Articles tagged with Lungs
A new analysis found that FDG-PET technology is less accurate in diagnosing lung cancer versus benign disease in regions with high rates of histoplasmosis or tuberculosis. Misdiagnosis could lead to unnecessary tests and surgeries, with potential complications and mortality.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a microRNA mimic, miR-29, that can reverse the effects of pulmonary fibrosis in mouse models. The treatment uses intravenous delivery and has shown sustained effects on lung tissue. Further studies are needed to evaluate its therapeutic potential for human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Researchers discovered using plants to produce an enzyme may improve treatment for life-threatening lung high blood pressure. The study found that replenishing ACE2 protein helped decrease pulmonary blood pressure and increase pulmonary blood flow in rats.
A new study using data from over 3000 children found that factors such as birth weight, gestational age at birth and lung function, growth and other measures at 8 years can predict lung function during mid to late teenage years. The researchers discovered that weight at birth had a small effect on lung function in teen years.
A new observational study investigates the prevalence of paradoxical bronchoconstriction after using β2 agonists in smokers and ex-smokers with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The study reveals that African-American patients are twice as likely to experience a paradoxical response, leading to worse respiratory outcomes.
Researchers discover how stem cells combat lung disease by targeting macrophages, reducing inflammation and improving bacterial clearance. This breakthrough brings hope for new treatments for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients.
A study found that tear gas exposure can lead to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, and phlegm production in protesters, with the effects lasting up to two weeks. Researchers also discovered that people living near protest areas were exposed to harmful lung health effects from tear gas use.
A secondary analysis of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) data found that both cancer prevalence and positive predictive value of lung cancer screening were higher in the 65+ cohort than in the under-65 cohort. Clinicians should share age-specific estimates of screening benefits and harms with patients to make an informed decision.
A new study confirms a strong link between air pollution and lung health in European adults, with people suffering from obesity particularly vulnerable. The findings emphasize the importance of educating about clean air and urge policymakers to update guidelines to meet WHO-recommended air quality standards.
Research found that cystic fibrosis patients have a deficiency in the immune system, specifically with HLA-DQ molecules on their cells. This deficiency affects the body's ability to fight off infections and is linked to the disease's progression.
Researchers at Indiana University have isolated a process that damages the lungs of donors who suffered from traumatic brain injury, which may lead to improved lung transplant outcomes. The study found that fluid accumulation in the lungs occurs within hours after head trauma, limiting oxygenation and reducing lung function by nearly 80%.
Scientists have found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonizes the nasopharynx before migrating to the lungs, leading to chronic infections. This new understanding provides an opportunity for developing treatments at the initial site of infection.
The Life Sciences Discovery Fund awarded nearly $750,000 in Proof of Concept grants to Washington state organizations to translate health-related technologies from the lab to the marketplace. Funding supports development of products for lupus treatment and at-home lung function monitoring.
Researchers discovered a peptide mimicking high-density lipoprotein (HDL) protein helps reduce oxidized lipids in pulmonary hypertension, improving heart and lung function. The study also found elevated levels of oxidized proteins in rodents with the disease, which can be targeted for treatment development.
Researchers discovered that club cells, which normally protect against inhaled microbes, contribute to prolonged inflammation during flu infection. Targeting these cells may help shorten flu symptoms by reducing lung damage.
Scientists at Monash University developed an x-ray imaging system that allows researchers to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for cystic fibrosis. This breakthrough enables non-invasive assessment of treatment efficacy on airway surfaces, accelerating development of new treatments.
NREL researchers Art Nozik and Keith Emery have been included in the Thomson Reuters' Highly Cited Researcher list, citing over 22,000 and 10,000 times respectively. Their work has greatly increased solar cell efficiency and established NREL as a leader in photovoltaics measurements.
A synthesized version of tumor necrosis factor's tip appears to work like a doorstop to keep sodium channels open inside the lungs' air sacs, clearing excess fluid. The TIP peptide may help patients survive pneumonia by targeting bacterial toxins and promoting natural defense mechanisms.
A NUS study shows that artesunate, a common anti-malarial drug, can effectively control asthma with improved treatment outcomes and lesser side effects. The research reveals artesunate's ability to suppress airway inflammation and produce anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of dexamethasone.
Scientists from The University of Manchester discovered that drugs used to treat asthma and pneumonia become ineffective due to the body's natural circadian rhythm. The study found that cells lining the lung airways have their own internal clock, which regulates inflammation in the lungs.
A new study by UNC researchers provides evidence that could help improve CF pharmacotherapies. They found that a mutant CFTR protein loses its ability to function properly when in the presence of two drugs, suggesting that drug developers should take this destabilization effect into account.
ROS1 gene fusions were detected in 12 out of 492 specimens examined for lung adenocarcinoma using RT-PCR and IHC tests. ROS1 positive patients are significantly younger than the entire population, but there are no associations with gender or smoking history.
Researchers found nine variants in the CFTR gene associated with pancreatitis, sinusitis, and male infertility, but leave the lungs unaffected. The study identifies mechanisms behind these conditions, paving the way for treatments and potential medications.
Preliminary research found that patients with serious heart and lung conditions have a narrower range of facial expressions, particularly the ability to register surprise. This can help doctors prioritize care and avoid unnecessary tests.
A multidisciplinary research team led by David Eckmann has successfully alleviated pulmonary inflammation in mice using targeted drug delivery with nanocarriers. The study, published in PLOS One, shows that steroids can access hard-to-reach lung endothelial cells and prevent inflammation.
Researchers have identified novel mutations in a well-known cancer-causing pathway in lung adenocarcinoma, expanding therapeutic targets and potentially identifying treatable mutations. The study found that 75% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma have actionable mutations that can be treated with existing or under-development drugs.
A study found significant variation in the use of minimally invasive surgery among US hospitals, with some offering it to only a fraction of eligible patients. Surgical complications are estimated to cost $25b annually in the US and can be reduced by using minimally invasive surgery.
Researchers discovered how beryllium changes the shape of immune system proteins, triggering an inflammatory response in the lungs. The findings describe a new form of immune response that combines elements of allergic hypersensitivity and autoimmunity, with potential for new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers found that a host genetic factor exacerbates lung damage in severe TB and suggests why gene mutations rendering it inactive are common. The study also showed that drugs targeting P2X7R could be used to treat aggressive forms of TB.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that alcohol consumption leads to a buildup of fat in the lungs, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. This discovery offers a potential new explanation for why heavy drinkers are more susceptible to lung disease.
Researchers have discovered hundreds of non-coding RNAs in the developing and adult lungs that regulate gene expression by controlling DNA scaffolding. These 'genomic dark matter' RNAs, including NANCI and LL34, play critical roles in lung development and may underlie human diseases such as Brain-Lung-Thyroid Syndrome.
Cryoprobes surpassed traditional forceps in collecting larger, higher-quality samples for diagnosing interstitial lung diseases. Larger multicenter trials are needed to confirm the benefits and safety profile of this technique.
Research led by Carnegie Mellon University shows social integration influences pulmonary function in the elderly, with more social roles improving health and happiness. The study also rejects the idea that marriage is the only social role required for health benefits.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have found that mucins play a major role in failing lung function in cystic fibrosis patients. The study reveals that diluting the concentration of mucins in CF mucus may be key to improving treatments.
Researchers discover that mucin concentration in cystic fibrosis airway secretions contributes to decreased mucus clearance and promotes lung infection and inflammation. Meanwhile, an aptamer-based strategy delivers a specific siRNA to tumor cells and Tregs, reducing STAT3 expression and promoting anti-tumor responses.
Researchers have created an innovative 3D test system that allows them to simulate human body functions, enabling the development of more effective cancer treatments. The artificial lung model, no bigger than a sugar cube, can be used to analyze treatment resistance and metastasis formation, potentially leading to personalized medicine.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique using X-ray dark-field radiography to detect lung diseases at an earlier stage. This method provides detailed images of soft tissue, enabling the visualization of structural changes in lung tissue.
Critically ill patients receiving steroids in the ICU are significantly more likely to develop delirium, with up to 80% of ventilated patients at risk. Minimizing steroid use may reduce delirium and its long-term impact on functional recovery and cognitive function.
A new study found that eating fish, fruit, and dairy products can improve lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study analyzed data from over 2,167 participants and showed that those who consumed these foods had better lung function, less emphysema, and improved quality of life.
A retrospective study found evidence of small airway obstruction and other pulmonary abnormalities in many deployed veterans. Rates of restrictive lung physiology were 2-5 times greater than a reference group, while non-reversible airway obstruction was significantly lower.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that high gamma-tocopherol levels, found in soybean, corn, and canola oils, are associated with decreased lung function and increased asthma risk. In contrast, alpha-tocopherol, found in olive and sunflower oils, is linked to better lung function.
A novel guanylate cyclase stimulator improved exercise capacity and hemodynamics in patients with inoperable or recurrent CTEPH, closing a therapeutic gap. The drug was well-tolerated and showed significant improvements in six-minute walking distance.
A new study from Johns Hopkins University found that warmer indoor temperatures are linked to increased COPD symptoms, rescue medication use, and decreased lung function in patients. The research also suggests that even short periods of outdoor exposure to high temperatures can exacerbate the condition.
A patient diagnosed with advanced, incurable lung cancer was found to have early stage, curable lung cancer after stopping a rare antibiotic that caused liver and lung damage. The team's findings suggest that toxicity due to the antibiotic may be mistaken for cancer spread.
Researchers found that SOCS4-deficient mice exhibited abnormally high levels of cytokines and chemokines, similar to a 'cytokine storm', which contributed to severe symptoms and slower viral clearance. The study suggests SOCS4 plays a crucial role in regulating the immune response against influenza virus.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that IL-27 balances the immune response to influenza, reducing lung damage and improving recovery. The researchers discovered that well-timed IL-27 treatment can be beneficial for mice infected with a highly pathogenic influenza strain.
A new study found that repeated preschool wheezing can lead to long-term damage in lung function by the age of 6 years. Children with recurrent symptoms are particularly at risk, even if asthma symptoms seem to disappear temporarily. The study suggests that early intervention and treatment with inhaled corticosteroids may prevent this ...
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a protein molecule that slows the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, a deadly lung disease. The protein, LYCAT, is found to be protective and may boost survival rates in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
A new technique that brings CT imaging into the operating room enables precise demarcation and removal of small sub-centimeter lung nodules while minimizing damage to healthy lung tissue. This approach has shown promising results in reducing errors and increasing accuracy in lung cancer surgery.
A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology suggests that TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, accelerates lung recovery and reduces scar tissue in mice with pulmonary fibrosis. The researchers found that inflammation can be beneficial during the healing process, rather than just causing scarring.
A new study by University of Western Ontario researchers reveals that specific interactions between breast cancer stem cells and lung-derived proteins contribute to lung metastasis. Understanding this phenomenon could lead to improved treatment options for breast cancer patients.
Researchers developed novel double-stapled peptides that inhibit RSV in cells and mice, and when delivered with nanoparticles, showed significant inhibition of RSV infection. The therapy has potential to prevent and treat RSV infection in high-risk groups such as infants, young children, and the elderly.
Patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) may benefit from sirolimus, which slows disease progression and improves quality of life. However, the drug can complicate lung transplants due to potential fatal complications.
Scientists have discovered how Yersinia pestis alters cell death pathways to kill host cells and cause pneumonic plague. The study reveals that the bacterium destroys Fas ligand, a molecule that stimulates apoptosis, allowing it to overwhelm the lungs and kill its host.
A Rice University analysis of state implementation plans reveals that most urban areas have met the next benchmark for reducing airborne particulate matter. The study found that PM 2.5 concentrations declined by an average 2.6 micrograms per cubic meter in regions that filed SIPs to attain the standard by 2009.
A new project, ATHENA, is developing four human organ constructs that mimic the response of actual human organs. The system, which includes a liver, heart, lung, and kidney, aims to provide a realistic and cost-effective way to screen new drugs and toxic agents.
A 9-year study found that biogas and improved kitchen ventilation improved lung function and reduced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk. Participants who adopted these interventions retained more lung function as they aged, suggesting a significant reduction in indoor air pollution's adverse consequences on health.
A daily high dose of statins over six months significantly improved coughing symptoms in 12 out of 30 patients with bronchiectasis. The treatment also reduced inflammation and enabled patients to tolerate gentle exercise better. Larger studies are now needed to confirm these findings.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are investigating the role of genetic variations, infection, inflammation, fetal lung development, and cervical ripening in triggering preterm labor. The study aims to identify women at risk of preterm labor and develop new treatments to prevent it.
A study found that premature babies supported by high-frequency oscillation had superior lung function in adolescence, with improved breathing abilities and enhanced cognitive skills. The findings suggest a potential shift in ventilation practices in UK neonatal units.