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Red wine components modulate tissue damage induced by bacteria in gum diseases

Scientists from Université Laval found that red wine polyphenols significantly modulate inflammatory components released by macrophages in response to bacterial stimuli. These anti-oxidant properties could be useful in preventing and treating inflammatory periodontal diseases as well as other disorders involving free radicals.

New insight into cause of Crohn's disease

Researchers found that Crohn's disease patients produce lower quantities of neutrophils and inflammatory mediators in response to trauma, leading to delayed blood flow and persistence of bacteria. Treatment with Viagra corrected abnormally low blood flow, suggesting a potential role for the drug in treating the disease.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 23, 2006

A cytokine not kind to an injury of the spine

Researchers at Johns Hopkins found elevated IL-6 levels correlate with tissue injury and clinical disability in Transverse Myelitis (TM) patients. Elevated IL-6 levels are necessary and sufficient to mediate neural injury, dependent on nitric oxide.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 22, 2005

JCI table of contents October 1, 2005

Scientists discovered that interleukin-6 increases in TM patients' cerebrospinal fluid and is linked to tissue injury. Arsenic trioxide inhibits nuclear receptor function via SEK1/JNK-mediated RXR phosphorylation. Epithelial myosin light chain kinase-dependent barrier dysfunction mediates T cell activation-induced diarrhea.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 22, 2005

Oats not safe for all patients with celiac disease

A recent study published in PLoS Medicine found that oats can cause intolerance in some patients with celiac disease, triggering a similar molecular reaction as wheat, barley, or rye. This means that not all patients with celiac disease may be able to safely include oats in their diet.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 18, 2004

Cannabinoids spell relief in colon inflammation

Max Planck researchers discovered that the body's own cannabinoid receptor acts as a protective system against colon inflammation. The study found that mutant mice lacking this receptor are more prone to inflammatory responses, but treatment with cannabinoids can alleviate inflammation in wild-type animals.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 7, 2004

New MS research shows remarkable findings

A new study by McGill University researchers has identified phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) as a key enzyme that triggers multiple sclerosis-like disease in an animal model. Treatment with a chemical inhibitor of this enzyme results in a marked reduction in the onset and severity of the disease.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 5, 2004

JCI Table of Contents, April 15, 2003

Researchers investigate targeting pericytes and endothelial cells with kinase inhibitors to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. PDX1 levels also play a crucial role in islet survival and diabetes development, while Factor H's anti-inflammatory properties are explored for hemolytic uremic syndrome treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 15, 2003

Demystifying irritable bowel syndrome

Research suggests that irritable bowel syndrome is a discrete collection of organic bowel diseases, characterized by morphological, psychological, and physiological changes. Treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy and tricyclic antidepressants, show promise in managing symptoms.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 15, 2002

Using genetic research to treat inflammatory diseases – Vienna centre of excellence in biomedicine harnesses basic research

The Vienna centre of excellence in biomedicine is researching into the genetic causes of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatism and arteriosclerosis. The centre brings together leading university institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and start-ups to achieve rapid transfers of research results from the laboratory to patients.