NIH Research Matters
February 13, 2012
Scientists Find Target for Resveratrol
Resveratrol, found most famously in grapes and red wine, seems to ward off several age-related diseases. Researchers have now found a direct molecular target for the compound. The finding points the way to more potent and targeted drugs.
Genes Affect Sex Differences in Behavior
Men and women can seem like they're from different planets sometimes. Hormones help drive those differences. A new study shows how genes pass on the message.
New Method Builds Bone
Researchers have developed a way to direct the body’s own stem cells to build new, strong bone tissue. The method, developed in mice, may lead to new treatments for osteoporosis and other bone diseases that affect millions of people.
February 6, 2012
Fending Off Cardiovascular Disease
A new study confirms that controlling traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, substantially lowers the chance of major events like heart attack or stroke over the course of a lifetime.
Ancient Roots of Social Networks
Modern social networks, from small networks of friends and family to entire countries, are based on cooperation. A new study suggests that our early ancestors may have had social networks strikingly similar to those of modern societies.
Restricted Diet Affects Surgery Risk
Several days on a restricted diet may help the body better cope with the stress of surgery. New findings from a mouse study point the way toward potential strategies for reducing surgical risks in people.
january 30, 2012
How Often Should Women Have Bone Tests?
Older women should have regular bone density tests to screen for osteoporosis. But it’s been unclear how often to repeat the tests. A new study finds that some patients might safely wait 15 years between tests.
Manganese May Prevent Toxin Damage
New research suggests that manganese may block the deadly effects of Shiga toxin. The finding may lead to cheap, effective treatments for dangerous foodborne infections that affect millions worldwide.
Looking Inside Viruses
Since the discovery of the microscope, scientists have tried to visualize smaller and smaller details of cells and microbes. Now, researchers have developed a new way to see tiny structures within viruses.
january 23, 2012
Body Produces “Industrial” Lubricant for Metal Hip Implants
In the body, metal-on-metal hip implants develop a lubricating layer that's more like an industrial lubricant than joint fluid. The finding may aid design of longer-lasting implants.
Researchers Find Cause of Rare Immune Disease
Scientists identified a genetic mutation that causes cold temperatures to trigger allergic reactions—a condition called cold urticaria. The research points toward a potential cure and sheds light on immune system function.
New Insights Into Old Anti-Fungal Drug
For more than 50 years, doctors have used the drug Amphotericin B to treat systemic fungal infections. A new study reveals a novel mode of action for the drug. The finding may lead to improved anti-fungal medications.
january 9, 2012
2011 Research Highlights
NIH-funded scientists made important discoveries toward cancer treatment, influenza, HIV, Alzheimer's disease, organ transplantation, fat metabolism, tinnitus, autism, malaria and more.
DECEMBER 19, 2011
Most Stillbirths Caused by Placental, Pregnancy Conditions
Half of all stillbirths result from pregnancy disorders and conditions that affect the placenta, a new study found. Risk factors known at the start of pregnancy accounted for only a small proportion of the overall risk of stillbirth.
Gene Therapy Helps Patients with Hemophilia
Scientists report that a single dose of an experimental gene therapy boosted production of a missing blood-clotting factor in people with hemophilia. The therapy could provide a long-term solution for preventing dangerous bleeding.
Rats Show Empathy, Too
A new study shows that empathy may drive rats to help each other. The finding gives insight into the biological roots of our urge to assist others in need.
Editor’s Picks
Contact Us
Phone: 301-435-7489
E-mail: nihresearchmatters@od.nih.gov
Mailing Address:
NIH Research Matters
Bldg. 31, Rm. 5B64A, MSC 2094
Bethesda, MD 20892-2094
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.
Social Media Links