A study has revealed that endocytosis is necessary for the production of amyloid beta, a key component of Alzheimer's brain plaques. The research found that endocytosis plays a critical role in increasing amyloid beta levels, which are coupled to normal nerve cell communication called synaptic activity.
The Cox-Maze procedure has been enhanced to include an additional ablation, known as the box lesion, which improves patient outcomes by reducing atrial flutter and fibrillation. This new technique also leads to shorter hospital stays and lower use of antiarrhythmic drugs.
Scientists discovered seven new DNA variations linked to psoriasis, which also increased the risk of four autoimmune diseases. The study found a strong genetic component underlying these conditions, paving the way for targeted treatments.
Researchers used nanotechnology to target tumors in rabbits, achieving a 1,000-fold reduction in chemotherapy dose while slowing tumor growth. The nanoparticles delivered a fungal toxin called fumagillin directly to growing blood vessels, inhibiting tumor expansion.
Researchers have produced the first detailed analysis of a hominoid-only gene, TBC1D3, which is linked to cancer. The study found that the protein helps turn on RAS, a protein active in a third of all human cancers. Further research aims to uncover the functions of human-only genes and their potential applications in fighting diseases.
Researchers have discovered that a brain network linked to introspective tasks is less intricate and well-connected in children, with firmer connections forming as individuals mature. This finding has implications for understanding the effects of aging, brain injuries, and conditions like autism on brain function.
A combination of two platelet inhibitors, aspirin and APT102, reduced bone tumors in laboratory mice with breast or melanoma cancer. The drugs work by blocking platelets' ability to clot and aid tumor cells, slowing down metastasis.
A new study found that depressed heart attack patients have a higher risk for sudden death in the months following a heart attack, and this risk continues for many years. The study of over 750 patients showed that even minor depression increases mortality risk.
Scientists propose using chemical compounds to 'chaperone' mutant protein molecules, improving their folding and function. This approach may also be applicable to cystic fibrosis, a lung and digestive system disorder.
Researchers found that breakdown of self-cleaning mechanism in kidneys can lead to dysfunction and disease. The study suggests that defects in this clearance mechanism can cause accumulation of toxic substances, such as autoimmune antibodies, which can damage the kidney.
A study found that individuals with fewer years of education are more likely to have a delayed realization of cognitive problems that could be Alzheimer's disease. Patients with lower education levels were also more severely impaired on their first visit, suggesting they may only seek medical attention after symptoms become unbearable.
Increasing levels of a protein called ABCA1 sharply reduced buildup of brain plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease in mice. Altering the brain's use of lipids may provide a new approach to treating the condition. The study highlights a promising target for potential Alzheimer's therapies.
A yearlong study showed that overweight individuals who lose a moderate amount of weight experience improved heart health, regardless of whether it's achieved through calorie restriction or exercise. The researchers found that participants' hearts regained some of the elasticity characteristic of younger heart tissue, allowing them to ...
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered a plant herbicide that disrupts Toxoplasma gondii's signaling pathway, reducing fatal infection risk in mice. Low doses of the herbicide prevent T. gondii from increasing its numbers and remaining dormant.
Researchers studied yeast cells to understand actin network regulation, which is crucial for cell movement. The study found that Arp2/3 regulatory proteins have distinct roles in actin assembly and endocytosis, shedding light on the immune system's ability to target disease-causing invaders and cancer cells' migration.
Researchers confirm that bacteria responsible for UTIs are entrenched inside human bladder cells, contradicting previous models. The finding confirms the importance of fully understanding bacterial behavior in the bladder to develop better diagnoses and treatments.
The Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus uses protein 'knives' to cut bonds between cellular proteins, evading the immune system's defense. This allows the virus to replicate and spread, leading to high mortality rates. The discovery provides insight into why the virus is so virulent.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a blood-borne immune system compound that suppresses antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) of infection, a phenomenon linked to some viral disease outbreaks. C1q, a key immune compound, blocks ADE by blocking the virus' ability to hijack antibodies.
A Phase II study found that blood transfusion therapy helped shrink brain lesions caused by silent strokes in children with sickle cell disease. The therapy eliminated one lesion completely and showed no new silent strokes after two years. Researchers hope to preserve cognitive function in these children through prolonged transfusions.
Researchers found that activating a protein in muscle tissue increased average lifespan and prevented some age-related diseases in mice. The protein, uncoupling protein-1, converts energy from food into heat and mimics the effects of exercise.
Researchers found that alcohol dependence and conduct disorder are associated with a high number of sex partners among young adults. The study found that 45% of those with alcohol dependence reported having 10 or more partners, compared to 37% of those with conduct disorder.
Researchers have discovered that the immune system can enter a dormant state with cancer cells, controlling their growth without eliminating them. This finding may lead to alternative treatments for cancer, such as using immunotherapy to induce equilibrium and convert cancers into chronic but controllable diseases.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that fat cells release an enzyme called Nampt, which enhances glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells. This discovery could lead to new methods for improving glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetic or insulin-resistant individuals.
Scientists discovered that immune cells called macrophages play a role in age-related macular degeneration by failing to block abnormal blood vessel formation. In older mice, macrophages shift from M1 to M2 type, promoting disease progression.
Scientists have found a way to prevent seizure-induced structural changes in brain cells, which can lead to cognitive impairments such as memory loss and reduced attention spans. The breakthrough discovery uses a drug called FK506, which blocks the breakdown of actin, a molecule essential for cell structures.
Research by Washington University School of Medicine found that obese children exhibit early heart disease symptoms, similar to those seen in obese adults. The study analyzed 168 children aged 10-18 and used a new imaging technique to track changes in the heart's muscular wall.
Researchers detected BlaKPC gene in Midwestern patients, indicating spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The gene's presence can impact treatment options and contain its spread through isolation.
A new study found that infant crib bumper pads can cause suffocation, strangulation, and wedging, posing a risk of accidental death or injury to babies. The researchers recommend eliminating the use of bumper pads in cribs and bassinets due to their potential hazards.
Researchers found that Metformin improves glucose uptake and survival of early embryos in mice with insulin resistance. The drug may benefit women with type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome trying to conceive. Improved embryo quality could lead to more successful pregnancies.
Researchers found that sub-standard housing more than doubled diabetes risk among study participants. Despite ruling out other factors, housing conditions remain a significant contributor to the development of diabetes in this population.
Research reveals abnormal fat metabolism as a key factor in the development of heart disease among diabetics. Brief caloric restriction can lead to dramatic accumulation of triglycerides and cardiac hemodynamic dysfunction in transgenic myocardium expressing human calcium-independent phospholipase A2γ.
Researchers found that impaired energy production in heart muscle may underlie heart failure in some hypertensive patients. A protein called estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERR alpha) helps the heart keep up with energy-draining conditions like high blood pressure.
Scientists have linked a genetic disorder to mutations in the TREX1 gene, which may also be relevant to common health problems like diabetes and vascular dementia. The discovery could accelerate efforts to understand and treat retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukodystrophy, a rare condition that causes vision loss and mini-strokes.
Researchers discovered the GRPR gene, which codes for a receptor involved in transmitting itch signals from the skin to the brain. Laboratory mice lacking this gene scratched less when exposed to itchy stimuli, suggesting a potential target for anti-itch medication.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified hundreds of DNA elements that control when and where genes linked to blindness are turned on. These new elements can be used as switches to activate blindness therapies, offering hope for a potential cure for inherited blindness.
A new study at WashU Medicine found that surgical repair of sports hernias using tension-free mesh, coupled with an innovative rehabilitation program, successfully returned athletes to competition in 93% of cases. The rehab protocol was developed by Ray Barile and involves a multistep, graduated approach to physical activity.
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking new mouse model for lung transplantation, which could lead to breakthroughs in preventing transplant rejection. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling lung graft survival and develop therapies to counteract chronic rejection.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have found that protein CD36 facilitates the uptake of fatty acids and cholesterol in the proximal part of the intestine. The team believes that targeting this process may provide a useful tool for obesity treatment, as animals without CD36 absorb fat less efficiently and eat less.
A new study found that blacks with multiple sclerosis have significantly higher levels of an antibody in their spinal fluid than Caucasians, suggesting genetic factors contribute to the difference. The discovery may help explain why black patients are more likely to experience severe symptoms when they develop MS.
A new dynamic brace, designed by Matthew B. Dobbs, has shown to be at least as effective as traditional braces in treating clubfoot, while resulting in better parental compliance. The brace allows for active movement, preserves muscle strength, and is less restrictive than traditional braces.
Researchers have discovered the CHD7 gene, which underlies scoliosis, a condition characterized by C- and S-shaped curves. The study's findings suggest that a defect in the gene leads to reduced production of the CHD7 protein, correlating with the onset of scoliosis.
Researchers found that cigarette smoke impairs the recruitment of cells to injured ligaments, delaying healing. Smoking cessation before surgery may help reverse these delays, suggesting another reason for quitting.
Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered that women consuming most of their daily calcium from food have healthier bones than those relying on supplements. The study showed a significant association between dietary calcium intake and increased production of active estrogen metabolites, favoring bone density and osteoporosis prevention.
Researchers found evidence of two separate networks in the brain that control voluntary behavior, such as reading a word or searching for a star. These networks work independently but toward a common purpose, and understanding their dynamics may aid in treating brain injuries.
Researchers identified common DNA variations that underlie susceptibility to fever after smallpox vaccination. Eight genetic alterations increased the likelihood of fever, while a few reduced it. The study raises the possibility that these genetic variations may also influence fever risk after other live-virus vaccines.
Researchers discovered that herpes viruses trick mouse cells into activating the DNA damage response, allowing them to replicate more efficiently. Blocking this activation significantly reduces viral replication rates, providing a promising target for antiviral therapy.
Researchers identified a brain molecule, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), that increases amyloid beta levels in response to stress. Blocking CRF with a drug may provide a new way to decrease amyloid beta and delay or prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that mice with chronic herpes virus infections can resist certain bacterial infections, suggesting potential benefits from latent viral infections. The study suggests that human immune systems have evolved to benefit from these chronic infections, which could impact vaccine development and disease research.
Researchers have identified a new virus, known as the WU virus, potentially linked to unexplained respiratory infections. The virus was detected in patients' nasal secretions using high-throughput DNA sequencing and shows similarities to polyoma viruses.
A team of surgeons at Washington University School of Medicine has found that using motor nerves to repair damaged muscles yields better results than traditional sensory nerve grafts. The study used a novel approach, where intact motor nerves were used as grafts in rat models, resulting in significant improvements in muscle function.