NIH Research Matters
March 2011 Archive
March 28, 2011
Blood Test May Predict Diabetes Risk
Scientists have identified 5 molecules in the blood that can foretell diabetes risk years before typical signs of the disease appear. The finding might help to identify at-risk people who could take steps to delay or halt the disease.
Gene Therapy Halts Binge Drinking in Rats
In a series of experiments, researchers gained new insights into the molecular players involved in binge drinking. The findings suggest future therapeutic strategies.
"Good Cholesterol" Comes Into Focus
Scientists have created a 3-D model of cholesterol carriers. The accomplishment could help explain why "good cholesterol" is so good.
March 21, 2011
Drug Helps Improve Asthma Treatment in Youths
Adding a drug called omalizumab to asthma therapy nearly eliminated the fall and spring seasonal surges in asthma attacks among children and adolescents living in inner cities.
Scientists Switch Off Brain's Anxiety Circuit
Scientists have identified a distinct brain circuit that seems to switch anxiety off and on in the mouse brain. The discovery could have implications for developing improved anti-anxiety medications for humans.
A Molecular Link Between Sleep and Liver Fat
Researchers have discovered a molecular link between the body's biological clock and fat production in the liver. The finding may help explain why disrupting your daily cycle increases the risk of diseases like obesity and diabetes.
March 14, 2011
Faulty Gene Helps Tumors Dodge Drugs
Researchers have shown how a defective or missing gene may allow some tumors to resist cancer-fighting drugs. The finding may eventually lead to more targeted chemotherapy based on patients’ genes.
Barbers Help Black Men Beat High Blood Pressure
A new study found that barbers successfully helped fight high blood pressure in African-American men. The results support an increasingly popular practice, in which trusted community members deliver key health messages to those who need them.
Enzyme Can Alter Long-Term Memories
Even long after memories have formed, they can be enhanced or erased by altering the activity of a single brain enzyme, a new study reveals. The finding may give insight into treatment strategies for a variety of memory disorders.
March 7, 2011
Protein Helps Pregnancy Proceed
Researchers have identified a key step in the establishment of a pregnancy. The discovery may shed light on fertility disorders and diseases of the uterus, including endometrial cancer.
Fungi Developed to Fight Malaria in Mosquitoes
A genetically engineered fungus could be a highly effective tool for preventing malaria transmission. The advance might offer a new line of defense in combating a disease that affects nearly 300 million people worldwide.
Clues for Schizophrenia in Rare Gene Glitch
Scientists have found a rare genetic mutation that, while appearing in only one-third of 1% of schizophrenia patients, may hold clues to improved treatments.
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About NIH Research Matters
Harrison Wein, Ph.D., Editor
Vicki Contie, Assistant Editor
NIH Research Matters is a weekly update of NIH research highlights from the Office of Communications and Public Liaison, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health.
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