University of Sheffield Receives Grant for Motor Neuron Disease Research
The University of Sheffield research team, led by Dr. Ryan West and Dr. Johnathan Cooper-Knock, receives a share of a $5 million fund to investigate the relationship between environmental factors and genes associated with motor neuron disease (MND). With no known cure for MND, this research is crucial for developing preventive strategies and treatment options. Tambourine Philanthropies’ grant supports eight global research teams, with Sheffield being the sole UK recipient, highlighting the significance of their work. By exploring how environmental factors interact with MND susceptibility genes, the team aims to uncover the disease’s origins and potentially identify ways to mitigate its impact, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in tackling complex medical challenges.
Man’s Near-Death Experience Highlights Dangers of Smoking Cannabis with Contaminated Water
A 25-year-old man in Connecticut faced a life-threatening situation after using a cannabis bong filled with water from a garden hose, leading to a rare and deadly lung infection known as Legionnaires’ disease. This incident sheds light on the dangers of using contaminated water sources in devices like bongs for substance consumption, emphasizing the need to be aware of the risks associated with bacterial infections, especially in the context of recreational drug use.
Benign Nail Condition Linked to Rare Inherited Disorder Increasing Cancer Risk
Discover how a benign nail condition can be linked to a rare inherited disorder that increases the risk of cancer. Learn about the breakthrough research published in JAMA Dermatology and presented at the Society for Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting, highlighting the significance of nail evaluations in identifying individuals at risk of developing cancerous tumors.
Link Between Traumatic Life Events and Alzheimer’s Risk
Recent studies suggest a potential link between traumatic life events and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals who experienced stress at a young age may be more susceptible to Alzheimer’s later in life, as observed through higher levels of Alzheimer’s-associated proteins in spinal fluid samples. Despite ongoing research efforts, the exact cause of Alzheimer’s remains unclear, with genetic factors and protein production in the brain being common markers. Analyzing spinal fluid for these proteins could serve as an effective diagnostic tool, as shown in recent studies from Columbia University and Spain. The study published in the Annals of Neurology highlights the significance of stressful life events in contributing to Alzheimer’s development.
World Hypertension Day 2021: Addressing the Global Epidemic of Non-communicable Diseases
World Hypertension Day, initiated by the WHL, aims to raise awareness about the global epidemic of NCDs driven by hypertension. With over 294 million people living with hypertension in the South-East Asia Region, early detection and control are crucial to prevent severe health issues. Initiatives like ‘SEAHEARTS’ and the ‘Dhaka Call to Action’ are working towards accelerating prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases. Countries in the Region are implementing evidence-based strategies to reduce risk factors associated with hypertension and improve management within primary healthcare settings.
Study Finds Limited Likelihood of CWD Transmission from Animals to Humans
A recent study by the NIH explores the transmission potential of chronic wasting disease (CWD) from cervids to humans. Despite concerns about prion diseases like CWD, the research suggests a significant species barrier preventing transmission to humans. The study utilized a human cerebral organoid model to investigate the likelihood of CWD transmission, providing reassurance about the limited risk to humans.
New Menthol Derivatives Show Promise in Fighting Inflammation
Scientists have developed new compounds derived from menthol, known for its medicinal properties, to combat fat and inflammation. The study led by Professor Gen-ichiro Arimura from Tokyo University of Science discovered that menthyl esters of valine and isoleucine showed superior anti-inflammatory effects compared to menthol. Published in the Immunology journal, this research highlights the potential of these compounds in treating inflammatory conditions and opens up exciting possibilities in medicinal chemistry.
WHO Warns of Deadly Hepatitis E Outbreak in Chad
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a warning after an outbreak of Hepatitis E killed seven people in Chad, central Africa. More than 2,000 suspected cases have been reported, with the virus being prominent in the Ouaddai province due to an influx of refugees from Sudan. Doctors Without Borders has expressed concerns about the health risks posed to both refugees and host communities. Hepatitis E is highly contagious and mainly transmitted through contaminated water.
NIAID Marks 27th HIV Vaccine Awareness Day
Learn about the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases’ (NIAID) ongoing efforts to develop a safe, effective, and accessible HIV vaccine. Discover how researchers and scientists are dedicated to transforming public health outcomes through innovative HIV vaccine research, despite the challenges posed by the complexity of the virus.
China Raises Concerns about Increasing Spread of Dengue Fever
Health authorities in China are concerned about the increasing spread of dengue fever, a potentially fatal viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. With a surge of cases in Latin America and an early cluster in Guangdong province, experts warn of the challenges in disease control. Dengue, primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, peaks in China from May to November. As warmer weather approaches, preventative measures such as eliminating stagnant water are crucial to reducing the risk of dengue transmission.