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Relieve your stress, relieve your allergies

A study published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences suggests a link between corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and increased expression of mast cells in the nasal cavity, exacerbating allergic reactions. The research offers promising therapeutic potential with CRHR1 inhibitors and SCF neutralizing antibodies.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 25, 2021

Intelligence deficit: Conclusion from the mouse to the human being

A new mouse model created by researchers at the University of Bonn reveals that GPI anchor deficiencies, a group of rare diseases, are caused by impaired transmission of stimuli at brain synapses. The mice exhibited cognitive deficits, altered social behavior, and increased susceptibility to epilepsy, mirroring human symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2021

LSU Health New Orleans discovers drug development target for retinal dystrophies

Researchers found that deleting FATP4 increases cone photoreceptor survival and visual function nearly 10-fold in mouse models of Leber congenital amaurosis. This discovery establishes FATP4 as a promising therapeutic target to preserve daytime color vision in patients with RPE65 gene mutations.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2020

First all-human mouse model of inherited prion disease

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking mouse model of human prion disease, demonstrating spontaneous formation of disease-relevant prion protein assemblies in mice with only human forms of the prion protein. This discovery is expected to provide valuable insights into human disease and inform the development of therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 9, 2020

Protecting the neuronal architecture

Heidelberg researchers demonstrate that restoring VEGFD levels can preserve dendritic arborisation and reduce brain damage after a stroke. A treatment using recombinant VEGFD and nose drops achieved similar results in mouse models.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2020

Gene mutation in the chloride channel triggers rare high blood pressure syndrome

Researchers have discovered that a gene mutation in the chloride channel causes hyperaldosteronism, leading to abnormally high blood pressure and kidney damage. The study used a mouse model to investigate the pathological mechanisms of the disease, providing insights into the effects of an open chloride channel on aldosterone production.

Machine-learning detection of neurodevelopmental disorders

A machine learning algorithm identified altered pupil diameter fluctuations in mouse models of autism spectrum disorders, allowing early detection of developmental disorders. The algorithm distinguished Rett syndrome patients from controls based on heart rate fluctuations, suggesting a potential biomarker for early detection.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 22, 2019

Bladder drug and atherosclerosis

Researchers found that mirabegron increases cholesterol synthesis in mouse models of atherosclerosis, leading to accelerated plaque growth and increased cardiovascular risk. The changes were linked to thermogenic fat breakdown induced by mirabegron treatment, raising concerns for patients with LDL receptor mutations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2019

New mouse model reminiscent of Leigh syndrome sheds light on mechanisms of neurodegeneration

A new mouse model has revealed the crucial role of PARL in maintaining mitochondrial respiratory chain function and structural integrity. The study found that mice lacking PARL display symptoms reminiscent of Leigh syndrome, highlighting the importance of understanding the protein's mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 2, 2019

Gene editing possible for kidney disease

Scientists at Newcastle University have identified a gene editing method to stop kidney damage in patients with Joubert syndrome, a genetic condition causing brain and kidney issues. The 'exon-skipping' technique may lead to personalized therapies for inherited kidney diseases.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2018

What can a tau mouse model reveal about the effects of repetitive brain injury?

Researchers have developed a mouse model expressing human tau protein to study the effects of repetitive brain injury on cognitive function, motor dysfunction and white matter damage. The study found that repetitive concussive injuries resulted in chronic disruptions in white matter and associated neuroinflammation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateNov 5, 2018