Salt gets under your skin
Researchers discovered that immune system cells and lymph capillaries regulate sodium balance and blood pressure in the skin, contrary to traditional views focusing on the kidney and brain.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Vanderbilt study finds lack of exercise not a factor in health disparities
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that physical activity is not a significant factor in health disparities between African-Americans and whites. Sedentary behaviors, such as sitting and screen time, were linked to poorer health outcomes more than physical activity.
Vanderbilt study finds maternal diet important predictor of severity for infant RSV
A Vanderbilt study found that maternal diets high in carbohydrates during pregnancy correlate with severe RSV cases in infants. The study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, suggests a dose-dependent relationship between carbohydrate intake and RSV severity.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 4, 2013
Genetic risk factors for common eye disorder come into focus
Researchers have identified seven new genetic regions associated with AMD, explaining up to 65% of the genetics of the disease. The study combined existing data from over 17,000 patients and 60,000 people without AMD, revealing genes involved in immune system signaling, lipid metabolism, and blood vessel development.
Antibacterial protein's molecular workings revealed
Vanderbilt investigators have identified the structural features of calprotectin's two metal binding sites and demonstrated that manganese binding is key to its antibacterial action. The study could guide efforts to develop novel antibacterials that limit a microbe's access to metals.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2013
Cure in sight for kissing bug's bite
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered a potential cure for both acute and chronic forms of Chagas disease in mice using the small molecule VNI. The treatment achieved 100% survival without toxic side effects.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 13, 2013
Vanderbilt study reveals clues to childhood respiratory virus
The Vanderbilt-led research found that human metapneumovirus is the second leading cause of severe bronchiolitis in young children, affecting more children over age 1 than RSV. The study provides a clearer picture of how this virus impacts children and highlights the need for vaccines to prevent it.
Calcium-binding protein mutations found in heart rhythm disorders
Researchers identified two new genes associated with severe early-onset heart rhythm disorders, expanding the list of culprits that can cause sudden cardiac death. Exome sequencing revealed de novo mutations in calmodulin genes, which impaired calcium binding and led to abnormal electrical activity in the heart.
Prostate cancer study tracks long-term urinary, sexual and bowel function side effects
A new study found differences in urinary, bowel, and sexual function after short-term follow-up, but those differences were no longer significant 15 years after initial treatment. Men who underwent prostatectomy were more likely to experience urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Simulated Mars mission reveals body's sodium rhythms
A simulated Mars mission revealed rhythmic fluctuations in sodium levels with 7-day and monthly cycles, suggesting sodium storage and implications for blood pressure control. The study found that nearly all ingested salt was excreted in urine, but not daily, and that hormonal responses also fluctuated with these cycles.
Vanderbilt study examines Affordable Care Act's impact on uncompensated care
A Vanderbilt study predicts cuts in Medicare and Medicaid disproportionate share funds for hospitals serving low-income patients, even if Medicaid is not expanded. States that don
3 new genetic links to colorectal cancer
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified three new genetic variants linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The study, published in Nature Genetics, provides new insight into the biology of the disease and could lead to new therapeutic targets.
Vanderbilt study finds diverse genetic alterations in triple-negative breast cancers
A study by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center investigators found that most triple-negative breast cancer patients have multiple genetic mutations, despite treatment with chemotherapy. The research may provide targets for new therapies and shed light on the challenges of treating this form of cancer.
UNC, Vanderbilt discover a new live vaccine approach for SARS and novel coronaviruses
Researchers at Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina discovered a way to create a safer live vaccine for SARS and novel coronaviruses by disabling the ExoN proofreading protein. The new approach accelerates viral mutation, crippling its ability to cause disease in animals.
Green tea found to reduce rate of some GI cancers
A study led by Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers found that regular green tea consumption is associated with a reduced risk of digestive system cancers, particularly for stomach/esophagus and colorectal cancers. Women who drank green tea at least three times a week had a 17-21% lower risk compared to non-tea drinkers.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 31, 2012
Vanderbilt researchers find that diabetes drug could be effective in treating addiction
A Vanderbilt University study found that a widely-used diabetes medication can reduce the rewarding effects of cocaine, potentially offering new hope for addiction treatment. The findings suggest that this medication could be effective in treating other stimulant addictions as well.
Study ties early menopause to heart attack, stroke
A new study finds that women experiencing early menopause are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke due to cardiovascular disease. Women with early menopause were found to be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, including smoking, diabetes, and excess weight.
Little evidence supports medical treatment options for adolescents with autism
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that there is insufficient evidence to support medical interventions in adolescents and young adults with autism. Key findings include the potential benefits of antipsychotic medications in reducing problem behaviors, but limited effectiveness for vocational interventions.
Vanderbilt study looks at benefits of progestogens to prevent early childbirth
A Vanderbilt study found that pregnant women who have had prior preterm births may benefit from additional hormone, progestogens, to prevent early childbirth. However, the review also found that progestogens do not seem to help prevent preterm labor in women carrying twins or triplets.
Little evidence supports autism treatment options in adolescents
A systematic review of therapies for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders found limited evidence to support medical interventions. Some treatments showed promise in improving social skills and educational outcomes, but studies had significant flaws and limited follow-up. The study underscores the urgent need for ...
Vanderbilt-led study reveals racial disparities in prostate cancer care
A study led by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center finds that black men with prostate cancer receive lower quality surgical care than white men. Black men are less likely to use high-volume surgeons and hospitals, resulting in longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates.
New method may allow personalized clinical trial for cancer therapies
A new method allows for personalized clinical trial predictions by analyzing cell behavior, offering ways to improve cancer treatment outcomes and predict tumor response. The approach may enable oncologists to test combinations of targeted therapies in individual patient tumors.
Team creates new view of body's infection response
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have created a new 3D view of the body's response to infection, enabling the identification of proteins involved in the inflammatory response. The technology combines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and imaging mass spectrometry to visualize the immune system's response to bacterial infections.
Vanderbilt researchers find proteins may point way to new prostate cancer drug targets
Researchers found two opposing proteins regulating the same set of genes in prostate cancer, suggesting potential therapeutic targets. The study identified genetic markers associated with tumor relapse, which could help predict patient outcomes.
Mechanism of lung cancer-associated mutations suggests new therapeutic approaches
Researchers have identified how EPHA3 gene mutations may promote lung cancer. The study found that loss of the gene diminishes its tumor-suppressive effect, potentially sparking tumor growth. The findings suggest that therapies targeting a downstream pathway may be beneficial for tumors with mutant EPHA3.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 30, 2012
Stress fuels breast cancer metastasis to bone
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which promotes breast cancer cell colonization of bone. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, can prevent this process by inhibiting sympathetic nervous system signals.
Vitamin E may lower liver cancer risk
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that high vitamin E intake from diet or supplements is associated with lower liver cancer risk. The analysis included 132,837 individuals and showed a clear inverse dose-response relation between vitamin E intake and liver cancer risk.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 17, 2012
Uncommon BRAF mutation in melanoma sensitive to MEK inhibitor drug therapy
Researchers discovered an uncommon mutation of the BRAF gene in melanoma patients that responds to MEK inhibitor drugs. The BRAF L597 mutation is adjacent to the V600 mutation and was found in 4% of tumor samples, suggesting potential benefits from MEK inhibitors.
Vanderbilt study finds obesity linked to kidney injury after heart surgery
A recent Vanderbilt University Medical Center study has found that obesity is associated with a higher risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiac surgery. The study, which followed 455 cardiac surgery patients, found that a higher body mass index (BMI) was linked to a greater risk of AKI, with patients weighing more than avera...
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 5, 2012
Vanderbilt-led study identifies genes linked to resistance to breast cancer chemotherapy
A Vanderbilt-led study identified a gene expression pattern linked to resistance to breast cancer chemotherapy. The researchers found that tumors with low concentrations of the dual specificity protein phosphatase 4 (DUSP4) were more resistant to chemotherapy, suggesting new therapy options for patients with specific subtypes of breast...
Alzheimer's protein structure suggests new treatment directions
Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered a new therapeutic strategy to reduce amyloid-beta production in Alzheimer's disease. By understanding how cholesterol binds to the amyloid precursor protein, they found that blocking this interaction could prevent amyloid-beta generation and treatment of dementia.
Vanderbilt researchers find common antibiotic carries heart risk
A Vanderbilt University study found that azithromycin carries a significant increased risk of cardiovascular death, especially among those with high-risk factors. The researchers compared over 348,000 prescriptions of azithromycin to millions of similar records from patients not treated with antibiotics.
Vanderbilt study finds hand surgeons scarce for emergency surgery
A Vanderbilt study found that only 7% of Tennessee hospitals have a hand specialist on call 24/7 to treat common injuries such as wrist and finger trauma. Patients from surrounding states travel long distances for treatment and follow-up care.
Cost study shows timing crucial in appendectomies
A recent study published in the Journal of American College of Surgeons found that removing a child's ruptured appendix within 24 hours significantly lowers hospital costs and charges. The study showed an estimated $10,000 savings in hospital charges when pediatric general surgeons removed the ruptured appendix early.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 30, 2012
Concerns about MRSA for expectant mothers may be unfounded
A recent Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found little vertical transmission of MRSA from mother to child, but babies closely matched their mother's carrier status within six weeks after birth. The study suggests that close contact may lead to horizontal transmission of the bacteria.
Vanderbilt researchers help reveal complex role of genes in autism
A multi-institutional team of researchers has identified two genes as 'genuine risk factors' for autism spectrum disorders. The study, published in Nature, used massively parallel sequencing to search for mutations that might affect autism risk and found that these genes are functionally related and physically interact with each other.
Newly identified stem cells may hold clues to colon cancer
Researchers have identified a new population of intestinal stem cells marked by the protein Lrig1, which appears to be relatively quiescent and acts as a tumor suppressor. This finding may hold clues to the origin of colorectal cancer and could lead to better understanding of its development and therapeutic targets.
Novel mouse model for autism yields clues to a 50-year-old mystery
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have created a mouse model that expresses a common genetic variation linked to autism, revealing exaggerated serotonin signaling and social behavior changes. The study suggests that developmental disruptions in serotonin levels may lead to long-lasting brain wiring changes.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2012
Immune system implicated in prematurity complication
A study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers has found that disruptions in the immune system's regulation may play a role in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a deadly disease affecting premature infants. The findings suggest a new target for therapeutic interventions to prevent NEC.
New melanoma drug nearly doubles survival in majority of patients
A new melanoma drug, vemurafenib (Zelboraf), has been shown to nearly double the median overall survival of patients with metastatic melanoma. The Phase 2 trial found that 53% of patients responded to treatment and experienced improved survival rates.
Vanderbilt study shows high cost of defensive medicine
A national survey of 2000 orthopedic surgeons found that 96% practice defensive medicine, accounting for 24% of imaging studies, laboratory tests, consultations, and hospital admissions. The average cost per month is $8,485, totaling $2 billion annually.
Study finds nicotine patches may help improve memory loss in older adults
A study published in Neurology found that nicotine patches improved memory loss in older adults with mild cognitive impairment by 46% after six months. The treatment had minimal side effects and showed promise for further research into its potential benefits.
Cholesterol-lowering drugs may reduce mortality for influenza patients
A new study found that statin use reduced mortality among hospitalized influenza patients by almost twice as much. Researchers are exploring combining statins with antiviral drugs for better treatment.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateDec 16, 2011
Ecstasy drug produces lasting toxicity in the brain
Researchers at Vanderbilt University found that recreational Ecstasy use is associated with chronic changes in the human brain, leading to a lasting loss of serotonin. The study used PET imaging to examine brain regions and found increased levels of serotonin-2A receptors in users, correlated with higher lifetime use.
Protein family key to aging, cancer
A new study identifies SIRT2 as a key tumor suppressor linked to gender-specific tumor development in mice. The research suggests the existence of a rare family of tumor suppressors, and its findings have implications for understanding the biological processes underlying cancer and aging.
Imaging agents offer new view of inflammation, cancer
Novel imaging agents detectable by PET imaging may visualize tumors in their earliest stages, enabling early detection and treatment of cancer. The compounds target COX-2, an enzyme found in inflammatory lesions and tumors.
Study puts a new spin on ibuprofen's actions
Researchers discovered that ibuprofen and other NSAIDs selectively block endocannabinoid metabolism, potentially leading to new analgesic medications with fewer side effects. This finding raises the possibility of targeting inflammation and pain without the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks associated with traditional NSAIDs.
Protein found in heart may be target for colon cancer therapies
Researchers have identified a protein that plays a critical role in heart development and may also be a therapeutic target for halting colon cancer metastasis. BVES expression was found to be low in all stages of colon cancer and decreased levels were observed in many other types of epithelial cancers.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 13, 2011
Vanderbilt researchers, international team, uncover genes linked to multiple sclerosis
An international team of scientists identified 29 new genetic variants linked to multiple sclerosis, providing key insights into the biology of the disease. The study confirms 23 previously known genetic associations and doubles the number of genes associated with MS.
Kidney dopamine regulates blood pressure, life span
Vanderbilt University researchers found that dopamine in the kidneys plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and life span. The study suggests that targeting the kidney dopamine system may be effective in treating hypertension and progressive kidney diseases.
SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2011