http://www.rxpgnews.com/ Medical News and Information Thu, 25 Oct 2007 07:48:36 PST en-us http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-proposes-new-theory-of-how-viruses-may-contribute-to-cancer_70950.shtml Latest Research PITTSBURGH, Oct. 23 – A new study suggests that viruses may contribute to cancer by causing excessive death to normal cells while promoting the growth of surviving cells with cancerous traits. Viruses may act as forces of natural selection by wiping out normal cells that support the replication of viruses and leaving behind those cells that have acquired defects in their circuitry. When this process is repeated over and over, cancer can develop say study authors, led by Preet M. Chaudhary, M.D., Ph.D., professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Their findings are published by Public Library of Science in the Oct. 24 issue of PLoS ONE. Tue, 23 Oct 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-proposes-new-theory-of-how-viruses-may-contribute-to-cancer_70950.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Chemistry-turns-killer-gas-into-potential-cure_69310.shtml Latest Research Despite its deadly reputation, the gas carbon monoxide (CO) could actually save lives and boost health in future as a result of leading-edge UK research. Mon, 15 Oct 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Chemistry-turns-killer-gas-into-potential-cure_69310.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Anticlotting-drug-found-to-be-safe-in-sickle-cell-patients_68697.shtml Latest Research CHAPEL HILL - An intravenous “blood thinner” widely used in patients with acute coronary syndromes and during coronary artery stent placement appears to be safe in patients with sickle cell disease and may have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, a small study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine has found. Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Anticlotting-drug-found-to-be-safe-in-sickle-cell-patients_68697.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MIT-uncovers-key-blood-protein_68716.shtml Latest Research CAMBRIDGE, MA--Scientists working in the only lab at MIT doing hematology research have uncovered a protein that plays a key role in the recycling of iron from blood. Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MIT-uncovers-key-blood-protein_68716.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Daisies-lead-scientists-down-path-to-new-leukemia-drug_66877.shtml Latest Research A new, easily ingested form of a compound that has already shown it can attack the roots of leukemia in laboratory studies is moving into human clinical trials, according to a new article by University of Rochester investigators in the journal, Blood. Tue, 02 Oct 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Daisies-lead-scientists-down-path-to-new-leukemia-drug_66877.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Novel-strategy-under-study-for-aggressive-leukemia_65173.shtml Latest Research A novel strategy to hopefully beat into oblivion one of the most aggressive forms of acute myelogenous leukemia combines the strengths of some of the newest leukemia agents, researchers say. Mon, 24 Sep 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Novel-strategy-under-study-for-aggressive-leukemia_65173.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sexual-function-affected-by-stem-cell-transplant-according-to-long-term-study_64077.shtml Latest Research WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2007 -- A long-term study found that a type of stem cell transplant used for patients with life-threatening diseases, such as leukemia and lymphoma, results in decreased sexual function and activity for recipients. Further, males are likely to recover from these changes over time, while the sexuality of female patients remains compromised. In addition, neither male nor female long-term cancer survivors regained levels of sexual activity and function equal to those of their peers who have not had cancer, according to a Blood First Edition Paper prepublished online today. Blood is the official journal of the American Society of Hematology. Tue, 18 Sep 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sexual-function-affected-by-stem-cell-transplant-according-to-long-term-study_64077.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Unique-role-for-blood-formation-gene-identified_63050.shtml Latest Research Hanover, NH--All blood cell production in adults depends on the steady work of a vital gene that if lost results in early bone marrow failure, Dartmouth Medical School cancer geneticists have found. Their research reveals an unexpected role for the gene in sustaining the adult blood-forming system, and opens novel strategies for targeting the gene, which is often involved in a type of childhood leukemia. Wed, 12 Sep 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Unique-role-for-blood-formation-gene-identified_63050.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Small-animal-imaging-facility-is-big-boon-to-research_60627.shtml Latest Research When powerful magnets line up the body’s protons before radiofrequency waves can grab their attention away, it’s called spin physics. Thu, 30 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Small-animal-imaging-facility-is-big-boon-to-research_60627.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-cancer-fighter-may-help-ICU-patients-beat-infections_59983.shtml Latest Research HSP 90 inhibitors, which are finding favor in fighting cancer, may also help battle overwhelming infection in intensive care patients, researchers say. Mon, 27 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-cancer-fighter-may-help-ICU-patients-beat-infections_59983.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Bench-to-bedside-look-at-MSC-research-at-Case-Western-Reserve-conference-in-Cleveland_59584.shtml Latest Research CLEVELAND—Researchers from 22 countries will come to Cleveland for a bench to bedside examination of the developing mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from regenerative medicine and stem cell research to therapeutics in patient care. The National Center for Regenerative Medicine for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (NCRM) and founding partner Case Western Reserve University have organized the 2007 Adult Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine Conference, August 27-29, at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Cleveland, to highlight advances in MSC research. The conference is the first organized by the two groups on MSCs. Fri, 24 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Bench-to-bedside-look-at-MSC-research-at-Case-Western-Reserve-conference-in-Cleveland_59584.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Better-life-support-for-artificial-liver-cells_59328.shtml Latest Research COLUMBUS , Ohio -- Researchers at Ohio State University are developing technology for keeping liver cells alive and functioning normally inside bioartificial liver-assist devices (BLADs). Thu, 23 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Better-life-support-for-artificial-liver-cells_59328.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Tumors-use-enzyme-to-recruit-regulatory-T-cells-and-suppress-immune-response_58138.shtml Latest Research One way tumors fly under the radar of the immune system is by using IDO, an enzyme used by fetuses to help avoid rejection, to recruit powerful regulatory T cells that turn down the immune response, researchers say. Thu, 16 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Tumors-use-enzyme-to-recruit-regulatory-T-cells-and-suppress-immune-response_58138.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-study-shows-promise-in-reducing-surgical-risks-associated-with-surgical-bleeding_57061.shtml Latest Research CHICAGO (August 10, 2007) – Surgeons may have a new patient safety tool to stop moderate surgical bleeding without some of the concerns associated with the current standard blood-clotting treatment. New research published in the August issue of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons shows that recombinant human thrombin (rhThrombin) reduces the risk of surgical complications associated with the use of plasma-derived bovine thrombin (bThrombin), which is currently the only commercially available stand-alone thrombin used to improve clotting during surgical procedures and stop bleeding. Fri, 10 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-study-shows-promise-in-reducing-surgical-risks-associated-with-surgical-bleeding_57061.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Teamwork-between-2-key-proteins-necessary-for-normal-development-and-regulation-of-red-blood-cells_56226.shtml Latest Research RICHMOND, Va. (Aug. 6, 2007) – Virginia Commonwealth University researchers studying hemoglobin genes, mutations of which play a role in genetic blood disorders like sickle cell anemia and beta-thalassemia, have identified two proteins that are responsible for regulating overlapping groups of genes during the development of red blood cells. Mon, 06 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Teamwork-between-2-key-proteins-necessary-for-normal-development-and-regulation-of-red-blood-cells_56226.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-shows-radiofrequency-ablation-highly-effective-in-treating-kidney-tumors_55237.shtml Latest Research The patients underwent CT-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) at Wake Forest Baptist for kidney tumors ranging in size from 0.6 cm to 8.8 cm. A total of 125 tumors in 104 patients were treated over the period 2000 to 2006. In all of the patients, a biopsy had confirmed the presence of renal cell carcinomas (RCC), a common type of renal malignancy. Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-shows-radiofrequency-ablation-highly-effective-in-treating-kidney-tumors_55237.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Scientists-find-why-red-beans-and-rice-can-be-nauseating_55308.shtml Latest Research People cry foul when fowl is undercooked, but what about red beans and rice Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Scientists-find-why-red-beans-and-rice-can-be-nauseating_55308.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Penn-researchers-discover-pathway-that-eliminates-genetic-defects-in-red-blood-cells_55432.shtml Latest Research PHILADELPHIA – Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a unique molecular pathway that detects and selectively eliminates defective messenger RNAs from red blood cells. Other such pathways – known as surveillance pathways – operate in a more general way, in many cell types. Knowing how this specific surveillance system works can help researchers better understand hereditary diseases, in this case, thalassemia, a form of anemia, which is the most common genetic disorder worldwide. Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Penn-researchers-discover-pathway-that-eliminates-genetic-defects-in-red-blood-cells_55432.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Aggressive-therapy-best-for-certain-AML-patients_55445.shtml Latest Research COLUMBUS , Ohio – A new study suggests that acute leukemia patients whose cancer cells show a genetic change that usually predicts a swift return of the disease following remission may remain disease-free longer when given aggressive therapy. Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Aggressive-therapy-best-for-certain-AML-patients_55445.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/First-case-of-successful-ovarian-tissue-transplantation-between-two-nonidentical-sisters_55454.shtml Latest Research A woman, whose ovaries had failed due to damage caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, has received a successful ovarian transplant from her genetically non-identical sister. The transplant restored her ovarian function, she started to menstruate and, after a year, doctors were able to recover two mature oocytes from her ovaries and fertilise them to produce two embryos. Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/First-case-of-successful-ovarian-tissue-transplantation-between-two-nonidentical-sisters_55454.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Promising-treatment-target-found-in-Hodgkin-lymphoma_54977.shtml Latest Research BOSTON--Dana-Farber Cancer Institute scientists have identified a protein that prevents the body's immune system from recognizing and attacking Hodgkin lymphoma cells. Based on this finding, the researchers are now investigating targeted therapies to disable this molecular bodyguard and boost a patient's ability to fight the blood cancer. Mon, 30 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Promising-treatment-target-found-in-Hodgkin-lymphoma_54977.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/UB-scientist-discovers-novel-iron-copper-alliance_53679.shtml Latest Research BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Iron is the workhorse of trace minerals. An essential component of red blood cells, disruption of iron levels in the body will result in a myriad of serious conditions, and life cannot be sustained without it. In novel research, investigators at the University at BuffaloÂ’s School of Public Health and Health Professions, have learned that iron is only one half of an all-important duo of trace minerals -- the other being copper -- that work in tandem to maintain proper iron balance, or homeostasis. It appears the workhorse has a helper. James F. Collins, Ph.D., UB assistant professor of exercise and nutrition sciences and biochemistry, discovered that when iron-absorption by cells lining the small intestine decreases during iron-deficient states, copper absorption increases. Collins now is exploring the relationship between these two trace minerals through a $1.38 million grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The work will be carried out using established models of intestinal iron absorption in humans, including iron and iron/copper-deficient rodents and cultured intestinal epithelial cells. “This project is intended to test the overall hypothesis that increased copper transport during iron-deficiency is critical to enhance certain aspects of intestinal iron absorption,” said Collins. “Iron or copper deficiency causes anemia, and abnormal intestinal iron transport is associated with several common human pathologies, including anemia of chronic disease (ACD) and hereditary hemochromatosis (HH), different forms of which result from several common genetic defects.” HH is an inherited metabolic disorder characterized by abnormally high absorption of dietary iron, which is deposited in body tissues and organs, where it may become toxic. ACD is a blood disorder caused by low body iron levels resulting from any medical condition that affects the production and lifespan of red blood cells, such as chronic infection, chronic immune activation resulting in inflammation, or malignancy. Mon, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/UB-scientist-discovers-novel-iron-copper-alliance_53679.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Effects-of-aging-in-stem-cells_53683.shtml Latest Research There is little disagreement that the bodyÂ’s maintenance and repair systems deteriorate with age, even as there is plenty of disagreement as to why. Stem cells combat the aging process by replenishing old or damaged cells—particularly in the skin, gut, and blood—with a fresh supply to maintain and repair tissue. Unfortunately, new evidence published in the open-access journal PLoS Biology suggests that this regenerative capacity also declines with age as stem cells acquire functional defects. Mon, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Effects-of-aging-in-stem-cells_53683.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Computers-pass-dosage-test-for-thrombosis-drugs_52996.shtml Latest Research The largest ever study into the administration of blood thinning drugs like Warfarin has concluded that dosages calculated by computer are at least as safe and reliable as those provided by trained medical professionals. Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Computers-pass-dosage-test-for-thrombosis-drugs_52996.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Enzyme-eliminated-by-cancer-cells-holds-promise-for-cancer-treatment_52816.shtml Latest Research An enzyme that cancer cells eliminate, apparently so they can keep proliferating, may hold clues to more targeted, effective cancer treatment, scientists say. Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Enzyme-eliminated-by-cancer-cells-holds-promise-for-cancer-treatment_52816.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Bak-protein-sets-stressed-cells-on-suicide-path-researchers-show_51683.shtml Latest Research When a cell is seriously stressed, say by a heart attack, stroke or cancer, a protein called Bak just may set it up for suicide, researchers have found. Thu, 12 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Bak-protein-sets-stressed-cells-on-suicide-path-researchers-show_51683.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Method-to-prevent-hemorrhagic-complications-of-thrombolytic-therapy-of-blood-clots-is-discovered_48315.shtml Latest Research A novel method to prevent hemorrhagic complications of thrombolytic therapy of blood clots is discovered. Mon, 02 Jul 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Method-to-prevent-hemorrhagic-complications-of-thrombolytic-therapy-of-blood-clots-is-discovered_48315.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Community-Oncology-explores-pitched-debate-over-anemia-fighting-drugs_47806.shtml Latest Research The June issue of ElsevierÂ’s Community Oncology takes an in-depth look at the charge that ESAs, generally considered vital to cancer patientsÂ’ quality of life, are overprescribed for profit. Scientists, oncologists, and critics of oncologists are in a heated debate now over the use of ESAs, or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents—drugs that fight anemia by boosting levels of oxygen-carrying red blood cells and the protein hemoglobin. Tue, 26 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Community-Oncology-explores-pitched-debate-over-anemia-fighting-drugs_47806.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/A-faster-way-to-recover-from-chemotherapy-and-marrow-transplant_40077.shtml Latest Research Researchers at ChildrenÂ’s Hospital Boston report finding a new way to increase stem cells in blood, suggesting a possible treatment to help patients who undergo chemotherapy or bone marrow transplant for leukemia and other cancers recover their immune function more quickly. In the June 21 issue of Nature, they demonstrate that a stable analog of prostaglandin can enhance the blood-forming system, both during embryonic development and after itÂ’s been damaged. Wed, 20 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/A-faster-way-to-recover-from-chemotherapy-and-marrow-transplant_40077.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Pre-cancerous-blood-diseases-can-be-products-of-their-environment_39533.shtml Latest Research When blood-forming stem cells misbehave, causing pre-cancerous conditions that can sometimes even progress to leukemia, the problem might not always lie with them. Rather, two studies in the June 15 issue of the journal Cell, published by Cell Press, reveal that a bad environment might be to blame. Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Pre-cancerous-blood-diseases-can-be-products-of-their-environment_39533.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/University-of-Pittsburgh-researchers-culture-blood-forming-stem-cells-from-human-fat-tissue_39593.shtml Latest Research TORONTO, June 14 – Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have successfully isolated and cultured human hematopoietic stem cells from fat, or adipose, tissue, suggesting that they have found another important source of cells for reconstituting the bone marrow of patients undergoing intensive radiation therapy for blood cancers. They are presenting this ground-breaking research at the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine International Society (TERMIS) North American Chapter meeting being held June 13 to 16 at the Westin Harbor Castle conference center in Toronto. Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/University-of-Pittsburgh-researchers-culture-blood-forming-stem-cells-from-human-fat-tissue_39593.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Red-cells-count-Study-shows-pre-op-levels-affect-post-op-outcomes_39313.shtml Latest Research PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — Men over 65 with even slightly abnormal red blood cell counts – either too low or too high – are at greater risk of post-operative death or car-diac events following a major non-cardiac surgery, according to a new study by researchers at the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center and The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. Tue, 12 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Red-cells-count-Study-shows-pre-op-levels-affect-post-op-outcomes_39313.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Dasatinib-high_early_response_rate_as_first_treatment_for_chronic_myelogenous_leukemia_37784.shtml Haematology An established second-line drug for chronic myelogenous leukemia has high response rates when given to newly diagnosed patients as their first therapy for the disease, according to early results from a Phase II clinical trial at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. Sun, 03 Jun 2007 02:03:55 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Dasatinib-high_early_response_rate_as_first_treatment_for_chronic_myelogenous_leukemia_37784.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/World-first-medical-treatment-announced-by-researchers_37540.shtml Latest Research Researchers at Queen Mary University London and the University of Leicester and have today (Friday June 1) announced a potential breakthrough in the treatment of a rare but devastating medical condition that can affect children and young people. Fri, 01 Jun 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/World-first-medical-treatment-announced-by-researchers_37540.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Researchers-discover-inherited-mutation-for-leukemia_46491.shtml Latest Research COLUMBUS , Ohio – Researchers have discovered the first inherited gene mutation that increases a person's risk for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), one of the most common forms of the disease. Thu, 31 May 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Researchers-discover-inherited-mutation-for-leukemia_46491.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Clinical-guidelines-for-blood-conservation-during-cardiac-procedures-developed_31446.shtml Latest Research RICHMOND, Va. (May 16, 2007) – A team of medical experts led by a Virginia Commonwealth University anesthesiologist and a thoracic surgeon from the University of Kentucky has established a set of clinical guidelines to help physicians decrease the need for blood transfusions in high-risk patients during cardiac operations. Wed, 16 May 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Clinical-guidelines-for-blood-conservation-during-cardiac-procedures-developed_31446.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Cause-of-gender-differences-in-blood-pressure-kidney-damage-under-study_30180.shtml Latest Research While men and women both get high blood pressure and related kidney disease, the path to get there is shorter, steeper and just different for men, researchers say. Wed, 02 May 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Cause-of-gender-differences-in-blood-pressure-kidney-damage-under-study_30180.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Cancer-scientists-create-human-leukemia-process-to-map-how-disease-begins-progresses_32582.shtml Latest Research (Toronto, Canada – April 26, 2007) -- Cancer researchers led by Dr. John Dick at Ontario Cancer Institute (OCI) have developed a method to convert normal human blood cells into human leukemia stem cells. The converted cells, when transplanted into special mice that permit the growth of human cells, can replicate the entire disease process from the very moment it begins. The findings are published in the journal Science. Thu, 26 Apr 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Cancer-scientists-create-human-leukemia-process-to-map-how-disease-begins-progresses_32582.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Discovery-of-an-HIV-inhibitor-in-human-blood-points-to-new-drug-class_33239.shtml Latest Research A new study has pinpointed a natural ingredient of human blood that effectively blocks HIV-1, the virus predominantly responsible for human AIDS, from infecting immune cells and multiplying. The virus blocker might play a role in the progression of HIV to full-blown AIDS and—because it works in a different way than existing antiretroviral inhibitors—could lead to the development of another class of drugs in the fight against the pandemic disease, researchers reported in the April 20, 2007 issue of the journal Cell, a publication of Cell Press. Thu, 19 Apr 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Discovery-of-an-HIV-inhibitor-in-human-blood-points-to-new-drug-class_33239.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Geisinger-launches-extensive-study-on-obesity-and-related-liver-problem_31978.shtml Latest Research DANVILLE, PA. - Relying on one of the largest collections of liver tissue samples ever acquired by a single organization, Geisinger Health System researchers have embarked on a massive study of one of the fastest growing liver problems. Mon, 16 Apr 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Geisinger-launches-extensive-study-on-obesity-and-related-liver-problem_31978.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Mailman-School-of-Public-Health-researchers-report-blood-DNA-can-be-early-predictor-of-liver-cancer_32776.shtml Latest Research Researchers at Columbia UniversityÂ’s Mailman School of Public Health have discovered a means for early detection of liver cancer. Using DNA isolated from serum samples as a baseline biomarker, the scientists examined changes in certain tumor suppressor genes that have been associated with the development of liver carcinomas. This is the first study to prospectively examine potential biomarkers for early detection of liver cancer in high-risk populations, including those with chronic hepatitis B and C virus infections. Sun, 15 Apr 2007 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Mailman-School-of-Public-Health-researchers-report-blood-DNA-can-be-early-predictor-of-liver-cancer_32776.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Major-gene-study-uncovers-secrets-of-leukemia_32485.shtml Latest Research Investigators at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered previously unsuspected mutations that contribute to the formation of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common cancer in children. The discovery not only suggests novel methods for treating pediatric ALL, but also provides a roadmap for the identification of unsuspected mutations in adult cancers. Wed, 07 Mar 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Major-gene-study-uncovers-secrets-of-leukemia_32485.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Leukemia-drug-turns-mini-molecules-up-cancer-genes-down_33082.shtml Latest Research COLUMBUS , Ohio – New research shows that a form of vitamin A used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia induces changes in an unusual class of small molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) in the leukemic cells. Thu, 01 Mar 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Leukemia-drug-turns-mini-molecules-up-cancer-genes-down_33082.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Putting-an-old-drug-to-a-new-use_34901.shtml Latest Research We all know that iron deficiencies are dangerous, but also too much iron is bad for our health. Our body stores excess iron in various tissues, where it can lead to organ failure and even death if not treated before irreversible damage has occurred. Researchers from the Innsbruck Medical University, the University of Heidelberg, Germany, and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) now made a surprising discovery that may lead to new therapeutic approaches to treating such disorders. In this week's online issue of the journal Nature Medicine they report that a compound that was frequently used to treat high blood pressure can reverse iron overload in mouse models and has the potential to treat similar conditions in humans. Mon, 12 Feb 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Putting-an-old-drug-to-a-new-use_34901.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-blood-thinner-studied-for-patients-with-leg-and-lung-clots_36358.shtml Latest Research A new oral blood thinner is being compared to an old standby to see if it works as well and is easier to manage long term, researchers say. Mon, 12 Feb 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-blood-thinner-studied-for-patients-with-leg-and-lung-clots_36358.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-finds-endoscopic-brain-surgery-pioneered-in-Pittsburgh-effective-in-children-with-tumors_34800.shtml Latest Research PITTSBURGH – Feb. 8, 2007 -- A first-of-its-kind study published in the February issue of the Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics suggests endoscopic brain surgery, pioneered by surgeons at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, has the potential to be safer and often more effective than conventional surgery in children with life-threatening conditions. Thu, 08 Feb 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-finds-endoscopic-brain-surgery-pioneered-in-Pittsburgh-effective-in-children-with-tumors_34800.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Gene-knockouts-reveal-FoxOs-vital-functions-in-cancer-defense-health-of-stem-cells_35165.shtml Latest Research BOSTON—In an elegant, multiple-gene knockout experiment, a team of Boston scientists has discovered that a trio of molecules, called FoxOs, are fundamentally critical in preventing some cancers, maintaining blood vessel stability, and in keeping blood-forming stem cells healthy. Thu, 25 Jan 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Gene-knockouts-reveal-FoxOs-vital-functions-in-cancer-defense-health-of-stem-cells_35165.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Einsteins-tea-leaves-inspire-new-blood-separation-technique_35018.shtml Latest Research Scientists at Monash University in Australia have developed a process for rapidly and efficiently separating blood plasma at the microscopic level without any moving parts, potentially allowing doctors to do blood tests without sending samples to a laboratory. The new method uses the same principle that causes tea leaves to accumulate at the center of the bottom in a stirred teacup, a phenomenon first explained by Einstein in the 1920s. Tue, 16 Jan 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Einsteins-tea-leaves-inspire-new-blood-separation-technique_35018.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Role-for-proteomics-in-identifying-hematologic-malignancies_35065.shtml Latest Research BOSTON – Scientists have identified a set of biomarkers that could help clinicians identify a group of hematologic malignancies known as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), which affect approximately 300,000 individuals worldwide and often progress to acute myeloid leukemia. Thu, 11 Jan 2007 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Role-for-proteomics-in-identifying-hematologic-malignancies_35065.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Inflammatory-genes-linked-to-salt-sensitive-hypertension_31353.shtml Latest Research One key to your high blood pressure might just be your inflammatory genes. Wed, 27 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Inflammatory-genes-linked-to-salt-sensitive-hypertension_31353.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Dengue-and-other-hemorrhagic-fevers-Towards-a-first-potential-treatment_31138.shtml Latest Research Globally, 60 to 100 million people are hit by Dengue, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. The most severe form of this disease, which causes blood loss, can lead to a fatal shock-like state (Dengue Shock Syndrome) with or without associated haemorrhage, and is currently increasing in tropical countries. The pathological mechanisms of Dengue are still unknown and it has not been possible to produce any treatment or vaccine. The only current prevention method is vector control. Fri, 22 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Dengue-and-other-hemorrhagic-fevers-Towards-a-first-potential-treatment_31138.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/How-blood-flow-dictates-gene-expression_30355.shtml Latest Research (PHILADELPHIA) -- Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have pinpointed a key regulatory protein that translates blood flow into gene expression. The investigators showed that in a model of mouse embryonic development a transcription factor called Klf2, which resides in cells that line blood vessels, is activated by rapid, pulsed blood flow, as reported in the December issue of Developmental Cell. Understanding Klf2's role in blood vessel and muscle biology could help with fighting atherosclerosis. Wed, 20 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/How-blood-flow-dictates-gene-expression_30355.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-transfusions-raise-heart-patients-infection-and-death-risk----especially-women_30584.shtml Latest Research ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Blood transfusions save the lives of millions of heart surgery patients and others each year. But a new study suggests that patients who receive transfusions during heart bypass surgery have a higher risk of developing potentially dangerous infections, and dying, after their operation. Tue, 19 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-transfusions-raise-heart-patients-infection-and-death-risk----especially-women_30584.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MCG-joins-study-of-best-treatment-approach-for-narrowed-kidney-arteries_31256.shtml Latest Research Whether reopening narrowed kidney arteries benefits patients is a $1.7 billion question a North American study hopes to answer. Tue, 19 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MCG-joins-study-of-best-treatment-approach-for-narrowed-kidney-arteries_31256.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Preventing-graft-versus-host-disease-disease-after-bone-marrow-transplant----without-toxicity_31113.shtml Latest Research Unless the donor is an identical twin, patients undergoing bone-marrow transplant (also known as hematopoietic stem cell transplant, or HSCT) must first receive powerful chemotherapy drugs to wipe out their immune system and prevent their bodies from rejecting the donated cells. Research from ChildrenÂ’s Hospital Boston and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has helped demonstrate that this punishing regimen increases the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), in which the donorÂ’s cells mount an immune response against the patient. But the most recent findings also suggest that the risk for GVHD can be reduced by replacing a natural antibiotic protein, known as bactericidal/permeability increasing protein (BPI), which is depleted when patients undergo chemotherapy. Mon, 11 Dec 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Preventing-graft-versus-host-disease-disease-after-bone-marrow-transplant----without-toxicity_31113.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sticky-proteins-provide-new-insight-into-drug-action_45424.shtml Latest Research How drugs such as adrenalin do primarily one thing – in this case, increase the heart rate – now makes more sense to scientists. Tue, 14 Nov 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sticky-proteins-provide-new-insight-into-drug-action_45424.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Should-patients-undergoing-surgery-get-ASA_45691.shtml Latest Research Hamilton, ON - (Monday, Oct. 23, 2003) -- A national survey of Canadian surgeons by researchers at McMaster University found little consistency in their use of the blood thinner ASA in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Mon, 23 Oct 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Should-patients-undergoing-surgery-get-ASA_45691.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Pall-system-to-detect-blood-bacteria-given-CE-mark_46602.shtml Latest Research East Hills, NY (September 5, 2006) -- Pall Corporation (NYSE: PLL) announced the CE marking of its eBDS System to detect bacterial contamination of red blood cells, the most widely transfused blood component. The Pall eBDS is a highly sensitive culture-based test routinely used by blood centers to detect bacterial contamination of platelets, the leading infectious cause of sickness and death from a transfusion. Results of a new study presented at the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) 2006 Congress show the efficacy of the system in also detecting bacteria that are commonly found as contaminants of red blood cells. Tue, 05 Sep 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Pall-system-to-detect-blood-bacteria-given-CE-mark_46602.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Scientists-learn-more-about-how-roughage-keeps-you-regular_45422.shtml Latest Research If you ever wondered just how a high-fiber diet helps keep you, well, regular, scientists may have the answer. Tue, 22 Aug 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Scientists-learn-more-about-how-roughage-keeps-you-regular_45422.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-clots-can-be-treated-by-injections-at-home_45657.shtml Latest Research Treatment of blood clots in the deep veins of the legs or the lungs with an older, less expensive form of the anticoagulant medication heparin can be just as safe and effective as similar treatment with a newer and more expensive heparin, according to a study led by Clive Kearon, professor of medicine at McMaster University, published in the August 23 issue of JAMA (The Journal of the American Medical Association). Tue, 22 Aug 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-clots-can-be-treated-by-injections-at-home_45657.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Venous-thrombosis-after-travel_46818.shtml Latest Research Traveling for more than 4 hours by air, car, bus or train is associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. In a large study (the MEGA study) of nearly 2000 people with a first thrombosis in the Netherlands, Dr Suzanne Cannegieter and colleagues from the Leiden University Medical Center looked at the risk factors for thrombosis compared with their partners, who did not have thrombosis. The results, published in the international open-access medical journal PLoS Medicine, showed that 233 of the people with thrombosis had traveled for more than 4 h in the 8 weeks preceding the event. Although the overall risk of developing thrombosis is still low, traveling in general was found to increase the risk of venous thrombosis 2-fold. The risk was highest in the first week after traveling, and the overall risk of flying was largely similar to the risks of traveling by car, bus, or train. Mon, 21 Aug 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Venous-thrombosis-after-travel_46818.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Finding-paves-way-for-better-treatment-of-autoimmune-disease_45395.shtml Latest Research A signaling molecule with an affinity for alcohol has yielded a rapid, inexpensive way to make large numbers of immune cells that work like beat cops keeping misguided cells from attacking the body. Tue, 08 Aug 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Finding-paves-way-for-better-treatment-of-autoimmune-disease_45395.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Test-helps-identify-patients-at-low-risk-for-recurring-blood-clots_44626.shtml Latest Research A test that measures the generation of a certain protein involved with blood clotting can help determine whether patients who have experienced a venous blood clot are at low risk of developing another blood clot, and thus avoiding anticoagulant treatment and its possible side effects, according to a study in the July 26 issue of JAMA. Tue, 25 Jul 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Test-helps-identify-patients-at-low-risk-for-recurring-blood-clots_44626.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Aggressive-heart-pacing-may-work-best-in-some-spinal-cord-patients_45392.shtml Latest Research Patients with recurring problems with the heart slowing or stopping after a neck injury damages their cervical spinal cord may need aggressive therapy to avoid further cardiovascular problems and even death, Medical College of Georgia researchers say. Thu, 20 Jul 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Aggressive-heart-pacing-may-work-best-in-some-spinal-cord-patients_45392.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/HO-1-in-sickle-cell-disease-friend-or-foe_40848.shtml Latest Research Rochester, Minnesota -- Researchers have unexpectedly shown that sickle cell-associated kidney injury may be reduced by inhibiting the enzyme activity of a protein that commonly confers protection in other diseased states. The paper by Juncos et al., Anomalous renal effects of tin protoporphyrin in a murine model of sickle cell disease, appears in the July issue of The American Journal of Pathology. Tue, 18 Jul 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/HO-1-in-sickle-cell-disease-friend-or-foe_40848.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-test-predicts-sickle-cell-disease-complication-identifies-patients-at-high-risk-of-death_45590.shtml Latest Research A team of scientists with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health has found that a hormone detected in a simple blood test can identify patients with sickle cell disease who have developed a life-threatening complication called pulmonary hypertension. The team has also found that the same hormone is a clear predictor of death in adult sickle cell patients. Tue, 18 Jul 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Blood-test-predicts-sickle-cell-disease-complication-identifies-patients-at-high-risk-of-death_45590.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-looks-for-genetic-predictors-of-hypertension_45421.shtml Latest Research The rare disorder is Liddle syndrome, first reported in 1963 in a 15-year-old Alabama girl diagnosed with a blood pressure of 180/110 mmHg, says Dr. Yanbin Dong, molecular geneticist and cardiologist at the Medical College of Georgia. Mon, 19 Jun 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-looks-for-genetic-predictors-of-hypertension_45421.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/High-dose_Calcitriol_DN-101_with_Docetaxel_Reduced_4360_4360.shtml Haematology A clinical trial of a biologically active metabolite of Vitamin D3 demonstrated an unanticipated reduction of thrombosis in cancer patients. Thrombosis is a serious complication in advanced cancers and affects between 15 and 20 per cent of all cancer patients. Sat, 03 Jun 2006 09:03:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/High-dose_Calcitriol_DN-101_with_Docetaxel_Reduced_4360_4360.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-preservative-increases-shelf-life-of-blood-platelets---decreases-risk-of-harmful-reactions_45144.shtml Latest Research In the wake of mass casualties from either natural disasters, such as the earthquake in Indonesia, or combat situations in Iraq and Afghanistan – extending the shelf life of platelets could have global implications for those in critical need of the blood product. Wed, 31 May 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/New-preservative-increases-shelf-life-of-blood-platelets---decreases-risk-of-harmful-reactions_45144.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Protein-expression-holds-promise-for-head-and-neck-cancer-detection_45412.shtml Latest Research Studies comparing protein expression in 78 patients with head and neck cancer to 68 healthy controls revealed numerous differences in protein expression, Medical College of Georgia researchers say. Wed, 10 May 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Protein-expression-holds-promise-for-head-and-neck-cancer-detection_45412.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Blood-compatible_nanoscale_materials_possible_usin_4241_4241.shtml Haematology Researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have engineered nanoscale materials that are blood compatible using heparin, an anticoagulant. The heparin biomaterials have potential for use as medical devices and in medical treatments such as kidney dialysis. Sun, 07 May 2006 15:32:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Blood-compatible_nanoscale_materials_possible_usin_4241_4241.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Potential_of_HOXB4_and_Hematopoietic_Stem_Cell_Exp_4229_4229.shtml Haematology Throughout life, the body's tissues are maintained and repaired by stem cells—self-renewing cells that differentiate into many mature cell types. Every day, for example, the human body makes billions of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets from hematopoietic (blood system) stem cells (HSCs) to replace cells lost by normal wear and tear. Thu, 04 May 2006 23:23:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Potential_of_HOXB4_and_Hematopoietic_Stem_Cell_Exp_4229_4229.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Broad-Institute-scientists-awarded-%2418M-CARE-grant_41411.shtml Latest Research The research funded by this award should result in new insights into how genetic variation contributes to health and disease, said Stacey Gabriel, principal investigator of the grant and the director of the Genetic Analysis platform and the National Center for Genotyping and Analysis at the Broad Institute. We will work together with other members of the CARE network to combine new methods for measuring genetic variation with an unprecedented collection of large, well-characterized clinical cohorts. Thu, 04 May 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Broad-Institute-scientists-awarded-%2418M-CARE-grant_41411.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/deferasirox/Deferasirox_may_revolutionize_the_way_chronic_iron_4128_4128.shtml Deferasirox Those with severe chronic anemias need frequent blood transfusions to remain healthy, but such frequent transfusions can cause a potentially deadly buildup of iron in the body, leading to heart and liver failure. The traditional treatment to remove excess iron is so onerous that many patients choose to forgo it, putting their own lives at risk. The results of an international study on deferasirox, a new drug that may revolutionize the way chronic iron overload is treated, will be published in the May 1, 2006, issue of Blood, the official journal of the American Society of Hematology. Sun, 23 Apr 2006 18:23:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/deferasirox/Deferasirox_may_revolutionize_the_way_chronic_iron_4128_4128.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Research-team-to-examine-impact-of-genetics-and-exposure-to-secondhand-smoke_45418.shtml Latest Research If those children also have a variation in at least one of four genes responsible for metabolizing nicotine, their risk may increase even more because nicotine might stay in the body longer and do more damage, an interdisciplinary research team says. Fri, 21 Apr 2006 04:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Research-team-to-examine-impact-of-genetics-and-exposure-to-secondhand-smoke_45418.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/thalassemia/Alpha-Thalassemia_and_Protection_from_Malaria_4106_4106.shtml Thalassemias Over the course of human history, hundreds of thousands of genetic mutations have arisen in the global population. The most harmful ones usually disappear—by affecting an individual's “fitness,” i. e., the ability to reproduce, the mutations are lost before carriers can pass them on to their children—whereas most mutations are maintained in the population in low frequencies. Some mutations, however, can give the carrier such a large survival advantage that the mutations become positively selected for, leading to their presence in high frequencies in some populations. Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:37:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/thalassemia/Alpha-Thalassemia_and_Protection_from_Malaria_4106_4106.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/New_research_links_945_IIb_946_3_to_Glanzmann_thro_4102_4102.shtml Haematology Studying receptors on the surface of blood platelets, sticky cells that cause blood to clot, has given one Rockefeller researcher new insight into potential causes and treatments for certain cardiovascular diseases. Barry Coller, David Rockefeller Professor and the universityÂ’s physician-in-chief, has been focusing on a rare disorder known as Glanzmann thrombasthenia, in which platelets lack one of two proteins. Together, the two proteins — αIIb and β3 — create a cellular receptor thatÂ’s involved in aggregating blood cells for coagulation; analyzing patients with the disorder previously led Coller to develop a novel therapy for heart-attack and stroke victims that targets this receptor. Thu, 20 Apr 2006 17:02:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/New_research_links_945_IIb_946_3_to_Glanzmann_thro_4102_4102.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/haemophilia/Hemophilia_a_silent_killer_4071_4071.shtml Hemophilia Even as the country focuses on headline-grabbing diseases, hemophilia, a little known blood disorder, is turning out to be a silent killer with over 50,000 people affected. Mon, 17 Apr 2006 14:08:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/haemophilia/Hemophilia_a_silent_killer_4071_4071.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/thalassemia/MBD2_Protein_mediates_silencing_of_the_fetal_gamma_3999_3999.shtml Thalassemias Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center researchers have identified the role of a protein in hemoglobin gene silencing that may one day be a potential target for the treatment of genetic blood disorders like sickle-cell anemia and beta-thalassemia on the molecular level. Tue, 11 Apr 2006 22:42:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/thalassemia/MBD2_Protein_mediates_silencing_of_the_fetal_gamma_3999_3999.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/polycythaemia/JAK2_Mutation_in_blood_stem_cells_provides_clues_t_3945_3945.shtml Polycythemia A mutation in blood stem cells occurs in patients with a blood disorder called polycythemia vera (PV), scientists at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Comprehensive Cancer Center at Stanford University School of Medicine have confirmed. Fri, 07 Apr 2006 04:02:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/polycythaemia/JAK2_Mutation_in_blood_stem_cells_provides_clues_t_3945_3945.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Urinary_infection_could_cause_deep_vein_thrombosis_3860_3860.shtml Haematology Those who suffer from severe urinary infection are more likely to develop deadly blood clots, says a new study. Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:29:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Urinary_infection_could_cause_deep_vein_thrombosis_3860_3860.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/FDA_approves_extended_dosing_of_Aranesp_3805_3805.shtml Darbepoetin Alfa Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN), the world's largest biotechnology company, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved every-three-week dosing of Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa) for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced anemia (low red blood cell count) in patients with non-myeloid malignancies. Aranesp is the only erythropoiesis-stimulating agent approved by the FDA for every-three-week administration. Tue, 28 Mar 2006 19:59:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/FDA_approves_extended_dosing_of_Aranesp_3805_3805.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MiRNA-fingerprint-identified-in-platelet-formation_46450.shtml Latest Research Basically, we found that a specific set of miRNA genes are turned off in normal platelet development, but turned on in certain platelet-related leukemia cells, says lead author Dr. Ramiro Garzon, a clinical instructor in The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Thu, 16 Mar 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/MiRNA-fingerprint-identified-in-platelet-formation_46450.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Genes-affecting-blood-pressure-change-as-children-become-adults_45397.shtml Latest Research Sat, 04 Mar 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Genes-affecting-blood-pressure-change-as-children-become-adults_45397.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/Study_Suggests_Drug_For_Chemotherapy-Induced_Anemi_3806_3806.shtml Darbepoetin Alfa Parallel administration of chemotherapy and an anti-anemia drug called darbepoetin alfa every 3 weeks is safe and effective, according to a new study. Wed, 15 Feb 2006 20:01:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/Study_Suggests_Drug_For_Chemotherapy-Induced_Anemi_3806_3806.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/haemophilia/Recombinant_products_are_more_safe_for_people_with_3418_3418.shtml Hemophilia An international team of scientists, including a hematologist from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, has concluded that people with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia remain at risk from emerging infectious agents in plasma and blood transfusions. For this reason, recombinant therapies, that is, those produced in the laboratory, must always be an option. Tue, 14 Feb 2006 17:04:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/haemophilia/Recombinant_products_are_more_safe_for_people_with_3418_3418.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Challenging_Existing_Theories_on_Sepsis_Syndrome_3381_3381.shtml Haematology A Mayo Clinic research team has challenged the accepted theory on the cause of sepsis -- a condition in which the body's cells generate fever, shock and often death. Sepsis is thought to occur when poisons from bacterial infection interfere with the cells. The Mayo researchers challenge that long-held concept with a new theory in an opinion. Their findings suggest that sepsis begins with a change in certain cellular receptors that then provoke widespread inflammation, even in the absence of bacteria or their poisons. Wed, 08 Feb 2006 11:32:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Challenging_Existing_Theories_on_Sepsis_Syndrome_3381_3381.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Synthetic_heparin_could_replace_animal-derived_dru_3374_3374.shtml Haematology Researchers have discovered an alternative way to produce heparin, a drug commonly used to stop or prevent blood from clotting. The findings could enable the current supply of the drug – now extracted from animal tissue – to be replaced or supplemented by the synthetic version. The new process also can be applied as a tool for drug discovery, according to the researchers. Tue, 07 Feb 2006 15:24:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Synthetic_heparin_could_replace_animal-derived_dru_3374_3374.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Discoveries-may-advance-stem-cell-therapy-for-Parkinsons-cancer-patients_35407.shtml Latest Research Researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden discovered a master determinant that turns embryonic stem cells into bona fide dopamine neurons, brain cells that degenerate in those with Parkinson's disease. The findings hold promise for the future of cell replacement therapy for the debilitating and incurable disease characterized by tremors, said study authors Thomas Perlmann and Johan Ericson. The results also underscore the general importance of a thorough understanding of development for producing authentic cells of a desired type from stem cells. Thu, 26 Jan 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Discoveries-may-advance-stem-cell-therapy-for-Parkinsons-cancer-patients_35407.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/White_Blood_Cell_Count_Inflammation_Linked_To_Canc_3272_3272.shtml Haematology In a study of more than 3,000 older Australians, those with a higher white blood cell count, a sign of inflammation, were more likely to die of cancer, according to an article in the January 23 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Wed, 25 Jan 2006 00:02:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/White_Blood_Cell_Count_Inflammation_Linked_To_Canc_3272_3272.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Xenopus_eggs_extract_approach_demonstrate_Fanconi__3271_3271.shtml Haematology A large, clawed frog is helping Oregon Health & Science University researchers gather a princely sum of knowledge on Fanconi anemia, a rare, genetic, cancer-susceptibility syndrome. Scientists in the OHSU School of Medicine's Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are the first to report a new approach using eggs of the African clawed frog, which goes by the Latin name Xenopus laevis, to understand how the Fanconi anemia proteins ensure that DNA is replicated properly, according to a study published this month in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biology. The international team is led by the OHSU laboratory of Maureen Hoatlin, Ph.D. Using extracts from Xenopus eggs and chemically triggering DNA copying, the team showed that the Fanconi proteins function to prevent accumulation of breaks in DNA strands that arise even during normal replication. Fanconi anemia is thought to be the result of a defect in the Fanconi genes' ability to repair DNA damage. Tue, 24 Jan 2006 23:58:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/hematology/Xenopus_eggs_extract_approach_demonstrate_Fanconi__3271_3271.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-reveals-new-player-in-sepsis-associated-acute-respiratory-distress-syndrome_46793.shtml Latest Research Mon, 23 Jan 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-reveals-new-player-in-sepsis-associated-acute-respiratory-distress-syndrome_46793.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Researchers-develop-portable-vein-finder-for-faster-more-accurate-injections_35513.shtml Latest Research Tue, 17 Jan 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Researchers-develop-portable-vein-finder-for-faster-more-accurate-injections_35513.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Potential-treatment-for-intracerebral-hemorrhage-under-study_36363.shtml Latest Research Tue, 17 Jan 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Potential-treatment-for-intracerebral-hemorrhage-under-study_36363.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-identifies-molecule-essential-for-proper-localization-of-blood-stem-cells_36388.shtml Latest Research This is another remarkable example of how bone and bone marrow interact. A receptor known to participate in the body's regulation of calcium and bone also is critical for stem cells to engraft in the bone marrow and regenerate blood and immune cells, says David Scadden, MD, director of the MGH Center for Regenerative Medicine and co-director of the HSCI. It reminds us how tissues interact and how looking closely at where stem cells reside may tell us a lot about how to manipulate them. Scadden is senior author of the report, which will be published in the journal Nature and has received early online release. Fri, 13 Jan 2006 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Study-identifies-molecule-essential-for-proper-localization-of-blood-stem-cells_36388.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Stroke-risk-returns-when-children-with-sickle-cell-disease-stop-transfusions_45425.shtml Latest Research Thu, 29 Dec 2005 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Stroke-risk-returns-when-children-with-sickle-cell-disease-stop-transfusions_45425.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sickle-cell-disease-corrected-in-human-models-using-stem-cell-based-gene-therapy_45607.shtml Latest Research To prevent the production of the abnormal hemoglobin that causes sickle cell disease, a viral vector was introduced in cell cultures of patients who have the disease. The vector carried a therapeutic globin gene harboring an embedded small interfering RNA precursor designed to suppress abnormal hemoglobin formation. Tested in adult stem cells from SCD patients, researchers found that the newly formed red blood cells made normal hemoglobin and suppressed production of the sickle shaped hemoglobin typical of the disease. Sun, 25 Dec 2005 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Sickle-cell-disease-corrected-in-human-models-using-stem-cell-based-gene-therapy_45607.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/anemia/Aranesp_treatment_achieved_and_maintained_target_h_3808_3808.shtml Anaemia Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN), the world's largest biotechnology company, today announced interim results from the first multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 trial of Aranesp® (darbepoetin alfa) administered every three weeks in cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced anemia. The study revealed that Aranesp increased and maintained patient hemoglobin levels to the target level of greater than or equal to 11 grams per deciliter (g/dL) and reduced the need for red blood cell transfusions by almost half compared to placebo. The data were presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) 47th Annual Meeting and Exposition. (Abstract #3556) Wed, 14 Dec 2005 20:09:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/anemia/Aranesp_treatment_achieved_and_maintained_target_h_3808_3808.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/Interim_Aranesp_data_suggest_major_response_in_ane_3807_3807.shtml Darbepoetin Alfa Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN), the world's largest biotechnology company, today announced updated interim data from a Phase 2 study evaluating the use of 500 mcg of Aranesp darbepoetin alfa) administered every three weeks to treat anemia in patients with a bone marrow disorder known as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Low-risk MDS patients receiving Aranesp every three weeks, who had no prior erythropoietic therapy, exhibited an overall response of 70 percent, increased hemoglobin levels and improvements in patient-reported fatigue. Tue, 13 Dec 2005 20:06:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/darbepoetinalfa/Interim_Aranesp_data_suggest_major_response_in_ane_3807_3807.shtml http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Interim-long-term-follow-up-data-show-AMG-531-increases-platelets-in-patients-with-ITP_46848.shtml Latest Research ITP is characterized by an immune system malfunction that recognizes the body's own platelets as foreign and destroys them, potentially resulting in dangerously low platelet counts (less than 30,000 platelets per microliter). Platelets are specialized blood cells that help prevent and stop bleeding by participating in clotting. Normal platelet range for a person without ITP is 150,000 to 400,000 platelets per microliter. AMG 531 is being investigated as a new approach to treat ITP, and other platelet deficiencies, by directly increasing platelet production to outpace platelet destruction by the immune system. Mon, 12 Dec 2005 05:00:00 PST http://www.rxpgnews.com/research/Interim-long-term-follow-up-data-show-AMG-531-increases-platelets-in-patients-with-ITP_46848.shtml