News on the money and policy behind biomedical research. Covers foundation and career-development awards, endocrine and neuroscience funding, and university royalties.
A recent study found that public investment in critical research contributed significantly to the development of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. The US government invested at least $337 million in research over 35 years, including basic science and vaccine development.
The US government invested at least $337 million in critical research leading to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines before the pandemic, and $31.6 billion during it. These public investments saved millions of lives and have potential to address future pandemics and treat other diseases.
Researchers at UTHealth Houston received $15 million in NIH BRAIN grants to study brain processes related to speech, epilepsy, and reading. A new minimally invasive device will be developed to record brain activity during speech, while another project aims to disrupt seizures using neuromodulation.
A growing gap in NIH funding created an elite class of super principal investigators with persistent gaps in gender, ethnicity, and race. Researchers highlighted the critical need for reform to promote equity among NIH investigators.
A decade-long analysis reveals that most clinical trials are never cited by the time they reach point-of-care, with less than one in two Phase III trials being cited across 9 out of 18 medical specialties. The study found that NIH funding correlates strongly with citation rates, with costs ranging from $48,086 to $874 per new citation.
Virginia Tech researchers Traci DuBose and Meryl Mims studied 90 species of frogs and toads using publicly available data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. They found that approximately 11% of anuran species are sensitive to climate change but not currently listed as at-risk.
The American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) has awarded four radiologists with the 2023 Resident/Fellow in Radiology Awards for their exceptional research, education, and administrative work. Drs. Elliot T. Varney, Vincius Alves, Luca Pasquini, and Pallavi Srivastava will present their research findings at the upcoming ARRS Annual Meeting...
Researchers discovered that frail patients who received additional support before and after surgery were 18% less likely to die within a year. By connecting these patients with medical professionals and resources, they can make healthy lifestyle changes and receive guidance on managing their condition without surgical intervention.
The new grant enables LJI to lead the Human Immunology Project Consortium Data Coordinating Center, providing access to human immunoprofiling data from over 11,000 participants. This will fuel scientific collaboration in understanding immune responses to viruses, autoimmune diseases, and more.
Health systems nationwide are committing to better heart failure patient care through the American Heart Association's IMPLEMENT-HF initiative, which aims to bridge gaps in care and improve outcomes. The program uses established data collection approaches to develop new standards for heart failure patient management.
UConn professor Yupeng Chen leads a project with Eascra and Axiom Space to develop therapeutic biomaterials in space, leveraging microgravity for better structural integrity and therapeutic outcomes. The $1.86M NASA contract supports two flights over two years, paving the way for commercialization of in-space manufacturing strategy.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have designed a soft and breathable material that can be worn on the skin without causing discomfort. The material, made from liquid-metal elastomer composite, has integrated antibacterial and antiviral properties to prevent the formation of harmful pathogens.
The NCI is funding a $587,000 research grant to improve KRAS treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer. Dr. Andrew Waters aims to develop personalized medicine approaches by studying unique resistance mechanisms.
A recent study found that nearly half of older adults receive no dental care and half lack dental insurance. After becoming eligible for Medicare, the percentage of people receiving restorative dental care decreased by 8.7%, while complete edentulism increased by almost 5 percentage points among those aged 65 and above.
Scientists have identified genes that play key roles in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD), a leading cause of death worldwide. The study found notable differences in gene activity between males and females, as well as between cells that were multiplying and those that were not.
A new smartphone application called FAST.AI uses machine learning algorithms to recognize facial asymmetry, arm weakness, and speech changes in people experiencing a stroke. The app's accuracy was validated through a study involving nearly 270 patients with acute stroke, showing promise as a tool for prompt individuals to seek care.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.
Researchers identified a subset of mutations within tumor mutation burden that remain persistent and visible to the immune system, increasing likelihood of response to immunotherapy. This finding enables clinicians to more accurately select patients for clinical trials or predict clinical outcomes with immune checkpoint blockade.
Researchers developed bioprinted artificial skin that mimics human skin, reducing animal testing in cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. The model achieved similar results as traditionally produced models, passing international validation tests, including barrier function and irritant response assessment.
The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grant will support advanced imaging training for over 2,000 scientists through a combination of hands-on events and online resources. Array tomography, an imaging technique that offers higher resolution and detailed molecular labeling, will be a key focus of the project.
Researchers from UTSA and UT Health San Antonio are developing compounds that target the estrogen receptor-beta, which suppresses cancer growth. The goal is to identify a novel ER-beta agonist with potential as a therapeutic strategy for treating GBM in patients.
A study found that people can recall the location of over 100 objects on a grid with high accuracy, even after removing all images. Additionally, participants localized 60-80% of old items to within +/-10% of their correct time.
Researchers at Aarhus University are developing a novel treatment for multiple sclerosis by spinning artificial nerve fibers using electro-spun fibres. The goal is to restore nerve impulses quickly, as the myelin sheath deteriorates with age.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed ESPRESSO, a new computational tool that can accurately discover and quantify RNA molecules from error-prone long-read RNA sequencing data. This will enable better diagnosis of rare genetic diseases and discovery of potential therapeutic targets in cancer.
Researchers will use new technologies to tag and measure newly created proteins, studying protein lifespan in immune cells. The goal is to understand protein dynamics on a large scale, addressing a knowledge gap in biology.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a novel mechanism of tumor formation in kidney cancers, highlighting the role of overactive mTORC1 signaling pathway and loss of the TSC tumor suppressor gene. Activation of microphthalmia transcription factors (MITF) family by unopposed mTOR signaling may lead to abnormal cell gr...
A new study has mapped the parts of the brain that support fluid intelligence, a key feature of human cognition. The research found that patients with damage to the right frontal regions performed poorly in tasks requiring problem-solving and reasoning.
A new study from the University of Virginia Health System found that mRNA booster shots increase the durability of antibodies to COVID-19. The boosters led to longer-lasting antibodies, even in those who had previously recovered from a COVID-19 infection.
Researchers discovered that enterococci, a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, can make C. difficile more potent and dangerous by producing amino acids. This understanding could help doctors identify patients at risk and develop new treatments for the deadly infection.
Research from University of Virginia Health System suggests antidepressants can heighten lifelong brain changes in babies, such as autism, when combined with infection or inflammation during pregnancy. SSRIs interact powerfully with the mother's body, causing harmful changes in the placenta and developing brain.
A team led by Abhinav Jha is developing a novel low-count quantitative single photon emission computed tomography (LC-QSPECT) method to measure the concentration of radiopharmaceutical material in tumors and vital organs. This technique aims to provide accurate measurements of absorbed dose from radiation therapy, helping plan treatmen...
A new study uses drone-mounted technology to deter bats from flying into wind turbines, reducing fatalities by 40% and allowing turbines to operate efficiently. The device transmits ultrasonic signals and lights to warn bats of danger, leading them to fly over the turbine and out of harm's way.
The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center will receive funding from the American Cancer Society Institutional Research Grant (IRG) to support pilot work, training, and career development for junior faculty members. The grant aims to address cancer disparities in Los Angeles and beyond.
A team led by UMass Amherst scientist Margaret Stratton is studying the calcium-sensitive protein CaMKII to understand long-term memory and its potential therapeutic applications. The research has far-reaching implications for treating neurologic diseases, cardiac dysfunction, and infertility.
Dr. Keith Chan joins Houston Methodist to enhance chemoimmunotherapy responses in bladder cancer, while also expanding research into pancreatic and skin cancers. He will lead translational research and mentor next-generation cancer researchers.
A WVU study found that children from non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent households and multi-generational families, face difficulties accessing healthcare. The research highlights the need for providers to be aware of the unique challenges faced by these families and to adapt their services accordingly.
The National Cancer Institute awards $10.5 million to USC's Division of Biostatistics to develop statistical methods for uncovering new risk factors associated with cancer by integrating large volumes of health, genomic, and exposure data. The project aims to provide new insights into complex biological processes and discoveries of nov...
The American Heart Association has added a new $4 million grant to its $24 million Strategically-Focused Research Network (SFRN) on the Science of Diversity in Clinical Trials. The new center, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Morgan State University, aims to identify ways to increase participation and recruitment of p...
Rice University researchers are developing implants that can produce and deliver monoclonal anti-HIV antibody therapeutics for at least a year. The project aims to reduce the cost and improve the logistics of HIV treatment, making it more accessible and beneficial for patients worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing a wearable heart monitor using a breathable material with antibacterial and antiviral properties. The device will track heart health via dual signals, providing continuous monitoring for early detection of heart disease.
The NSF is funding projects that utilize the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory to advance tissue engineering and mechanobiology research. This solicitation aims to further drug discovery and therapeutic development through space-based research, with potential impacts on regenerative medicine and disease diagnosis.
Dr. Jayaraman's team will analyze glutamate receptors involved in learning and memory processes, shedding light on pathologies of learning disabilities, epilepsy, and other neurological issues.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing a new treatment for Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant yeast that causes serious infection and death. The five-year NIH grant will enhance an antifungal drug developed by SCYNEXIS to prevent the spread of the fungus.
A recent survey of adults found that several medical phrases are frequently misinterpreted, leading to incorrect treatment and care. The study highlights the need for clear communication between healthcare providers and patients to avoid misunderstandings.
UVA researchers developed a new tool to analyze genetic data, reducing noise and bias in cancer diagnosis. The tool uses mathematical modeling to identify patterns in chromatin, helping scientists detect tiny numbers of disease cells.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded over $12 million to three institutions for the development of antiviral therapies against pandemic viruses. The funding will support the optimization, development, and clinical testing of promising antiviral candidates.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University identified optimal sedatives and anesthetics for studying marmoset brains at rest, preserving the resting state network. The study suggests a more realistic solution for accurate data, with Midazolam or Dexmedetomidine combined with light restraint being the most effective option.
Scientists at Texas A&M University found that transplanting intestinal epithelial stem cells can repair the gut and reduce inflammation, potentially preserving cognitive function after a stroke. The study suggests that targeting gut health may be key to developing more effective stroke therapies.
Researchers are exploring how aging affects communication between bone and muscle, finding that imbalance can lead to muscle loss, falls, and bone fractures. They aim to develop novel interventions to restore this balance, potentially treating osteoporosis and sarcopenia.
The USC+CHLA Alpha Clinic will advance clinical trials of new cell and gene therapies, engaging underserved communities and training the workforce that conducts them. This program complements existing efforts to translate discoveries into new therapies for better health outcomes.
Albert Almada's laboratory will explore the role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) in muscle repair and regeneration. Lower levels of NAD+ may be inactivating stem cell repair, and re-activating it could promote better muscle healing in older animals.
Researchers will use household dust samples to develop a receptor bioactivity component model to predict adipogenic health outcomes. The goal is to improve chemical risk assessment models to account for everyday exposures to hundreds of different chemicals.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) and the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research have awarded grants to seven early-career scientists to explore vital topics in aging research. Recipients will receive up to $125,000 to support research focused on aging processes and age-related diseases.
The West Texas Pharmacology Core laboratory at TTUHSC will focus on two primary areas: drug development and pediatric cancer. The core aims to address obstacles in drug development, including limited pharmacology expertise for small biotech companies and low profitability for pediatric cancer drugs.
Amanda Woerman's research aims to disrupt tau misfolding, a common thread in fatal neurodegenerative disorders PSP and CBD. The grant-funded study seeks to test a proof-of-concept gene therapy for these conditions, potentially leading to personalized medicine breakthroughs.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to examine how alcohol use alone or in combination with fentanyl affects HIV medications, including PrEP medication. The study aims to determine metabolite signatures and pharmacological biomarkers of PrEP in HIV-negative populations.
The American Heart Association has selected 52 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students for its Scholars program. The program aims to increase diversity in the healthcare field by providing opportunities for research, mentorship, and leadership development. Accepted students will study social determinants of health ...
The Alpha Stem Cell Clinic will develop preclinical studies into early and later phase clinical trials with the goal of establishing advanced regenerative medicine treatments. The clinic will also foster greater collaboration with eight similar clinics across the state and educate the public about stem cell and related therapies.
Researchers will develop interactive game-based mental health intervention using autonomic biofeedback training to identify users' emotional states. The technology aims to provide personalized interventions for stress- and anxiety-related events in real-time.