Articles tagged with Lungs
A USC study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 causes a stage of mild symptoms followed by severe inflammation in some patients. The virus exploits two different pathways to interact with immune cells, one leading to inflammation and the other preventing it.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a signal protein called ERK that plays an active role in causing growing lung tissue to curve. This finding reveals a previously unknown regulatory system governing the development of intricate branching patterns in mouse lungs.
A team of researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine has discovered a critical protein sensor called SEL1L that regulates collagen clearance from tissue. This finding provides new insights into the development of therapeutic strategies for diseases like lung fibrosis, which currently have no effective treatments.
Researchers have discovered a new way to inhibit immune cells that drive allergic asthma by targeting the Piezo1 protein. The study found that switching on Piezo1 channels can reduce lung inflammation and alleviate symptoms of airway hyperreactivity in mice with ILC2-dependent airway inflammation.
Researchers found that patients with lung disease have a higher risk of developing heart disease, regardless of age or smoking status. The study, published in Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, suggests that Proteinase 3 enzyme may play a key role in this increased risk.
Scientists have discovered six proteins that can accurately diagnose tuberculosis (TB). The breakthrough study paves the way for a simple blood test to detect the bacteria, which could prevent millions of cases annually. TB is the world's deadliest infectious disease, killing over one million people each year.
University of Calgary researchers found that communication between the lungs and brain triggers symptoms of sickness, changing treatment approaches for respiratory infections and chronic conditions. The study also suggests targeting neurological pathways alongside antibiotics to combat infections.
Artificial intelligence has been developed to spot COVID-19 features in lung ultrasound images, combining computer-generated images with real scans to identify signs of disease. The tool holds potential for developing wearables that track illnesses like congestive heart failure and monitor fluid buildup in patients' lungs.
A recent NIH-supported study found that SARS-CoV-2 can damage the heart by triggering inflammation in cardiac macrophages. The research suggests that suppressing this inflammatory response may help minimize cardiovascular complications.
Researchers demonstrate efficacy of airborne ultrasound technology to detect low-amplitude movements produced by vocalizations at the chest surface. The technology allows for contactless mapping of surface vibrations, offering a better window on respiratory health and enabling better diagnoses of respiratory diseases.
Researchers at UVA Health discovered a potential blood test to predict patients with severe COVID-19 who are likely to recover well and those at risk of long-term lung problems. The study found that patients with late-resolving symptoms had fewer immune cells in their blood, correlating with symptom severity.
A new study from the University of Chicago analyzed DNA methylation in tissue samples from former smokers, finding evidence of the body's attempts to defend itself from tobacco smoke. The research team identified new regions associated with smoking and found that DNA methylation varies dramatically across cell types and tissue types.
A study published in PNAS reveals that increased concentration of lysolipid can cause severe impacts on lung inflation, leading to respiratory distress. The research identifies frequency dependence and proposes a way to tailor treatment processes for each patient.
A new reflex of the vagus nerve helps counteract restricted breathing, while a rare cell type detects airway closure and relays the signal. The discovery provides valuable insight into how the brain and body are connected to monitor and modulate respiration.
Researchers discovered that lung cancer cells can persist in the presence of cigarette smoke due to a protein pump called ABCG2, which clears damaging molecules from the cells. This mechanism could also contribute to resistance to pharmaceutical treatments in cancer cells.
Researchers have designed a candidate drug to target the K-Ras G12D mutation, responsible for nearly half of all pancreatic cancer cases. The molecule permanently modifies the mutation, stopping tumor growth in cancer cell lines and animal models.
Researchers investigated combining Sacituzumab govitecan with platinum-based chemotherapeutics for triple-negative breast cancer, urinary bladder carcinoma, and small-cell lung carcinoma. The study showed additive to synergistic antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo, with improved outcomes in tumor-bearing animals.
A study by Texas A&M University found that only 9% of older Americans had been vaccinated against RSV prior to this fall and winter. The study also revealed that men were more likely to be vaccinated than women, and those who were vaccinated had higher levels of concern about the disease.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new method to efficiently determine which lipid nanoparticles are likely to bind to the lungs, rather than the liver. This breakthrough enables targeted delivery of mRNA therapeutics beyond the liver, offering new hope for treatments of cystic fibrosis and lung cancer.
A new study found that high-dose inhaled nitric oxide improves oxygenation and reduces mortality risk among critically ill Black patients with COVID-19. The treatment was more effective for Black patients, who have a suppressed nitric oxide system at baseline.
A research project led by Lobelia Samavati has developed a tool to rapidly and inexpensively diagnose sarcoidosis using a simple blood test. The tool can accurately identify the disease in patients and may reduce the need for invasive diagnostic tests.
The Almodóvar lab is studying the link between HIV and pulmonary hypertension, a condition that increases pressure in lung arteries. By examining the interactions between different cell types and using a humanized mouse model, researchers hope to propose novel therapies to prevent lung diseases in people with HIV.
Scientists have created a simple blood test to quickly diagnose sarcoidosis, a chronic inflammatory disease. The tool uses a combination of molecular techniques to detect two newly described disease-specific antigen biomarkers.
A low-frequency ultrasonic device has been developed to quickly reduce blood pressure and activate blood gas exchange in the pulmonary system. This technology uses a higher radial mode of vibration, increasing acoustic signal penetration and reducing scattered signals.
Researchers found that Inuit residents in Nunavik had shorter survival rates for lung cancer compared to Montreal residents, despite similar disease stages. The study attributes this disparity to chronic under-resourcing of healthcare services and lack of Inuit representation in healthcare provision.
A new computer model of a human lung is being used to simulate the interaction of radiation with lung tissue at a cellular level. This could lead to more targeted treatments for cancer and reduce damage caused by radiotherapy.
Researchers at Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new inhalable therapy that delivers IL-12 mRNA directly to the lungs, demonstrating potential as a tumor suppressor. The therapy uses nanobubbles called exosomes to deliver the mRNA, which kickstarts lung immune cells to fight cancer.
Researchers have identified macrophages, immune cells that gobble up foreign substances, in the pleural cavity around the lungs. These cells play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and disease during flu infections.
Researchers developed a test to predict which heart attack patients are likely to experience dysfunction after receiving mechanical pumps. The test measures pulmonary vascular compliance and its adaptability, helping doctors prevent right ventricle failure.
The new guideline aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of cryptococcosis, a fatal fungal infection that affects mainly the lungs and brain. It provides practical guidance for medical staff to recognize and manage invasive fungal infections, with the goal of improving patient survival rates.
A new study by University of Toronto researchers found that quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of death from vascular disease and cancer. Former smokers can expect to live up to six years longer after quitting, with benefits seen within just three years.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have developed a mouse model that illuminates the process of histological transformation, where adenocarcinoma transforms into aggressive small cell lung cancer. The study suggests targeting Myc proteins as potential therapeutic approaches for this deadly type of cancer.
Researchers found that an imbalance of CD4+ T cells in the lungs can exacerbate tuberculosis, leading to increased disease severity and reduced survival rates. Removing a specific receptor that recognizes extracellular ATP can improve the response of these T cells and potentially lead to new therapeutic interventions.
A new study found that one bacterial species, Streptococcus mitis, dominates in IPF patients not treated with antibiotics and is associated with better lung function and survival. This protective relationship does not apply to patients who received antibiotics.
A new type of cell therapy has shown promising results in improving survival rates and reducing pneumonia among critically ill ARDS patients recovering from severe Covid-19. The invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapy, known as agenT-797, triggered an anti-inflammatory response and activated anti-viral immunity.
Researchers have developed a new technique to repair lung tissue damaged by respiratory viruses, such as the flu and COVID-19. The technique uses vascular endothelial growth factor alpha (VEGFA) delivered via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which improves vascular recovery, reduces inflammation, and enhances oxygen levels in animal models.
Cadmium exposure from cigarette smoke can lead to increased ANO1 expression in airway epithelial cells, exacerbating COPD. MicroRNA-381 negatively regulates ANO1, but its downregulation by cadmium could worsen disease severity.
Flinders University researchers investigated the impact of different vaping prevention public health media campaigns among young South Australians. They found that explicit messaging and shock tactics worked better for non-vapers, while information challenging vaping myths resonated with existing vapers.
A study published in Science Advances identifies a mitochondrial protein called MCJ as the first therapeutic target to preserve cardiac function in pulmonary hypertension. Modulating MCJ levels can activate a signaling pathway essential for adaptation to low oxygen levels, protecting the heart.
A new study found that nicotine-free vape fluid can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, causing damage similar to patients with lung injury. The research identified a protein called ARF6 as a key regulator of this damage.
Researchers found a combination treatment involving high doses of radiation and chemotherapy to be safe and effective in treating locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment, which includes an adaptive boost plan, showed promising results in improving progression-free survival and reducing toxic side effects.
Researchers found a shared genetic trait that predicts a higher risk of small lung vessel disease and its severe form, pulmonary arterial hypertension. This discovery could lead to personalized treatments for patients with limited oxygen response.
The Pirola variant of SARS-CoV-2 has rediscovered an entry pathway into lung cells that was previously used by earlier variants, which may promote the development of pneumonia. The virus uses the cellular enzyme TMPRSS2 for entry and is resistant to most therapeutic antibodies.
The BA.2.86 omicron subvariant can infect human lung cells more efficiently than previous omicron variants, raising concerns about potential severe disease symptoms. While bivalent mRNA vaccines can neutralize BA.2.86, the efficiency is reduced, emphasizing the importance of getting a newer booster vaccine.
Researchers developed nanosensors that can be inhaled and detected in urine, offering a potential alternative to CT scans for early lung cancer detection. The diagnostic system shows high specificity and sensitivity in detecting stage 1 or 2 lung tumors.
Researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood plasma were associated with better lung function and longer survival without needing a lung transplant. This was consistent regardless of smoking history or cardiovascular disease.
A study in the JAMA Network Open found that Hispanic and American Indian individuals with breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer were undercaptured in the National Cancer Database, but representation improved over time. Further investigation is needed to understand where these populations seek cancer care.
A Learning Health System model is being developed to increase organ donation and reduce disparities in access to transplantation. The project, led by Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, will use data tools to track progress and improve equity in organ donation across the US.
Researchers identified Benidipine as a compound promoting the death of cigarette smoke-induced senescent lung cells, improving lung emphysema. The dihydropyridine family of calcium channel blockers constitutes a new class of senolytics that could improve lung diseases.
A 12-week beetroot juice supplement reduced systolic blood pressure by 4.5mmHg and increased walking distance by 30 meters in COPD patients. The nitrate-rich supplement improved cardiovascular risk markers, suggesting potential benefits for everyday life and heart disease prevention.
Researchers at the University of Seville have developed a bioinspired PEM fuel cell design that improves the distribution of liquid water inside these batteries. This approach has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and durability of PEM fuel cells, leading to more efficient and sustainable energy systems.
Researchers have discovered that immune cells play a crucial role in directing the growth of human lung tissue during development, revolutionizing our understanding of early lung development. The findings also suggest that early immune disturbances could manifest as pediatric lung disease.
The study found that solely the omicron variant influences cell cycle genes, leading to increased p21 expression and a senescence-associated secretory phenotype. This results in premature cellular senescence, potentially contributing to the reported cytokine storm and development of long-COVID.
A novel study has implicated granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in both bronchopulmonary dysplasia and retinopathy of prematurity, making it a promising therapeutic candidate. G-CSF deficiency was shown to protect against these diseases, suggesting wide-ranging protection.
A new study from Gladstone Institutes has greatly expanded the scientific body of knowledge about how the body responds to too much oxygen. The research highlights a particular protein, MYBBP1A, that may play a central role in regulating cells' response to hyperoxia.
Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 viruses persisting in lung cells for up to 18 months post-infection, despite undetectable upper respiratory tract presence. The study suggests a link between innate immunity failure and virus persistence.
A new experimental model, human precision-cut lung slices (hPCLS), was used to study lung disease mechanisms and understand treatment response. The team leveraged single-cell genomics to analyze cell activity in hPCLS after specific treatments.
Researchers at Temple University Health System report that the BASHIR Endovascular Catheter reduces blockages in lung arteries and correlates with improved right ventricle function, suggesting better survival outcomes. The catheter also shows significantly lower bleeding rates compared to other devices.
Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.
Research at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that marijuana smokers are 12 times more likely to develop centrilobular emphysema compared to non-smokers. Combined marijuana and cigarette smoking increased the risk of breathing difficulties and other serious respiratory symptoms.