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Health Sciences
New cell characterization method hints at reasons for resistance to cancer therapies
Penn experts have developed new analysis tool that combines a cell’s unique gene expression data with information about the cell’s origins. The method can be applied to identify new cell subsets throughout development and better understand drug resistance.
CAR T cell therapy may eliminate tumor cells missed by surgery
The results of a study led by Penn Medicine’s Carl June greenlights preclinical trials for the application of CAR T therapy in gel form to surgical wounds following partial tumor removal to eliminate residual tumor cells.
Partnering with farmers to advance livelihoods, food, and health
At the 107th Pennsylvania Farm Show last week, with the theme “Rooted in Progress,” the School of Veterinary Medicine’s importance to the state’s agricultural industry was on full display.
How sex differences may influence lung injury
Comparing lung cells from male and female mice, School of Veterinary Medicine scientists found gene expression differences that may explain why older males are at a higher risk than females for worse outcomes from COVID-19 and similar diseases.
Penn Medicine doctor brings lifesaving tech to global conflict zones
Nahreen Ahmed, a physician with Penn Medicine, has trained physicians and other care providers around the world in using ultrasound machines to assess injuries and other health concerns.
Fostering a therapy dog means welcoming strangers and petting
Foster families and therapy dogs in training learn their roles together. Studies show pet therapy in hospitals significantly decreases pain, calms breathing, and boosts mood and perceived energy levels in patients.
The ‘paradox’ of receiving health care in prison
In an excerpt from their new book, Penn sociologist Jason Schnittker and colleagues dissect the contradictory nature of these institutions, which are charged with both “denying freedom and providing care.”
An active research team brings better health care for postnatal patients
Katie Luzi Costantini and Chester County Hospital’s research department have worked out how obstetrics providers can better meet the needs of patients after giving birth and throughout the “fourth trimester.”
Restricted abortion access linked to increased suicide risk in young women
Research from the University of Pennsylvania and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia determined that this association exists for women of reproductive age, findings that hold potential clinical, policy, and ethical implications.
Gut microbes can boost the motivation to exercise
A new study by Penn Medicine uncovers a gut-to-brain pathway that increases exercise performance.
In the News
Health experts want FDA safety review of fast-tracked Alzheimer’s drug
Jason Karlawish of the Perelman School of Medicine says that an independent panel needs to meet to discuss the use of beta amyloid PET scans to support a drug’s accelerated approval.
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She was told she could never have kids. After a rare uterus transplant, she just had her second son
Kathleen O’Neill of the Perelman School of Medicine describes the journey of patient Chelsea Jovanovich, who just had her second baby thanks to a rare uterus transplant at Penn Medicine in 2021.
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FDA: Base blood donation policy on science, not stigma
In an Op-Ed, Scott Jelinek of the Leonard Davis Institute and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia urges the FDA to remove its restriction on blood donation by gay and bisexual men.
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An even deadlier pandemic could soon be here
Scott Hensley of the Perelman School of Medicine says that mRNA vaccines can be mass-produced faster than normal, in as little as three months.
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Five ways Gov. Josh Shapiro can boost Pennsylvania’s innovation economy
Carl June of the Perelman School of Medicine is noted as an example of how innovative research can create business ecosystems.
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