Articles tagged with Lungs
Researchers found that wheezing prevalence follows distinct patterns by age 6 and stability of lung function is maintained through school years. Children with early wheeze tend to have lower lung function levels but stable rates.
A new variant of retinoic acid receptor beta has been discovered, which may play a role in vitamin A resistance in lung cancer. The variant, RAR-beta-1', was found to be expressed in normal lung cells and sensitive to retinoic acid, but not in resistant or lung cancer cells.
Researchers found that macrophages from TB patients have high levels of DC-SIGN, a protein that helps Mycobacterium tuberculosis infect lung cells. Infection with TB causes nearby uninfected cells to also express DC-SIGN, making them more susceptible to infection.
Researchers found that bird flu virus H5N1 induces higher levels of pro-inflammatory proteins in human lung cells compared to the human flu virus H1N1. This imbalance can lead to severe lung inflammation and may explain the severity of avian flu virus infections.
A newly discovered protein called alpha-defensin can kill Bacillus anthracis bacteria, the causative agent of anthrax. The skin form of anthrax is harmless due to neutrophils' ability to identify and kill microbes, whereas the lung form remains fatal, prompting hope for new treatments.
Researchers discovered a genetic basis for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, with those having ever smoked cigarettes being 3.6 times more likely to develop the disease. The study also highlights the importance of avoiding cigarette smoking as a preventive measure for this devastating lung condition.
Researchers developed a breath test that measures sulfur compounds in exhaled breath to detect bacterial growth in cystic fibrosis patients. The test found significantly higher levels of sulfides in cystic fibrosis patients, suggesting an increased amount of bacterial growth in the lungs.
Researchers have identified a protein called CCL5 that protects macrophages from premature death during respiratory viral infections, allowing them to continue fighting the infection. This discovery may lead to new methods to hasten recovery and reduce symptoms of influenza and the common cold.
Researchers discover DMT1 protein shields lung cells from toxic particles, including vanadium, by regulating iron transport. The finding offers new insights into lung protection and potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers have identified a molecular defect in red blood cells as an important cause of pulmonary hypertension, a potentially fatal lung condition. A new therapy that replenishes SNO levels in the blood has shown promise in reversing the disease.
Gleevec has been found to reverse lung vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension in experimental models. Larger clinical trials are planned to test its safety and effectiveness.
Massachusetts General Hospital has been designated as a Specialized Center for Cell-Based Therapy for Heart, Lung and Blood Diseases. The center aims to develop new ways of regenerating or repairing damaged tissues using stem cell biology and tissue engineering.
Researchers found a common genetic defect that prevents proper lung repair, increasing risk of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in families with a history of the disease. Smoking is also a major contributor to the disease, particularly among those with a family history.
Researchers discovered that low doses of azithromycin can halt and reverse lung function decline in the majority of lung transplant patients with BOS, offering a new hope for treatment.
Researchers found reduced MAO A levels in smokers' lungs, which may contribute to physiological effects of smoking like changes in blood pressure and pulmonary function. Smokers also retained tracer chemicals longer and had lower delivery into arterial blood supply.
Researchers used PET scanning to track monoamine oxidase (MAO A) levels in smokers and nonsmokers, finding that MAO A was 50% lower in smokers' lungs. Smokers also held onto a tracer chemical longer and had reduced delivery of tracer into arterial blood supply.
A study identified osteopontin as a protein more prevalent in lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The protein increased cell proliferation and movement involved in lung fibrosis, offering potential new treatment targets.
Researchers at Imperial College London have made a major breakthrough in growing human lungs for transplantation using embryonic stem cells. The cells will be used to repair damaged lungs, particularly in cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
A new study found that inhaling small amounts of carbon monoxide after transplant surgery can prevent the development of a lethal inflammatory reaction in mice. This could lead to a new treatment regimen for human patients, preventing complications such as obliterative bronchiolitis and improving their chances of survival.
Scientists pinpoint specific 'genetic endowment' genes that enable breast cancer tumors to metastasize to the lungs. The discovery offers a new set of molecular tools to test tumor biopsies, enabling early diagnosis and targeted treatment.
A study by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has identified a gene set associated with breast cancer metastasis to the lungs. The researchers found that over half of patients with tumors carrying this genetic 'thumbprint' developed lung metastases, whereas only 10% of those without it did.
The University of California, Santa Barbara, has been awarded a $12.5 million grant to develop nanoscale systems for early diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. Led by Professor Craig Hawker, the team will use nanoparticles as carriers for diagnostic systems and therapeutic agents.
Researchers discovered six genes linked to chronic lung rejection, potentially leading to an early genetic test and targeted treatments. The study's findings could improve lung transplant patient survival by detecting scarring earlier.
Researchers have discovered a highly specific pathway that causes inflammation in lung tissue, which may contribute to lung damage in adult patients with cystic fibrosis. The study identifies interleukin-23 and interleukin-17 as promising targets for neutralization.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can be predicted using PET scans in trauma patients, allowing for early treatment with aggressive immune modulation therapy. This method has the potential to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers discovered a genetic link between a Fog2 gene mutation and small lungs, abnormal diaphragm development, and breathing difficulties in children. The study provides an important genetic starting point for further insight into human disorders.
A multi-disciplinary team, led by UCSB professors, aims to develop novel technologies to diagnose and treat heart disease. The team will focus on creating nano-delivery vehicles, molecular nano-stents, and bio-nanoelectromechanical systems (BioNEMS) to target vulnerable plaque.
The researchers developed a nebulized and inhaled gene therapy that reverses PAH in rats by inhibiting Survivin, a protein driving excessive cell growth. The therapy improves heart function and survival rates, offering promising avenues for human PAH treatment.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a natural compound, nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), that helps keep airways open and may offer a new approach to treating asthma. Mice with elevated levels of GSNO were less susceptible to asthma, while those deficient in GSNO developed the disease.
A recent study found that workers exposed to Libby Vermiculite Ore have a significantly higher rate of pleural plaques, or scarring of the chest wall lining. The occurrence was as high as 44.1% in those with the largest exposure, and the risk increased with cumulative exposure.
A study analyzing US lung transplant data between 1994 and 2002 found that female recipients experienced a 60% increased risk of primary graft dysfunction compared to male recipients. This condition can lead to severe lung injury, high mortality rates, prolonged hospital stays, and other serious complications.
A new study has found that cyclophosphamide significantly improves lung function and reduces breathlessness in patients with scleroderma lung disease. The treatment also reported increased energy levels and functional ability compared to the placebo group.
A recent study found that chest CT scans are necessary for multiple trauma patients, even if initial X-ray results appear normal. The study analyzed data from 563 patients and revealed that X-rays missed 40% of clinically significant thoracic injuries.
The study found that MDCT pulmonary angiograms increased from 21.9 to 42.5 per month, while ventilation-perfusion scans dropped from 5.7 to 3.6, indicating a shift towards diagnosing pulmonary embolism by CT. This change is attributed to advancements in MDCT scanners, which can quickly image the pulmonary vasculature with high resolution.
Researchers found non-heart abnormalities in 61% of patients who underwent CTCA scans, including lung cancer, emphysema, and fluid buildup. The study emphasizes the need for a team-based approach to reading these scans, with both radiologists and technologists requiring specialized training.
Alcohol consumption and cigarette smoke both impair lung defenses against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that causes pneumonia and other infections. Researchers exposed rats to smoke and varying levels of alcohol, then infected them with S. pneumoniae, finding that the combination increased bacterial penetration into the lungs.
COPD researchers found a correlation between increased lung inflammation and reduced histone deacetylase activity, which may explain the disease's resistance to steroids. Low doses of theophylline, a tea leaf substance, could help restore HDAC activity and reverse resistance.
A large-scale study found that quitting smoking slows lung function decline in men and women, with a 38% decrease in men and 17% in women. However, weight gain significantly diminishes the beneficial effects of quitting on lung function, particularly in men.
Research suggests that daily acetaminophen use is associated with a higher prevalence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as decreased lung function. In contrast, vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy can limit the negative effects of nicotine on fetal lung tissue.
Researchers found that high levels of oxygen can exacerbate lung inflammation in mice by triggering the release of adenosine, a molecule that protects against tissue damage. The study suggests that adenosine substitutes may be useful in preventing lung damage in patients with acute lung inflammation.
Researchers found that high oxygen levels can weaken a protective mechanism triggered by hypoxia, leading to increased lung damage. The study suggests that therapeutic activators targeting the A2AR signaling pathway may mitigate these effects.
Research shows that vitamin C can help prevent smoking-related lung development problems in unborn babies. The study found that vitamin C dosed during pregnancy may improve lung air flow and reduce adverse outcomes.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that symptom-driven therapy may be an effective treatment option for adults with mild persistent asthma. The research found that participants who took medication only when symptoms appeared had similar lung function changes and quality-of-life scores compared to thos...
A pivotal study found that CyIS significantly reduces chronic rejection and prolongs survival in lung-transplant recipients, offering hope for a breakthrough therapy to address this unmet need. The study demonstrated an 84% four-year survival rate with CyIS compared to 56% with placebo.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation has created new, comprehensive guidelines to help organ centers update their policies. The guidelines aim to bridge patients to transplant by offering pharmacological, surgical, and device-based interventions.
Researchers found asthmatics produce lower levels of interferon beta, making them more susceptible to respiratory virus infections. A potential new treatment for asthma attacks involves using a device to top up interferon levels in the lungs.
A new pump device, partnered with stem cell technology, aims to address heart failure and improve heart function. Research on ventricular assist devices (VADs) and pediatric devices is also ongoing, with a focus on developing smaller devices for children and improving outcomes.
AlloMap molecular expression testing enables proactive monitoring of immune system signals, identifying rejection before it occurs. This non-invasive technology eliminates the need for frequent biopsies, improving individual patient outcomes and reducing patient discomfort.
A new study found no significant difference in outcomes between patients ruled out for pulmonary embolism with MDCT and single-detector CT. However, the increased detection rate of small clots may lead to more unnecessary treatment, increasing risks such as hemorrhagic stroke.
A new study identifies SERPINE2 as a novel candidate gene for COPD, particularly in individuals who smoke. The research reveals that SERPINE2 is expressed in lung tissues and cells, and its expression is altered in people with certain clinical characteristics of COPD.
Purpura fulminans is a newly emerging deadly disease characterized by skin lesions and tissue damage. Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified three recommended treatments for purpura fulminans, including antibiotic therapy against Neisseria meningitidis and methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
UNH has launched its second spinout company, Xemed LLC, backed by three new NIH grants to commercialize a lung imaging technology that could benefit millions suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The technology allows MRI to produce a clear picture of the lungs' interior, enabling doctors to see which parts are affected.
Asthma sufferers experience worsened symptoms when infected with the common cold virus, as their cells replicate more extensively and fail to produce interferon-beta, a potent anti-viral protein. This defect leads to increased pro-inflammatory molecule secretion, recruiting asthma-inducing cells into the lungs.
Researchers analyzed 4,369 chest radiographs from 313 SARS patients and found that lung opacification levels on the seventh day could predict fatal outcomes. Patients with greater than 20% lung opacification were more likely to die from SARS, while those with less than 10% had a higher survival rate.
Research by Ingber and colleagues found that manipulating mechanical force in developing mouse lungs can slow down or speed up growth, which could lead to novel treatments for lung conditions. This study sheds light on the importance of mechanobiology in understanding normal lung development and potential intervention pathways.
The study found that sustained quitters had nearly half the overall death rate of those who continued to smoke. Death rates were also lower for coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease, and less than half for lung cancer compared to smokers.
A 14-year study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that quitting smoking can add years to life. The study showed a significant reduction in death rates among participants who quit compared to those who continued to smoke.
Researchers will investigate the spread of 'superbugs' and develop more effective antimicrobial agents and vaccine strategies to treat lung infections. The goal is to determine when segregation of CF patients is necessary, reducing social strain on families and individuals.
Researchers found that indirect CT venography increases the detection rate of thromboembolic disease by 20% compared to traditional CTPA. The addition of CTV improves diagnosis for patients with pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, saving lives.
Researchers have developed a new treatment that significantly reduces morphine use after hysterectomies, leading to improved lung function and more consistent pain relief. The treatment combines two non-opioid drugs, gabapentin and rofecoxib, which work together to alleviate movement-related pain and promote better breathing.