News Archive - Susanne Clara Bard

Staphylococcus Aureus Thwarts Vaccines by Turning on a Protein That Halts Immune Response

After dozens of clinical trials, there are still no effective vaccines against Staphylococcus aureus. In two new studies, scientists report that the pathogen turns on the protein interleukin 10, shutting down the protective vaccine response. But blocking the protein restores vaccine efficacy in an animal model.

Changes in Blood Cell Production Over the Lifetime Could Impact Leukemia Outcomes

The first comprehensive map of the dramatic changes that take place in the blood system over the course of the human lifetime could have implications for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia and other blood diseases.

Cetuximab Outperforms Durvalumab in Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers

The standard treatment for head and neck cancer, cisplatin, can’t be given to some patients due to pre-existing conditions. A new study compares the efficacy of two alternatives: cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody, and durvalumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor.

Optical Biosensor Rapidly Detects Monkeypox Virus

Researchers at UC San Diego and their colleagues have developed an optical biosensor that detects the virus that causes mpox. The technology could make diagnosis much faster and cost-effective as the disease continues to spread worldwide.

Key Pathway Leading to Neurodegeneration in Early Stages of ALS Identified

Researchers at UC San Diego identify a key pathway leading to neurodegeneration in early stages of ALS, hinting at the potential for short-circuiting the progression of the fatal disease if diagnosed early.

UC San Diego Awarded $8 Million to Uncover Genetic Foundations of Substance Use Disorders

UC San Diego has received a five-year, $8 Million grant to support a NIDA P30 Center to investigate the genetics, genomics, and epigenetics behind substance use disorders.

Organoids Derived From Gut Stem Cells Reveal Two Distinct Molecular Subtypes of Crohn’s Disease

UC San Diego researchers discover two distinct molecular subtypes of Crohn’s disease using patient-derived organoids, opening the door to personalized treatment for the chronic inflammatory bowel disease.

Self-Compassion is Related to Better Mental Health Among Syrian Refugees

A survey of Syrian refugees living in Jordan reveals that higher levels of self-compassion are associated with better mental health. The findings suggest that interventions teaching self-compassion have the potential to boost the mental health of displaced individuals.