Research on blood and what it reveals about health. Covers blood biomarkers, occupational exposure, cell-preservation for CAR-T therapy, and blood supply.
Researchers have identified a new blood clotting disorder, VITT-like monoclonal gammopathy of thrombotic significance (MGTS), which shares similarities with vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis. The disorder can cause severe blood clots due to antibodies resembling those that cause VITT, even without known triggers.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a new blood test called PAC-MANN, which can detect pancreatic cancer with 85% accuracy. The test uses a small blood sample to identify changes in protease activity, a key indicator of the most common and deadly form of pancreatic cancer.
A study found that DNA methylation clocks used in forensic science and epigenetics are less reliable when applied to non-blood tissues, such as lungs, colon, and kidneys. The researchers suggest that organ-specific epigenetic clocks may be needed to improve biological age prediction.
The American Heart Association and NFL Alumni Association collaborate to promote healthy lifestyles through Life's Essential 8, which includes four indicators of cardiovascular health and four behavioral/lifestyle factors. By following these steps, adults can lower their risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Researchers developed a biomarker test that can detect small amounts of tau protein and its misfolded forms in cerebrospinal fluid, correlating with cognitive decline severity. The test identifies early stages of tau tangle formation up to a decade before brain scans, opening doors for early-stage disease diagnosis and intervention.
The dengue virus uses its envelope protein to capture human plasmin, enhancing the permeability of the mosquito midgut. This interaction is crucial for viral infection, and understanding it could lead to innovative approaches to tackle vector-borne viruses.
A recent study suggests that prolonged exposure to low-dose traffic-derived PM2.5 particles can cause fatty liver disorder in mice. The study found changes in liver function, inflammation, and scar tissue formation, highlighting the potential health risks of air pollution on the liver.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can rapidly distinguish between brain bleeds and clot-caused strokes, even before patients arrive at the hospital. This test uses glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels to differentiate between hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes, which can lead to opposite treatments.
A Texas A&M University researcher found that reducing alcohol consumption aligns with a harm reduction approach, which may be a more feasible approach for high-risk college drinkers. The study surveyed 822 high-risk college students and analyzed their intention to reduce drinking using the Theory of Planned Behavior.
A new nanotechnology-based drug delivery system has been developed to save patients from repeated surgeries. The approach, called Pericelle, uses a paste of nanoparticles containing hydrogel on transplanted veins to prevent blockages, which can lead to repeated surgeries in heart and dialysis patients.
Two organizations, a health monitor developer and an addiction recovery platform creator, are honored for their innovative work supporting equitable health outcomes. The recognition highlights the importance of addressing social and economic barriers to cardiovascular disease.
A Mediterranean-style diet was associated with improved brain health in Hispanic/Latino adults, showing enhanced communication between brain regions and reduced white matter atrophy. The study used specialized imaging techniques to investigate the effects of diet on brain integrity.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that wandering salamanders use a unique mechanism to control blood flow in their toe tips, enabling them to optimize attachment and detachment on irregular surfaces. This discovery has implications for bioinspired designed, including the development of adhesives and prosthetics.
Aging cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have lower levels of key kidney transporter genes, leading to impaired waste removal. Monitoring these transporters and toxin buildup may help detect CKD early and improve treatment options.
Researchers tracked cfDNA levels before, during, and after colorectal cancer surgery, revealing significant increases associated with age, comorbidities, and surgical manipulation. The study suggests that cfDNA could serve as a non-invasive biomarker to monitor patient outcomes and evaluate surgical effectiveness.
A blood test detecting circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can predict stage 3 colon cancer patients' risk of recurrence. Adding anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib to post-surgery treatment improves disease-free survival for those with positive ctDNA tests.
Researchers found subtle brain changes in people with Huntington's disease 20 years before symptoms appear, offering hope for earlier interventions. The study identified early markers of neurodegeneration through advanced imaging and biomarkers.
Researchers discover immune cells regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating glucagon production in the pancreas. This complex neuroimmune-hormonal circuit reveals a new way the body maintains stable glucose levels, especially during periods of low energy.
A new Dartmouth study reveals that 50% of adult blacklegged ticks in the Northeast carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. The study found small changes in tick abundance but a significant increase in pathogen prevalence over 30 years, highlighting the need for continued prevention measures.
A large UK trial found that adding procalcitonin (PCT) to routine care did not reduce IV antibiotic use in hospitalized children. The study, part of the BATCH trial, enrolled nearly 2,000 children and tested PCT's effectiveness in guiding treatment decisions.
A recent study has discovered that saliva contains special vesicles with extrinsic tenase complexes, which trigger rapid coagulation of the blood in haemophilic patients. This finding provides significant contributions to understanding the disease and its treatment options.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new paper-based biosensor system that uses bacterial spores to monitor glucose levels in sweat, eliminating the need for finger-stick devices. The system is shelf-stable, self-replicating, and can endure harsh environments, making it a promising alternative for diabetes management.
A groundbreaking UK study found that using procalcitonin (PCT) to guide treatment decisions did not reduce antibiotic duration in hospitalized children. The PCT test was safe but costlier than standard methods, and healthcare teams faced challenges integrating it into their decision-making processes.
Researchers found that declining levels of two molecules in the blood, acetyl-L-carnitine and free carnitine, track closely with worsening Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests these biomarkers could identify those at risk and potentially diagnose early dementia.
Researchers discovered that norepinephrine triggers blood vessel constriction to propel cerebrospinal fluid through the brain, clearing out waste. The findings suggest that sleep aids may disrupt this process, potentially affecting long-term cognitive health.
Researchers document five cases of parvovirus B19-induced myocarditis in preschoolers from northern Greece, highlighting the virus's unique impact on endothelial cells. The study emphasizes the importance of quick diagnosis and treatment to reduce mortality and morbidity in children.
Researchers at the Allen Institute have developed a new approach called CryoSCAPE, which stabilizes blood samples to preserve molecular composition and lower costs. This technology will enable broader participation in research studies and clinical trials for underserved communities.
A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Sherpa participants had more rapid and larger magnitude blood acid-base acclimatization than lowlanders during incremental ascent to 4,300 metres. This suggests a key role for the kidneys in acclimatization to high altitude.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine found that reducing the dose of popular blood thinners like Xarelto and Eliquis can lower the risk of future bleeding events. The research team analyzed nearly 1,000 cases of patients who took these medications to prevent recurrent clots after having a blood clot.
The Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative is partnering with Janssen Research & Development and Beckman Coulter Diagnostics to advance the validation of blood-based biomarkers (BBMs) for Alzheimer's disease. This collaboration aims to develop globally generalizable blood tests that can be used in diverse populations, including those from low...
Researchers developed a miniaturized all-fiber photoacoustic spectrometer for intravascular gas detection, achieving detection limits of 9 ppb and response times as quick as 18 milliseconds. The system detects trace gases at the ppb level and analyzes nanoliter-sized samples with millisecond response times.
A new blood test reveals heart transplant patients at risk of rejection by analyzing DNA fragments in their blood. This non-invasive test is comparable to existing US tests and could save millions in public healthcare costs.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new technique for head and neck reconstruction that achieves 100% success rate in high-risk patients. The pedicled latissimus dorsi flap technique provides a reliable, fast, and minimally invasive option for complex tissue defects.
A new study suggests that individual patients have a unique 'setpoint' around which blood counts fluctuate, allowing for earlier diagnosis of diseases. This personalized approach could enable more precise treatment plans and improved health outcomes.
A new study finds that a blood test using phosphatidylethanol (PEth) can detect liver disease caused by excessive drinking, offering a more reliable alternative to self-reported measures. The test has shown strong correlation with Fibrosis 4, an indicator of liver risk, and could be included in routine blood tests.
A large clinical trial found that removing 10% of a patient's blood before major liver surgery reduces the need for transfusions by half. This practice, known as hypovolemic phlebotomy, lowers blood pressure in the liver and is safe, simple, and inexpensive.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that Mexican American women are more likely to miss prescribed doses of stroke prevention medications. The study highlights sex-associated disparities in stroke care, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities.
A Baycrest study has found that high blood sugar may impair brain health even in people without diabetes. Researchers analyzed data from 146 healthy adults and found a correlation between high blood sugar levels and lower brain activity.
Researchers found that living in neighborhoods with low food access, contaminated drinking water, and proximity to Superfund sites increases PFAS levels in blood. The study provides evidence for addressing neighborhood-level factors in reducing racial and ethnic environmental health disparities.
Researchers developed a novel lentivirus-based gene therapy strategy in CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells, which showed therapeutic levels of expression of the anti-sickling beta globin protein. Cyclosporin improved transduction efficiency and preserved cell viability.
Researchers found that sacubitril-valsartan, a commonly prescribed heart failure medication, can help prevent heart damage related to chemotherapy treatment among high-risk cancer patients. The study highlights the importance of identifying patients at high risk for heart damage and suggests strategies for early intervention.
A clinical trial found that combining two commonly recommended medications into a single pill lowered blood pressure and was safe among Indian adults. The study's results have significant meaning for South Asian adults, including those living in the US.
Research published in European Heart Journal reveals that taking an NSAID with anticoagulant medication increases the risk of internal bleeding. The study found a significant increase in bleeding risks for various organs, including gut, brain, lungs, and bladder.
Research highlights edoxaban's effectiveness in reducing stroke and blood clots for patients after bioprosthetic heart valve replacement. Edoxaban was found to be equally or more effective than warfarin, with a predictable pharmacokinetic profile and reduced burden on patients.
A new AI program, PanEcho, has been developed to interpret echocardiography videos independently, reducing wait times and improving timely medical care. The program demonstrated accuracy in estimating continuous echocardiographic parameters and quantifying left ventricle dimensions and function.
A large-scale clinical trial found that intravenous infusion of exenatide during heart surgeries involving bypass did not significantly reduce the risk of death, stroke, or organ failure. The study included approximately 1,400 adults and a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design.
A recent study published at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 found that blood thinners did not reduce cognitive decline in adults younger than age 65 who have atrial fibrillation (AFib) but no other risk factors for stroke. The trial included over 1,200 participants and followed them for an average of 3.7 years...
The international SUMMIT trial found tirzepatide lowered the risk of worsening heart failure events and cardiovascular death in obese adults with preserved ejection fraction. Participants experienced improved health status, physical function, and exercise tolerance compared to placebo.
A recent study found that intensive systolic blood pressure reduction approaches can significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with Type 2 diabetes. Lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120mmHg led to a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from cardiovascular disease.
Scientists use machine learning-based classifiers to differentiate lung cancer and noncancer based on urinary miRNA ensembles. The study reveals high specificity and sensitivity in detecting early-stage lung cancer, offering new hope for improved patient outcomes.
A study found that monochromatic infrared light combined with physical therapy significantly reduced pain and improved sleep quality in patients with peripheral diabetic neuropathy. The treatment was effective in reducing symptoms and improving functionality for patients with intense pain.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a groundbreaking coating that mimics natural blood vessels to reduce clotting and bleeding risks. The coating's unique properties prevent clot formation without disrupting normal blood functions, offering a promising alternative to high-risk blood thinners.
The American Heart Association has announced five health technology start-up companies as finalists in its 7th annual Health Tech Competition. The competition aims to drive technological advancements with the potential to transform heart and brain health patient outcomes.
Rice bioengineers create a mathematical model that challenges long-held assumptions about IL-12's behavior in the body, suggesting repeated doses cause immune cells to hoard IL-12 before it reaches the bloodstream. The findings have significant implications for IL-12 therapy design and may lead to more effective dosing regimens.
Researchers found that both methods restored blood circulation in about 30% of patients, with no difference in survival or quality of life. The study's results may impact future guidelines for cardiac arrest treatment.
A study led by WVU epidemiologist Bethany Barone Gibbs found that alternating sitting and standing at work reduces sedentary behavior but has no effect on lowering blood pressure. Prolonged static standing may even have negative effects on cardiovascular health due to a physiological mechanism called the muscle pump.
Researchers have successfully integrated genome sequencing into newborn screening to identify hundreds of rare genetic disorders. This approach allows for earlier diagnosis and treatment, promoting health equity and reducing time to diagnosis.
A new clinical guideline from the American Stroke Association outlines strategies to support brain health and prevent stroke throughout a person's lifespan. The guideline recommends regular health screenings, identifying risk factors, lifestyle interventions, and medications to reduce the risk of a first stroke.
Researchers at USC found a link between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and kidney damage, which may be tied to dysregulation of the gut microbiome. The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, suggests that changes in gut bacteria and related metabolites can explain up to 50% of decreased kidney function.
Sweden has surpassed the UNAIDS and WHO targets for the HIV epidemic, with 96% diagnosed, 99% on treatment, and 98% having undetectable virus levels. The country's effective infrastructure and comprehensive data collection have made it possible to reach these ambitious targets.