New research reveals that active estrogen metabolites are a strong predictor of bone mineral density in men. Higher levels of these hormones tend to result in higher bone density, while lower levels increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Researchers identified two DNA regions linked to autism on chromosomes 11 and 17 using a quantitative approach. They found significant linkage to symptoms of autism in families with affected children, which may lead to the discovery of multiple genes contributing to the disorder.
Researchers developed an agent that shields rapidly dividing cells from radiation-induced death, regardless of timing of administration. The treatment prevents apoptosis in immune system cells, providing proof-in-principle for a new approach to fending off radiation damage.
Researchers discover that infants who died of mysterious illnesses had unique LMNA gene mutations, leading to increased production of the bad protein lamin A. Treating these cells with a drug meant for progeria patients showed promising signs of improvement.
Researchers found that one spouse's excess drinking can help protect the other from developing alcohol dependence. The study analyzed twins and their spouses to determine if non-random mating (choosing a mate similar in personality and behaviors) contributes to higher rates of alcoholism among partners.
Researchers discovered a protein made by microglia that helps accelerate tumor growth, and are looking for others. The findings have implications for both genetic and sporadic brain tumors.
Research reveals a strong link between stroke damage to brain region putamen and motor neglect, a condition causing slow movement on the left side. Treatment targeting dopamine-like compounds may ease this disability in patients with Parkinson's disease.
A study found vulnerabilities in premature infants' brains similar to those in mature brains, but also identified a significant difference that suggests different treatments are needed. Damage occurs mainly in white matter, which connects brain regions, and can lead to behavioral problems and developmental delay.
A new treatment developed by a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Washington University School of Medicine has shown early success in correcting congenital vertical talus with minimal surgery. The treatment involves gentle manipulation and long leg casts to gradually correct the deformity.
Researchers developed nanoparticles that can label and track stem cells used in medical treatments, offering a new way to monitor tumors and diagnose cardiovascular problems. The technology uses MRI scanning to detect the presence of labeled cells, allowing for more accurate measurements and better understanding of each cell type's role.
A new online book, 'When Grandpa Comes Home: A Story About Stroke,' is now available to help children understand the causes and effects of a stroke. The illustrated book, written by a student intern and artist, aims to reduce fear and uncertainty in kids who witness a family member's stroke.
Researchers found a tight correlation between the severity of spatial neglect symptoms and the degree of impairment in communication within and between two brain networks. This study suggests that testing for communication breakdowns could improve clinical assessment and treatment of stroke and other brain injuries.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that two anti-epileptic drugs can significantly reduce permanent hearing loss in mice exposed to loud noises. The drugs, trimethadione and ethosuximide, work by inhibiting the movement of calcium ions into nerve cells, which play a role in causing damage to hair cells and nerve cells.
Visceral fat cells secrete inflammatory molecules that increase systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. The study found high levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in obese patients, supporting the notion that visceral fat contributes to metabolic problems.
Scientists have developed a light-activated compound that can silence brain activity when exposed to light, potentially helping treat epilepsy. The compound, called NBD-steroid, works by activating the same receptor used by many anesthetics and tranquilizers, making it harder for brain cells to respond to stimulation.
A study led by Danielle M. Dick found that variations in the CHRM2 gene can influence performance IQ scores, which measure visual-motor coordination, spatial perception, and abstract problem-solving skills. The researchers used DNA samples from over 2,150 individuals and found cumulative effects of good versus bad genetic variations.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a rare genetic disease that causes chronic airway disease and affects about 1 in 15,000 children. Newborns with respiratory distress are at risk of having this condition, which can lead to persistent wheezing, cough, and recurrent infections.
Researchers have found a way to deliver a messenger into cancer cells that forces them to respond to death signals using an HIV protein. This approach has shown promise in killing cancer cells and could provide new treatment options for patients with deadly cancers.
Researchers have identified several genes linked to nicotine dependence, including CHRNA5 and NRXN1, which play a role in regulating communication between nerve cells. These findings could lead to the development of more effective smoking cessation therapies tailored to an individual's genetic traits.
A team of scientists at WashU Medicine has discovered that the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase I plays a critical role in promoting the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Without this enzyme, mice do not develop aneurysms due to reduced recruitment of inflammatory cells.
Atrial fibrillation affects over 2.2 million US citizens, causing fatigue, shortness of breath, and stroke risk; the new Cox-maze IV procedure offers a simpler alternative to traditional surgery with fewer complications
Researchers found African-American women are three times more likely to deliver prematurely and nearly five times more likely to experience recurrent preterm births. The study analyzed data from Missouri birth statistics between 1989 and 1997, adjusting for socioeconomic factors.
Researchers found that surgically removing the vagus nerve in mice prevented or reversed insulin resistance and high blood pressure. The study suggests altering vagal nerve activity could provide a novel treatment approach for diabetes and hypertension.
A new study by Washington University School of Medicine identifies distinct genetic signatures among pilocytic astrocytomas that relate to their brain region origin. This finding has significant implications for understanding the causes of pediatric brain tumors, which are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children.
Researchers have identified numerous variations in gene copy number that may contribute to cancer risk and other complex diseases. The study used a new technique to analyze gene copy number in mouse strains, revealing potential implications for human health and illness.
Researchers found that a key protein is crucial for pneumonic plague's development. Disabling this protein slows the deadly attack, potentially giving doctors time to administer antibiotics and save patients.
Researchers found that a medication used to reduce toxic side effects of chemotherapy can also increase bone tumor growth in mice. Physicians are advised to closely monitor cancer patients' bone health with regular scans and prescribe medications to prevent bone loss when needed.
A combination of bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy has greatly lengthened the lives of laboratory mice with Krabbé disease, a rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disorder also found in people. The dual therapy improved motor skills and increased lifespan by more than twice as long as untreated mice.
Class-action lawsuits can significantly slow or halt science's ability to establish links between neurological illness and environmental factors. The authors suggest policy changes to shield scientists and their research, including enhancing privacy protections for patient data.
A protein called DLGH1 has been found to guide the orientation of smooth muscle cells surrounding the ureter, which pumps urine from the kidney to the bladder. The study suggests that dysfunction of this protein may increase the risk of kidney failure in humans.
Researchers developed a three-hour workshop for healthcare providers to identify potentially unsafe drivers with dementia and encourage retirement from driving. The workshop resulted in a significant change in participants' willingness to ask patients about driving and document findings in the medical record.
New research at Washington University School of Medicine finds that the relative abundance of two common gut bacteria groups is altered in obese humans and mice. The findings suggest that these microbes may play a role in how much energy is extracted from the diet and stored as fat.
Researchers have developed pharmaceuticals that prevent E. coli from assembling pili, rendering it non-pathogenic and susceptible to elimination. This approach aims to slow the growth of antibiotic-resistant infections and minimize the development of resistance.
Researchers used gene chips to analyze patterns of gene expression in mice and found a 94% accuracy rate in distinguishing sepsis from non-infectious inflammation. The technology could lead to a rapid bedside blood test that speeds diagnosis and treatment, especially in intensive care units.
A single gene, ROP18, accounts for 90% of Toxoplasma gondii's virulence, making it a key target for identifying and treating the parasite's most dangerous strains. Researchers hope to develop new treatments using existing kinase inhibitors.
Researchers have identified amylase, an enzyme in saliva, as a biochemical marker linked to sleep loss. Flies subjected to prolonged sleep deprivation showed increased amylase levels, similar to humans who were kept awake for extended periods. The discovery aims to develop diagnostic tools and improve understanding of sleep disorders.
A low-protein diet has been shown to have a greater protective effect against cancer than endurance exercise, independently of body fat mass. The study involved three groups of people and found significantly lower blood levels of plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the low-protein diet group.
The Genome Sequencing Center will use DNA sequencing to unlock cancer secrets and improve diagnosis. The four-year grant focuses on disease genes, particularly those involved in cancer.
Research on mice carrying a mutated human gene for alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency found that a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug significantly increased liver damage. The study suggests that NSAIDs could exacerbate liver injury in people with alpha-1-AT deficiency, highlighting the need to avoid these drugs.
Researchers developed a model to identify high-risk patients for developing glaucoma. The model uses five key risk factors and can predict an individual's risk of developing glaucoma over the next five years. This tool will help physicians determine which patients to treat aggressively and inform patients about their treatment options.
Researchers developed a seven-point system to gauge the seriousness of heart failure in elderly patients. The system estimates patient survival based on factors such as advanced age, coronary artery disease, and low blood pressure.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that anti-thymocyte globulin reduces acute rejection incidence by 15.6% compared to basiliximab in high-risk kidney transplant patients. The treatment is expected to save millions of dollars in healthcare costs by preventing immune attacks and organ loss.
Researchers found that chloroquine eased many symptoms of metabolic syndrome in mice, reducing blood pressure, hardening and narrowing of the arteries, and improving blood sugar tolerance. A pilot clinical trial is underway to test its safety and effectiveness in humans.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified an enzyme that degrades a key component of brain plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. The enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), breaks down abnormally aggregated proteins known as amyloid fibrils, which are the main ingredient of brain plaques.
A team of researchers has discovered that DNA ligase changes shape from an open to a closed conformation as it joins DNA strands together. This finding reveals new insights into the genetic repair mechanism and its potential as a target for cancer treatment.
Researchers found that nicotine delays tendon-to-bone healing, reducing cellular proliferation and collagen production. This can lead to weaker tissue and increased vulnerability to re-injury after surgery. The study used a rat shoulder model to investigate the effects of cigarette smoking on rotator cuff repair.
The new radiofrequency device-based approach significantly shortens the Cox-Maze procedure from over 90 minutes to just 30 minutes. The ablation technology disrupts abnormal electrical activity, normalizing heart rhythm and eliminating atrial fibrillation in over 90% of patients.
Researchers found that copper modulates critical events within the central nervous system, influencing how well we think. Variations in genes coding for Atp7a, a copper transporter, may contribute to differences in thinking among individuals.
Scientists have developed a method to predict whether melanoma of the eye will spread to the liver, where it quickly turns deadly. The molecular screening test can detect both whether a tumor is likely to spread and how fast.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine successfully transplanted pig pancreatic primordia into rats with type 2 diabetes, curing the condition without the need for immune suppression drugs. The approach, similar to one that cured type 1 diabetes in previous studies, uses embryonic cells to produce insulin.