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Device allows evaluation of the efficacy, toxicity of drugs metabolized through the liver

Researchers developed a microfabricated device to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of drugs metabolized through the liver, simplifying the process and overcoming limitations of existing systems. The device enables separate culture of primary liver cells and cancer cells, allowing for analysis of metabolic conversion and toxic effects.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateJun 16, 2015

Olga Troyanskaya brings order to big data of human biology

A multi-year study by Olga Troyanskaya and her team identified 144 functional gene interaction networks for organs as diverse as the kidney, liver, and whole brain. The technique, NetWAS, combines quantitative genetics with functional genomics to increase the power of GWAS and identify genes underlying complex human diseases.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 27, 2015

NUS pioneers novel strategy to prevent progression of inflammation-associated cancers

A team of NUS researchers developed a novel strategy to prevent inflammation-associated cancers by targeting the interaction between FAT10 and MAD2. This approach facilitates the development of cancer drugs with fewer side effects, as it targets specific pathological functions without affecting other physiological functions.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2015

Toxin targets discovered

Research identifies specific glycans on cell surfaces as key targets for bacterial toxins, offering new avenues for blocking toxin action and developing novel treatments. The discovery has major implications for the treatment of diseases caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and group A streptococci.

SourceGriffith University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2014

New approach for treating ALS

Researchers have uncovered a mechanism that explains why many ALS drugs fail as the disease progresses: the brain's pumps become more active and remove both toxins and medicine. Blocking these pumps improves drug efficacy in mouse models.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateNov 20, 2014

Getting to the heart of the heart

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have captured images of the complex, revealing the connection between some genetic mutations and electrical abnormalities in the heart. The study provides a starting point for designing therapies to treat conditions such as long QT syndrome and Brugada syndrome.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2014

Policies on marketing gifts to medical students

A cross-sectional study found that medical schools with stricter industry interaction policies had students report fewer gifts and interactions with marketing reps, suggesting these policies can reduce biases. The results suggest that limiting receipt of gifts should be a central feature of medical school regulations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 14, 2014

Drug-food interactions in mountaineering

A recent study by the University of the Basque Country highlights the risks of drug-food interactions in mountaineering, particularly at high altitudes. The researchers emphasize the importance of controlling medications and nutritional ergogenic aids to prevent adverse reactions and ensure safe ascent.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalRevista Internacional de Medicina y Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte·DateOct 2, 2014

Common herbal supplement can cause dangerous interactions

A study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that St. John's wort use was associated with 28% of potentially harmful combinations in analyzed data. The herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of various medications, leading to impaired treatment outcomes and increased risk of conditions like serotonin syndrome.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateJun 30, 2014

St. John's wort can cause dangerous interactions with many common medications

A large-scale search of a national medical database found that St. John's wort is often prescribed with medications that may result in adverse reactions, such as serotonin syndrome or heart disease. The study highlights the importance of caution when combining St. John's wort with other medications.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateJun 30, 2014

Kaiser Permanente paper: E-surveillance program targets care gaps in outpatient settings

The Kaiser Permanente Southern California Outpatient Safety Net Program uses electronic health records to identify and address potential gaps in patient care, targeting issues such as medication interactions and follow-up tests. The program has shown promise in improving patient safety across various clinical conditions.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournaleGEMs (Generating Evidence & Methods to improve patient outcomes)·DateJun 25, 2014