Articles tagged with Toxicity
A genomic analysis overturned the leading hypothesis on firefly light origin, revealing that lucibufagins, a toxic compound, evolved after bioluminescence development. Fireflies' ancestors diversified during a period of rising atmospheric oxygen levels, suggesting a similar path to glowing millipedes.
A new study led by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine developed a novel approach to assess medication-related liver injury. By analyzing real-world health care data, they found that some medications' levels of danger to the liver are being misclassified.
Researchers discuss Ibrutinib, a BTK inhibitor approved for chronic lymphocytic leukemia treatment, noting 20-25% of patients experience dose-limiting cardiovascular toxicities. A recent study identifies genetic biomarkers, such as KCNQ1 and GATA4, associated with cardiotoxic events, which may improve risk stratification.
A study led by Washington State University scientists found that inhibiting CDK7 could help prevent heart damage associated with doxorubicin, a commonly used cancer chemotherapy medication. The researchers also discovered that CDK7 inhibition enhances the medication's cancer-killing capability.
Researchers review Silibinin's efficacy in managing inflammation, a key factor in tumour development and aging. The molecule may reduce drug-related toxicity and increase therapeutic potential in integrated cancer therapies.
The study highlights the importance of protease-activated receptors (PARs) in cancer growth and development, with PH-binding motifs identified as a key platform for drug design. The researchers suggest that targeting PARs could provide an alternative to current oncogenic pathways.
Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that the shape and surface chemistry of silver nanoparticles significantly impact their environmental toxicity. The study, published in Nanomaterials, found that certain formats can preserve beneficial properties while limiting negative effects.
Scientists have found an effective treatment for spitting cobra snakebites by blocking one of the major dermonecrosis-causing toxins with varespladib. The study suggests that this repurposed drug can prevent tissue damage and may become a valuable treatment against black-necked and red spitting cobra venoms.
A new AI method developed by Swedish researchers can identify toxic substances based on their chemical structure, potentially replacing animal testing. The method has been shown to be more accurate and broadly applicable than existing computational tools, offering a promising alternative for environmental research and authorities.
Opioid-related deaths doubled between 2019 and 2021 across Canada, with over 1 in 4 deaths among young adults aged 20–39 years attributable to opioids. The concentration of harm in younger populations was consistent across provinces and territories.
A study by the University of Basel found that corn plants release benzoxazinoids, which reduce arsenic uptake and mitigate toxicity. This mechanism could be used to cultivate hyper-emitting plant varieties for arsenic-contaminated locations, reducing food chain contamination.
A study by Washington State University found that cats with the MDR1 genetic mutation are at high risk of experiencing serious adverse effects from products containing eprinomectin. Cats without this mutation appear safe when using these products, but many cases of severe reactions have been reported.
Researchers assessed the feasibility of dual PD-L1/CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibition in Stage II or III hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Eight patients received upfront durvalumab and tremelimumab prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, showing mixed responses and limited benefit.
A new material has been developed that can degrade the widely used antibiotic levofloxacin, considered an emerging pollutant in aqueous environments. The material, comprising iridium dioxide and niobium oxide films on a titanium substrate, showed excellent photoelectrocatalytic activity and stability.
Researchers argue that current automated toxicity detection methods can improve but require human intervention to review decisions. Companies can take steps to improve working conditions and platform cultures that prioritize kindness and respect.
Chronic exposure to E551 may reduce oral tolerance to dietary proteins and increase intestinal inflammation, potentially worsening coeliac disease symptoms. Researchers found daily exposure to E551 worsened levels of inflammation markers associated with the disease in mice.
The team created a trophoblast stem cell-based organoid model that effectively mimics the structural and biological details of the human placenta. This model will help scientists better understand general placental biology and potential drug toxicity, ultimately informing the development of safer drugs.
Xylazine, a veterinary medication, has been found in the illicit opioid supply, rendering naloxone ineffective in treating overdose cases. Specialized addictions care remains crucial in addressing underlying substance use disorders.
Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.
Researchers discover antibody-dependent enhancement of toxicity (ADET), a phenomenon where antibodies can amplify venom's potency. The breakthrough contributes to expediting the development of a new generation of antivenom, potentially saving millions from snakebites yearly.
Only 4.1% of hospital encounters for opioid overdoses led to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) initiation within a week of discharge from hospital, highlighting missed opportunities to prevent future mortality and morbidity related to opioid use disorder. Studies show that prompt OAT initiation in the emergency department is crucial to redu...
Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Oxford found that formaldehyde inhibits DNA methylation, turning genes on or off. The study suggests that high levels of formaldehyde may suppress the body's attempts to prevent cancer.
Researchers have created a new analytical method to identify and measure small microplastics in the environment. The technique combines flow cytometry with pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry to characterize and count these tiny particles, providing a more complete picture of their abundance and type.
A study by Cornell University found pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides in managed honeybee hives in New York, posing a risk to bee health and the environment. The chemicals, including acaricides and neonics, were detected in nearly all samples, highlighting the need for better protection of pollinators.
Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.
Researchers have discovered new insights into microglia-astrocyte communication and its impact on intracerebral hemorrhage, as well as the testicular toxicity of triptolide. Additionally, a study on epicardial cells has identified key gene markers associated with cardiac regenerative therapy strategies.
Purdue University scientists examine the bio-impact of toxic chemical cocktails in the environment, finding reduced growth in tadpoles exposed to PFAS mixtures. The study highlights the need for research on mixture toxicity in aquatic organisms, as each chemical interacts with others in complex ways.
Researchers have developed a new protocol to test the toxicity of micro- and nano-plastics in various organisms, considering particle-specific properties and dynamic behavior. The protocol takes between 24h to 2 months and can be applied by students, academics, and industries.
Researchers at UVA Health System have developed a powerful new tool to understand how medications affect men and women differently. The model has provided unprecedented insights into biological processes in the liver, helping ensure that new medications will not cause harmful side effects.
Researchers have developed a hybrid silicon photocatalyst that efficiently produces hydrogen and high-value compounds using solar power. The non-toxic catalyst achieves an impressive rate of 14.2 mmol gcat−1 h−1, significantly higher than conventional silicon photocatalysts.
A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.
A newly discovered fungus has been found to transform the toxic compound patulin into less harmful byproducts, offering potential solutions for controlling its presence in food products. The fungus, identified as Acremonium sp., was shown to degrade patulin into desoxypatulinic acid and other compounds, which are significantly less toxic.
A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that biofiltration increased coho salmon hatchling survival by up to 87%, reducing mortality from stormwater runoff exposure. The method effectively removes contaminants, but implementation faces hurdles due to land requirements.
LSU Health researchers found combining an investigational oral drug with standard-of-care medications reverts hormone resistance and increases effectiveness in experimental models of ER+ and TNBC. The study's findings suggest a new approach for treating treatment-resistant breast cancers.
A new tool helps evaluate pesticide toxicity at high resolution and suggests targeting a few pesticides in watersheds could significantly reduce aquatic toxicity in California. The Environmental Release Tool (ERT) quantifies pesticide applications and toxicity by watershed, covering hundreds of commodities.
A Canadian woman's high blood lead level was diagnosed after multiple hospital visits for abdominal pain, constipation, and nausea. The patient had taken Ayurvedic medicines daily for over a year, leading to the seizure of hundreds of contaminated pills.
A new study by Ohio State University suggests that the toxicity of Lake Erie's harmful algal bloom varies over the summer, with an overestimation in warmer months and underestimation in cooler months. The research aims to develop a more accurate toxicology forecast for Lake Erie.
A new study found that cetuximab plus radiotherapy is an active treatment option for locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell skin cancer, with an objective response rate of 83.2%. The treatment was well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing mild acneiform skin rash or fatigue.
Opioid toxicity-related deaths in the US increased substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 1 in every 22 deaths attributable to unintentional opioid toxicity. This trend highlights the urgent need for support people at risk of substance-related harm, particularly men and younger adults.
A study found that 79 patients experienced high financial toxicity, with 89% reporting hardship, and highlighted patient characteristics and coping strategies. Patients made personal sacrifices to remain compliant with treatments, including reducing spending and borrowing money.
New research reveals that sunscreen contamination may be less harmful to wildlife than previously thought, with exposure posing a low risk to small aquatic animals compared to individual chemicals.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified disparities in end-of-life immunotherapy treatment, highlighting the need for further examination to ensure quality care. A new study also reveals a novel target to improve immunotherapy responses in KRAS-mutant lung cancer and strategies to manage immune-related toxicities.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered that blood leaking into the brain triggers toxic genes in microglia, turning them into harmful cells that destroy neurons. Fibrin, a blood protein, is responsible for this process, which can lead to cognitive dysfunction and motor impairment.
A recent study found that microplastics and triphenyltin have a combined toxic effect on the gut-brain axis in common carp. The pollutants amplified toxicity when used together, causing changes in gut microbiome and immune system function.
A new study by Duke University researchers reveals that the amount of toxic elements leaching out of coal ash depends largely on its nanoscale structure. The discovery highlights the complexity of coal ash as a material and emphasizes the need for closer examination of fine details within the ash to understand environmental risks.
A new analysis of secret industry documents reveals that the chemical industry knew about the dangers of PFAS but failed to disclose this information to the public and regulators. The study examines how the industry used tactics to delay public awareness and regulations, with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.
Researchers developed a novel hybrid protein complex by binding lysozyme to copper for enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) removal. The CuST@lysozyme hybrid protein showed high SOD activity and stability in biological fluids, paving the way for its therapeutic applications.
The study investigates toxic effects of pesticides (chlorpyrifos, acetochlor, dicofol) on S. costatum growth and chlorophyll-a content, revealing varying toxicity levels among the pesticides. Marine microalgae partially degrade pesticides, with acetochlor showing stronger persistence.
Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have found a potential therapeutic target, IL-21, to reduce endocrine autoimmune side effects from checkpoint immunotherapy. A specific group of immune cells play a central role in this autoimmune attack and blocking IL-21 prevents thyroid autoimmunity.
Researchers at UCLA and Harvard have identified 10 pesticides toxic to dopaminergic neurons, which play a key role in voluntary movement. The study used California's pesticide use database and found that co-exposure of certain pesticides increased toxicity, with combinations involving herbicides like trifluralin producing the most harm.
Researchers have discovered that extremophilic bacteria from high-temperature marine environments can be used to remove iron, silicon, and magnesium from asbestos minerals, reducing their toxicity. This finding has the potential to develop new methods for detoxifying and reusing asbestos as a secondary raw material.
A Phase I/II clinical trial combining intratumoral delivery of an engineered oncolytic virus with subsequent immunotherapy improved survival outcomes in a subset of patients with recurrent glioblastoma. The study demonstrated the combination was well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities.
A new study by Tulane University found that five out of 60 beverages tested contained elevated levels of toxic metals above federal drinking water standards. Mixed-fruit juices and plant-based milks were more likely to contain these elements, highlighting the importance of moderation in consumption.
Researchers found a partial response in a patient with pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma, as well as stable disease in 11 patients, when combining riluzole with sorafenib in a phase I trial. The combination was safe and tolerable, and further exploration of its potential is warranted.
Researchers developed a biologically inspired 'vaping robot' to mimic human breathing patterns and tested commercially available e-liquids containing menthol. The study found that menthol vapers took shallower breaths and had poorer lung function compared to non-menthol smokers, regardless of age or smoking history.
Human macrophages use Siglec-14 receptors to recognize and engulf carbon nanotubes, leading to inflammation. The discovery could pave the way for developing safer carbon nanotubes and therapies to prevent inflammatory diseases.
Partners of colorectal cancer survivors experience long-term financial toxicity leading to worse health-related quality of life. Multilevel interventions are needed to address individual and systemic factors affecting both patients and their partners.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a type of cell that plays a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment. The authors suggest that understanding CAFs is essential for developing effective cancer therapies. Research targeting CAFs has shown promise, but challenges remain due to their complex nature.
Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have made a breakthrough in understanding how macrophages recognize microplastics, discovering an interaction between aromatic rings that drives this process. The study suggests that while microplastics may not induce acute inflammation, chronic exposure could lead to autoimmune diseases.
A recent study found that polymeric PFAS used in food packaging break down into toxic smaller molecules, contaminating food and the environment. The research contradicts claims that polymeric PFAS are harmless and poses a risk to human health.