator pneumonias
A nationwide study found significant declines in central line-associated bloodstream infections and ventilator-associated pneumonias among critically ill neonates and children. The rates of these infections decreased by 61% in NICUs and 76% in PICUs, resulting in estimated cost savings of $131 million.
Vanderbilt researchers find that coronary arteries hold heart-regenerating cells
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have found that endothelial cells in the coronary arteries can function as cardiac stem cells to produce new heart muscle tissue. This discovery could lead to new treatments for heart failure and repair after a heart attack, particularly in cases of coronary artery disease.
Regular blood transfusions can reduce repeat strokes in children with sickle cell disease
A new trial suggests that regular blood transfusion therapy can significantly reduce the recurrence of silent strokes and overt strokes in children with sickle cell anemia. The study found that monthly blood transfusions reduced repeat cerebral infarcts by 58% in children with pre-existing silent strokes.
Novel treatment strengthens bones in genetic disease neurofibromatosis type-1
Researchers have discovered an enzyme therapy that improves bone growth, mineralization, and strength in a mouse model of neurofibromatosis type-1. The treatment, asfotase-alpha, reduces fractures by clearing accumulated pyrophosphate, a strong inhibitor of bone mineralization.
Vanderbilt-led study shows high-dose flu vaccine more effective in elderly
A Vanderbilt-led study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the high-dose flu vaccine is 24% more effective than the standard-dose vaccine in protecting persons ages 65 and over against influenza illness. The study, which enrolled 31,989 participants, showed that the high-dose trivalent vaccine induces significan...
Vanderbilt study examines bacteria's ability to fight obesity
A Vanderbilt study finds that bacteria produce a therapeutic compound that inhibits weight gain, insulin resistance, and other adverse effects of a high-fat diet in mice. The researchers genetically modified E. coli to produce NAPE, which reduces food intake and weight gain, suggesting a potential new treatment for obesity.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 25, 2014
Vanderbilt-led study identifies genes linked to breast cancer in East Asian women
Researchers have identified three genetic changes linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in East Asian women. These findings provide new insights into the genetics and biology of breast cancer.
Vanderbilt study shows therapeutic bacteria prevent obesity in mice
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have found a probiotic that prevents obesity by inhibiting weight gain, insulin resistance, and fatty liver in mice. The study suggests manipulating the gut microbiota could treat obesity and other chronic diseases.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 22, 2014
Mothers of children with autism benefit from peer-led intervention
A new study found that peer-led interventions targeting parental well-being can significantly reduce stress, depression, and anxiety in mothers of children with disabilities. The interventions led to improvements in mental health, sleep, and life satisfaction, as well as fewer dysfunctional parent-child interactions.
Vanderbilt discovery may advance colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment
A Vanderbilt University-led team has identified protein 'signatures' of genetic mutations that drive colorectal cancer. The study's findings may lead to new advances in diagnosing and treating the disease by identifying patients who would benefit most from chemotherapy after surgery.
Vanderbilt scientists discover that chemical element bromine is essential to human life
Bromine is the 28th element essential for tissue development in all animals. Fruit flies died without bromine but survived with its restoration. This finding has implications for human diseases such as kidney function and dialysis patients.
Vanderbilt study finds women referred for bladder cancer less often than men
A new Vanderbilt University study found that women with blood in their urine were less likely to be referred to a urologist for further tests than men with the same issue. The disparity may contribute to delayed diagnoses and worse mortality rates among women with bladder cancer.
Vanderbilt study finds physical signs of depression common among ICU survivors
A Vanderbilt study found that two-thirds of ICU patients experience somatic symptoms like weakness, appetite change, and fatigue, surpassing cognitive symptoms. The study highlights a significant public health issue, with millions of patients admitted to ICUs annually.
Vanderbilt researchers discover how intestinal cells build nutrient-absorbing surface
Researchers have discovered that intestinal cells use adhesion molecules to build the nutrient-absorbing brush border, a critical structure for absorbing nutrients and defending against pathogens. The findings provide new insights into intestinal pathologies associated with inherited and infectious diseases.
Violence intervention program effective in Vanderbilt pilot study
A targeted violence intervention program was found to reduce violent behavior and increase competencies to deal with violence among middle school students. The program showed a significant decrease in violent behavior and victimization rates, with students reporting 'never' getting beaten up or threatened with a gun.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Injury and Violence Research·DateApr 9, 2014
Vanderbilt diabetes researchers track cells' ability to regenerate
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have found evidence that the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas can regenerate. This surprising discovery suggests that understanding how regeneration occurs may lead to new treatments for the rising tide of diabetes, affecting over 8% of the US population.
Discovery sheds new light on marijuana's anxiety relief effects
Researchers identify cannabinoid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a key emotional hub involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses. The discovery may help explain why marijuana users take the drug to reduce anxiety.
Vanderbilt study shows mother's voice improves hospitalization and feeding in preemies
A Vanderbilt study finds that premature babies who receive a combination of their mother's voice and a pacifier-activated music player learn to eat more efficiently and have their feeding tubes removed sooner. The intervention also reduces stress and shortens hospitalization times.
Vanderbilt scientists contribute to finding that could lead to the first effective RSV vaccine
Researchers have made a significant discovery that could lead to the development of an effective RSV vaccine, a major cause of infant mortality worldwide. The team designed artificial proteins capable of stimulating an immune response against RSV using a new software app.
Vanderbilt study reveals senses of sight and sound separated in children with autism
Children with autism have difficulty integrating simultaneous information from their eyes and ears, according to a Vanderbilt study. The research suggests that deficits in sensory building blocks for language and communication can hamper social and communication skills in children with autism.
Suicide risk doesn't differ in children taking 2 types of commonly prescribed antidepressants
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study tracked over 36,000 children taking two commonly prescribed antidepressants and found no evidence of increased suicidal risk. The research aimed to inform decision-making on treatment options for pediatric patients with major depressive disorder.
Vanderbilt study: Ancient chemical bond may aid cancer therapy
Researchers discovered a 500-million-year-old chemical bond essential for animal life, which could lead to new cancer therapies. The sulfilimine bond is formed by hypohalous acids and is crucial for blood vessel formation.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2013
Penicillin equally effective as 'big gun' antibiotics for treating less severe childhood pneumonia
Narrow-spectrum antibiotics, such as ampicillin and penicillin, are equally effective as broad-spectrum antibiotics in treating less severe childhood pneumonia. The study, published in Pediatrics, compared outcomes among children hospitalized with pneumonia between 2005 and 2011, receiving either narrow-spectrum or broad-spectrum antib...
Prostate cancer biomarker may predict patient outcomes
Researchers identified a biomarker for prostate cancer recurrence, revealing that patients with CD151free protein have cancer recur earlier than those without. This discovery may aid in determining patient care and predicting disease progression.
Vanderbilt study finds limited resources for injured surgeons
A Vanderbilt University study found nearly half of orthopaedic surgeons sustain injuries during their careers, with inadequate resources available to them. The study also revealed that 38% of respondents reported no institutional resources, leading to increased lost productivity.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 26, 2013
First large-scale PheWAS study using EMRs provides systematic method to discover new disease association
Researchers used genotype data from 13,835 individuals to perform the first large-scale phenome-wide association study (PheWAS), discovering 63 previously unknown SNP-disease associations. The study validated known associations across hundreds of previous studies and found genes associated with multiple diseases or traits.
Mother's immunosuppressive medications not likely to put fetus at risk
A Vanderbilt study found that women with chronic autoimmune diseases who take immunosuppressive medications during their first trimester of pregnancy are not putting their babies at significantly increased risk of adverse outcomes. The study included over 600 infants and used health plan data from three geographically diverse health pl...
Knowing who their physician is boosts patient satisfaction
A Vanderbilt study found that providing patients with a simple biosketch card about their doctor can improve patient satisfaction scores by 22%. The study showed that patient comfort with care is crucial for recovery, and this intervention is an easy and cost-effective way to enhance the patient experience.
Frog-killing fungus paralyzes amphibian immune response
A toxic factor released by a deadly frog-killing fungus disables the amphibian immune response, preventing conventional lymphocyte activation. The fungus's ability to inhibit cell growth in cancerous cells suggests potential new treatments.