First gene linked to common form of psoriasis identified
Scientists have identified the first gene directly linked to the most common form of psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. The research shows that rare mutations in the CARD14 gene, when activated by an environmental trigger, can lead to plaque psoriasis. This type of psoriasis accounts for 80 percent of all cases.
Kidney stone mystery solved
New research by scientists at the School of Medicine provides evidence to explain why some people are more prone to develop kidney stones than others. The discovery opens the door to finding effective drug treatments and a test that could assess a person’s risk of kidney stones.
WUSTL Neurofibromatosis Center to host symposium May 4
The Washington University Neurofibromatosis (NF) Center
at will host its first research symposium May 4. The event will
focus on clinical and basic science research on neurofibromatosis 1, an inherited condition that increases risk of brain tumors in children and adults.
Study of half siblings provides genetic clues to autism
When a child has autism, siblings are also at risk for the disorder. New research from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis shows that the genetic reach of the disorder often extends to half siblings as well. The discovery is giving scientists new clues to how autism is inherited.
Batter up! Tread the Med kicks off April 26
Tread the Med, the School of Medicine’s wellness and walking initiative, kicks off its “Most Valuable Walker” campaign from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. April 26 in Hudlin Park with a ceremonial first walk led by Larry J. Shapiro, MD, executive vice chancellor for medical affairs and dean of the School of Medicine; James P. Crane, MD, associate vice chancellor for clinical affairs, and Fredbird, mascot of the St. Louis Cardinals.
School of Medicine Earth Day celebration April 19
Earth Day activities at the School of Medicine will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Thursday, April 19. All faculty, staff and students are encouraged to take part to learn about energy conservation and alternative energy; recycling; gardening and water conservation; and transportation and clean air.
Early-stage lung cancer treatments evaluated in patients with breathing problems
The Siteman Cancer Center at Washington University
School of Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital is seeking patients for a
clinical study to determine the best treatment for patients with
early-stage lung cancer who also have breathing problems. The study focuses on patients with the most common type of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer.
Morris to deliver Friedman lecture
John C. Morris, MD, the Harvey A. and Dorismae Hacker Friedman Distinguished Professor of Neurology and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, will deliver the 2012 Friedman lecture at 3 p.m. April 30, in Graham Chapel. His lecture is titled “The Aging Mind: Realities and Myths.”
Washington People: Lilianna Solnica-Krezel
Growing up in the picturesque town of Sandomierz in southeastern Poland, Lilianna Solnica-Krezel, PhD, was a serious student and an uncommonly avid reader. Today, Solnica-Krezel, professor and head of the Department of Developmental Biology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is a leading expert in understanding the earliest stages of life’s development.
Occupational therapy students get older adults ‘CarFit’
Students in the Program in Occupational Therapy worked with drivers from the community during the CarFit event March 31 at the School of Medicine. Drivers who came to the event were evaluated by Washington University occupational therapy students to ensure the vehicles were properly adjusted for the driver.
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