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Normally harmless cell molecule triggers neuron death

Researchers discovered that farnesyl pyrophosphate, an intermediate in normal cell metabolism, causes rapid and extensive cell death when present at high concentrations outside cells. Inhibition of TRPM2 channels or targeting its metabolic pathway may offer new avenues for reducing stroke damage.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 26, 2021

NIH-funded studies show stents and surgery no better than medication, lifestyle changes at reducing the risk for heart attack

Two NIH-funded studies find that invasive procedures like stenting and surgery provide better symptom relief but not reduced risk for heart attack and death compared to medication and lifestyle changes. The trials followed over 5,000 patients with stable ischemic heart disease for three years.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2020

Research award for project on heart transplantation

A recent study found that mitochondrial damage-associated molecular patterns (mtDAMPs) are released by DCD hearts following warm ischemia, correlating with subsequent contractile recovery. The research team aims to investigate the role of mtDAMPs in inflammatory responses and recovery of contractile function in cardiac grafts.

Novel index accurately predicts PCI success post procedure compared to standard measurement metrics

A novel non-hyperemic pressure ratio (NHPR) index, combined with fractional flow reserve (FFR), accurately predicts percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) success. The study found a significant linear correlation between NHPR and FFR, with a Pd/Pa value of <0.90 demonstrating excellent diagnostic performance against FFR.

Optical spectroscopy improves predictive assessment of kidney function

Researchers developed a technique using multimodal autofluorescence and light scattering to evaluate kidney function after ischemic injury. The study suggests that variations in tissue microstructure, fluorophore emission, and blood absorption spectral characteristics contribute to the behavior of recorded signals.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 4, 2017

Penn researchers find females more resistant to organ damage following kidney transplant

A new study by Penn researchers found that female mice experience less renal ischemia reperfusion injury compared to male mice, suggesting a potential benefit of estrogen treatment. Human data also supports this finding, with female recipients experiencing less delayed graft function after kidney transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 18, 2016