Viruses exacerbate disease caused by Leishmania parasite
Washington University School of Medicine’s Stephen Beverley found that viruses hidden inside the parasite Leishmania worsen disease caused by the parasite. Now, an evolutionary survey of the viruses in related parasites suggests that Leishmania’s viruses may have helped it make the jump from infecting insects to infecting vertebrates.
Formula made with cow’s milk does not increase diabetes risk
A 15-year global study of children genetically predisposed to developing Type 1 diabetes found that drinking formula made with cow’s milk did not increase their risk for developing the disease. School of Medicine scientists were among the international team of researchers who conducted the study.
Lack of sleep boosts levels of Alzheimer’s proteins
Chronic poor sleep has been linked to cognitive decline. A new study from the School of Medicine shows that a sleepless night causes levels of the Alzheimer’s protein amyloid beta to rise faster than the brain’s waste-disposal system can remove it. Persistently high levels of the protein can set off a cascade of brain changes leading to dementia.
Study prompts new ideas on cancers’ origins
A new study from the School of Medicine reveals that although many cancer therapies target rapidly dividing stem cells, mature cells also seem to play a key role in initiating cancer, at least in forming precancerous lesions.
Deadly heart rhythm halted by noninvasive radiation therapy
Radiation therapy often is used to treat cancer patients. Now, School of Medicine doctors have shown that radiation therapy — aimed directly at the heart — can be used to treat patients with a life-threatening heart rhythm.
A key to tackling childhood obesity: Involve families and follow up
When trying to help children lose weight, involving a parent in the treatment makes the entire family healthier, researchers at the School of Medicine have shown.
$3.9 million supports research to turn bacteria into biofuel producers
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have received a $3.9 million grant from the Department of Energy (DOE) to develop bacteria that manufacture renewable biofuels — energy sources made from plants or microbes.
Washington University research spurs new WHO guidelines for disabling tropical disease
Research led by the School of Medicine has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue new treatment guidelines aimed at accelerating global elimination of lymphatic filariasis – a devastating tropical disease.
Kidney disease increases risk of diabetes, study shows
School of Medicine researchers have linked kidney disease to a higher risk of diabetes. They found that the likely cause is elevated urea levels.
Brain networks that help babies learn to walk ID’d
School of Medicine scientists have identified brain networks involved in a baby’s learning to walk — a discovery that eventually may help predict whether some infants are at risk for autism.
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