Articles tagged with Infectious Diseases
Researchers establish direct link between prions causing mad cow disease and new-variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans, challenging the species barrier theory. The study used transgenic mice to demonstrate that the strain of prion responsible for mad cow disease also causes new-variant CJD.
Abgenix is initiating a Phase III clinical trial comparing its antibody, ABX-CBL, to standard therapy for patients with steroid-resistant graft-versus-host disease (srGVHD). The trial aims to assess the survival rate of patients receiving higher doses of ABX-CBL.
Researchers found that African-American patients with chronic hepatitis C infection have a lower sustained response to antiviral therapy compared to Caucasians. Additionally, anti-HCV testing in infants may not be reliable until they are two years old, and the deletion of ALT testing has removed an important screening tool for liver di...
The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) will present over 1,000 presentations on liver-related diseases, including new findings on using alcohol to repair damaged livers and the impact of race on response to anti-viral therapy in chronic Hepatitis C patients. The meeting aims to advance the science and practice...
A study found that 15% of dental patients with periodontal disease have undiagnosed diabetes, while 56% have high cholesterol. The study highlights the importance of routine physical examinations and preventative care for patients with risk factors.
The US FDA approves ENBREL, a biologic response modifier, for moderately to severely active polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in patients with an inadequate response to other treatments. The treatment has shown a clinical response in 74% of study participants.
Scientists at Boston University's School of Dental Medicine have discovered a new gene involved in common inflammatory diseases, including Crohn's disease. The researchers identified the gene that controls production of Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF), a molecule implicated in various inflammatory conditions.
A new report outlining alternative funding sources for medical research will be released at a congressional briefing on May 25. The report suggests funding options and models that can be used in conjunction with the current appropriations process to secure sustained, long-term funding for medical research.
A study published by UB oral biologists found a significant link between passive exposure to tobacco smoke and an increased risk of developing gum detachment and bleeding gums in adults. The research analyzed data from over 13,000 participants and showed that exposure to environmental smoke can lead to more severe periodontal disease.
A Phase II/III clinical trial with ENBREL (etanercept) in chronic heart failure patients is underway, based on positive results from a Phase I study. The trial aims to evaluate cytokine inhibition as a new approach to studying chronic heart failure.
Dynavax's proprietary ISS-DNA alters immune response in allergic asthma, inhibiting symptoms and modifying inflammation. The company believes ISS-DNA therapy may provide a novel treatment for chronic allergic pulmonary inflammation.
A Cornell University study found that 40% of world deaths can be attributed to environmental factors. The study highlights the impact of organic and chemical pollutants, climate change, and emerging diseases on human health.
UCSF researchers developed a highly sensitive, rapid technique for detecting infectious prions causing prion diseases like 'mad cow' disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob's disease. The assay reveals unique shapes of the protein strains, providing new insights into their biology.
Harvard and UF researchers identified a component of the human immune system that appears to prevent type 1 diabetes in a group of people at high risk. The protein interleukin-4 (IL-4) is produced in large amounts in these individuals and may suppress the arm of the immune system involved in the destruction of insulin-producing cells.
A study of 1,399 Vietnam veterans found that those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were 50-150% more likely to develop serious diseases. Veterans with PTSD who saw heavy combat were particularly at risk for circulatory and respiratory problems.
Researchers describe a powerful new immunotherapeutic approach that uses heat shock protein complexes to stimulate the immune system against cancer cells, with 80% of treated mice surviving longer than control mice. The treatment has potential for treating various cancers and may be applied in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.
Researchers at UNC-CH School of Medicine found a genetic mutation, 5T allele, associated with milder forms of cystic fibrosis and other chronic lung and sinus infections. The study suggests that the 5T allele may be linked to infertility and urological abnormalities in infertile men.
Sarcoidosis is a mysterious disease affecting 30 people per 100,000 in the US, characterized by granulomas and inflammation. New research suggests shared environmental exposure may lead to the disease, which often affects young adults and has no cure.
Scientists have found that dysregulation of programmed cell death may underlie the earlier onset and rapid downhill course of inherited forms of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that a specific gene, PS2, plays a crucial role in apoptosis and may contribute to neurodegeneration by triggering a stress response.
UT Southwestern Medical Center is part of a nationwide clinical study to test an oral insulin capsule on people at moderate risk for developing type I diabetes. The study aims to determine if the intervention can prevent or delay the disease.
Researchers weigh evidence for and against prion theory behind rare fatal diseases. A 24 researcher interview draws on interviews with all sides of the issue.