NIH Research Matters
May 23, 2012
Thought-Control Gives Paralyzed People Helping Hand
Paralyzed patients were able to control a robotic arm with their thoughts, a new study reports. This advance may help restore some independence and improve quality of life for people who’ve lost the use of their limbs.
The Microbes of Men
A new study revealed a surprisingly diverse and stable community of microbes in the male urinary tract and on the penis. The findings will help lead to a better understanding of male reproductive and sexual health.
Technique Aims to Restore Vision
In a proof-of-principle study, researchers developed retinal implants that can potentially deliver images to surviving neurons in the eye and restore vision.
May 14, 2012
Test Before Incontinence Surgery Often Unnecessary
A routine bladder function test given to women before urinary incontinence surgery may be unnecessary, a new study reports.
Mental Replay in Learning and Memory
A study in rats suggests that the mental replay of an experience is essential for making informed decisions. The work brings researchers closer to understanding how memories are represented and used by the brain.
Chromosome Quirks Linked to Aging and Cancer
Large structural abnormalities in chromosomes become more common with age and may be linked to increased risk for cancer. The new findings offer insights into how cancer and other disorders might emerge as people get older.
May 7, 2012
Treating Type 2 Diabetes in Youth
A combination of 2 diabetes drugs, metformin and rosiglitazone, was more effective in treating youth with type 2 diabetes than metformin alone, according to a new study.
Drugs Equally Effective for Age-Related Vision Loss
A comparison showed that the drugs Avastin and Lucentis lead to similar vision improvements in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Treatments given monthly were slightly more effective than when given as-needed.
Bilingual Effects in the Brain
A new study found certain brain functions that are enhanced in teens who are fluent in more than one language. The finding gives new insight into how our senses help shape our brains.
April 30, 2012
Device Restores Movement to Paralyzed Limbs
Monkeys paralyzed from elbow to fingers were able to manipulate a ball with the help of an artificial connection between the brain and hand muscles. The technology might one day help paralysis victims regain muscle control.
Insights into MRSA Epidemic
Scientists identified a gene that’s been playing a pivotal role in epidemic waves of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in Asia. The finding suggests a promising target for novel therapeutics.
Compound Points to Potential Autism Therapy
An experimental compound reversed certain autism-like behaviors in mice. The research may lead to a new strategy for treating autism spectrum disorders.
April 23, 2012
Genetics of Bone Density
A new study linked 32 novel genetic regions to bone mineral density. The findings may help researchers better understand bone fracture risk. They also suggest potential drug targets for preventing or treating osteoporosis.
Clues to Emerging Drug-Resistant Malaria
Researchers report that a first-line treatment for malaria is losing its effectiveness in parts of Asia. They've also found parts of the parasite's genome that may underlie its drug resistance.
Molecular Effects of Social Stress
Social rank has broad effects on gene regulation, particularly in the immune system, according to a new study in rhesus macaques. The findings help explain how social status gets under your skin.
April 16, 2012
Spontaneous Mutations Raise Autism Risk
New studies reveal several genes and biological pathways that may contribute to autism spectrum disorders. Among other insights, the findings may help explain earlier evidence linking autism risk to older fathers.
Summer Temperature Swings Linked to Shorter Lifespan
Fluctuations in daily summer temperatures may boost the risk of death in older people with chronic diseases, according to a new study. The finding could have important implications for the nation's aging population.
Clues to HIV Protection
A new study gives insight into the workings of the first vaccine ever reported to modestly prevent HIV infection in people.
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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.
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