Researchers at WashU Medicine found that chronic itching incorporates more neurons than normal itch signals and co-opts pain neurons to intensify the sensation. This discovery may lead to more effective treatments targeting activity in both pain and itch neurons.
Researchers created a massive online database that matches thousands of genes linked to cancer and other diseases with drugs that target those genes. The database includes over 14,000 drug-gene interactions and is publicly available for research purposes.
Research reveals that stomach chief cells can revert to stem cells even without noticeable injury, suggesting a potential new approach for repairing stomach damage. The findings also hint at the possibility of using this process to prevent stomach cancers.
Researchers have identified a link between mitochondrial development and the origins of some congenital heart defects. Mitochondria orchestrate events that determine a cell's future, including whether it becomes heart muscle cells.
Scientists validate a proposed system for detecting preclinical Alzheimer's disease in cognitively normal elderly individuals, finding that it is common and associated with future mental decline and mortality. The new findings offer reason for encouragement, showing that the system can predict which individuals will develop symptoms of...
Researchers identified propofol's binding site on brain cells, paving the way for the development of new anesthetics. The study's findings could lead to safer and more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
Scientists at WashU Medicine have created human breast tumor models in mice, which maintain genetic errors and can help identify drivers of tumor growth. The models allow researchers to study specific patient tumors with detailed information on treatment regimens and consent.
A new clinical trial has launched, aiming to prevent Alzheimer's disease by giving new drug treatments before dementia symptoms appear. The trial, led by principal investigator Randall Bateman, is testing two innovative treatments and has been made possible through a unique collaboration of private and public resources.
A recent study has identified a rare gene mutation linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in Americans over 50. The C3 gene variant contributes to AMD risk by interfering with the complement pathway's normal function.
Researchers have identified a mechanism by which Sirt1 promotes neural activity in the brain, leading to significant delays in aging and increases in longevity. The study found that mice with increased Sirt1 expression in their brains exhibited dramatic physical changes, including improved muscle structure and vigor.
Research from Washington University School of Medicine links increased breast cancer risk to drinking between early adolescence and first full-term pregnancy. Drinking daily can increase risk by 13% if averaged during this period, according to the study.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that corrupted proteins spread in the brain through a specific type of receptor called heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Blocking this receptor may aid treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, potentially unifying understanding and treatment of multiple neurodegenerative conditions.
Researchers found common genetic factors underlying alcoholism and certain eating-disorder symptoms, including binge eating and purging habits. The study included nearly 6,000 adult twins and suggests that some genes influencing alcohol dependence also influence binge eating in men and women.
A study published in JAMA Neurology reveals that disruptions in brain networks emerge simultaneously with chemical markers of early Alzheimer's disease. The research provides an effective and less invasive way to detect early disease, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a new therapeutic target for COPD by linking acute viral infections to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Viral infection triggers the production of IL-33, a signaling molecule that activates immune cells to produce excess mucus in the lungs.
A study found that frozen sperm taken directly from testicles is just as effective as fresh sperm in helping couples conceive through IVF. The type of facility where sperm is taken and its distance from the IVF laboratory have no bearing on pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers used magnetoencephalography to track brain activity at high temporal resolution, revealing new distinctions in resting and active brain regions. The study provides novel insights into how brain networks function in cooperative groups, which is essential for better diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries.
A new analysis of over 4,700 women found that obesity does not significantly affect pregnancy rates when using donor eggs. The study suggests that doctors should not discourage obese women from pursuing treatment if they need donor eggs to conceive.
A study at WashU Medicine distinguished between viral and bacterial infections in children with fever using gene profiling, achieving a 90% accuracy rate. This new method could help identify the cause of illness and ensure targeted treatment.
A key brain structure that regulates emotions works differently in depressed preschoolers compared to their healthy peers, according to new research. The findings suggest the children's brains may be experiencing an exaggeration of a normal developmental response to emotions.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found no link between nitrous oxide anesthesia and increased risk of heart attack. Despite concerns about the impact on homocysteine levels, the study showed that B vitamins did not influence heart attack risk in surgery patients.
Researchers found states with stricter tobacco restrictions on teens had lower adult smoking rates, particularly among women. Effective policies included vending machine restrictions and ID requirements, which reduced heavy smoking by 29%.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a way to trigger the reproduction of human insulin-producing beta cells in a laboratory setting, potentially removing a significant obstacle to transplanting these cells as a treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes. This new technique uses a cell conditioning s...
Researchers found that people with inherited Alzheimer's disease produce 20% more of a specific form of amyloid beta, known as amyloid beta 42. Additionally, the protein drops out of cerebrospinal fluid more quickly in mutation carriers, suggesting a link to brain amyloid plaques.
Researchers found that cancer cells' high sugar consumption disables immune cells' ability to produce inflammatory compounds, making it harder for them to fight tumors. This discovery may lead to new treatments by enhancing T cell function and treating autoimmune disorders.
Doctors at WashU Medicine have shown that testing cervical tumors before treatment can predict whether patients will do well with standard chemotherapy. The study supports personalized medicine for cervical cancer, a tumor normally treated with a one-size-fits-all approach.
Researchers found that sucralose increased insulin and blood sugar levels in severely obese people without diabetes. This study suggests that artificial sweeteners may have more significant effects on metabolism than previously thought.
A new diagnostic test for lymphatic filariasis is highly sensitive, detecting nearly 26% more infections than the standard test. The new test also has a longer shelf life and is expected to cost less.
Researchers have identified biomarkers that can predict cognitive impairment up to 7.5 years before symptoms develop, with sex, age, and race also playing a role in the prediction. The findings provide valuable evidence for the development of new treatments targeting Alzheimer's disease before symptoms appear.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found a gene called Phr1 that governs the self-destruction of injured axons. Removing this gene can prevent axonal degeneration in adult mice, offering a potential target for new drugs to maintain nerve function.
Researchers found that vagus nerve stimulation brings about changes in brain metabolism weeks or months before patients begin to feel better. The treatment was able to improve symptoms of depression in 9 out of 13 participants, with significant changes in brain metabolism occurring far in advance of any improvement in mood.
Scientists have reevaluated the role of the APOE gene in Alzheimer's disease, finding minimal interaction between APOE and amyloid beta in cerebrospinal fluid. This suggests a need to rethink therapeutic strategies targeting APOE, as current approaches may not be effective.
Researchers have discovered that breast cancer patients with dense breasts are more likely to develop aggressive tumors. A protein called DDR2 plays a key role in this process, facilitating the spread of cancer cells by activating a multistep pathway.
Scientists have identified a human gene, ITGA5, that becomes more active after sleep deprivation, offering a potential new marker for detecting sleep loss. The discovery was made through cross-translational research with fruit flies, which allowed the researchers to identify genes in humans and then test them in flies.
Researchers have identified nearly all major genetic mutations that drive acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a fast-growing blood cancer. The study paves the way for developing personalized treatment plans based on a patient's genetic profile.
A new study found that adding genomics-based testing to the standard diagnostic workup could lead to a change in recommended treatment for some women. The research identified four novel genomic-based subtypes of endometrial cancer, which suggest that genetic changes can help guide treatment decisions.
Scientists identify mitofusin 2 as key player linking mitochondrial quality control to Parkinson's disease and heart failure. The discovery may lead to new genetic forms of Parkinson's disease diagnosis and improved treatment options.
A new treatment for inherited ALS has passed an early clinical trial with no serious side effects, successfully introducing the drug into the central nervous system. The phase 1 trial suggests the approach may be effective against other mutated genes causing central nervous system disorders.
Research at Washington University School of Medicine suggests that Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria is likely the cause of bacterial vaginosis, a condition linked to preterm birth and increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases. The condition affects one in every three women and often does not cause significant symptoms.
Researchers have decoded the platyfish genome, revealing insights into cancer development and complex behaviors. The study found altered genes involved in live-bearing birth and unique molecular changes, shedding light on the evolution of these traits.
Scientists developed tiny devices containing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to activate brain cells with light. Using these devices, mice were taught to poke their noses through a hole in a maze, triggering the system to release dopamine and associate rewards, revealing potential for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Researchers at WashU Medicine successfully manipulate immune cells using light to move them towards a beam of light, holding potential for controlling insulin secretion or heart rate. The study uses genetic engineering techniques to introduce a light-sensitive protein into immune cells, enabling them to sense and respond to light signals.
Scientists have identified several genes linked to the tau protein, which is found in brain tangles that develop in Alzheimer's patients. The findings may help provide targets for a different class of drugs that could be used for treatment.
The study reveals that turtles activate existing genes in new ways to adapt to oxygen deprivation, which may lead to improved treatments for human heart conditions. The research also highlights the importance of preserving turtle diversity due to their slow evolution rate and declining global populations.
Researchers found that age-related macular degeneration shares a common link with atherosclerosis due to impaired cholesterol efflux in macrophages. The study suggests that cholesterol-lowering eye drops or other medications could prevent vision loss caused by macular degeneration.
Research suggests depression in childhood increases risk of obesity, smoking and physical inactivity in adolescence, leading to higher rates of heart disease. Depression appears to be a key factor in the development of cardiac risk behaviors, even after remission.
Researchers found that participants with preclinical Alzheimer's disease had poorer sleep efficiency and spent less time asleep than those without markers of the disease. Early evidence suggests a possible connection between sleep loss and brain plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed nanoparticles carrying melittin, a toxin found in bee venom, that can destroy human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) while leaving surrounding cells unharmed. This finding offers an important step towards developing a vaginal gel that may prevent the spread of HIV.
Research reveals that certain brain cells are better equipped to fight off viral infections due to their unique immune defense mechanisms. The study found that granule cell neurons, which rarely become infected, have different gene profiles compared to cortical neurons, making them more resistant to infection.
Researchers discovered that crippled mitochondria in Schwann cells lead to a toxic substance build-up, causing nerve damage and symptoms like numbness and pain. This finding may lead to new therapeutic strategies to treat peripheral neuropathies, including drugs that block toxin buildup.