Medicine/Health

How Proteins and DNA Architecture Shape Cellular Identity: Discovery of 'Signposts' that Guide Proteins to Gene Switches

How Proteins and DNA Architecture Shape Cellular Identity: Discovery of 'Signposts' that Guide Proteins to Gene Switches

18 December, 2024

A groundbreaking study led by Prof. Yosef Buganim from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Dr. Abdenour Soufi from the University of Edinburgh reveals how transcription factors (TFs)—key proteins that regulate gene activity—navigate DNA and chromatin structures to determine cellular identity. This discovery provides new insights into how cells establish their roles and opens pathways for advancements in regenerative medicine and cell therapy. 

The Twin Paradox: Developmental Differences and  Persistent Dominance Roles

The Twin Paradox: Developmental Differences and Persistent Dominance Roles

15 December, 2024

A new study reveals that typically developing twins consistently take on the dominant role over their nontypically developing siblings, even after developmental gaps are resolved. By highlighting how parental perceptions shape these dynamics, the research offers fresh insights into the delicate balance of twin relationships and the importance of fostering equality to support both children’s growth. 


 

How the Liver Remembers: The Science Behind Intermittent Fasting

How the Liver Remembers: The Science Behind Intermittent Fasting

9 December, 2024

A new study reveals how repeated fasting enhances the liver’s ability to adapt through a cellular memory mechanism. The research shows that alternate-day fasting “sensitizes” key genes and liver enhancers, boosting ketogenesis during subsequent fasting bouts. This process, driven by the transcription factor PPARα, highlights how the body adjusts to recurring nutritional challenges. These findings provide fresh insights into the metabolic benefits of fasting and its potential applications in health and dietary science.


 

Transforming Healthcare Predictions and Decision-Making: New Model

Transforming Healthcare Predictions and Decision-Making: New Model

5 December, 2024

Researchers at the Hebrew University enhanced the Elixhauser Comorbidity Model, improving predictions for length of hospital stay, mortality, readmission, and escalated care. The study outperformed the standard Elixhauser model, offering a comprehensive view of patient complexity. These findings benefit healthcare decisions and patient outcomes, with broad implications for the field.


 

New Resource Maps Gene-Disease Links Across Common Conditions, Paving the Way for Personalized Medicine

New Resource Maps Gene-Disease Links Across Common Conditions, Paving the Way for Personalized Medicine

17 November, 2024

A new study introduces the Proteome-Wide Association Study Hub, an innovative and powerful tool designed to explore gene-disease connections across ninety-nine common diseases. Leveraging machine learning and statistical models, the platform (PWAS Hub) identifies genes linked to specific conditions, with separate analyses for male and female subjects as well as inheritance patterns. This accessible resource is set to advance personalized medicine by providing valuable genetic insights to clinicians, researchers, and the public.

Promise in Fighting Drug-Resistant Pathogens Innovative Study Shows

Promise in Fighting Drug-Resistant Pathogens Innovative Study Shows

13 November, 2024

A new study has developed an innovative approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by tagging them with a chimeric agent that activates the immune system towards them. This approach not only enhances immune response against evasive pathogens but also shows potential for targeting a broad range of microbial threats, offering a promising new direction for fighting drug-resistant infections and advancing antimicrobial therapies


 

X-Raying Your Head Every Year at the Dentist Might Be Totally Unnecessary

X-Raying Your Head Every Year at the Dentist Might Be Totally Unnecessary

15 October, 2024

Some dentists are pushing back against the overuse of X-rays, a practice that can expose patients to unnecessary radiation and cost them extra cash.


If you’ve ever sat in a dentist’s chair, weighed down by an unwieldy, yet oddly comfortable, lead apron, wondering if your sense of time has gone completely haywire—wait, wasn’t I just here, and isn’t it too soon for more X-rays?—take comfort. You may be entirely correct.