Diversity and Inclusion Grants awarded
The Advisory Committee for the Diversity and Inclusion Grants has awarded eight grants totaling nearly $174,000 to Washington University faculty and administrators for initiatives that improve the university environment for women and members of underrepresented minority groups.
Jaffe named president of pediatric association
David M. Jaffe, MD, was elected president of the Academic Pediatric Association at its recent annual meeting in Boston. Jaffe is the Dana Brown Professor of Pediatrics and director of the Division of Emergency Medicine in the Department of Pediatrics at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and medical director of emergency services at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Unusual protein helps regulate key cell communication pathway
Charged atoms, or ions, move through tiny pores, or channels, embedded in cell membranes, generating the electrical signals that allow cells to communicate with one another. In new research, scientists have shown how an unusual protein plays a key role in temporarily blocking the movement of ions through these channels. Preventing ions from moving through the channel gives cells time to recharge so that they can continue firing.
Washington People: David Warren
David Warren, MD, medical director for infection control at the School of Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital, works diligently to prevent infections, but when they do occur, he pulls out all the stops to halt their spread. And in a world that is increasingly interconnected,
Warren also must keep abreast of emerging global epidemics that have the
potential to wreak havoc if there’s a local outbreak.
Alzheimer’s plaques disrupt brain networks
Scientists studying the way Alzheimer’s disease takes root in
the brain have identified important new similarities between a mouse
model and human Alzheimer’s. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
have shown that brain plaques in mice are associated with disruption of
the ability of brain regions to network with each other.
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.
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.
FIHTM to hold symposium April 21
The Forum for International Health and Tropical Medicine (FIHTM), a student group that works to expose the medical community firsthand to international health concerns, is hosting its 14th annual Global Health Symposium from 8:30 am.-2 p.m., Saturday, April 21.
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.
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