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2008 Berrie Awards go to expert on metabolic pathways of obesity and a CUMC research scientist

Columbia University Irving Medical Center honors Dr. Bruce Spiegelman with the Naomi Berrie Award for his groundbreaking work on metabolic pathways of obesity and diabetes research. Dr. Spiegelman's discoveries have identified key molecules critical in fat cell differentiation, insulin resistance, and energy expenditure. Meanwhile, jun...

Mitochondria could be a target for therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease patients

Researchers found that blocking Cyclophilin D and developing surrounding mitochondrial targets may be viable strategies for preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease. The study provides new insights into the mechanism underlying amyloid beta-mediated mitochondrial stress, which links to synaptic plasticity and learning/memory.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 5, 2008

Boston Medical Center receives $5.8m grant

Boston Medical Center has received a $5.8 million grant to develop drugs targeting muscle proteins for older adults, improving mobility and preventing age-related ailments. The grant will support interdisciplinary research collaborations to address osteoporosis, hip fractures, and type one diabetes.

Cocaine-induced brain plasticity may protect the addicted brain

A recent study found that cocaine-induced brain plasticity may actually defend the brain during excessive drug use, potentially limiting maladaptive behavioral responses. The research identifies MEF2 as a key regulator of structural synapse plasticity and suggests that increasing spine density in the NAc may be a compensatory mechanism.

Psychiatrists shift away from providing psychotherapy

A recent study found that the provision of psychotherapy by US psychiatrists declined significantly between 1996 and 2005, with a decline in both office-based visits and the percentage of patients receiving therapy. This shift is attributed to reimbursement policies favoring brief medication management visits over psychotherapy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 2008

Location, location, location

Neuroscientists at Georgetown University Medical Center found that transportation of brain transcripts is essential for growth and connection between neurons, forming the basis of memory and learning. This discovery may provide clues to understanding mental retardation and overall brain functioning.

Researchers discover paradox about general anesthesia: It can increase post-surgical pain

Researchers found that general anesthetics activate and sensitize specific receptors on neurons in the peripheral nervous system, increasing post-operative pain. The study suggests that this mechanism may be the reason why patients often experience increased discomfort after waking up from surgery.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2008