Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are developing new approaches to reduce health-care-associated infections. Investigating the use of probiotics to prevent pneumonia in ventilated patients and evaluating the effectiveness of a new antibiotic in preventing Clostridium difficile infection are two key areas of focus.
Researchers from Washington University School of Medicine successfully blocked harmful immune cells from entering the brain in mice with a condition similar to multiple sclerosis. The breakthrough discovery, made using an anti-cancer drug, prevents symptoms and provides early evidence for a potential new treatment.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified a low-dose, two-drug cocktail that reduces hearing loss in mice when given before exposure to loud noise. The combination of anticonvulsant and glucocorticoid drugs shows comparable hearing protection at lower doses than when administered alone.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have decoded the genome of Trichinella spiralis, a parasite that causes trichinosis, identifying unique features and novel genes that could lead to effective treatments. The study has implications for understanding parasitic diseases worldwide.
Researchers found that an abnormal response to early heartbeats can predict cardiac death in healthy-looking individuals. Those with no conventional markers of cardiovascular disease were eight times more likely to die from cardiac causes if they had abnormal heart rate turbulence.
Researchers found that a viral infection in a parasite can trigger severe responses in immune cells, increasing disease severity. The study suggests that antiviral strategies could be used to reduce damage caused by Leishmania strains carrying viruses.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered a gene that limits lung damage during acute stress. The bcl3 gene prevents excessive neutrophil production, which can cause life-threatening breathing problems and rapid lung failure.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a protective mechanism in Streptococcus pyogenes that could be exploited to create new antibiotics. The discovery reveals how the antitoxin blocks the toxin's activity, sparing the bacteria from self-destruction.
New nanoparticles designed to target fibrin in blood clots can be seen with a new type of CT scanner, providing early detection and potential treatment options for heart attacks. This technology has the potential to save lives by quickly identifying unstable plaque and guiding targeted treatments.
A recent study by Washington University researchers discovered that fatty acid synthase and nitric oxide synthase enzymes interact in endothelial cells to cause blood vessel damage in diabetes. By understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop new treatments for vascular complications of the disease.
A new study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that retired NFL players misuse painkillers at a higher rate than the general population, with 7% currently using opioid drugs. The study also found that players who experienced undiagnosed concussions were more likely to misused opioids.
The study reveals that orangutan DNA is more diverse than humans, with a unique genetic stability that has remained unchanged for 15 million years. The researchers found deep diversity in both Bornean and Sumatran orangutans, which can aid conservation efforts and inform studies of human evolution.
Researchers found that the nematode C. elegans, a millimeter-long worm used extensively for decades to study biology, gets naturally occurring viral infections. The discovery means C. elegans is likely to help scientists study the way viruses and their hosts interact.
A study by Washington University School of Medicine raised safety concerns about targeting the Notch1 signaling pathway in cancer treatment. The research found that mice developed vascular tumors, massive hemorrhages, and died after chronic disruption of the Notch1 signal, highlighting the potential risks of anti-Notch therapies.
A DNA sequence variant, impairing kidney function channels, is associated with an increased risk of heart failure. The variant may be treated with drugs used for high blood pressure.
A new study led by researchers at WashU Medicine found that consistent exercise is associated with a lower risk of dying from colon cancer. The study analyzed data from over 150,000 men and women and found that those who exercised for at least 10 years had the lowest risk of colon cancer death.
Researchers found a link between family history of alcoholism and increased risk of obesity, with women being more affected. The association may be due to the environment, particularly the availability of high-calorie, hyper-palatable foods that stimulate the brain's reward centers.
Researchers found that the ROP18 protein disables host cell proteins that protect against infection, allowing the parasite to thrive. This discovery could lead to new treatments for Toxoplasmosis and other parasitic infections.
Researchers found that a slight rise in PSA levels among men taking dutasteride was a stronger indicator of prostate cancer than rising PSA levels in men on a placebo. The study suggests that the drug enhances the ability to detect high-grade cancers, making the PSA test more effective for early diagnosis and treatment.
A study using functional MRI scans found that individuals with the APOE4 gene variant exhibit abnormal brain function before forming senile plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's. Researchers aim to identify high-risk patients and develop treatments to slow disease progression.
Researchers found that Alzheimer's disease is associated with disrupted brain clearance of a sticky plaque component called amyloid-beta. The study's findings have important implications for diagnosis and treatment, as scientists seek to understand how this process can be improved.
A study by Washington University School of Medicine reveals that genes alone do not predict disease risk, as environment interacts with DNA in complex ways. The research found that genetic variants have different effects in different environments, making it challenging to make accurate predictions.
Researchers used a new brain imaging technique to test an investigational drug for Parkinson's disease, finding it may be effective when combined with levodopa. The study suggests the method could speed drug development and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that HIV protease inhibitors block glucose transport, leading to insulin resistance. The discovery provides potential for safer antiviral drugs and better understanding of glucose transport in health and disease.
Researchers have identified a security system in host cells that viruses exploit to replicate, allowing them to evade the immune system. The discovery sheds light on how some viruses add chemical caps to RNA to bypass host cell defenses.
Researchers found a common genetic alteration in AML patients who died quickly from the disease. DNMT3A mutations were associated with poor survival rates, and patients with these mutations may benefit from aggressive treatment such as bone marrow transplantation.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a gene linked to eye melanoma metastasis. BAP1 mutations were found in 84% of metastatic tumors but rare in non-metastatic ones. The discovery may lead to more effective treatments and insights into cancer cell evolution.
Researchers have developed a simple blood test to diagnose Niemann-Pick type C disease, which can help patients begin treatment earlier. The test targets oxidized forms of cholesterol that are present in higher levels in NPC patients, distinguishing them from other conditions.
A meta-analysis published in The Lancet found that chest compression-only CPR improved survival rates by 22% compared to standard CPR. The study analyzed data from over 3,700 cardiac arrest patients and found the benefit occurred only when 911 dispatchers coached bystanders to use chest compression-only CPR.
A new study found that siblings of children with autism have more frequent language delays and subtle characteristics of the disorder. The research suggests that genetic factors can influence individuals to varying degrees, even if one child is diagnosed with autism while the other is not.
Researchers at WUSTL will explore therapies and diagnostic tools for heart and lung diseases using nanotechnology. The project aims to improve treatment options for cystic fibrosis, acute lung inflammation, and atherosclerosis.
Researchers developed a questionnaire that relies on friends and family to evaluate cognitive changes, which corresponded with biomarker results more consistently than traditional cognitive tests. The Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD8) tool provides a brief and low-cost alternative for identifying individuals who need follow-up evaluations.
A genetic marker linked to elevated tau levels in cerebrospinal fluid predicts rapid progression of Alzheimer's disease. The marker is associated with higher tau levels and more severe dementia in patients, offering new insights into the disease's progression.
A five-year, $30-million Human Connectome Project will generate a map of the brain's major circuits using powerful scanners and analysis techniques. The project aims to understand brain connectivity and function to advance brain health and develop new treatments for disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
A nationwide study of over 84,000 students found that those with high debt levels or low MCAT scores were more likely to face difficulties in medical school, including graduation or licensing exam failure. Students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups also faced higher dropout rates.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a new method to track brain development in children using functional MRI scans, which may shed light on psychological and developmental disorders. The approach uses mathematical analysis to identify abnormal brain function, enabling early detection and potential treatment.
Researchers found that starvation allows the need for nourishment to push aside the need for sleep in fruit flies. The ability to resist sleep loss was linked to a protein involved in lipid processing.
Severe inflammatory responses to initial UTI damage bladder walls and allow infection to persist longer. Suppressing immune system during initial infection decreases vulnerabilities to later infection.
Research found that adults diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 50 or later had better disease outcomes, including higher remission rates, compared to those diagnosed earlier in life. The study suggests changes in the aging immune system and environmental factors like smoking may contribute to this phenomenon.
Researchers discovered that a specific brain region, the hypothalamus, plays a crucial role in aging and longevity. Mice engineered to produce more SIRT1 protein exhibited increased energy efficiency, delayed aging, and extended lifespan.
Researchers found that inhibiting fatty acid synthase in macrophages significantly reduces atherosclerosis in mice, suggesting a potential treatment approach. The study identifies key factors that can prevent plaque buildup and may lead to the development of new drugs.
The new WUIDDRC aims to prevent and treat developmental disabilities in children through clinical and translational research, while also providing resources and services to families and the community. The center will focus on cerebral connectivity, genetics, and environmental influences, and collaborate with other IDDRCs in the Midwest.
Researchers discovered that cancer drugs can inhibit Leishmania's survival and infection ability by targeting its TOR kinase proteins. The study highlights the potential of repurposing existing cancer treatments to combat this debilitating parasite.
A study found that the human brain regions growing during infancy and childhood are similar to those with the most changes when comparing humans to apes and monkeys. This research helps assess adverse effects of premature birth on brain development, including increased risks of learning disabilities and cognitive impairments.
A multi-institutional study found that extended use of anti-clotting drug enoxaparin significantly reduced the chances of blood clots in bedridden patients, especially those over 75 and female. The treatment also increased bleeding risk slightly.
A team of researchers discovered a chromosomal abnormality in chromosome 17 region associated with clubfoot, a genetic cause for the condition. The study found that 6% of familial clubfoot cases had a duplication in this region, which may help predict treatment response and identify patients at risk of hip abnormalities.
A recent analysis of a large clinical trial found no increased rate of heart attack or death in patients taking rosiglitazone, despite previous concerns. The study compared patients treated with rosiglitazone to those not receiving any thiazolidinedione drug, showing a lower combined rate of death, heart attack, and stroke.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have alleviated diabetes in rats using transplants from both embryonic and adult pigs. The rats adopted the pig transplants as their own and produced enough insulin to control their blood sugar levels, a significant breakthrough in treating the disease.
Researchers found that resveratrol inhibits formation of damaging blood vessels in the eye, a potential preventive therapy for blinding diseases. The compound's novel pathway could become a new target for therapies for eye disease and other problems related to abnormal angiogenesis.
Researchers found that a specific virus interacts with a mutation in the host's genes to trigger disease. In mice, exposure to a damaging chemical and infection with a viral strain caused symptoms similar to human Crohn's disease, suggesting viruses may be key to understanding complex diseases.