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Nematode resistance in soybeans beneficial even at low rates of infestation

Researchers found that resistant soybean varieties yield more than susceptible ones even at low SCN infestation levels, with a yield advantage seen in environments with no SCN infestation. Despite mounting pressure from nematodes, varieties with PI 88788-resistance still provide moderate resistance and produce good yields.

New method provides a tool to develop nematode-resistant soybean varieties

Researchers discovered a repeat of four genes controlling resistance to soybean cyst nematode and developed an assay to quantify gene repeats. This new method improves breeding programs by selecting for more copies of the gene sequence, potentially leading to stronger resistance.

New treatment for polycystic kidney disease

Researchers have discovered a new treatment approach targeting tiny blood and lymphatic vessels inside the kidneys, which improves renal function and slows disease progression in mice. This innovative therapy may offer hope for patients with polycystic kidney disease, particularly those with rare forms of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 3, 2015

Healthy grain fiber helps barley resist pests

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that resistant barley varieties accumulate beta-glucan in their cell walls, which may influence nutrient flow and natural defense strategies against cereal cyst nematode. This finding could lead to new targets for resistance strategies in barley and other cereal crops.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew Phytologist·DateMar 19, 2015

Two sides of a safety switch

A team of researchers has found a link between chloracne and a molecular switch called Nrf2, which causes skin changes similar to those in dioxin victims. The study suggests that therapeutic targeting of Nrf2 may be problematic due to its role in detoxification.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2014

Study examines endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts

The study found that endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage with a combination of a nasocystic drain and transmural stents is more effective than drainage with stents alone in patients with pancreatic pseudocysts containing viscous solid debris. The procedure resulted in lower stent occlusion rates and better clinical outcomes compared ...

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateOct 21, 2013

JCI early table of contents for June 17, 2013

Researchers identified a genetic translocation that can precipitate disease in adenoid cystic carcinoma patients. They also found that variants in the SIM1 gene are associated with severe obesity, while vitamin B3 blocks cyst formation in a mouse model of polycystic kidney disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 17, 2013

Scientists make strides toward drug therapy for inherited kidney disease

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have discovered a potential treatment for autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), an inherited kidney disease affecting millions worldwide. The drug Leflunomide inhibits the STAT6 signaling pathway, which is activated in kidney cysts and leads to excessive cell growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2011

Non-surgical approach to treat hepatic hydatid cysts

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that percutaneous drainage with adjuvant medical therapy is effective in treating hepatic hydatid cysts, with all 32 cysts showing immediate collapse and progressive decrease in size over time. The procedure was associated with no viable scolices found upon re-aspiration.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateFeb 5, 2011

Signaling hope for polycystic kidney disease

Researchers identify hyperactive c-Met protein as key player in ADPKD cyst growth, leading to potential therapeutic target. Pharmacological inhibition of c-Met decreases mTOR activity and blocks cyst formation in mouse model.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 13, 2010

A new target in polycystic kidney disease

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital discovered a new approach to treating polycystic kidney disease by inhibiting c-Met receptor activity, reducing cyst size and number. The compound showed promise in animal models, potentially leading to clinical trials in humans.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 13, 2010

Cysts hold clues to pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic researchers have developed a method to distinguish between pre-cancerous and benign cysts using glycans. This could lead to fewer deaths from pancreatic cancer by detecting and removing pre-cancerous cysts. The study's findings offer new hope for early detection and treatment of the disease.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateJun 3, 2010

Multiple lipomas within jejunal duplication cyst

A rare case report describes a 68-year-old man with abdominal bloating caused by intussusception due to small intestine lipomatous lesions located in a jejunal duplication cyst. Multiple lipomas within jejunal duplication cysts are rare and difficult to diagnose before surgery, emphasizing the need for appropriate examination methods.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 7, 2010

Tapeworm brain infection 'serious health concern'

Neurocysticercosis, a tapeworm brain infection, is increasing in Mexico and bordering southwestern US states, affecting up to 10% of the population. The infection can cause severe symptoms like seizures, headaches, and encephalitis, highlighting the need for proper evaluation and management.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNeurological Research·DateApr 13, 2010

The pill for ovarian cysts

A study found that women taking oral contraceptive pills had significantly fewer recurring ovarian cysts after surgery. Long-term treatment appears to be key to preventing endometrioma recurrence, suggesting a change in clinical practice.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateMar 30, 2010

Protein excreted in urine may be help in diagnosing kidney disease caused by HIV

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a protein called NGAL that can help diagnose kidney disease caused by HIV. High levels of the protein in urine may indicate the presence of HIV-associated nephropathy, allowing for earlier intervention and potentially preventing kidney failure.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 23, 2009

JCI table of contents: Oct. 23, 2008

Researchers identified a molecular reason why MEK inhibitors are limited in their ability to kill B-RAF mutant tumor cells, suggesting a new antitumor approach. MicroRNA15a modulates the expression of Cdc25A and affects hepatic cystogenesis in a rat model of polycystic kidney disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 23, 2008

Triptolide: A potential drug for polycystic kidney disease

Researchers at Yale University have identified triptolide, a compound from Traditional Chinese Medicines, as a potential drug for treating polycystic kidney disease. The study shows that triptolide causes cell growth arrest and reduces cyst formation in mouse models of the disease.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2007