Yale University’s Joan Steitz awarded 2012 Vanderbilt Prize

Clues to retinal cell degeneration

A reversible chemical modification of rhodopsin, a receptor for light, plays a role in the degeneration of retinal cells.

Tool helps plumb electronic records

A tool developed for one institution’s electronic health records can work at other institutions, potentially facilitating the use of these records in research studies.

Flu Tool guides patient decision-making

Studies of Flu Tool, a computer application that guides health care decision-making, suggests that patients are willing to use these types of resources.

New therapeutic target for cold, flu viruses identified

Viruses that cause acute respiratory infections — such as human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and flu — impair a set of immune system cells that should clear the virus from the lungs.
Now, Vanderbilt University investigators have discovered the signaling pathway that disables these immune cells.

Insights for neuroscience drug discovery

When discovering drugs for brain disorders, it’s important to test the candidates in multiple ways to avoid advancing those with restricted physiological effects.