Articles tagged with Discovery Research
Paul Coleman, a renowned neuroscientist, has been awarded $1 million by the Alzheimer's Association to investigate the earliest signs of Alzheimer's disease. His research team aims to develop a simple test that can detect the disease in its initial stages, potentially allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital and AMGEN identify the role of T cells in bone destruction characteristic of many inflammatory diseases. The study reveals that T cells produce a substance that triggers bone loss, leading to severe osteoporosis and joint damage.
Researchers propose a novel mechanism for pericentromeric duplication, which has pulled disparate genes to the central regions of hominoid chromosomes. This process may have created new human genes and contributed to evolutionary divergence from Old World primates.
Researchers have discovered that environmental stimuli like smells can induce a neurochemical response in the brain that may reinstate alcohol-seeking behavior after withdrawal. This study suggests that understanding the mechanisms involved in relapse can lead to the development of medications that target specific critical neural systems.
A new program, Seeding Postdoctoral Innovators in Research and Education (SPIRE), aims to improve career prospects for postdoctoral students by providing diverse training. The program will give postdocs teaching experience while offering cutting-edge biology courses at historically minority universities.
Researchers found that patients with more extreme daily mood swings experienced greater improvements in therapy outcomes, regardless of treatment type. This suggests that increasing patient sensitivity to stimuli may be a more effective approach than finding the best therapy for each individual.
New research on prehistoric stone tools in Colombia's tropics has found no correlation between tool shape and function. The study concluded that prehistoric people used their simple tools for various purposes, including hunting, butchering, and working wood, regardless of the tool's shape.
A pair of hydrogen bonds in titin allows muscle to stretch and return to normal by regulating unfolding of protein sections. This finding is a significant step forward in understanding muscle elasticity and its role in cardiac muscular diseases.
Two groups of researchers at Colorado State University will receive funding to develop new drugs against tuberculosis, a leading bacterial killer causing 10 million new cases annually. The research teams will collaborate with pharmaceutical companies and use advanced testing infrastructure to identify potential anti-TB compounds.
Research suggests that some older adults have impaired decision-making skills, making them more vulnerable to fraudulent activities. A study found that a third of healthy individuals in their 60s performed poorly on a gambling task, similar to those with known brain damage.
A study published in Lancet suggests a genetic mutation in two genes, TEL and AML1, occurs during fetal development, leading to a potentially oncogenic protein. The fusion of these genes is not inherited but rather occurs during pregnancy, possibly due to a developmental accident.
A newly discovered gene in the pituitary gland is found to be activated by estrogen, leading to cell proliferation and tumor development. Researchers have identified this link between estrogen and pituitary tumor growth, which may lead to improved cancer diagnosis, assessment, and treatment.
Researchers will use marine microorganisms to discover new chemical compounds with anticancer properties, acting through non-traditional mechanisms. The study aims to identify novel agents that can accelerate the drug development process and improve treatment options for cancer patients.
Researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto have discovered that Alzheimer's disease proteins also play a crucial role in mammalian development. The study used mice lacking PS1 and PS2 genes to investigate their normal function, finding that these proteins are essential for brain development.
Researchers Ally R. Harari and Jane Brockmann studied the behavior of Diaprepes abbreviatus beetles, finding that mounting females attracts larger males, improving female reproductive success. The beetle's behavior appears to suggest a different explanation for homosexual behavior than observed in domesticated animals.
Researchers are changing treatment methods for gum disease to focus on treating bacterial infections. This approach can save many teeth that were previously considered 'hopeless' and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Researchers at Cornell University will use acoustic monitoring to count forest elephants in Africa, providing crucial information on population numbers and health. The project aims to support conservation efforts by tracking endangered species such as gorillas and rhinos.
Günter Blobel's work on protein signaling discovered the importance of signal sequences in targeting proteins to their proper intracellular destinations. His research has led to a deeper understanding of protein trafficking, with implications for drug delivery and cellular processes.
Researchers have discovered a reversible lipid imbalance that may be responsible for the common symptoms of cystic fibrosis. Administration of DHA corrected the imbalance and reversed signs of cystic fibrosis in mice with the genetic defect.
A recent study suggests that the immune system protein CD2AP may play a critical role in kidney function. Researchers found that mice lacking CD2AP developed defective glomeruli and died of renal failure, highlighting the protein's importance in maintaining kidney health. The discovery also sheds light on other diseases, such as congen...
Researchers have identified two genes contributing to asthma development: interleukin IL4 and IL13. Decreasing their activity may help reduce asthma attacks, with potential applications to other complex genetic conditions.
Researchers have uncovered six complete bone flutes at a 9,000-year-old Neolithic site in China, which may be the earliest complete, playable, and tightly-dated musical instruments. The flutes, made from red-crowned crane wing bones, have been analyzed and played, revealing a tone scale similar to the Western eight-note scale.
The matrilysin enzyme plays a key role in activating defensins to combat bacterial infections in the intestine. The researchers found that matrilysin is essential for regulating antimicrobial activity and protecting the epithelial lining from bacterial invasion.
A genetically-engineered mouse model helps researchers better understand how folic acid protects against neural tube defects and cleft lip/palate by explaining the transport of folic acid within cells. The study may also shed light on why Hispanic women don't seem to benefit from taking folic acid supplements.
The Indiana University Cancer Center has been designated as an NCI-recognized clinical cancer center, bolstering its $33.3 million annual funding for cancer research projects. The grant enhances collaboration between researchers and physicians to target clinical problems and apply findings to new patient treatments.
A common intestinal parasite has rewritten the understanding of hemoglobin's evolution and role in nature. The parasite reveals that hemoglobin evolved primarily to handle nitric oxide rather than oxygen.
Researchers at the UK College of Medicine are developing a technology to deliver drugs directly into brain tissue to treat Parkinson's disease. The team plans to use a modified Medtronic pump to deliver GDNF, a protein that has shown promise in protecting dopaminergic neurons in preclinical studies.
Armstrong's groundbreaking work elucidated the physical processes underlying electrical signaling in and between cells. His research has contributed significantly to our understanding of ion channels and their role in transmitting nerve impulses, with implications for drug development and treatment of various diseases.
Researchers are developing tiny, chip-based laboratories to speed up the search for new medicines by analyzing thousands of compounds simultaneously. This microscale analysis will enable faster, more cost-effective discovery in the fields of materials science and chemistry.
Scientists at OHSU have discovered a mechanism in the brain that controls weight, named the adipostat, which acts as a fat thermostat. The discovery could lead to medications that help regulate patient weight and prevent excessive caloric intake.
Researchers aim to uncover principles of coordinated group motion and apply them to designing autonomous underwater or airborne robots. They will create a database recording fish school movements and test robotic versions of biological models.
Scientists at Millennium and the Whitehead Institute discovered a novel protein FATP4 that plays a role in transporting fatty acid molecules from the intestine into the body. Inhibiting its function may provide new approaches to treating obesity.
Researchers at UCSF have identified a protein enzyme that plays a key role in pain signaling, suggesting a possible target for broad-based pain therapy. The finding applies to inflammatory pain syndromes, such as arthritis and colitis, and has potential implications for post-operative pain relief.
The discovery of a new tomb at Teotihuacan's Pyramid of the Moon has provided critical evidence for reconstructing the city's 2,000-year-old history. The tomb contains human skeletons, animal bones, and offerings that differ from previous discoveries, suggesting a significant cultural shift between two phases of pyramid construction.
Sulindac has been shown to cause the regression of benign colon polyps, helping prevent colon cancer development. The drug inhibits cancer cell growth by promoting programmed cell death and preventing NF-kB activation.
Researchers at Wistar Institute find parallels between PRD1 and human adenovirus coat protein structures, suggesting an evolutionary relationship. The discovery may lead to new research areas and therapies.
Researchers have identified a genetic mutation associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer in African-American and Latino men, with a five times greater risk compared to those without the mutation. The mutation affects the enzyme steroid 5a-reductase, leading to increased production of dihydrotestosterone, a potent form of tes...
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have discovered a naturally occurring protein, herstatin, that inhibits the functions of the HER-2 oncogene, a major factor in breast and other cancers. Herstatin blocks the HER-2 signaling activity that causes tumor cells to grow, ultimately killing those cells.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified two genes that may control the development of inflammatory breast cancer. The discovery, published in Clinical Cancer Research, could lead to more effective forms of cancer treatment, particularly for newly diagnosed women.
Researchers have discovered a new drug, pifithrin-alpha, that can protect healthy tissues from radiation damage and reduce side effects. The treatment strategy may allow for higher doses of therapy to be administered, improving cure rates.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers suggests that an immune system response to fungus is the cause of most chronic sinus infections, which affects 37 million people in the US. The discovery opens the door to the development of effective treatments for this common chronic disease.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a groundbreaking treatment for self-injury in people with developmental disabilities. By combining communication training with naltrexone, a medication that blocks the brain's opiate receptors, they were able to significantly reduce or eliminate self-injury in most cases.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered that Fragile X syndrome affects dendritic spine development in the brain, leading to impaired protein synthesis and maturation. This process is fundamental to normal brain development and may hold clues to understanding the cause of mental impairment.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have created a new family of molecules with metal atoms inside a carbon cage. The discovery has significant implications for various fields such as medicine, optics, and electronics. The researchers found that they can produce these molecules in high yield and purity using a unique process.
Researchers found aggressive cancer cells generate their own vascular networks, potentially changing how cancers are treated. The discovery may lead to new non-invasive imaging tests and targeted therapies.
Researchers found that methylation of estrogen receptor genes may be linked to atherosclerosis and increased risk of heart disease in women. The study suggests that a genetic shutdown may contribute to the perplexing results of hormone replacement therapy on heart disease.
A team of scientists has discovered a new primate genus, Equatorius, which helps reshape the complex evolutionary tree around the time when the ancestor to humans and great apes arose. The research reveals that one species, Kenyapithecus wickeri, is more closely related to this ancestor than previously thought.
The Johns Hopkins Center for Craniofacial Development and Disorders will investigate the genetic causes of oral clefting, craniosynostosis, and other craniofacial malformations. Researchers will also study the interactions between children with craniofacial disorders and those whose skulls developed normally.
UT Southwestern researchers have identified a severe enzyme deficiency responsible for some Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) cases. The SCHAD enzyme deficiency affects an infant's ability to break down fatty acids, leading to a brain energy crisis and potentially fatal coma.
Family history may play a role in developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with those having a family member with significant heartburn or esophagus/stomach disease twice as likely to experience it themselves. Obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are also risk factors for GERD.
A University of Iowa research team has identified two new genes linked to the invasive and metastatic spread of breast cancer. The findings, published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, provide important new insights into the complex process of tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
Research suggests that bullying is a continuum of behaviors, with many students engaging in both bullying and victimization. Teachers and parents can play a crucial role in supporting affected students. Effective interventions require changing school climate and tailoring approaches to address physical aggression and bullying.
Researchers from around the world are measuring fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Atlanta's air to understand its health effects and sources. The study aims to develop better instruments for measuring PM2.5 and its composition, with potential implications for controlling ozone and PM-related pollution.
Breakthroughs in self-assembly and supermaterials could lead to extraordinary applications such as artificial body parts, ultraresistant coatings, and high-definition television screens. Five experts will share their discoveries that could jump-start new marvels in materials technology.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine discovered that anti-diabetic agents can significantly reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease in mice. The study suggests that these compounds may be an effective treatment for humans with ulcerative colitis, a debilitating disorder affecting millions worldwide.
The Initiative for Design of Bio-Inspired Materials receives a $2-million grant to explore new physical materials based on biological templates. Researchers aim to develop functional materials and control biological processes using advanced techniques.
The NSF award establishes a Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, focusing on complex social behaviors and emotions. The center will study brain mechanisms and develop powerful new technologies.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center created mice with narcolepsy by removing the neuropeptide orexin. The mice exhibited rapid eye movement (REM) sleep at the beginning of a sleep period, unlike normal mice, indicating a potential link to treatments for the disorder.
The UCSF Cancer Center has received designation from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), becoming the only NCI-designated cancer center in Northern California. The center will receive up to $850,000 per year for research infrastructure and administration.
UI researchers found that restoring E-cadherin protein hinders prostate cancer spread and enhances cell adhesion. The study provides a potential new approach to target invasive prostate cancer.