NIH Research Matters
October 2008 Archive
October 27, 2008
Large-Scale Genetic Study Sheds Light on Lung Cancer
In the largest effort of its kind, scientists have charted the genetic changes involved in the most common form of lung cancer, implicating more than a dozen new genes. The findings should help pave the way for more individualized approaches for detection and treatment.
Artificial Connections Restore Movement to Paralyzed Limbs
Researchers have shown for the first time that a direct artificial connection from the brain to muscles can restore movement in monkeys whose arms have been temporarily anesthetized. The results have promising implications for future prosthetic design.
Novel Type of Antibody Inhibits HIV Infection
Researchers have identified a small antibody fragment that is highly effective at neutralizing the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The finding may lead to new treatments against HIV and other viruses.
October 20, 2008
Scientists Analyze Genome of Relapsing Malaria Parasite
Scientists have deciphered the complete genetic sequence of the parasite Plasmodium vivax, the leading cause of relapsing malaria, and compared it with the genomes of other species of malaria parasites. The findings shed light on distinctive genetic features of P. vivax and may lead to new tools to prevent and treat P. vivax malaria.
Office-Based Treatment Best for Childhood Vision Disorder
According to a new study, children with a common eye-muscle disorder responded better to treatments that included weekly office visits to a trained therapist than to strictly home-based regimens, which are more often prescribed.
Insights into Immune Cell Matchmaker Protein
Scientists have identified a protein that plays matchmaker between 2 key types of immune cells, T and B cells, enabling them to establish long-lasting immunity after an infection.
October 6, 2008
New Genes Linked to Gout
Researchers have identified 2 new genes—and confirmed the role of a third—that are associated with increased risk of higher levels of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to gout, a common, painful form of arthritis.
Rethinking Metastasis
Most cancer deaths result from metastasis, the spread of cancer from a tumor to other parts of the body. Researchers have long thought that metastasis comes at a late stage of cancer. A new study suggests that the process may start long before that.
Making “Safer” Stem Cells
By using a common cold virus to insert 4 genes into mouse cells, scientists have converted adult liver and other cells into versatile stem cells that can grow into a wide variety of cell types. The new technique sidesteps the cancer-causing potential of a previously developed method that used a different kind of virus.
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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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