Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Stress may make you itch

Researchers found that stress activates immune cells, which initiate and perpetuate skin diseases. Blocking specific proteins prevented the increase in white blood cells, suggesting a key role for ICAM-1/LFA-1 interactions.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 27, 2008

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

Geisinger study: Inflammatory disease causes blindness

Research shows that people with temporal arteritis, an inflammatory artery disease, are three times more likely to experience blindness due to swollen arteries restricting blood flow. The disease is often accompanied by symptoms like headaches and jaw soreness, and if left untreated can lead to severe vision loss or stroke.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJournal of Clinical Pathology·DateJun 16, 2008

JCI table of contents: Oct. 25, 2007

A study found that valsartan reduces Alzheimer's disease-like symptoms in mice by lowering brain beta-amyloid protein levels. A new virotherapeutic also shows promise in treating cancer by selectively targeting cancer cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 25, 2007

Childhood vaccination may protect adult eyes

A study found that childhood vaccination for the rubella virus may have eliminated an inflammatory eye disease from the U.S.-born population. The vaccine was implemented in 1969, and subsequent reductions in Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI) cases were observed, especially among foreign-born patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateSep 19, 2007

COPD not just a disease of the lungs

The Lancet proposes adding chronic systemic inflammatory syndrome to COPD diagnosis to address frequent comorbidities and improve patient care. Patients with COPD often die from non-respiratory disorders such as cardiovascular disease or cancer.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 30, 2007