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McMaster hematologist identifies different limb loss syndromes

A McMaster University hematologist has identified various limb loss syndromes, including symmetric peripheral gangrene and venous limb gangrene, which can be caused by septic shock, cancer, and blood clotting disorders. The treatment for these conditions involves the use of blood thinners and replacement of protective factors.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 2015

Artificial blood vessels become resistant to thrombosis

Researchers from ITMO University created a vascular graft coating that prevents clot formation, ensuring unobstructed blood flow. The coating, which can be applied to any type of implant, uses a porous shell to release medication and prevent the growth of crystals or other unwanted substances.

SourceITMO University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 3, 2015

Study suggests new way of preventing diabetes-associated blindness

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland have discovered a new way to treat diabetic retinopathy by blocking two growth proteins, VEGF and angiopoietin-like 4. This could prevent many cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which is the most common cause of vision loss in working-age adults in the US.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2015

Common drug is re-engineered to improve surgery outcomes

A Northwestern University team has re-engineered a common drug to deliver nitric oxide, preventing cellular overgrowth and scarring in blood vessels during and after surgery. This modified protamine sulfate can slowly release nitric oxide, minimizing its negative effects while maintaining its function as an antidote for heparin.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateApr 7, 2015

Folic acid may help elderly weather heat waves

Researchers found that folic acid supplementation increased nitric oxide production in older blood vessels, improving skin blood flow and reducing cardiovascular risk. This inexpensive alternative to pharmaceutical treatments shows promise for helping older adults cope with environmental heat waves.

SourcePenn State·JournalClinical Science·DateMar 31, 2015

Artificial blood vessels

Researchers at Shanghai University developed a tri-layered artificial blood vessel composed of separate materials for mechanical strength and new cell growth. The composite allowed rapid proliferation and integration of rat fibroblast cells, overcoming limitations of existing vascular grafts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateFeb 3, 2015

Unlocking the kidney riddle in newborns

Researchers discovered that babies born with smaller kidneys are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease and high blood pressure as adults. The study found enhanced nerve activity and an inability to respond to nitric oxide promote kidney injury.

SourceMonash University·JournalCirculation·DateJan 26, 2015

New antibodies for cancer treatment

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered ten new antibodies that can inhibit blood vessel formation near tumors, cutting off oxygen and nutrient supply. The antibodies appear to work effectively in laboratory tests and show promising therapeutic potential.

Researchers uncover cellular mechanism that protects lungs during severe infections

A novel molecular mechanism has been uncovered that tightens the bonds between cells lining blood vessels in mice, potentially preventing fluid leakage and improving survival rates. The discovery could lead to the development of new therapies targeting acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a fatal condition in approximately half ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2015

Shape of things to come in platelet mimicry

Researchers have developed artificial platelet-like nanoparticles that combine morphological, mechanical, and surface chemical properties of natural platelets. These artificial platelets can simulate natural platelets' ability to collide with red blood cells, enabling selective clot formation at vascular injury sites.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 5, 2014

Growing a blood vessel in a week

Researchers at University of Gothenburg have successfully grown a functional blood vessel in just one week using autologous peripheral whole blood. The breakthrough procedure involves extracting stem cells from a patient's blood, which accelerates growth and enables the creation of a new vein. This technology has the potential to benef...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 24, 2014

Proteins critical to wound healing identified

Researchers found that mice lacking specific vascular system proteins developed normally but healed poorly from injuries. Increasing FGF signaling may improve wound healing, while inhibiting it in the eye could help patients with age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2014

Experts unlock key to blood vessel repair

Scientists from the University of Leeds have found a way to restore the function of damaged blood vessel repair cells. A protein called Akt was identified as the reason for reduced effectiveness in South Asian men's cells, which were able to be restored through the addition of active Akt.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalStem Cells·DateJun 10, 2014