Medical Research News

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More Medical Research Stories

Scientists Achieve First Human Transplant Using Enzyme-Converted Universal Donor Kidney

Originally Published 3 months ago — by Nature

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Source: Nature

Researchers successfully converted a donor kidney's blood type from A to O using an enzyme, enabling its transplantation into a recipient, which could significantly improve organ donation accessibility and reduce wait times.

Innovative Methods Unveil Cancer Evolution and Resistance in Ovarian Cancer

Originally Published 3 months ago — by Nature

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Source: Nature

The study introduces CloneSeq-SV, a method combining single-cell whole-genome sequencing and circulating tumor DNA analysis to track clonal evolution and structural variants in ovarian cancer, revealing mechanisms of drug resistance and potential for adaptive therapy.

Emerging Role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Originally Published 4 months ago — by Nature

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Source: Nature

This review explores the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists as emerging treatments for bipolar disorder, summarizing preclinical and clinical evidence supporting their therapeutic role in mood regulation, neuroprotection, and metabolic health.

Missing Enzyme-Rescue Metabolite Causes Rare Skeletal Dysplasia

Originally Published 4 months ago — by Nature

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Source: Nature

The study identifies TGDS as an enzyme producing UDP-4-keto-6-deoxyglucose, which reactivates UXS1, a key enzyme in glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Deficiency in TGDS impairs this process, leading to Catel–Manzke syndrome, a rare skeletal disorder, with evidence from cell models, patient fibroblasts, and mouse models supporting this molecular mechanism.

Nighttime Pistachios Improve Gut Bacteria in Prediabetic Adults

Originally Published 6 months ago — by News-Medical

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Source: News-Medical

A study found that consuming pistachios at night for 12 weeks alters gut bacteria in adults with prediabetes, increasing beneficial bacteria like Roseburia and Lachnospiraceae, which may support gut health and potentially slow the progression to Type 2 diabetes, though further research is needed to confirm health benefits.

MIT's Hydrogel 'Invisibility Cloak' Prevents Implant Scarring

Originally Published 1 year ago — by MIT News

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Source: MIT News

MIT engineers have developed a hydrogel adhesive coating for medical implants that prevents fibrosis, or scar tissue formation, which can interfere with device function. This adhesive binds the devices to tissue, preventing the immune system from attacking them. The approach has shown success in animal models and could be used for various implants, including pacemakers and drug delivery devices. The research, published in Nature, was funded by the NIH and NSF.

"Preventing Brain Injuries: Strategies to Avoid Neurosurgery Consultations"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by First10EM

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Source: First10EM

A prospective multi-institutional trial validated the Brain Injury Guidelines (BIG) for traumatic brain injury patients, finding that low-risk patients classified by BIG did not require neurosurgical intervention, potentially reducing resource utilization. However, the study's data has limitations, including missing information and loss to follow-up, and lacks statistical analysis, suggesting caution in complete guideline implementation. The study highlights the need for further research and consideration of selection bias and generalizability in applying the guidelines to diverse clinical settings.

New Fusobacterium Nucleatum Clade Found in 50% of Aggressive Colon Cancers

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Nature.com

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Source: Nature.com

A study reveals that a specific clade within the Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) subspecies dominates the colorectal cancer (CRC) niche, with in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating its high virulence in the context of CRC. Comparative genomics and functional studies show that this clade, known as Fna clade 2 (Fna C2), is significantly associated with the CRC niche and possesses distinct genetic and epigenetic characteristics compared to Fna clade 1 (Fna C1). Fna C2 is enriched in CRC tumors and exhibits differential invasion potential and morphological differences compared to Fna C1, shedding light on its potential role in CRC pathogenicity.