Health News

Scientists identify key protein behind heart's 'metronome'

Date: Feb-23-2015
A new study identifies a protein that synchronizes contraction of sarcomeres - contractile proteins in heart muscle - to ensure the heart maintains its steady, metronomic rhythm.

Study reveals how C. difficile disrupts the gut

Date: Feb-23-2015
Infection by C. difficile is a major public health threat. Most patients get it after taking antibiotics. Now, a study reveals in detail how the pathogen wreaks havoc in the gut.

Gene identified that lays foundation for pancreatic cancer

Date: Feb-23-2015
Researchers have identified a gene that affects the structure of pancreatic cells, laying the groundwork for pancreatic cancer to develop.

Mothers with postpartum depression 'could benefit from phone-based peer support'

Date: Feb-23-2015
Receiving telephone-based peer support from mothers who have recovered from postpartum depression could help new mothers who are suffering from the condition, a new study finds.

Brain differences in preteens open to experimenting

Date: Feb-23-2015
Researchers found stronger links between the rostrolateral prefrontal cortex and the posterior insula and putamen brain regions in naturally explorative preteens.

Breastfeeding may influence immune system development in early life

Date: Feb-22-2015
In a series of studies, researchers identify a number of factors - such as breastfeeding - that may influence a baby's gut bacteria composition and their likelihood of allergies.

Active surveillance 'may be appropriate' for intermediate-risk prostate cancer

Date: Feb-22-2015
Comparable rates of mortality following radiotherapy mean that active surveillance may be apt for both low-risk and favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer, a study suggests.

Daily cola 'raises cancer risk' due to caramel coloring

Date: Feb-21-2015
Caramel coloring in soft drinks creates a carcinogen during production, say researchers, producing a cancer risk above the acceptable level of one case in every 100,000 people.

'Precision medicine' model may help prevent diabetes in at-risk population

Date: Feb-21-2015
New research published in The BMJ details the development of a 'precision medicine' model that could predict the best ways to prevent diabetes in those at high risk.

Statins may not protect against Parkinson's after all, study finds

Date: Feb-20-2015
Some previous studies have suggested that statins offer protective benefits against Parkinson's. However, a new study suggests statins may actually increase Parkinson's risk.