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Innovative technique for labeling and mapping inhibitory neurons reveals diverse tuning profile

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience developed a strategy to label and map local inhibitory inputs onto cells. They found that inhibitory inputs may parallel or diverge from target neurons, revealing a diverse palette of inhibition. This discovery suggests complex functional connectivity in the visual cortex.

Does sunscreen compromise vitamin D levels?

Researchers found that using high UVA protection factor sunscreen allows for better vitamin D synthesis due to increased UVB transmission. Despite concerns, optimal sunscreen use does not harm vitamin D production, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateMay 9, 2019

Adult-onset neurodegeneration has roots in early development

A study published in Journal of Clinical Investigation found that adult-onset progressive degenerative diseases have their roots in early developmental defects. Researchers used a mouse model of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 and discovered altered neural circuitry in the cerebellum, which sets the stage for later disease vulnerability.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 30, 2018

A small protein with many applications

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a llama-antibody, or nanobody, that can prevent the cleavage of the C3 protein, which plays a crucial role in the innate immune system. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for kidney diseases and conditions where the immune system is overactive.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 15, 2018

Study shows biomarkers can predict which ER-positive breast cancer patients respond best to first-line therapy

Researchers discovered that combining palbociclib with autophagy inhibitors can significantly reduce side effects and improve treatment efficacy for ER+ breast cancer patients. The study found that Rb and cytoplasmic cyclin E biomarkers predict response to therapy, allowing for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 27, 2017

Research proves it -- the smell of alcohol makes it hard to resist

A study published in Psychopharmacology found that the smell of alcohol can reduce a person's ability to inhibit their behavior, particularly when it comes to pressing buttons. The researchers, led by Dr. Rebecca Monk, used a computer-based experiment to test this hypothesis and found significant evidence supporting their claim.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateMar 17, 2016

New therapy for itch

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to reduce histamine-induced itching and shorten its duration in a new study. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the development of novel methods to inhibit itching.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalClinical Neurophysiology·DateNov 25, 2015

Researchers pin down enzyme role in muscle 'aging'

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that an enzyme called 11β-HSD1 is increased in muscles of older women, leading to reduced grip strength and insulin resistance. The researchers believe inhibiting this enzyme could hold the key to preventing or reversing muscle wasting associated with aging.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 19, 2015

Beta secretase inhibitors to treat Alzheimer's disease

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that beta secretase inhibitors can impair synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions, highlighting the need for dose-dependent treatment. The researchers urge caution in dosing these inhibitors to balance safety and efficacy.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 2, 2015

New technology may help identify safe alternatives to BPA

Researchers have developed new tests to classify compounds' activity with great detail and speed, identifying safer replacements for BPA. The advance could offer a fast and cost-effective way to identify safe alternatives, as millions of tons of BPA and related compounds are produced each year.

SourceCell Press·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateMay 22, 2014

How to increase the survival rate of motor neurons after spinal root avulsion

Researchers found that preconditioning crush can increase the survival rate of motor neurons after spinal root avulsion. The study, published in Neural Regeneration Research, discovered that induction of heat shock protein 27 inhibits neuronal nitric oxide synthase, attenuating cytotoxic effects and preventing ventral motor neuron loss.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMay 9, 2014

Short bouts of exercise boost self control

Research found short bouts of exercise enhance higher brain functions, including memory, concentration, planning, and decision-making, in all three age groups. Short exercises improved self-control, especially in children and teens, crucial for academic achievement and daily life.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 6, 2013

Novel enzyme inhibitor paves way for new cancer drug

Scientists at The Wistar Institute have developed a novel enzyme inhibitor that effectively blocks a key biochemical pathway in cancer development. By targeting the PI3K enzyme, the agent shows promise in treating melanoma by dampening overactive enzyme activity that leads to uncontrolled tumor growth.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateMay 16, 2008

The GABAA receptor -- a memory bane?

The GABAA receptor's inhibition of learning has been reversed by its overexpression, revealing a complex relationship between neurotransmitters and cognitive processes. Fruit flies exhibit impaired learning at high temperatures but retain memory, suggesting that the receptor's absence may enhance neural plasticity.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateDec 19, 2007

Modifying an anti-cancer drug makes it more specific

Researchers at Rice University have engineered a modified form of the anti-cancer drug imatinib, known as WBZ_4, which targets specific cancer-causing proteins without affecting normal bodily functions. This new compound shows promise in treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) with reduced risk of heart toxicity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2007

Specific antagonism lowers blood pressure

Researchers identified EP1 as a key factor in blood pressure regulation and found that inhibiting it can reduce hypertension. Targeting this receptor subtype may be a viable approach to treating high blood pressure.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2007

Dec. 7 tip sheet Annals of Internal Medicine

A study of 1,718 people found that COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib was associated with a higher risk of heart attack compared to celecoxib and older non-selective non-aspirin non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NANSAIDs). In contrast, those who used NANSAIDs had a decreased risk for myocardial infarction.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 6, 2004

The anti-arthritic effects of bee venom

Researchers found that melittin, a compound in bee venom, blocks the expression of inflammatory genes in synovial cells. This inhibition can lead to reduced tissue swelling and osteophyte formation, suggesting a potential treatment for RA patients.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateNov 4, 2004

Estrogen regulates key factor in wound healing

MIF is a crucial intermediary in uncontrolled inflammation and impaired wound healing. In estrogen-deficient mice, MIF expression increased, leading to excessive inflammation and delayed healing. Therapeutics that inhibit MIF may accelerate wound healing.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 1, 2003