NIH Research Matters
NIH Research Matters
- Story Archive
- Subscribe
- RSS Feed
- Get the Widget
External link – please review our disclaimer
May 20, 2013
Clues to Congenital Heart Disease
A large-scale genomic analysis found that non-inherited mutations in hundreds of genes together account for about 1 in 10 cases of severe congenital heart defects, the most common type of birth defect.
Infection Makes Mosquitoes Immune to Malaria Parasites
Researchers established a bacterial infection in mosquitoes that helps fight the parasites that cause malaria. These infected insects could be a significant tool for malaria control.
3-D Printing of Working Bionic Ears
Researchers used 3-D printing to create functional bionic ears that receive radio signals. Using similar techniques, it may one day be possible to create bionic implants and prostheses.
May 13, 2013
Refining Supplements for a Blinding Eye Disease
New findings may help improve nutritional supplements for treating age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness nationwide.
Gene Linked to Migraine and Sleep Disorder
Researchers linked an abnormal gene to both a common type of migraine and a rare sleep disorder. The discovery provides a new avenue for exploring treatment options.
Hormone May Help Treat Diabetes
A hormone called betatrophin prompts cells in the pancreas to multiply and produce more insulin. The finding, in mice, may lead to new ways to combat diabetes.
May 6, 2013
Genomic Analysis of Endometrial Tumors
A new study suggests that genomic classification of endometrial tumors could help guide treatment strategies. The analysis also revealed novel subtypes and found similarities to other cancers.
Microscopic Star-Shaped Grippers Take Biopsies
Researchers designed star-shaped microtools that close in response to body heat to grasp tissue samples. The microgrippers could be used to retrieve tissue samples in many hard-to-reach places.
Killing Cancer With Radioactive Bacteria
Live bacteria delivered a lethal radioactive payload to pancreatic cancer cells in mice. With further development, the approach might one day help doctors fight this deadly type of cancer in people.
April 29, 2013
Clues in H7N9 Influenza Genetic Sequences
Researchers quickly analyzed the novel avian influenza virus that’s caused recent illness and death in China. Their effort gives clues to the virus’s origin, transmissibility and treatment.
Lab-Grown Kidneys Function in Rats
Scientists created artificial kidneys that can filter blood and produce urine in rats. The approach may one day help patients who need organ transplants.
Arrestin Developments
Researchers visualized a key step in how signals from outside the cell are muted within. The finding gives insight into the complex systems that control our cells.
April 22, 2013
Red Meat-Heart Disease Link Involves Gut Microbes
The link between red meat consumption and heart disease, a study suggests, may stem from gut microbes breaking down carnitine, a compound found in red meat.
Cholesterol as Target for Age-Related Vision Loss
Research in mice suggests that targeting cholesterol metabolism in the eye may help prevent progression of a severe form of age-related macular degeneration.
Seeing Into the Brain
Scientists developed a technique to preserve the brain’s 3-D structure down to the molecular level, allowing for study of the brain’s inner workings at a scale never before possible.
April 15, 2013
Gut Microbes Affect Weight After Gastric Bypass
A study in mice suggests that gastric bypass surgery may result in weight loss in part by altering microbes in the gut.
Research Hints at New Approach to Addiction
Stimulating a specific part of the brain reduced compulsive cocaine seeking in rats. The finding suggests a potential approach to change addictive behavior.
Sensing Temperature
Researchers discovered that distinct sets of neurons respond to heat and cold. The findings provide an elegant explanation for how mammals sense temperature.
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.
NIH External Website Policy
Social Media Links