Memory loss caused by West Nile virus explained

Memory loss caused by West Nile virus explained

New research from the School of Medicine shows that long-term neurological problems in those with West Nile Virus may be due to the patient’s own immune system destroying parts of the neurons in the brain. It suggests that intervening in the immune response may help prevent brain damage so patients can recover.
New insight into role of amyloid beta in Alzheimer’s disease

New insight into role of amyloid beta in Alzheimer’s disease

New Alzheimer’s disease research details a technique that speedily measures levels in the brain of a damaging protein fragment, and insight into why mutations in a specific gene increase the risk of developing the disease. Both studies, from researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, are available online in The Journal of Experimental Medicine.
Probing proteins’ 3-D structures suggests existing drugs may work for many cancers

Probing proteins’ 3-D structures suggests existing drugs may work for many cancers

Examining databases of proteins’ 3-D shapes, scientists at School of Medicine have identified more than 850 DNA mutations that appear to be linked to cancer. The information may expand the number of cancer patients who can benefit from existing drugs. The study, published June 13 in Nature Genetics, detailed a list of the mutations and associated drugs that may work against them.
Gut microbes’ metabolite dampens proliferation of intestinal stem cells

Gut microbes’ metabolite dampens proliferation of intestinal stem cells

New research at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis indicates stem cells located in “pockets” in the intestine avoid contact with a prominent metabolite produced by beneficial microbes living in the gut. That metabolite – butyrate – restricts the proliferation of stem cells, potentially hampering the intestine from repairing itself after an injury or damage.
Older Stories