Author: Leigh MacMillan
Cell skeleton and the brush border
Jan. 31, 2018—Vanderbilt researchers have discovered a role for microtubules — part of the cellular “skeleton” — in organizing the unique sidedness of the epithelial cells that line organs like the intestines.
Imaging features predict tumor grade
Jan. 29, 2018—Vanderbilt researchers have discovered imaging features associated with increased risk for aggressive meningiomas (tumors of the brain membranes) that could help guide surgical planning and patient counseling.
Number of minority trainees on rise, but not minority faculty
Jan. 25, 2018—Vanderbilt investigators examined the entire training pathway of potential biomedical research faculty and found two key points of loss: during undergraduate education and in transition from postdoctoral fellowship to tenure-track faculty.
National report sounds alarm on clinician burnout
Jan. 25, 2018—A new report issued by the Blue Ridge Academic Health Group calls clinician burnout a “hidden epidemic” and suggests that addressing it should be one of the highest priorities across the healthcare industry.
A spicy finding
Jan. 16, 2018—Vanderbilt researchers have discovered that curcumin — the active ingredient in the spice turmeric — needs to be metabolically activated to exert anti-inflammatory effects.
Lighting up iron levels
Jan. 11, 2018—A new probe enables iron imaging in living animals, providing a unique tool for studying iron’s contributions to health and disease.
Asthma study may point to potential new therapeutic approach
Jan. 4, 2018—New findings from Vanderbilt suggest that blocking the migration of cells involved in asthma may represent a new approach for treating the respiratory condition.
Obesity interventions: ideal dose?
Dec. 21, 2017—The optimal “dose” for behavioral interventions to treat childhood obesity are not clear, Vanderbilt researchers concluded after analyzing 133 clinical trial that occurred over the course of 17 years.
Radiation and pulmonary fibrosis
Nov. 15, 2017—To develop strategies for preventing radiation-induced lung fibrosis (scarring), Vanderbilt investigators are exploring the cell types and factors that contribute to the fibrotic response.
Salt, inflammation and hypertension
Nov. 13, 2017—Vanderbilt researchers have identified a pathway that links excess sodium, inflammation and hypertension.
Advanced imaging tools reveal architecture of cell division machinery
Nov. 9, 2017—Using super-resolution microscopy tools in the Nikon Center of Excellence, Vanderbilt investigators have determined the molecular architecture of the contractile ring machinery that functions during cell division — a process that is essential for life.
Pediatric cardiologist Johns thrives in many roles
Nov. 2, 2017—Pediatric cardiologist James Johns, M.D., relishes being a physician who wears many hats.