Health News

Potential new drug target to stop Alzheimer''s progression identified

Potential new drug target to stop Alzheimer''s progression identifiedWashington, Mar 20 : Scientists have moved a step closer to developing a drug that could actually stop the progress of Alzheimer''s disease.

They have identified a molecule that can form the basis for a new therapy for the neurodegenerative disease.

A typical characteristic of the brains of Alzheimer''s patients is the presence of amyloid plaques, which are abnormal accumulations of the c¬-amyloid protein between the neurons. The sticky c¬-amyloid arises when the amyloid precursor protein is cut into pieces incorrectly.

How the body clock controls metabolism and ageing

How the body clock controls metabolism and ageingWashington, Mar 20 : In a study on mice, a team of scientists have found how the biological circadian clock mechanism in animals corresponds with processes that control aging and metabolism.

The findings by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Northwestern University can explain why the weakening of the circadian rhythm with age could contribute to age-related disorders, such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Low doses of blood pressure medications effective against hypertension

Low doses of blood pressure medications effective against hypertensionWashington, Mar 20 : Low doses of blood pressure medications have been found effective in treating hypertension, say researchers.

Scientists at The University of Western Ontario have revealed that a simplified and more effective method of treating hypertension is using low doses of single pill combinations, rather than multiple pills.

Creative bras up for grabs to fight breast cancer

 Creative bras up for grabs to fight breast cancerNew York, Mar 19 : A distinctive collection of exquisitely designed brassieres, with names like Mardi Bra and the Bronx Bombers, are set go under the hammer to raise funds for breast cancer charity.

Called Creative Cups, the extraordinary collection includes brassieres with images of modern and classic Yankee stars.

The flamboyant designs also include an Armor Bra made out of ancient body armour "as a metaphor for the ongoing battle against breast cancer."

Common anti-seizure drugs may increase risk of cardiovascular problems

Common anti-seizure drugs may increase risk of cardiovascular problemsWashington, Mar 19 : Two of the most commonly prescribed anti-seizure medications may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as high cholesterol levels and C-reactive protein, according to a study.

The discovery of this repercussion in the treatment of epilepsy may help doctors offer better care of patients with seizures by prescribing different anti-seizure medications that do not harm cardiovascular health.

Biological pathway behind children’s brain tumour identified

Biological pathway behind children’s brain tumour identifiedWashington, March 19 : Scientists at The University of Nottingham have found that a biological pathway plays a role in the development of a type of brain tumour that predominantly occurs in children, and presently has a very poor prognosis.

Working on behalf of the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG), the researchers have found that the WNT biological pathway is "activated" in over one-third of the cases of central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumours (CNS PNET).

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