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Face mask insert could help diagnose conditions

Researchers have developed a method to use face masks to collect compounds in exhaled breath aerosols for analysis, enabling large-scale screening for disease biomarkers. The new technique uses a fiber inserted into an N95 face mask to concentrate molecules, allowing for more efficient identification through mass spectrometry.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 12, 2020

UArizona-TGen led team identifies new biomarkers to diagnose and monitor brain injuries

A UArizona-TGen led team identified robust biomarkers through proteomics and metabolomic analysis that could help guide treatment for tens of millions of patients who sustain traumatic brain injuries. The study found that RIC (Remote Ischemic Conditioning) can be an effective intervention in preventing severe long-term disabilities.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 31, 2020

Ideal way to screen for disease

Scientists at Flinders University recommend AIEgen technology for accurate clinical biomarkers and rapid disease screening through bioprobe tests. The technique can detect disease biomarkers in very low concentrations using low-cost, portable devices.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·DateJul 15, 2020

Combination biomarker predicts response to immune checkpoint therapy in patients with advanced bladder cancer

Researchers discovered a novel combination of biomarkers from baseline tumor tissues that predict improved clinical responses and prolonged survival in patients with advanced bladder cancer. ARID1A mutations and CXCL13 expression were associated with better overall survival, suggesting potential patient selection improvements.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 17, 2020

A new biomarker for the aging brain

A study published in Brain found that a lag in blood drainage from the deep region of the brain is associated with ventriculomegaly and can be detected with MRI. The researchers identified this biomarker as a potential predictor for dementia and ventriculomegaly, which can be reversed by removing excess fluid.

SourceRIKEN·JournalBrain·DateMay 6, 2020

Race-specific lupus nephritis biomarkers

A study published in Nature Communications reveals distinct urinary biomarker proteins for lupus nephritis in African American patients. The findings suggest that the ALCAM protein may be a promising therapeutic target. Researchers plan to conduct a longitudinal study to predict disease flares and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2020

Spanish scientists identify a biomarker that detects atherosclerosis before the appearance of symptoms

Researchers at CNIC discovered a biomarker, complement component 5 (C5), that detects atherosclerosis in its preclinical phase. Plasma levels of C5 can identify individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis, helping to select those who would benefit from more costly imaging analysis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 21, 2020

Potential early biomarker to track development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Researchers from Joslin Diabetes Center have identified a potential early biomarker for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is linked to the regulation of liver fat metabolism and fibrosis. The protein NREP was found to decrease in levels as NAFLD progressed, suggesting its role as an early indicator of the disease.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 6, 2020

Discovery of new biomarker in blood could lead to early test for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers discovered a biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease in the form of high levels of RNA produced by the PHGDH gene. The study, published in Current Biology, suggests that overproduction of extracellular RNA by the PHGDH gene in elderly individuals may serve as an early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 31, 2020

Unlocking schizophrenia

A novel imaging marker has been developed to help diagnose and treat schizophrenia, using abnormal striatal function as a promising biomarker. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows that this biomarker can distinguish between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls, while also predicting treatment response.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 23, 2020

Cancer diagnostics

A team of scientists has developed a cancer diagnostics method that amplifies microRNA in live tumor cells using synthetic DNA and nanoparticles. This allows for the detection of tumor cells with high sensitivity, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 16, 2020

Novel blood test points to risk of weight gain and diabetes

Researchers developed a computer program analyzing molecules in blood plasma to identify individuals at risk of becoming overweight and developing obesity-related diseases. The test is 90% accurate in detecting whether the subject will gain weight without intervention, also predicting diabetes and other health risks.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateMar 10, 2020