Research News

An experimental bacteria-derived biopesticide is highly effective in killing malaria-carrying mosquitoes, including those that have developed resistance to chemical pesticides, according to initial field tests led by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health have developed a novel computational pipeline designed to identify protein biomarkers associated with complex diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This innovative tool analyzes biomarkers that can induce 3D structural changes in proteins, providing critical insights into disease mechanisms and highlighting potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

Researchers have analysed the effects of seven different hormone treatments for menopausal symptoms, and the risk of blood clots, stroke and heart attack. The risks differ depending on the active substance and how the medicine is taken. The study involves around one million women aged 50-58 and is the largest and most comprehensive study of currently prescribed hormonal substances in the world. 

Effective immunity hinges on the ability to sense infection and cellular transformation. In humans, there is a specialised molecule on the surface of cells termed MR1. MR1 allows sensing of certain small molecule metabolites derived from cellular and microbial sources; however, the breadth of metabolite sensing is unclear.

The findings, published today in Nature Medicine, show that these genetic factors also lead to quicker development of health complications, earlier need for insulin treatment, and a weaker response to some medications. The results of this research, funded by Barts Charity and Wellcome, reinforce the need to understand how genetic variation across different population groups can influence the onset of diseases, treatment responses, and disease progression. 

Laboratory experiments with cancer cells reveal two ways in which tumors evade drugs designed to starve and kill them, a new study shows.

Cervical cancer deaths have plunged dramatically among women under age 25, and researchers at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center believe this is likely due to HPV vaccination. Their study, published in JAMA, is the first to suggest the impact of HPV vaccination on cervical cancer deaths.