NIDDK Archives

Protecting the blood-brain barrier

Dec. 9, 2016—Vanderbilt investigators have discovered how a promising cancer immunotherapy causes brain swelling, findings that could lead to ways to protect brain function while fighting cancers.

Making human beta cells reproduce

Dec. 8, 2016—A new method developed at Vanderbilt will speed the search for potential therapeutics for diabetes: compounds that stimulate the replication of insulin-producing beta cells.

Plasmin prevents muscle ‘hardening’ after injury: study

Dec. 8, 2016—Vanderbilt researchers have made the surprising discovery that the protease plasmin, known for its clot-busting role in the blood, protects soft tissue from turning to bone after severe injuries and certain orthopaedic surgeries.

Building the basement membrane

Nov. 21, 2016—Vanderbilt researchers have discovered steps in the regulation of a key enzyme that builds the basement membrane, a structure that undergirds nearly all animal tissues.

Stem cells promote tolerance

Nov. 17, 2016—Blood-forming stem cells play a role in immune tolerance and acceptance of organ transplants, Vanderbilt researchers have discovered.

Study tracks diabetes management via text messaging

Nov. 10, 2016—The REACH study is offering Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) primary care patients with type 2 diabetes an opportunity to more easily track medication adherence, monitor A1C results, and make healthy lifestyle choices via text messaging.

A DARPP role in gastric cancer

Nov. 3, 2016—Vanderbilt researchers have discovered a link between Helicobacter pylori infection, inflammation and gastric cancer that could suggest new anti-cancer therapies.

Single-cell study of tumor samples

Oct. 26, 2016—A new method for analyzing cells in fixed biopsy tissues from patients by guide personalized treatment strategies for cancer.

Motoring to the tips of the brush border

Oct. 6, 2016—New findings implicate a motor protein in the assembly of the brush border in the intestines and kidneys – a specialized surface that is critical for healthy organ function.

Targeting norovirus “noxiousness”

Sep. 28, 2016—New discoveries will guide efforts to develop vaccines or antiviral agents for norovirus, the most common cause of infectious diarrhea.

zinc pill on spoon over white background

Study shows excess dietary zinc worsens C. diff infection

Sep. 26, 2016—Too much dietary zinc increases susceptibility to infection by Clostridium difficile — “C. diff” — the most common cause of hospital-acquired infections.