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Blocking 'secondary cataracts'

Researchers are exploring ways to prevent secondary cataracts, a condition that occurs when scar tissue forms in the eye after surgery. Melinda Duncan's team has made several discoveries, including molecules critical for forming PCO scar tissue, and is working on a drug to block this potentially blinding condition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 13, 2018

Oral curcumin shows no benefit in reducing inflammation following vascular surgery

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that oral curcumin did not reduce inflammation or improve outcomes in patients undergoing elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. In fact, the study showed an increased risk of post-surgical kidney damage in patients taking curcumin.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 29, 2018

Probiotics are not always 'good bacteria'

Researchers used human organ-on-a-chip technology to investigate the mechanism of disease development and found that probiotics can cause more harm than good when the gut barrier is compromised. The study confirms that intestinal barrier disruption is the onset initiator of gut inflammation, a key factor in many diseases.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 25, 2018

For the brokenhearted, grief can lead to death

A study from Rice University found that grief can cause inflammation leading to negative health outcomes such as cardiovascular problems and premature mortality. Researchers discovered that widows and widowers with elevated grief symptoms suffered higher levels of bodily inflammation.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateOct 22, 2018

Malicious brain cell identified

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a previously unknown astrocyte subpopulation that plays a key role in driving brain inflammation. The newly discovered 'ieAstrocytes' are activated early in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 13, 2018

Intestinal virus study shows major changes associated with inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers discovered altered intestinal phage communities in mice with colitis, which overlapped with healthy human phages, suggesting a potential role in IBD. The study also found specific phages linked to disease-causing bacteria, highlighting the need for further investigation into viral contributions to inflammatory diseases.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 24, 2018

Mangos help promote gut health

A new study suggests that eating mangos may be more effective than taking a comparable amount of fiber in relieving constipation. The research found that mango polyphenols helped improve gut health by reducing markers of inflammation and changing the microbiome.

SourceWeber Shandwick Chicago·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateJun 6, 2018

Identifying the mechanism in obesity's link to colon cancer

Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified a new molecular mechanism explaining the link between obesity and increased risk of colon inflammation, a major risk factor for colorectal cancer. Inhibiting an enzyme called soluble epoxide hydrolase may abolish this risk, suggesting a potential treatment for obesity-induced colonic inflamm...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2018

Compound improves stroke outcome by reducing lingering inflammation

An experimental compound appears to improve stroke outcomes by reducing lingering inflammation, leading to better memory and movement in its aftermath. The compound, known as compound 21, stimulates the angiotensin type 2 receptor, which aids blood vessel dilation, minimizes cell death, and reduces inflammation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateApr 20, 2018

Drug reduces inflammation in stroke patients

Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that an anti-inflammatory drug, Kineret, significantly reduces levels of inflammation in patients with ischemic strokes. The study, funded by the Stroke Association, shows promise for fast and effective treatment of stroke, but further trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalStroke·DateMar 26, 2018

Investigating the enigmatic link between periodontal inflammation and retinal degeneration

Research investigates the link between chronic periodontitis and age-related macular degeneration, finding a common oral pathobiont, Porphyromonas gingivalis, that can invade human retinal-pigment epithelial cells. The study reveals significant molecular links between CP and AMD.