NIH Research Matters
October 2009 Archive
October 26, 2009
Rare Disease Gene Linked to Parkinson's Disease
People with mutant forms of the gene that causes the rare disorder Gaucher disease are 5 times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than the general public, according to a new study. The finding may lead to new insights into developing novel therapeutic strategies for these disorders.
Childhood Maltreatment Linked to Adulthood Economic Problems
Childhood maltreatment is known to affect both physical and mental health in adulthood. According to a new study, the long-term impacts of child maltreatment also include higher rates of unemployment, poverty and use of social services.
Scientists Discover Receptor for Carbonation Taste
Almost 250 years after chemist Joseph Priestley infused water with carbon dioxide to make the first artificially carbonated water, researchers have finally discovered how people "taste" that carbonation bubbling in their beverage.
October 19, 2009
Cocaine Vaccine Shows Promise for Treating Addiction
Immunization with an experimental anti-cocaine vaccine results in a significant reduction in cocaine use, according to a clinical trial. The result is the first successful demonstration to date of a vaccine against an illegal drug of abuse.
RNA Marks Response to Liver Cancer Treatment
A small RNA molecule may help physicians identify liver cancer patients who could respond well to treatment with interferon, according to a new study.
Virus Linked to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Scientists have detected the DNA of a retrovirus in the blood of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. The discovery raises the possibility that the virus may be a contributing factor in chronic fatigue syndrome.
October 5, 2009
Understanding Indian Ancestry
Researchers have analyzed genetic variation in people across India and discovered that most Indian people today descended from 2 ancestral populations. The findings set the stage for identifying genes that contribute to disease in people of Indian decent.
Treating Mild Gestational Diabetes Reduces Birth Complications
Treating pregnant women who have even the mildest form of gestational diabetes can reduce the risk of problems among both infants and mothers, according to a new study.
Lack of Sleep Linked to Alzheimer's Plaques in Mice
People with Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases often have trouble sleeping. Now a new study suggests that sleep problems may actually contribute to the disease process. Researchers report that disrupted sleep can lead to the buildup of brain plaques—a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease—in mice.
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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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