Bill Snyder

Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) resolution of the structure of a respiratory syncytial virus fusion protein (shades of pink) bound to fragments of two antibodies (dark/light and blue/green) designed by the researchers’ protein language model, MAGE.

AI can speed antibody design to thwart novel viruses: study

While the study focused on development of antibody therapeutics against existing and emerging viral threats, the implications of the research are much broader.

Genetic variation impact scores: A new tool for earlier heart disease detection

The study will go a long way to improving the early diagnosis and treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia, a common genetic driver of cardiovascular disease.

New sepsis therapy developed at VUMC edges closer to the clinic

Jacek Hawiger and his colleagues report that a “peptide genomic therapy” given in combination with an antibiotic nearly doubles survival rates from sepsis in an animal model, compared to treatment with antibiotic alone.

By Bill Snyder

October 22, 2025

Behind the curtain: Secrets of the volatile, delusional brain

The VUMC approach, based on the “Feeling Safe Program” developed by British psychologist Daniel Freeman, targets specific factors that contribute to persecutory delusions, including worry, safety behaviors, avoidance and hallucinations (such as hearing voices).

By Bill Snyder

October 20, 2025

Three VUMC leaders elected to the National Academy of Medicine

With more than 2,400 members, the NAM (formerly the Institute of Medicine) collaborates closely with its peer academies, the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Engineering, to provide independent and authoritative advice on matters of science, technology and health nationally and globally.