Researchers have found a switch that redirects helper cells in the peripheral nervous system into “repair” mode. A new study suggests tactics that might assist recovery after physical injury.
Health & Wellness
UW-Madison spinoff gets FDA OK for bacteria-killing wound dressing
Microlyte, patented by Imbed Biosciences, will compete in the $2 billion market sector of “advanced wound dressings,” which are used to treat ulcers, burns, bedsores and other difficult wounds.
Botulinum toxin may travel further than expected in nerve cells
Two specific toxins — including the popular drug Botox — have multiple uses for treating many neuromuscular conditions, including frown lines, disabling muscle spasms and migraine headaches.
Macular degeneration insight identifies promising drugs to prevent vision loss
In tests on mice, drugs that are already on the market prevented damage to the cells that sustain the light-sensitive cells in the eyes.
Monkey study shows Zika infection prolonged in pregnancy
Researchers have shown that one infection with Zika virus protects against future infection, though pregnancy may drastically increase the time the virus stays in the body.
Epigenetics researcher named Pew scholar in biomedical sciences
Peter Lewis is one of 22 biomedical scientists to win the award, meant for researchers with outstanding promise in science relevant to human health.
Novel mouse model sheds new light on autism spectrum disorder
These sorts of studies cannot be performed in humans, hence the need to develop and study mouse models.
New strategy could yield more precise seasonal flu vaccine
The new approach would better forecast the naturally occurring mutations that help seasonal flu virus dodge vaccines.
Panda poop study provides insights into microbiome, reproductive troubles
Gastrointestinal diseases are a major cause of mortality in pandas but scientists understand little about their digestive process.
Gene regulatory mutation linked to rare childhood cancer
This basic knowledge of a specific cancer is essential to start drug testing, says researcher Peter Lewis.