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DNA meets heart drugs with resistance

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have identified a DNA polymorphism that interferes with the binding of antiarrhythmic drugs to a specific ion channel in the heart. This structural change allows for variable drug access to its target site, leading to increased drug resistance in some individuals.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 14, 2005

Opiate cocktail may spare cells from morphine's dark side

Researchers developed a drug cocktail combining morphine with methadone to prevent cellular signaling imbalances associated with opiate tolerance. The study found that rats receiving the cocktail experienced reduced morphine dependence, suggesting a potential approach for treating chronic pain.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 6, 2005

Reducing malarial transmission in Africa

A randomized trial in Uganda found a six-dose regimen of co-artemether significantly reduced gametocyte levels and mosquito infectivity. However, limitations include patient compliance and absorption issues.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 25, 2005

Brain stimulation treats resistant depression

A six-month study led by Helen Mayberg found that deep brain stimulation improved mood and reduced symptoms in severely depressed patients, with three achieving remission. The procedure was well-tolerated, with no psychological side effects reported.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 28, 2005

Resistance to chemotherapy

Scientists found that tumors from six patients with non-small cell lung cancer who initially responded to gefitinib or erlotinib but relapsed carried activating mutations in the EGFR gene. The resistant tumor cells also carried a second mutation in the EGFR gene, which causes resistance to these drugs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2005

Other highlights in the November 17 JNCI

A new study suggests that increased selenium levels in the blood are associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal adenoma recurrence. The research pooled data from three randomized trials and found that participants in the highest quartile for blood selenium levels had a 34% decreased risk of developing a new adenoma.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 16, 2004

Master of antimalarial resistance

A recent study has identified previously unknown mutations in the pfrct gene as key players in Plasmodium falciparum's resistance to halofantrine and amantadine. These mutations may also restore sensitivity to chloroquine, a widely used antimalarial drug. The findings suggest a new approach to combating chloroquine-resistant malaria.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 23, 2004

New HIV findings

Researchers at McGill University have made a groundbreaking discovery that patients can be infected with more than one type of HIV, which poses significant challenges for treatment and management. The study's findings, published in the August issue of AIDS, suggest that existing drug cocktails may need to be tailored accordingly.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAIDS·DateAug 26, 2004