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Scientists discover concussion biomarker

Researchers at Northwestern University's Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory have discovered a biological marker in the auditory system that can reliably diagnose concussions. The study found that children who suffered concussions had a distinct pattern in their brain activity when exposed to sound, which could be used to identify them.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 22, 2016

DNA methylation biomarker for prostate cancer shows promise for accurately determining patient risk

A DNA methylation biomarker called PITX2 has been identified as a reliable predictor of prostate cancer recurrence. The study found that patients with high PITX2 methylation levels were at significantly increased risk for recurrence. This breakthrough could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateDec 8, 2016

MAO is a possible Alzheimer's disease biomarker

A study published in ACS Central Science reveals that MAO activity increases with Aβ plaque formation in patients with Alzheimer's, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring. The research also identified three distinct phases of MAO activity that change along with disease progression.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateDec 7, 2016

New metabolomic screening method detects multiple inborn errors of metabolism in urine

Researchers have developed a new metabolomics-based screening approach that can identify multiple different inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) in a single urine sample. This method has the potential to detect numerous IEMs, which were previously detected in various bodily fluids such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateNov 3, 2016

Circulating immune cells as biomarkers for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

A study by Helmholtz Zentrum München found that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are increased in the blood of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), correlating with lung function decline. MDSC may serve as a biomarker for IPF diagnosis and disease progression.

UAB biomarker outperforms current gold standard to detect brain shunt infections

Researchers at UAB found that the biomarker detected 14 of 15 bacterial infections in cerebrospinal fluid, outperforming the current diagnostic gold standard. The test showed excellent diagnostic capability with a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 86%. This breakthrough could improve patient care and reduce healthcare expenses by d...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 30, 2016

Study shows cell-free DNA sequencing is more accurate for diagnosing myelodysplastic syndrome

A new study published in Genetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers found that analyzing cell-free DNA using next-generation sequencing is more accurate than the current standard approach of Sanger sequencing. This method can detect genetic abnormalities responsible for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with greater sensitivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateAug 2, 2016

New clinical study shows exclusive e-cigarette use reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation

A new clinical study found that exclusive e-cigarette use significantly reduces exposure to harmful chemicals similar to complete smoking cessation. The study measured biomarkers in urine, blood, and exhaled breath, revealing reductions of over 75% in carbon monoxide levels and over 80% in volatile organic compounds.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalToxicology Mechanisms and Methods·DateJul 12, 2016

Deep learning enters the beauty industry

Insilico Medicine presents research on applying deep learning to biomarker development and cosmetics applications at INNOCOS World Beauty Innovation Summit. The company's app RYNKL evaluates anti-aging interventions using machine learning methods, minimizing animal testing.

New treatment for children with ARDS

A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics investigated the effects of a steroid treatment on children with ARDS, finding improved ventilation and blood oxygenation without affecting mortality rates. The study identified key biomarkers associated with lung inflammation and injury, paving the way for targeted treatment development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateMay 6, 2016

Research collaboration IDs serum biomarkers that predict preclinical IBD development and complications

Using clinical data from over 7 million US armed forces members, researchers identified patients with Crohn's disease and found that specific antimicrobial antibodies in their serum samples were associated with increased risk of complications. These biomarkers could potentially predict IBD development and inform preventive strategies.

What's missing from current methods for genetic screening of sperm donors?

A new study shows that current carrier screening methods are insufficient and can give prospective mothers a false sense of security. Whole genome studies are needed to ensure both mates don't carry recessive mutations in the same gene(s). DNA-based screening can detect many more disease-causing genetic variations

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateApr 26, 2016