Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New enzyme inhibitor shows promise for treating cancers, autoimmune diseases

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a small molecule capable of manipulating an immune process that plays a crucial role in cancers and autoimmune diseases. The newly identified enzyme inhibitor could enhance immune responses against tumors, increasing their visibility to T-cells.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2022

Ultra-low dose total body PET/CT effective for evaluating arthritis

Researchers successfully visualized systemic joint involvement in patients with autoimmune arthritis using ultra-low dose total body PET/CT scans. The scans showed high agreement with standard joint-by-joint rheumatological evaluations and a moderate to strong correlation with rheumatological outcome measures.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 13, 2022

Norovirus link to Crohn’s disease may point to new therapies

A new study found that a protein called apoptosis inhibitor five (API5) protects most people with the mutation linked to Crohn's disease from developing the illness. Norovirus infection blocks API5 production in mice with Crohn's, killing gut-lining cells and tipping the balance towards autoimmune disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Lenabasum, a cannabinoid receptor agonist, is an effective and safe treatment for amyopathic dermatomyositis

Lenabasum has been shown to improve skin symptoms in patients with amyopathic dermatomyositis, demonstrating significant reductions in inflammation and disease severity. The study's findings suggest that lenabasum is a well-tolerated treatment option for refractory skin disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 21, 2022

Long COVID patients show signs of autoimmune disease a year after infection

A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that blood samples from long COVID patients show signs of autoimmune disease a year after infection. Nearly 80% of patients had autoantibodies in their blood, which persisted in around 30% of cases.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Most long COVID patients recover, says study

A study found that most people with long COVID (persistent symptoms) recover within 12 months. However, some patients still experience symptoms and may benefit from seeing a rheumatologist for autoimmune disorder assessment.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Scientists uncover new therapeutic target for treating colorectal tumors

A new study by Tokyo University of Science researchers reveals that dendritic cell immunoreceptor (DCIR) plays a crucial role in the development of colorectal tumors. Blocking DCIR may prevent ulcerative colitis and colon cancer, offering a potential therapeutic target for treating these diseases.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2022

Finding a way to defend a self-attack

Osaka University researchers identified medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) expressing neuromuscular molecules in myasthenia gravis-thymoma samples. These findings suggest a new connection between the two diseases and may lead to novel therapeutic methods.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Scripps Research scientists identify sensor underlying mechanical itch

Researchers at Scripps Research have identified a protein in sensory nerves that detects mechanical itch, which could lead to better drug treatments for chronic itch conditions. The discovery was made by Ardem Patapoutian and his team, who found that PIEZO1 is expressed in two types of sensory neurons implicated in chemical itch.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJun 22, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Higher rate of COVID-19 death before vaccination linked to certain common inflammatory immune conditions

A study analyzing 17 million patient GP records in England found that people with certain inflammatory immune conditions were at higher risk of dying or needing hospital care from COVID-19. The analysis suggests that targeting prevention strategies and early interventions towards those most at risk can help inform evidence-based policy.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·DateJun 8, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers develop a tool for studying inflammatory diseases related to COVID-19

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology have developed a new bioinformatics pipeline, CRESSP, to investigate the mechanism underlying autoimmune diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The tool identified potential epitopes responsible for COVID-related autoimmune diseases and predicted cross-reactive epitopes of di...

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 16, 2022

Findings open way for personalised MS treatment

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to identify the immune cells involved in autoimmune diseases and identified four new target molecules for personalized treatment of multiple sclerosis. This approach could lead to more precise treatments with fewer side effects, potentially benefiting other autoimmune diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2022

Scientists find a genetic cause of lupus

Researchers have identified a genetic cause of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects 50,000 people in the UK. The TLR7 gene mutation causes inflammation in organs and joints, leading to debilitating symptoms. This discovery paves the way for new treatments targeting the mutated gene.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Regulating the regulators of the immune system

Researchers discovered that checkpoint inhibitors can activate regulatory T cells, which can counteract the immune response. Blocking PD-L1 enhanced effector Treg activity, reducing ability to control parasite infections. This finding highlights complexity of immune system's balance between controlling pathogens and protecting healthy ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2022

Illumination of immune checkpoint LAG3 ‘black box’ could yield new cancer and autoimmune therapies

Researchers have shed light on how immune checkpoint protein LAG3 modulates T cell activity, providing crucial information for the development of new LAG3-blocking therapies. The study found that LAG3 suppresses T cell activation by disrupting coreceptor-Lck association, even in the absence of MHC Class II molecules.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

Cryo-EM imaging of STING protein reveals new binding pocket

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered a new binding site on the STING protein, which plays a critical role in launching immune attacks. This finding could lead to new ways of manipulating STING to prompt stronger immune responses or stem its action in autoimmune diseases.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 6, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Scientists uncover new targets for treating Parkinson's disease

Scientists have identified a clear genetic signature of Parkinson's disease in people's memory T cells, which could lead to new therapies and diagnostics. The study found that targeting these genes may help stop T cells from attacking brain cells in Parkinson's.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022

Journal of Hepatology COVID-19 news brief

Research in the Journal of Hepatology suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to cause liver injury, but liver transplant patients may experience delayed care due to the pandemic. The study found that vaccinated patients with liver disease had a lower antibody response compared to healthy patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2022

Fight friendly fire with fire: an antibody for treating autoimmune disease

Treatment with an antibody to repulsive guidance molecule-a (RGMa) prevents disease-associated signaling processes and reduces symptoms of neuromyelitis optica in rats. This discovery suggests that anti-RGMa antibodies may represent an effective therapeutic strategy for NMO-associated neuropathic pain and motor deficits.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2022

Predicting the progression of rheumatoid arthritis

A new study predicts rheumatoid arthritis progression using a polygenic risk score. The score, generated from genetic variants associated with the disease, significantly differed between severe and non-severe progression groups. Higher scores were linked to higher risks of severe progression, particularly among younger patients.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateMar 7, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

How a two-faced molecule can silence problematic genes

Scientists create a hybrid technology called heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) that can safely and effectively silence disease-causing genes in certain immune cells. The HDO delivery method has shown promise in improving symptoms of autoimmune disorders and cancers by regulating the function of T and B lymphocytes.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2022

LJI team uncovers new subsets of CD4+ 'helper' T cells

A recent study by La Jolla Institute for Immunology researchers has identified new subsets of CD4+ 'helper' T cells that are linked to autoimmune disease risk. The team used single-cell RNA sequencing to compare gene expression in over 1 million CD4+ T cells from 89 healthy donors, revealing sex-based differences in immune cell functio...

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2022

Researchers identify protein complex critical in helping control cell death

A preclinical study identified a protein complex critical for regulating apoptosis and necroptosis. Inhibiting this complex may help prevent excessive cell death and tissue damage associated with heart attacks, autoimmune disorders, and COVID-19. Researchers believe that targeting the PPP1R3G/PP1γ pathway could lead to new treatments f...

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Step Up: walking may reduce Type 2 Diabetes risk for adults 65 and older

A study published in Diabetes Care found that walking regularly at greater intensity and taking more steps can lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes among adults aged 65 and older. For every 1,000 additional steps per day, the risk is reduced by 6%, with a 12% reduction possible if an average adult takes 2,000 more steps daily.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeObservational study·DateJan 20, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Treadmill exercise training shows promise for managing cognitive effects of multiple sclerosis

Researchers found improvements in verbal learning and memory and preservation of hippocampal volume in participants with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis after 12 weeks of supervised treadmill walking exercise. A targeted pilot randomized controlled trial demonstrated the effectiveness of this intervention for managing cognitive ...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalContemporary Clinical Trials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021

Immune cell receptor and ligand regulation: A therapeutic avenue for inflammatory diseases

A study by Tokyo University of Science researchers identifies a novel regulatory axis targeting dendritic cell activity, suppressing autoimmune disease symptoms and bone loss. They discovered DCIR binds to glycoproteins on macrophages and osteoclasts, reducing inflammation and immune responses.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021

Newly discovered skin cell may underlie inflammatory skin disease

Researchers have discovered a new type of skin cell, TIFFs, that may play a role in inflammatory skin diseases such as scleroderma. These cells were found to interact with immune cells and expand in response to inflammation, leading to an exaggerated response and fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Systemic lupus erythematosus linked to altered gut microbiome

A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases reveals a link between systemic lupus erythematosus and an altered gut microbiome. Researchers at Osaka University identified two species of Streptococcus bacteria significantly increased in SLE patients, which can affect the body's functions by altering plasma metabolites. T...

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Mechanism behind ineffective psoriasis drugs identified

New study reveals that blocking interleukin-23 is more effective than targeting both interleukin-23 and interleukin-12 in treating psoriasis. Interleukin-12, previously thought to contribute to the disease, actually protects against it by maintaining normal skin cell function.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

New technique identifies pathogenic particles in the blood

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a revolutionary technique to identify pathogenic particles in the blood, which determine the development of autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The technique allows for early diagnosis and potentially life-threatening consequences such as blood clots and organ damage.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

A gene that controls the severity of colon cancer

Researchers found that the gene TCF-1 regulates specific Treg cells, leading to more severe and inflammatory colon cancers. Without TCF-1, these cells become activated and gain a gut-homing feature, resulting in harsher cancer outcomes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Immunology·TypeCase study·DateSep 8, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine elicits antibodies in 90% taking immunosuppressants

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that COVID-19 vaccination elicited a response in nearly nine out of ten people with weakened immune systems. However, the responses were only about one-third as strong as those mounted by healthy people. Despite this, the discovery is encouraging news for a population at hig...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 30, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Getting under the skin: Tracing prevalence of skin diseases in type 2 diabetes mellitus

A new study examining the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and skin diseases reveals a strong link between the two conditions. The research, published in Chinese Medical Journal, found that 93.5% of individuals with T2DM had skin problems, including over 47 types of comorbid skin diseases.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 16, 2021

Small protein protects pancreatic cells in model of type 1 diabetes

A new study reveals that the small protein MOTS-c prevents the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells in mice with autoimmune diabetes. MOTS-c treatment supports regulatory T-cells and reduces the activation of killer T-cells, effectively preventing disease onset.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Potential biomarker found for lung disease in scleroderma patients

Researchers discovered a protein called CTRP9 associated with pulmonary function in scleroderma patients with interstitial lung disease. Patients with higher CTRP9 levels developed more severe lung disease, while low levels were linked to preserved function. The study suggests CTRP9 could help predict treatment needs for these patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2021

Younger diabetics more worried about Covid-19 – study

A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that younger people with diabetes are significantly more concerned about COVID-19 risks and have a higher likelihood of reporting worries. Social support from family, friends, and healthcare teams plays a crucial role in managing these concerns.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalPrimary Care Diabetes·TypeSurvey·DateJul 28, 2021

USC study shows male-female differences in immune cell function

A new USC study found that males are more susceptible to sepsis due to high degranulation activity, while females exhibit more NETosis, which can contribute to autoimmune disorders. The study highlights the importance of considering sex and age as predictors for immune response in personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Aging·DateJul 19, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Elucidating how the production of antibodies is regulated, one cell at a time

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how the production of antibodies is regulated in human cells, using cutting-edge technologies to sequence genes in individual cells. This knowledge could lead to enhanced antibody production in vaccines and treatments for diseases such as autoimmunity and allergy.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalScience Immunology·DateMay 28, 2021