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JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 5, 2009

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital and University of Pennsylvania found that COX2 in mouse nerve cells plays a crucial role in pain caused by physical insult, while PDE5 inhibition may prevent hypertrophy in the mouse heart. These findings have implications for treating conditions such as postoperative and arthritic inflamma...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 5, 2009

Well-known drug (AAT) could overcome obstacles to islet transplantation, BGU professor reports

Researchers have discovered that alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) can eliminate inflammation in diabetic animals after islet transplantation, allowing the transplanted cells to survive and function for over 120 days. This breakthrough could lead to a safer and more effective treatment for type-1 diabetes patients.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2008

Markers of inflammation and blood-clotting tied to hazards of intermittent HIV treatment

Researchers found strong associations between intermittent HIV treatment and higher levels of inflammation and blood-clotting biomarkers, leading to a higher risk of death from non-AIDS diseases. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and D-dimer levels rose significantly in the intermittent-treatment group after one month.

Salutary pizza spice

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered that oregano's active ingredient beta-caryophyllin inhibits inflammation and may help treat osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis, and chronic disorders like Crohn's disease. The substance targets cannabinoid-CB2 receptors, providing a non-intoxicating alternative to existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2008

Maltreatment during childhood associated with combination of inflammation and depression in adults

A study of 1,000 adults found that childhood maltreatment is associated with increased levels of inflammation and depression in adulthood. Individuals with both conditions were at highest risk for cardiovascular disease. The early recognition of maltreatment history may help address pressing needs for care of depressed individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2008

New insights into inflammation in osteoarthritis

A study found that 82% of entheses have a synovio-entheseal complex (SEC), which is involved in triggering inflammation in OA. The SEC's formation is linked to fibrocartilage degeneration and cell clustering, suggesting a novel mechanism for synovial inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateOct 29, 2007

27-year wait for symptoms

A woman's symptoms of colitis emerged 27 years after she left the country where she was infected with a parasitic worm. Analysis revealed larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis caused her digestive issues, highlighting the importance of considering this rare disease in patients with cellular immune defects.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 14, 2007

New proteomic method to detect inflammation in amniotic fluid

Researchers developed a score based on protein markers to predict inflammation in amniotic fluid, associated with preterm delivery and infant sepsis. The 'Mass Restricted' (MR) score showed promise in identifying women at risk of preterm birth and babies with suspected or confirmed sepsis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 15, 2007

Penn study suggests a new type of pain reliever that may benefit the heart

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that deleting an inflammation enzyme in mice slowed the development of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may benefit the heart and reduce its risk of disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2006