Articles tagged with Erythrocytes
Researchers at UCSD have identified the relationship between hepcidin and a pair of proteins that monitor hormone levels, potentially leading to new treatments for anemia. The discovery reveals how HIF regulates hepcidin in response to low iron and oxygen levels.
Elderly patients with mild anemia (low RBC count) or high RBC count before surgery have a higher risk of post-operative death or cardiac events. Treatment of pre-operative anemia and polycythemia may not improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.
A new study found that even slightly abnormal pre-operative red blood cell counts can increase the risk of death or cardiac events after major non-cardiac surgery. Researchers analyzed data from 310,311 veterans and found that maintaining a normal red blood cell count may be beneficial for elderly patients facing surgery.
A 42-year-old Canadian patient developed compartment syndrome and underwent emergency fasciotomies, resulting in dark greenish-black blood analysis. Sulfhaemoglobinemia was diagnosed as the cause, linked to excessive sumatriptan intake, a medication containing a sulfonamide group.
An international team of researchers led by MIT Professor Subra Suresh has demonstrated that the parasite protein RESA causes red blood cells to become less deformable, a hallmark of deadly malaria. The study's findings could lead to treatments targeting this protein.
Researchers found that TRPM8 is expressed in mature, differentiated human prostate primary epithelial luminal cells, but also in prostate cancer cells. The study suggests that inhibiting ER-TRPM8 or PM-TRPM8 may be a potential therapeutic approach for treating prostate cancer. Additionally, the authors propose that blocking aggrecanase...
Researchers developed a cell culture test for assessing genetic toxicity that may prove dramatically cheaper than existing animal tests. The assay allows genetic toxicity to be examined far earlier in the drug development process, making it much more efficient.
A new study by Dr. Jacques Lacroix found that a restrictive transfusion strategy can be as safe as a liberal strategy in stable, critically ill children without increasing adverse outcomes. This approach reduced the need for transfusions and improved health care outcomes for pediatric ICU patients.
Researchers discovered that propranolol decreases erythrocyte G protein activity and inhibits blood-stage malarial parasite growth in red blood cells. The study suggests using propranolol in combination with existing antimalarials to reduce treatment doses, providing a novel antimalarial target and potential treatment strategy.
In a Phase III study, eculizumab provided clinically and statistically significant improvements in intravascular hemolysis, anemia, fatigue and quality of life in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Eculizumab therapy also reduced adverse events and showed significant benefits in patient-reported outcomes.
Women undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer who engage in regular aerobic exercise show improved oxygen capacity and maintained red blood cell levels compared to those who do not exercise. Exercise significantly correlated with increased peak oxygen capacity and erythrocyte levels.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found a link between mild anemia and impaired thinking in elderly women. Those with anemia were four to five times more likely to perform poorly on executive function tests, compared to those with normal blood hemoglobin.
The Pall eBDS System is a highly sensitive culture-based test that detects bacterial contamination of red blood cells, reducing the risk of sepsis and death from transfusion. The system's novel approach to detection measures oxygen consumption as a marker for bacteria, allowing for effective detection of commonly found contaminants.
Research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory investigated how transcriptional activity is connected to a cell's nucleus location. The study reveals that changes in the nucleus' position can significantly impact gene expression and cell behavior.
A new study suggests that an individual's unique genetic makeup can affect their risk of developing severe anemia from malaria. Researchers have identified specific genes and DNA sequences that control the production of MIF, a protein linked to malarial anemia.
Malaria infection hampers red blood cell production, leading to severe anemia. A new study reveals MIF as the key immune player in this process.
Researchers reveal that a mesh-like protein skeleton gives red blood cells their rubbery ability to stretch without breaking, facilitating oxygen diffusion across the membrane. The model also suggests that deformation of the cell can enhance oxygen movement through narrow capillary openings.
A new study found that red blood cells filtered through the Pall Leukotrap Affinity Prion Reduction Filter System retain their therapeutic value and quality after 42 days of storage, exceeding FDA requirements. The filter demonstrated a 99.9% reduction of prions, including sporadic CJD, scrapie, and mouse-adapted human vCJD.
Researchers have identified a molecular defect in red blood cells as an important cause of pulmonary hypertension, a potentially fatal lung condition. A new therapy that replenishes SNO levels in the blood has shown promise in reversing the disease.
Researchers discovered that KLF2 regulates embryonic globin genes and maturation of red blood cells in a mouse model, potentially paving the way for future gene therapies. The study highlights the importance of understanding gene regulation in blood disorders like sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia.
Researchers used microscopy and fluorescent tags to study malaria parasite release from infected red blood cells. They found that membranes fold into small vesicles allowing parasites to infect neighboring cells through pressure build-up.
The study reveals the malaria parasite's release mechanism from infected red blood cells, contradicting previous theories. The findings provide new insights into the disease and its potential targets for treatment.
Researchers have identified two genes that enable P. falciparum parasites to switch from sugar-dependent to sugar-independent invasion of red blood cells. The PfRh4 gene is required for this switching mechanism, which provides the parasite with adaptability in the face of receptor changes and immune system responses.
An international team of scientists has discovered the gene PfRh4 that allows the malaria parasite to switch between potential invasion points on red blood cells. The inactivation of this single protein could block multiple entry points currently open to the parasite, paving the way for new anti-malarial vaccine designs.
Researchers discovered a gene, PfRh4, that enables P. falciparum parasites to switch between two invasion pathways, increasing their adaptability in the face of immune responses and host changes. This finding has important implications for the design of anti-malaria vaccines.
Researchers develop new method to detect sequestered malaria parasites in red blood cells. The study found that patients with severe malaria have six times higher parasite burden than those without severe symptoms.
Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism of malaria parasite invasion into red blood cells, revealing a key protein-protein interaction known as the RII handshake. This finding suggests that blocking this interaction could be an effective strategy for preventing and treating malaria.
Researchers found that abnormal distribution of PfEMP-1 protein on red blood cells containing hemoglobin C impairs malaria parasites' ability to cause disease symptoms. This may explain why individuals with at least one gene for hemoglobin C are less prone to severe malaria.
The extension study found that oral liquid hydroxyurea was well-tolerated in babies and worked similarly to older children, increasing fetal hemoglobin levels and preventing sickle cell complications. The treatment may also improve quality of life for patients with sickle cell anemia, especially in underprivileged areas.
Scientists have discovered that Rh proteins, previously thought to be inactive carriers, play a crucial role in facilitating the transfer of carbon dioxide in and out of red blood cells. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of human physiology, including breathing, pH regulation, and kidney function.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that an inability of red blood cells to relax blood vessels through the release of nitric oxide is a major factor behind sickle cell disease symptoms. Restoring nitric oxide to blood cells may serve as a useful method for treating the disease.
The study reveals that Rb plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, two key processes affected in cancer development. By analyzing mice lacking Rb during embryonic development, researchers found that red blood cells failed to mature, highlighting the importance of Rb in maintaining normal cellular function.
Researchers identified a subset of proteins vital to malaria parasite's survival in host red blood cells and a unique mechanism for protein export. This discovery allows for focus on key proteins for developing antimalarial drugs.
Scientists at Northwestern University have identified a signal on exported parasite proteins that enables the malaria parasite to target red blood cells. This discovery provides a new understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying malaria infection and offers promising leads for developing new treatments.
A study found that the Pall Leukotrap Affinity Prion Reduction Filter reduces infectious vCJD prions in red blood cell concentrates below detection limits. The filter also reduced scrapie prions, a similar TSE, from blood, with no clinical symptoms reported in animals treated with filtered blood.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital developed a gene vector that allows hematopoietic stem cells to produce fetal hemoglobin, reversing beta-thalassemia in mice. The technique uses a new vector with added regulatory elements to improve the expression of the gamma-globin gene.
HBOCs increase tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery, offering a temporary solution for situations with massive hemorrhaging or blood shortages. They can effectively increase the usable blood supply in cardiac surgery, creating a 20% increase in supply.
Warren Pharmaceuticals has synthesized molecules exhibiting only tissue-protective effects of EPO, with no impact on the classical EPO receptor. These compounds show promise in treating various diseases including stroke, spinal cord compression, diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, and congestive heart failure.
A new study on BCX-1777, a PNP inhibitor, found that it can elevate plasma dGuo levels and inhibit erythrocyte PNP activity in cancer patients. The results suggest potential therapeutic applications for BCX-1777 in treating autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to modify alpha globin, potentially providing more effective treatments for sickle cell disease. Genetically engineered mice with the disease showed improved blood counts and extended lifespan after producing zeta globin.
Researchers found that EPO reduced programmed cell death in heart cells, leading to smaller infarcts and increased heart function. The study suggests that EPO may offer novel protection against ischemic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
Researchers found that administering hydroxyurea to patients with severe forms of beta-thalassemia boosted hemoglobin levels and enabled five patients to stop undergoing transfusions. The treatment also improved quality of life for the children, who reported feeling better and more active.
The new method uses streptavidin-biotin protein complex to coat red blood cells with tPA, spares existing blood clots and reduces the risk of bleeding. This technique could provide a safe way of delivering clot-busting drugs with fewer side effects.
Researchers developed a gene therapy technique that uses an oncoretrovirus to transfer MGMT into normal bone marrow cells, allowing for the enrichment of healthy cells. The treatment showed promising results in mice with beta-thalassemia, achieving successful in vivo selection in 66% of cases.
A recent St. Jude study suggests that children with a higher proportion of sickled hemoglobin may develop 'twisted' arteries in the brain, which could increase their risk of stroke later in life. Researchers believe that this increased blood flow may damage arteries and lead to a higher risk of stroke among African Americans.
Researchers successfully integrated genes into hematopoietic stem cells to produce normal red blood cells in mice with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. The technique uses a non-pathogenic AIDS virus gene to ferry DNA into the cells, selectively enriching genetically modified stem cells.
Researchers have found that red blood cells cannot repair tears in their surfaces due to the lack of internal membranes, confirming a decade-old hypothesis. In contrast, muscle cells can rapidly repair tears by sealing them with a large internal membrane.
Researchers performed partial splenectomy on 25 children with congenital forms of anemia caused by abnormal red blood cells. The procedure showed promise in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, but does not address the cause of these disorders.
Researchers found that administering recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) resulted in a 19% reduction in red blood cell transfusion. The study showed improved hemoglobin levels and reduced exposure to RBC tranfusions, with potential benefits including morbidity and mortality reductions.
University of Pittsburgh scientist highlights sub-lethal mechanical trauma's effect on red blood cells, potentially shortening lifespan. Dr. Kameneva discusses the impact on artificial heart development and suggests understanding blood flow and cell interactions to improve device designs.
Vitex's INACTINE technology demonstrated complete parasite eradication of Trypanasoma cruzi, Plasmodium falciparum, and Babesia microti parasites. The company's pathogen reduction system meets critical requirements for commercial success, with potential to improve safety of red blood cell transfusions.
Researchers have discovered a protein, alpha hemoglobin stabilizing protein (AHSP), that binds to free alpha globin and prevents it from forming a precipitate that damages red blood cells. This discovery may lead to a new treatment for thalassemia by reducing the need for frequent blood transfusions.
Scientists discover nitric oxide's active regulatory role in responding to tissue oxygen needs, enabling red blood cells to regulate blood flow. The findings explain why certain treatments fail or lead to adverse effects, offering new avenues for treating disorders such as sickle cell disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Researchers discovered that heparin inhibits the adhesion of sickle red blood cells to P-selectin on blood vessel walls, preventing blockages and organ damage. The study suggests that oral heparin preparations may provide a convenient and safe treatment option for patients with sickle cell disease.
A new gene therapy method has successfully corrected sickle cell disease in mice by transferring an anti-sickling gene to bone marrow, preventing the formation of deformed red blood cells. The therapy, developed using a viral delivery system, resulted in up to 99% expression of the new gene in circulating red blood cells.
Researchers have developed a method to 'censor' self-specific B cells, which can help treat autoimmune diseases. This approach may lead to more effective treatments for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Red blood cells play a vital role in storing and releasing nitric oxide, a molecule that regulates blood flow and oxygen delivery. The findings could help improve understanding and treatment of diseases such as diabetes, sickle cell anemia, and high blood pressure.
Researchers found a way to prevent infectious malaria particles from bursting out of their protective sacs by blocking the activity of a protein-snipping enzyme called protease. This discovery suggests that protease inhibitors could be used to treat malaria infection and keep the infectious particles imprisoned until they deteriorate.
Researchers identified a two-step process by which malaria parasites break out of red blood cells, paving the way for developing clinically useful inhibitors. The discovery may lead to promising targets for drug development and improved understanding of the disease.
A study of 1424 pregnant women in Newfoundland and Labrador found that less than 4% had deficient serum folate levels, but 27% had low red blood cell folate. The findings highlight a significant public health issue that should be addressed through daily folic acid supplements.