High prevalence of diabetes, prediabetes in China
A large Chinese survey found a prevalence of diabetes as high as 10.9%, while prediabetes affected nearly 36% of the population, similar to US rates.
Hemoglobin
Articles tagged with Hemoglobin
HbA1C overestimates mean glucose in black persons compared with whites
Researchers found that HbA1C levels are higher in blacks compared with whites for a given mean glucose level, suggesting racial differences in glycation of hemoglobin. This discrepancy highlights the need for clinicians to individualize care based on blood glucose levels rather than relying solely on HbA1C levels.
Making artificial blood for transfusions
A promising artificial blood substitute has been developed using modified hemoglobin, effectively carrying oxygen and scavenging free radicals. The novel approach packaging hemoglobin in a benign envelope overcomes toxicity issues with traditional chemically modified hemoglobin.
How stress controls hemoglobin levels in blood
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a new mechanism regulating hemoglobin gene expression through stress response. Stress is necessary to produce hemoglobin, and its signal activates enzymes to facilitate splicing.
Sickle cell gene linked to elevated risk of developing kidney failure
Research finds that individuals with sickle cell trait have a twofold increased risk of developing kidney failure, similar to the APOL1 gene variants. Hemoglobin C trait did not associate with kidney disease or kidney failure. Early screening and aggressive treatment can help mitigate this risk.
A case where smoking helped
Researchers found that a specific mutation in hemoglobin makes it selectively bind to carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke, preventing oxidation and anemia. The father's smoking habit prevents him from developing the disease, while his daughter requires treatment with antioxidants to manage her condition.
Pitt-developed molecule could be first antidote for carbon monoxide poisoning
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have engineered a protein called Ngb H64Q that reverses carbon monoxide poisoning in mice, reducing CO half-life from 320 minutes to 23 seconds.
Better definition of 'pre-diabetes' can help identify those at risk for complications
A new definition of pre-diabetes based on hemoglobin A1C levels can help identify individuals at high risk of developing long-term complications from diabetes. The study suggests that this more accurate predictor can encourage lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise, ultimately preventing the development of full-blown diabetes.
Updated AABB guidelines for when to perform red blood cell transfusion, optimal length of RBC storage
The updated AABB guidelines recommend a restrictive RBC transfusion threshold of 7-8 g/dl for hospitalized adult patients who are hemodynamically stable. The guidelines also suggest that patients should receive RBC units selected at any point within their licensed dating period, rather than limiting them to fresh units with a storage l...
New guidelines for life-saving blood transfusions based on Rutgers research
The new guidelines, published by JAMA, were developed after comprehensive research using over 60 years of red blood cell transfusion data and 31 clinical trials. Transfusions at a lower level are recommended for critical care patients as well as those undergoing orthopedic and cardiac surgery.
A better blood sugar test for diabetes
A new blood sugar test method developed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has been shown to cut diagnostic errors by more than 50% compared to current tests. The technique, which takes into account the age of red blood cells, offers personalized diabetes monitoring for over 400 million diabetics worldwide.
Study: Rare patients with sickle cell disease live nearly twice national average
A new report published in Blood shows that some people with mildly symptomatic SCD may live long lives with proper management of the disease. Four women with milder forms of SCD surpassed the US median life expectancy, living up to 86 years old.
HemaApp screens for anemia, blood conditions without needle sticks
Researchers developed HemaApp to estimate hemoglobin concentrations and screen for anemia, with a 69-82% correlation to CBC tests. The mobile app uses a smartphone camera and external light sources to analyze finger colors and detect blood components.
BCL11A-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease passes key preclinical test
Researchers developed a precision-engineered gene therapy virus that selectively silences BCL11A, reducing signs of sickle cell disease and increasing fetal hemoglobin production. The approach has the potential to substantially increase the ratio of non-sickling versus sickling hemoglobin.
Anemic adults may have a higher risk of death after stroke
Researchers found that anemia was present in about a quarter of patients with stroke upon admission, associated with a higher risk of death for up to one year following either ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Elevated hemoglobin levels were also linked to poorer outcomes and a higher risk of death.
CRISPR gene editing reveals new therapeutic approach for blood disorders
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have found a way to use CRISPR gene editing to help fix sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia in blood cells isolated from patients. The study provides proof-of-principle for a new approach to treat common blood disorders by genome editing.
Discovery could help treatments for sickle cell disease
A team of international researchers has identified biophysical markers that could help assess the effectiveness of treatments for sickle cell disease. The study found improvements in red blood cells' shape and volume when treated with hydroxyurea, suggesting a new mechanism behind the drug's action.
Anemia negatively affects recovery from traumatic brain injuries
Researchers have found that anemia can negatively impact patients with traumatic brain injuries, leading to poorer outcomes. For each increase in hemoglobin levels, the likelihood of a good outcome increased by 33 percent.
Paying employees to exercise doesn't work, but the reverse might
A randomized controlled trial found that threatening to lose a reward is more effective than earning one in increasing physical activity among overweight and obese adults. The study also suggests that the way financial incentives are framed is important to their effectiveness.
Multiple myeloma drug could revolutionize treatment for sickle cell disease
A clinical trial is planned to test the efficacy of pomalidomide, an FDA-approved multiple myeloma drug, on patients with sickle cell disease. The study shows that pomalidomide increases production of fetal hemoglobin, which can reverse the course of the disease.
Blood test results vary from drop to drop in fingerprick tests
A Rice University study found that hemoglobin content, platelet count, and WBC count vary significantly from drop to drop in fingerprick tests. To achieve accurate results, healthcare professionals must take care to avoid skewed data when designing new protocols and technologies.
Deep-diving whales could hold answer for synthetic blood
Researchers found that deep-diving whales have ultra-stable versions of myoglobin, a protein that holds oxygen in muscle cells. This stability allows them to pack more myoglobin into their cells, enabling them to remain active while holding their breath. The discovery could lead to creating synthetic blood for human trauma patients.
Study finds high prevalence of diabetes, pre-diabetes in US
The study found that approximately half of the US adult population has either diabetes or pre-diabetes, with a higher prevalence among non-Hispanic black and Hispanic participants. The prevalence of total diabetes increased significantly over the past few decades, but rates have plateaued in recent years.
Snow leopard blood no better prepared for high altitude than domestic cats
A team of researchers found that snow leopard haemoglobin is equally as inefficient as the haemoglobins of all other big cats and structurally similar to those of house cats. The study suggests that animals may compensate for poor oxygen capacity by breathing harder, but further research is needed.
Danitza Nébor's personal mission to find a cure for sickle-cell disease
Danitza Nébor, a Jackson Laboratory postdoctoral associate, is driven by her personal connection to sickle-cell disease. She searches for genetic modifiers to reduce the severity of the disease in patients with two copies of the sickle-cell gene.
Why nitrate supplementation may increase athletic performance
A new study published in The FASEB Journal found that nitrate supplementation can lower hemoglobin levels in normoxic animals and improve liver oxygenation. Researchers also discovered that higher doses of nitrate can increase erythropoietin expression, which may have implications for conditions like polycythemia.
Shining new light on vascular diseases in diabetics
Researchers have developed a novel vascular optical tomographic imaging system to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of peripheral artery disease in diabetics. The system uses near-infrared light to map hemoglobin concentration, revealing perfusion issues in extremities.
Iron supplementation improves hemoglobin recovery time following blood donation
Low-dose iron supplements significantly reduced time to recover from hemoglobin decrease in donors with low or high ferritin levels. Without iron, most participants took over 168 days to recover their iron stores. Regular blood donation leads to progressive iron loss and anemia, emphasizing the importance of prompt recovery.
Study shows iron supplementation after blood donation shortens hemoglobin recovery time
A National Institutes of Health-funded study found that iron supplementation significantly reduced the time to recover lost iron and hemoglobin after blood donation. The study, supported by NHLBI, showed that donors taking iron supplements recovered lost iron more rapidly than those not receiving supplements.
Wake Forest research confirms controversial nitrite hypothesis
New research from Wake Forest University confirms the conversion of nitrite to nitric oxide by deoxygenated hemoglobin reduces platelet activation, affecting blood flow and clotting. The findings have implications for treating sickle cell disease and stroke.
One-minute point-of-care anemia test shows promise in new study
A simple, disposable testing device analyzes a single droplet of blood to diagnose anemia, with results available in about 60 seconds. The device has shown promising sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional hematology analyzers.
Forcing chromosomes into loops may switch off sickle cell disease
Researchers use protein-engineering techniques to force chromatin fiber into looped structures that activate genes regulating fetal hemoglobin, which is not affected by the inherited mutation causing sickle cell disease. The approach may give rise to a new therapy for the debilitating blood disorder.
Prevalence, risk factors for diabetic macular edema explored in study
A study of 1,038 adults with diabetes found that diabetic macular edema (DME) prevalence is 3.8% overall, with higher odds among non-Hispanic black patients and those with longer diabetes duration and higher hemoglobin A1c levels.
Study examines neurological outcomes for TBI treatments
A randomized clinical trial of 200 patients with traumatic brain injury found that administering erythropoietin or maintaining a higher hemoglobin concentration did not improve neurological outcomes at 6 months. Transfusion thresholds also had no significant impact on recovery rates.
Scientists investigate the role of the 'silent killer' inside deep-diving animals
Researchers found that elephant seals have 10% carboxyhemoglobin, similar to someone smoking 40 cigarettes a day, and more than healthy humans. The study suggests carbon monoxide may be beneficial at low levels, preventing inflammatory responses and inhibiting cell death.
Outcomes of administering blood transfusions to patients with lower levels of hemoglobin
A study found that restrictive RBC transfusion strategies reduce the risk of health care-associated infections by 11.8% compared to liberal strategies. Patients with specific conditions, such as orthopedic surgery or sepsis, also benefited from restrictive transfusions.
EORTC characterizes responders & survivors on pazopanib for advanced soft tissue sarcoma
EORTC analysis confirms performance status, tumor grading, and hemoglobin levels as key predictors of long-term outcomes in pazopanib-treated patients. Long-term responders and survivors accounted for 36% and 34% of patients respectively.
New insights into pathophysiology of sickle cell disease and thalassemia may help improve care
Researchers present new pain management treatment for SCD patients using selectin inhibitors, while also exploring targeted gene therapy strategies to produce healthy hemoglobin. These advances aim to improve the long-term outlook and quality of life for hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide.
Flipping a gene switch reactivates fetal hemoglobin, may reverse sickle cell disease
Scientists at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia reprogrammed gene expression to produce fetal hemoglobin, which is unaffected by the genetic defect in sickle cell disease. This approach may open the door to a new treatment option for patients with this debilitating blood disorder.
New method for stabilizing hemoglobin could lead to stable vaccines, artificial blood
A UConn research team has found a way to stabilize hemoglobin, the oxygen carrier protein in the blood, by wrapping it in a polymer chain. This discovery could lead to the development of stable vaccines and affordable artificial blood substitutes.
New report illustrates persistent global burden of anemia among high-risk populations
A new report illustrates a surprisingly large global burden of anemia, characterized by low hemoglobin levels and impaired oxygen delivery to the body. Despite decreasing prevalence between 1990 and 2010, anemia remains a significant health issue, particularly among young children and women in low- and middle-income regions.
Scientists use light to uncover the cause of sickle cell disease
Researchers used light-scattering techniques to study the detailed thermodynamics of hemoglobin fibers in sickle cell disease. They found that hemoglobin molecules associate more easily in high temperatures and concentrated solutions, leading to stronger bonds between fibers.
Newly discovered gene regulator could precisely target sickle cell disease
Researchers have identified a genetic target, BCL11A enhancer, that controls hemoglobin production in red blood cells. This discovery opens the door to precise targeting of sickle cell disease with potential benefits without off-target effects.
Epoetin alfa reduces anemia in breast cancer patients with no negative impact on survival
A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that epoetin alfa can help alleviate anemia in high-risk breast cancer patients while maintaining overall and relapse-free survival rates. However, the treatment may increase the risk of thrombotic events.
Potential gene therapy for Sickle cell disease
Researchers have successfully used a genetic vector to efficiently transduce bone marrow cells from SCD patients, suggesting a potential treatment method. The study's findings support the use of autologous HSC transplant with genetically modified patient cells to treat sickle cell disease.
Study: Context crucial when it comes to mutations in genetic evolution
A recent study by Jay Storz and colleagues at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that the effects of individual mutations depend on the context in which they occur. The researchers used protein engineering to synthesize hemoglobin proteins with each naturally occurring mutation in all possible multi-site combinations, revealing t...
Despite free health care, household income affects chronic disease control in kids
A study by University of Montreal researchers found a negative correlation between household income and glycated hemoglobin levels in children with type 1 diabetes. The difference in glycated hemoglobin levels corresponds to a doubling of the risk of eye damage, highlighting the need for greater support for low-income families
Study examines global management of anemia in children on dialysis
A global study found that children on dialysis with poor response to anemia medications are linked to inflammation, fluid retention, and hyperparathyroidism. High doses of anemia medications also increase the risk of premature death. The study provided valuable insights into anemia control in pediatric patients.
Could an old antidepressant treat sickle cell disease?
Researchers discover that tranylcypromine can reverse the effects of sickle cell disease in mice and human red blood cells. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for the life-threatening condition, which causes misshapen red blood cells to cause vascular damage and premature death.
Study: Blood transfusion associated with increased risk of death for patients with heart attack
A meta-analysis of 10 studies suggests that blood transfusions are associated with increased all-cause mortality in patients with myocardial infarction. The analysis found a weighted absolute risk increase of 12% and a higher risk for subsequent myocardial infarction, highlighting the need for further research.
Potential gene therapy approach to sickle cell disease highlighted at American Society of Hematology
Researchers have demonstrated a feasibility study for activating hemoglobin unaffected by the sickle cell mutation using an animal model. The study showed a five- to 20-fold increase in fetal hemoglobin production, paving the way for further research on correcting disease using gene therapy.
Different genes behind same adaptation to thin air
Research reveals distinct genetic mechanisms behind similar adaptations to low oxygen levels in Tibetan and Ethiopian populations, shedding light on convergent evolution. The study finds no long-term adaptation among the Oromo group, highlighting variations in biological responses to high-altitude environments.
Ethiopians and Tibetans thrive in thin air using similar physiology, but different genes
Research identified genetic changes that enable Ethiopians to thrive in thin air, differing from those found in Tibetan populations. This discovery sheds light on how high-altitude populations worldwide have evolved differently from their low-altitude ancestors.
Rice to take part in $10.8 million study of hemoglobin toxicity
Researchers at Rice University and three other US institutions are embarking on a five-year study to uncover the causes of hemoglobin toxicity in blood plasma. The study aims to develop strategies to prevent, reduce or reverse acellular hemoglobin toxicity.
Medicare kidney spending reaches crucial moment
A new strategy for managing Medicare's costly dialysis program has been implemented, bundling total costs and discouraging lapses in quality. The changes aim to rein in health care costs, but concerns remain about the potential impact on patient treatment and overall healthcare expenditure.
Shedding new light on one of diabetes' most dangerous complications
A new noninvasive imaging technique, dynamic diffuse optical tomography imaging (DDOT), uses near-infrared light to map hemoglobin concentration in tissue, revealing effective blood flow to patients' hands and feet. DDOT has the potential to diagnose PAD earlier, allowing for medication and lifestyle changes to alleviate the disease.
Racial differences in diabetes diagnostic thresholds
Researchers analyzed data to determine if a higher diagnostic cutoff of A1C level should be used to diagnose diabetes in blacks than in whites. The study found that black people may be more vulnerable to high A1C status, and could benefit from earlier monitoring for early diabetic complications.
New study: Snacking on raisins significantly reduces overall post-meal blood sugar levels
Researchers found that snacking on raisins significantly lowers postprandial glucose levels compared to common alternative snacks. The study, conducted among 46 participants, showed a 16% decrease in mean post-meal glucose levels with raisin consumption.
Blood transfusions still overused and may do more harm than good in some patients
A Johns Hopkins study reveals wide variation in blood transfusion use during surgery, with frequent unnecessary transfusions. Researchers suggest that patients only need a transfusion if their hemoglobin levels fall below seven or eight grams per deciliter.
New gene therapy approach developed for red blood cell disorders
Researchers have designed a powerful gene therapy strategy to treat beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia by transferring a healthy beta-globin gene into diseased cells. The new technique has shown promising results, with increased production of normal hemoglobin in patients.