Research on the lungs and respiratory health. Covers asthma prevention, immune cell activity, age-related decline, and pulmonary care.
A new study suggests that extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support in awake, non-intubated patients may be an effective strategy for bridging patients to lung transplantation. The study found a higher six-month survival rate among awake ECMO patients compared to conventional mechanical ventilation.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified the specific immune response induced by cigarette smoke as the cause of emphysema. The study found that antigen-presenting cells and genes like interleukin-17 play a crucial role in the development of the disease.
A Loyola University Chicago study discovered that patients who died from smoke inhalation injuries had lower inflammatory responses in their lungs compared to those who survived. Researchers found that immune system modulators were present at lower concentrations in the lungs of deceased patients, contradicting expectations.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have discovered a potential new treatment for smoking-related lung diseases like COPD. The protein SAA plays a key role in chronic inflammation and lung damage in COPD, hindering natural healing in the lungs.
A study of 5,115 participants found that occasional marijuana use was not associated with adverse effects on lung function. Higher FVC and FEV1 were observed in those with higher lifetime exposure to marijuana.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that occasional marijuana use is not associated with long-term loss of lung function. Marijuana smoke was shown to increase lung air flow rates and capacity, but only up to moderately high levels of use.
A study analyzing lung and spleen tissue from patients who died of sepsis revealed biochemical, cellular, and histological findings consistent with immunosuppression. The research found evidence of impaired immunity in patients with sepsis, which could have important therapeutic implications.
A new study found that adding inhaled dry powder mannitol to standard therapy for cystic fibrosis improved lung function over 52 weeks. The treatment showed a significant improvement in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and fewer pulmonary exacerbations compared to the control group.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that a breath test using Metabolomx's colorimetric sensor array can detect lung cancer and differentiate between its types with high accuracy. The test shows promise as a non-invasive, rapid, and inexpensive companion diagnostic for early lung cancer detection.
A University of Georgia study documents declines in lung function among firefighters working at prescribed burns, suggesting a link between smoke and particulate matter exposure. The research underscores the need for improved occupational exposure limits to protect workers' health.
A new report highlights the global impact of medical misdiagnosis, revealing over a million people diagnosed with TB develop an incurable but manageable fungal infection. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) can progress slowly and may lie undetected for years until symptoms appear.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that patients with autoimmune diseases are at a higher risk of developing blood clots on the lung. The research, which involved 535,000 patients, reveals that 31 out of 33 autoimmune diseases studied were associated with an increased risk of pulmonary embolism.
Researchers published a study on following patients with retrievable IVC filters to improve placement success and patient follow-up. The study supports existing guidelines developed by the Society of Interventional Radiology for safe filter placement.
A Wayne State University research team is working on a roadmap for identifying novel therapeutic targets to restore function to the mutated CFTR protein in cystic fibrosis patients. The goal is to alleviate severe lung and bowel problems associated with the disease.
Researchers found that dyslipidemia and elevated heart rate increased the risk of developing abnormal lung function, while elevated amylin levels reduced this risk. The study suggests that systemic inflammation may play a role in promoting lung function impairment after particulate exposure.
Researchers at National Jewish Health have discovered a natural lipid, POPG, that inhibits influenza infections in cell cultures and mouse models. The molecule suppresses inflammatory responses, viral propagation, and cell death associated with influenza infection.
Researchers found that the structure of lion and tiger vocal folds, including fat and viscoelastic properties, determines the low-frequency roars. The study challenges previous assumptions about the causes of loud roaring in these big cats.
Four Michigan State University researchers are working on new projects to combat cystic fibrosis, using funds from the $110,000 grant from Hunt for a Cure. The studies aim to develop new treatments and prevent bacterial infections, with a focus on understanding the role of molecules, genes, and biofilms in the disease.
A panel of blood proteins can predict patient survival in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, guiding treatment plans and identifying those in urgent need of a lung transplant. The biomarker panel has predictive power that may also help design more effective research trials.
The NIH has halted a trial of a commonly used triple-drug therapy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) after it was found to worsen outcomes. The study showed that patients receiving the treatment had higher mortality, hospitalizations, and adverse events compared to those on placebo.
A new analysis found that coughing is more common in patients with advanced idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and predicts rapid disease progression. The study suggests that patients who cough may have a worse prognosis, benefiting from closer monitoring and aggressive treatments.
Researchers discovered that corticosteroids are ineffective for COPD patients due to reduced HDAC2 activity, which is caused by S-nitrosylation from cigarette smoke. Sulforaphane treatment restored HDAC2 activity and improved corticosteroid sensitivity in COPD patients.
Researchers at Trudeau Institute found a link between the formation of new lymphoid tissue in the lungs and protection from tuberculosis. The study, published in The Journal of Immunology, may lead to improved vaccines and therapies for fighting deadly disease.
Scientists at Salk Institute discovered a new form of RDS in newborn mice and traced it to cellular receptor for thyroid hormone. Drugs used for treating overactive thyroid glands saved mice with deadly genetic alteration mimicking the lung problem, offering clues for new treatments.
Researchers have discovered a critical protein called calpain that contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension in adults. Blocking this protein may prove effective in preventing narrow, scarred blood vessels and treating the condition.
Researchers found that a specific enzyme, iNOS, plays a key role in the development of emphysema. Blocking this enzyme with an inhibitor can prevent disease progression. The study also shows promising results for reversing lung damage using this approach.
A new study found that cigarette smoke affects the lungs in a way similar to cystic fibrosis, causing dry cough and chronic bronchitis. The study suggests that treatments for cystic fibrosis might also help people with smoking-related diseases.
Researchers will develop medical treatments to counteract lung injuries caused by chlorine gas exposure. The proposed treatments target impaired lung function and pulmonary edema with rolipram, and prevent inflammation with triptolide.
Researchers identified cells and signaling molecules that trigger lung repair in mice. Fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) induces epithelial cells to revert to a stem-cell state, proliferate, and repopulate the lung lining.
Researchers at University of California, San Diego, have made a groundbreaking discovery blocking the progression of lung fibrosis in mice. By targeting a specific phosphorylation pathway, they found that it may contribute to the development of lung injury and fibrosis.
Researchers discovered that a previously unrecognized population of immune cells in the lungs orchestrate the body's repair response following flu infection. The activation of these cells is central to tissue repair at lung surfaces and could promote wound healing following other respiratory infections.
The study reveals regional and temporal variations in organ donation across the UK, with Wales consistently outperforming its neighbors. England and Scotland have lower organ donation rates, while Northern Ireland surprises with high lung donation rates.
A new study cautions that thoracic imaging protocols must carefully balance radiation doses to the breast and lungs. The study found that changing protocols can reduce breast radiation dose by over 50% and lower lung radiation dose. Researchers emphasize the need for caution when planning CT protocols.
A new method of surfactant delivery without intubation has been shown to reduce the need for mechanical ventilation and improve lung function in premature babies. The study found that infants treated with this method spent less time on mechanical ventilation and had a lower need for oxygen.
A new study found that moderately premature babies have reduced lung function at 8-9 years old, which can cause breathing difficulties. However, these issues may improve as the child grows older, according to a research presented at the European Respiratory Society Annual Congress.
A new study reveals that people with COPD are at a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease, highlighting the need for routine screening. The study found that 50.1% of patients with COPD had cardiovascular conditions, compared to 41% of those without COPD, emphasizing the importance of identifying comorbidities in clinical practice.
Researchers have identified 16 new genetic variants associated with lung function, shedding light on the molecular basis of lung diseases like COPD. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments and improved patient care.
Cyclists inhale more black carbon than pedestrians, potentially causing lung damage, according to a study led by Professor Jonathan Grigg. The researchers found that cyclists have 2.3 times more black carbon in their lungs when compared with pedestrians.
A new study by researchers from the UK found a link between living in river valley areas and an increased frequency of COPD symptom exacerbations. The unique climate in these areas, with high humidity and low dew point, retains particles and pollutants that can worsen lung symptoms.
Children with severe therapy-resistant asthma (STRA) have poorer lung function and worse symptoms due to lower levels of vitamin D. The study found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased airway smooth muscle mass, making breathing more difficult.
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that anti-reflux surgery can preserve lung function in patients with end-stage pulmonary disease both before and after transplantation. The procedure was associated with improved lung function, reduced episodes of acute rejection and pneumonia, and may help extend t...
Researchers have developed a technique to observe cystic fibrosis cellular intricacies, revealing the role of CFTR in regulating ENaC activity. The study found that healthy CFTR prevents ENaC overactivity, while defective CFTR allows it to occur.
Researchers have discovered a protein called ubiquitin ligase Nedd4L as a new regulator of cystic fibrosis. Mice lacking Nedd4L in the lung developed cystic fibrosis-like disease, highlighting a promising therapeutic target. Enhancing Nedd4L function or inhibiting ENaC may alleviate symptoms of the disease.
A minimally-invasive procedure aimed at reducing lung inflation and shortness of breath in patients with severe emphysema has failed to demonstrate sustained long-term effects. Despite initial improvements, the procedure's durability was lacking, with no significant differences noted between treatment and sham groups after six months.
A US patient has received the world's first transplanted lungs treated with an experimental repair process. The treatment, part of a national study, uses STEEN SolutionTM to evaluate suitability of donor lungs for transplantation. If successful, it could increase transplantable lung supply and reduce wait times.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered protein signals responsible for preserving anti-viral antibody memory. The study highlights how BLyS and APRIL sustain cells that produce antibodies against viruses, crucial knowledge for vaccine development.
A new study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found that adding azithromycin to daily treatment regimens for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can lower frequency and severity of flare-ups. The medication was shown to improve breathing ability and overall well-being in patients with COPD.
Acute lung injury is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood vessels leak into the lungs, causing fluid buildup. Researchers are exploring new therapies to improve patient odds by identifying key events and developing treatments to block them. Potential treatments include HSP90 inhibitors and adenosine agonists.
A national study of 327 patients published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that lung function declines as chest deformity deepens. The more severe the deformity, the more lung function was compromised, primarily due to lung restriction rather than airway obstruction.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a new treatment target for human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of severe lung infections and estimated 10% of colds. The study found that RSV interacts with healthy cells by binding to a molecule called nucleolin, allowing it to decrease or increase infection.
Researchers found that a diet of flaxseed protects lung tissues before and after exposure to radiation, reducing damage and improving survival rates in mice. Flaxseed's bioactive lignan component is believed to confer its antioxidant properties, making it an attractive radioprotector and mitigator.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine identified a molecular pathway that helps explain how an enzyme elevated in asthma patients contributes to inflammation and mucus production. The study reveals unique interactions between biological molecules that could be targeted to develop new asthma treatments.
Researchers at Montana State University found a surprising condition where common lung mold causes a shortage of oxygen in the lungs. The study reveals that the mold's fermentation can influence the host immune response and adapt to low oxygen levels.
Patients with chronic lung illness exhibit improved emotional functioning and quality of life when they have a sense of humor, but laughing can temporarily reduce lung function. Researchers found that appreciating humor may be more beneficial than actually laughing out loud for patients with moderate to severe COPD.
Researchers used CT scans to identify structural changes in lungs of COPD patients linked to exacerbations. These findings suggest that distinct subgroups of patients may require targeted therapies, independent of spirometry measures.
A team of Brandeis researchers has created artificial cilia-like structures that spontaneously organize into active bundles and beat in a periodic manner. This breakthrough offers a new approach for studying the beating patterns of real cilia, which could lead to advances in nanotechnology.
A new study reveals that roads in North Dakota contain high levels of the cancer-causing mineral erionite, which can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. The research team found that airborne concentrations of erionite in North Dakota were comparable to those found in Turkish villages with high mesothelioma rates.
The University of California, San Diego has received a major $18 million grant to further develop the science of glycobiology. The grant will focus on training scientists fluent in glycan chemistry and biology to study how glycans modulate inflammatory responses and fund collaborative projects.
Research identified demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors contributing to work disability in systemic scleroderma. Findings suggest that retraining and additional support can help individuals with the disease maintain or regain employment.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have been awarded $32 million to establish two Programs of Excellence in Glycosciences. The programs aim to better understand the roles of sugars in molecular mechanisms of disease, particularly lung and heart diseases.