September 12, 2012
NIH researchers restore children's immune systems with refinements in gene therapy
Researchers have demonstrated for the first time that a refined gene therapy approach safely restores the immune systems of some children with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). The rare condition blocks the normal development of a newborn's immune system, leaving the child susceptible to every passing microbe. Children with SCID experience chronic infections, which usually triggers the diagnosis. Their lifespan is two years if doctors cannot restore their immunity.
September 7, 2012
Blood sugar control does not help infants and children undergoing heart surgery
Tight blood sugar control in infants and children undergoing heart surgery does not lower the risk of infection or improve recovery, according to a study funded by the National Institutes of Health.
September 12, 2012
: MedPage Today
Three Approaches Equal for Asthma Medication Adjustment
Kristina Fiore
When it comes to adjusting the dose of inhaled corticosteroids for better asthma control, periodic physician assessment was as good a gauge as using a biomarker or day-to-day symptom occurrence, researchers found.
September 11, 2012
: The Washington Post
NIH scientist helped solve a frightening bone marrow mystery
Alyssa A. Botelho
"The idea that you would treat the immune system for the anemia was novel. . . . It was a scientific insight with immediate repercussions," said Dr. Young of the NHLBI. Dr. Young's breakthrough research on aplastic anemia, a rare blood disease, led to his selection as a finalist for one of the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals ("Sammies") in the Science and Environment category.
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Reducing the Burden of Sickle Cell Disease
Meeting 26-year old Tiffany McCoy, a bubbly and happy mother, you would never know that she has a serious disease. She is one of about 100,000 Americans with sickle cell disease.
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International program expands efforts to improve blood transfusion safety
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health has launched an $87.2 million international research program to extend a highly successful program assessing blood banking and transfusion medicine. Research conducted under the seven-year program will focus on improving transfusion benefits and reducing its risks
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