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Using CRISPR to detect cancer biomarkers

Researchers developed a novel CRISPR system to detect small amounts of cancer-related molecules in exosomes in plasma, effectively distinguishing between malignant and benign samples. The method has the potential to make cancer diagnosis and monitoring quicker and easier by analyzing blood samples.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 1, 2023

Getting under your skin for better health

Biomedical engineers at the University of Cincinnati are investigating the potential of interstitial fluid for early disease diagnosis and long-term health monitoring. The study proposes sampling interstitial fluid just under the skin using tiny microneedles, offering a more accessible and less painful alternative to blood testing.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 20, 2023

Optimal genome mapping offers high-resolution method to better see, then target cancer-causing gene variants

A new study standardizes the use of optical genome mapping (OGM) for patients with blood cancers, demonstrating its potential as a frontline test for diagnosing hematologic malignancies. OGM outperforms existing tests in detecting cancer-causing gene variants and identifying additional information that can improve patient outcomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJan 17, 2023

Study explores effects of resistance training in older adults at the cellular level

A new study by researchers at Florida Atlantic University explored the effects of resistance training on older adults' cellular level. The study found that resistance training did not significantly affect inflammatory proteins or redox balance markers, but showed a significant reduction in a specific protein ratio. This may support the...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAntioxidants·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2023

Deep meditation may alter gut microbes for better health

A study found that Tibetan Buddhist monks with long-term deep meditation practice had distinct gut microbiome profiles, associated with lower risks of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Their gut microbiota was enriched with beneficial bacteria that may influence mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

Aging | DNA methylation GrimAge version 2

Researchers developed a new epigenetic biomarker, GrimAge version 2, which leverages two DNAm-based estimators of plasma proteins to predict mortality risk. The study found that GrimAge 2 outperforms existing clinical biomarkers in predicting mortality across multiple racial/ethnic groups and associations with age-related conditions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Study traces shared and unique cellular hallmarks found in 6 neurodegenerative diseases

A recent study has identified common and unique cellular processes in six neurodegenerative diseases, providing new insights into the underlying causes of these conditions. The research used machine learning analysis to compare RNA markers in whole blood samples from patients with distinct diseases, revealing eight shared themes across...

SourceArizona State University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Antibodies to common antibiotic possible new risk factor for type 1 diabetes

A study found that antibodies to common antibiotic gentamicin are associated with an increased risk of progression to type 1 diabetes in children already genetically at risk. The researchers also identified an association between the FUT2 gene and the production of these antibodies, which may be compounding risks for type 1 diabetes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2022

Study conducted at hospital in São Paulo state detects measles antibodies in only 75% of under-fifteens

A study conducted in Brazil reveals that only 75.8% of under-fifteen children in São Paulo have antibodies against measles, falling short of the ideal 94% target to prevent outbreaks. The finding is a warning sign that Brazilian children are not achieving herd immunity, making them susceptible to infection.

Tiger sharks that interact with tourists are larger and have higher hormone levels, study shows

Researchers found that female tiger sharks that frequently visit Tiger Beach in the Bahamas are larger and have higher hormone levels than other individuals. The study suggests possible effects of mass tourism on these sharks, with females having better nutritional states and more omega-3 in their blood.

Liquid biopsies can detect which cancer patients may be at higher risk of developing additional blood cancers

Researchers found that liquid biopsies can detect clonal haematopoiesis, a condition placing patients at higher risk of developing myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukaemia. The study suggests that these patients should be referred for further evaluation to uncover actual risk and identify potential diagnostic pathways.

Detecting Alzheimer’s disease in the blood

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a biosensing technology to detect amyloid β build-up in the brain from biomarkers in blood samples. The Digital ICA TM technology can detect Aβ-binding exosomes in mice, increasing with age and disease progression.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAlzheimer s Research & Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2022

Strong link between gut bacteria and metabolites

A recent study published in Nature Communications has found a strong connection between the gut microbiome and certain blood metabolites. The research, led by Uppsala University, analyzed fecal and blood samples from over 8,500 participants in the SCAPIS study, identifying novel associations between gut bacteria and plasma metabolite s...

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2022

Novel method to predict behavior of different COVID-19 waves in the vaccinated or previously infected

Researchers developed a faster, more affordable method to analyze serological data and predict COVID-19 wave behavior. The study showed that vaccination boosted immunity, with hybrid immunity producing higher protection levels. Antibody levels rose quickly after the first dose, especially in cities where case numbers were highest.

SMART and NTU Singapore develop a quick test kit to determine a person’s immunity against COVID-19 and its variants

A team of scientists from SMART and NTU Singapore has developed a rapid point-of-care test kit that measures antibodies against SARS-COV-2 and its variants, offering personalized vaccination strategies. The test kit requires just 10 minutes to show results and has up to 93% accuracy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeNews article·DateSep 21, 2022

New blood test for ALS promises rapid diagnosis

Researchers at Brain Chemistry Labs have developed a new blood test for ALS using microRNA sequences, which accurately discriminated between patients and healthy individuals. The test works even with varying environmental conditions, offering hope for rapid diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalJournal of the Neurological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022

Whether it’s medical records, blood or tissue, patients want to know if researchers may use something from them

A new study suggests that members of the public want to know if their health information or samples from their bodies will be used in research or to help develop new biomedical products. The study found that patients are more likely to want notification about research use of their health information than biospecimens.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2022