NIH Research Matters
July 2010 Archive
July 26, 2010
Progress on a Universal Flu Vaccine
Researchers have developed a method to generate antibodies that attack a diverse array of influenza viruses in mice, ferrets and monkeys. The accomplishment points the way to a universal flu vaccine.
Choline Deficiency May Hinder Fetal Brain Development
Lack of choline during pregnancy may lead to reduced blood vessel growth in the brain of the developing fetus, a new study in mice suggests. The finding adds new information about the importance of choline for prenatal brain development.
Making a Lung Replacement
Hot on the heels of progress toward a liver transplant substitute, researchers have made transplantable lung grafts for rats. The accomplishment could pave the way for the development of an engineered human lung.
July 19, 2010
Unraveling a Silk Road Disease Mystery
Researchers have identified several genetic regions associated with Behçet's disease, a painful and potentially dangerous condition found almost exclusively in people with origins along the Silk Road, a trading route that stretched from Europe to the Far East.
Tiny RNA Molecule in the Brain Curbs Cocaine Use
Scientists have identified a microRNA, a tiny snippet of genetic material, that may suppress cocaine-seeking behavior. The finding suggests an entirely new approach for treating drug abuse and addiction.
Antibodies Protect Human Cells from Most HIV Strains
Scientists have isolated 2 potent human antibodies that can stop more than 90% of known global HIV strains from infecting human cells in the laboratory. The finding may help researchers design more effective HIV vaccines. It may also help advance other strategies for preventing or treating HIV infection.
July 12, 2010
Touch Affects Impressions, Decisions
The physical characteristics of something you’re touching can influence your feelings about unrelated events, situations and objects, according to new research. Among the findings, heavy objects made job candidates appear more important, rough objects made social interactions seem more difficult, and hard objects increased rigidity in negotiations.
Testosterone Boosts Heart Risk in Men with Poor Mobility
Daily treatments with a testosterone gel raised the risk of cardiovascular problems in older men with poor mobility. The adverse events were significant enough to bring an early halt to a clinical trial.
Crohn's Disease Triggers May Include Viruses and Other Factors
Mice with mutations in a Crohn's disease gene require a virus to trigger symptoms, according to a new study. The finding may give insight into why some people with genetic risk variants for complex diseases remain unaffected.
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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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