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Protecting damaged hearts with microRNAs

Researchers have identified two microRNA family members that can provide both immediate and long-term protection against heart damage. The therapy targets the miR-19a/b microRNAs, which regulate proliferation of cardiomyocytes and reduce inflammation, leading to improved heart function.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 22, 2019

The hitchhiker's guide to defeating glioblastoma

A new method of using multiple microRNAs to weaken cancer cells has shown promising results in preclinical models, increasing survival in a murine model of glioblastoma by five-fold when combined with chemotherapy. The treatment strategy weakens tumor cells but does not directly kill them, making it an advantage for further treatment.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 2019

A role for microRNAs in social behavior

A study discovered that a microRNA cluster regulates synaptic strength and is involved in controlling social behavior in mammals. The researchers found that the absence of this microRNA cluster results in increased sociability in mice.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Reports·DateDec 14, 2018

The taming of the dog, cow, horse, pig and rabbit

A recent study by Earlham Institute sheds light on the genetic orchestra conductors behind domestication of dogs, cows, horses, pigs, and rabbits. By analyzing microRNAs in their brains, testicles, hearts, and kidneys, researchers discovered that some miRNAs have evolved more recently, playing a crucial role in emerging novel traits.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 20, 2018

UMass Medical School study safely delivers RNAi-based gene therapy for ALS in animal model

A new study by UMass Medical School researchers successfully delivers RNAi-based gene therapy to silence SOD1 protein mutations linked to ALS without adverse effects. The therapy, delivered via a viral vector, achieved silencing of over 90% in some motor neurons, suggesting a safe and potentially one-time treatment for humans.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 31, 2018

New way to prevent heart disease in type 1 diabetes

Scientists at Newcastle University have found that metformin can reduce the presence of microRNAs that contribute to heart disease in patients with Type 1 diabetes. By decreasing these microRNAs, metformin improves glucose levels and promotes blood vessel repair, opening up new treatment options for this vulnerable patient group.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 19, 2018

Nanopore technology with DNA computing easily detects microRNA patterns of lung cancer

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a simple technique to identify Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) earlier using nanopore technology and DNA computing. The method recognizes specific microRNA patterns associated with SCLC, enabling early detection without invasive cell biopsies.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 5, 2018

Investigational steroid mirrors prednisone's benefits while taming its side effects

A new investigational steroid called vamorolone has been found to replicate the benefits of prednisone while reducing its side effects, offering hope for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The study identifies nine potential biomarkers for inflammatory diseases that could serve as a fingerprint for chronic inflammation.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPhysiological Genomics·DateSep 20, 2018

Viruses under the microscope

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have identified viral microRNA molecules that can serve as ideal biomarkers for detecting human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) reactivation. The discovery was made using a novel method that allows for early detection of viral activation, potentially leading to improved clinical interventions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·Journalnpj Genomic Medicine·DateSep 14, 2018

Treating inflammatory bowel disorder by delivering microRNAs

Osaka University researchers successfully delivered microRNAs to immune response cells in inflamed intestinal tracts using a super carbonate apatite (sCA), reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study showed that sCA could be used to treat a wide range of immunity and allergic disorders caused by immune responses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateAug 28, 2018

Discovery of new biomarker could provide personalized treatment options for bladder cancer

Researchers at Mount Sinai have discovered two microRNA activity-based biomarkers that can predict patient outcomes and inform treatment decisions for p53-like bladder cancer. The findings hold promise for personalized treatment options, but further research is needed to translate the results into improved patient care.