New drug target for rheumatoid arthritis identified

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City have identified a protein, known as IRHOM2, as the potential new target for drugs to treat patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The finding could provide an effective and potentially less toxic alternative therapy to tumor necrosis factor-alpha blockers (TNF-blockers), the mainstay of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, and could help patients who do not respond to this treatment. Efforts to develop drugs that hone in on this new target are underway.

“This study is an elegant example of the capacity of basic science cell biologists to work with translational rheumatologists to address a clinically relevant question at a basic level. We have identified a clinically relevant target that can be applied to patients in the near term,” said Jane Salmon, M.D., Collette Kean Research Chair and co-director, Mary Kirkland Center for Lupus Research at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), and an author of the study.

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, is triggered, in large part, by TNF-alpha, a small signalling protein usually involved in launching protective systemic inflammatory responses. With excessive TNF production, however, immune cells can become activated inappropriately and cause tissue inflammation. This produces a number of diseases, including RA. While TNF-blockers help many RA patients, these treatments are very expensive, and some patients do not respond. For this reason, researchers have been searching for alternative targets in patients with inflammatory diseases against which drugs can be directed.

“TNF can be thought of as a balloon tethered to the surface of cells. To work, it must be cut loose by signaling scissors called TACE (TNF-alpha converting enzyme),” said Carl Blobel, M.D., Ph.D., program director of the Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program at HSS. While blocking TACE could be another way to treat rheumatoid arthritis, researchers know this strategy would likely have side effects since patients lacking TACE are prone to skin infections and intestinal lesions.

Earlier this year, HSS investigators demonstrated that the TACE scissors are regulated by molecules called IRHOM1 and IRHOM2, which are thought to wrap around TACE and help it mature into functional scissors. They also demonstrated that mice that are genetically engineered to lack IRHOM2 lack functional TACE on the surface of their immune cells and don’t release TNF. Surprisingly, these mice are healthy, and do not develop skin or intestinal defects.

In the current study, HSS researchers set out to investigate why this paradox exists. After examining tissues of IRHOM2-deficient mice, they found that IRHOM2 regulates TACE on immune cells, whereas IRHOM1 is responsible for helping TACE mature elsewhere in the body, such as in brain, heart, kidney, liver, lung and spleen cells. The researchers then set out to determine whether blocking IRHOM2 could be a strategy to treat RA. They used a mouse model that mimics human rheumatoid arthritis in mice genetically engineered to be deficient in IRHOM2. They found that these rodents did not develop inflammatory arthritis and were otherwise healthy.

“When we tested mice that don’t have IRHOM2 in a model for inflammatory arthritis, we found they were protected and they were protected as well as mice that didn’t have any TNF,” said Dr. Blobel. Using drugs that inactivate IRHOM2 in humans, clinicians will be able to block the function of TACE only in immune cells. “We can prevent the deleterious contribution of TACE to rheumatoid arthritis patients and preserve its protective function in skin and intestines. With IRHOM2, we have a unique and unprecedented opportunity to inactive TACE only in certain cell types, and not in others, and there is currently no other effective way of doing that,” said Dr. Blobel. The researchers say the next step is to identify antibodies or pharmacological compounds that can be used to block the function of IRHOM2 and are safe in patients. The study will appear online in the Journal of Clinical Investigation and in the February 2013 print issue.

Source - the hindu

Fruits intake lowers ER- breast cancer risk

The consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer, according to a study.

The intake of fruits and vegetables has been hypothesized to lower breast cancer risk, however the existing evidence is inconclusive. There are many subtypes of breast cancer including ER- and ER positive (ER+) tumors and each may have distinct etiologies.

Source - timesofindia

Smart Tips - Snack

Late from work? Stock these quick snacks in your fridge to become healthy, wealthy and wise...

1. Ready-to-eat green salad

“It's a rich source of fibre that gives satiety without increasing calories. Also the different colour of veggies are good for the heart as they are high in antioxidants and fl avanoids,” says Dr Ritika Samaddar, regional head, dietetics, Max Healthcare, New Delhi.

Tip 

Pour some extra virgin olive oil with some boiled eggs, paneer, tofu or shredded chicken.

2. Broccoli

Rich in antioxidants, it's excellent for the heart and high in dietary fibre.

IMPORTANCE OF WATER

Health Benefits Of Eating Fish

Fish is considered one of the most power-packed foods for a healthy diet. It is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to prevent a huge range of diseases. Read on to know how:

1. Protects against Heart Disease
Several studies that have been conducted reveal that eating a regulated dose of fish every week reduces the risk of heart disease and increases the chances of survival after a heart attack. Fish oil is also known to reduce the stickiness of the blood, thereby limiting its tendency to clot.

2. Reduces Risk of Prostate Cancer
A study carried out in Sweden states that selenium, contained in most kinds of fish, helps fight cancer. Men who consume fish are less likely to develop prostate cancer than those who do not eat fish at all.
A study carried out in Sweden states that selenium, contained in most kinds of fish, helps fight cancer. Men who consume fish are less likely to develop prostate cancer than those who do not eat fish at all.

3. Helps Avoid Depression
As stated above, fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, and these are known to increase the levels of serotonin in the human brain. Therefore, the mind stays more optimistic and happier, leading to lesser instances of depression and low moods.

4. Prevents Alzheimer’s
The consumption of fish helps limit the risk of high blood pressure. Therefore, the chances of dementia get greatly reduced. Moreover, the brain cells suffer lesser risk of damage due to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acid in most kinds of fish.

5. Fights against Arthritis
Not only arthritis, but most types of inflammatory conditions are very well combated with the help of the Omega-3 fatty acids. These help control the cycle of inflammation of the body and can be found in fish such as mackerel, tuna, sardines, salmon and trout.

6. Enhances Skin
A diet that contains fish such as salmon is known to act as a skin-enhancing regime. The regular, yet moderate consumption of fish has anti-aging, anti-wrinkle effects, thereby making the skin younger-looking.

7. Asthma
In children, especially, the risk of asthma gets greatly reduced if they are given a regular diet of fish. Fish is rich in protein, making up for a lot of nutritious components required during the period of growing up.
So, if you want your dose of vitamins, minerals and more, make sure to include fish in your regular diet. However, whilst once or twice a week is what doctor would deem regular, make sure to consult your own dietician for the right dose for your system.
Source - yahoo

Nature’s own painkillers!

Stop loading on painkillers and choose from nature’s bounties to fight pain. Read on…

Prolonged use of painkillers and antacids can tamper with your health in more ways than one. Why not instead, choose goodies from nature’s basket, to curb pain, naturally.Yogurt: Commonly known as dahi or curd

Target: Stomach problems

Yogurt is rich in lactobacilli-the good bacteria that aids digestion, relieves stomach cramps and improves gastrointestinal function. You can choose from a variety of probiotic yogurts available in the market. Even better, blend together a cup of curd with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas for flavored yogurt.Cherries: Look for red, fresh and firm ones

Target: Muscle pain

People suffering from arthritis and muscle pain have a reason to rejoice. Studies now show that cherries are a rich source of anthocyanins which block pain by inhibiting the pain enzymes and reducing inflammation.Turmeric: Use sparingly in your gravies

Target: Colitis, achy joints

Turmeric, also known as haldi is a favorite in the Indian household. This wonder herb possesses extraordinary antiseptic and antibacterial properties which reduce inflammation of the colon and preserve nerve function. Add a bit extra to your gravies, and make sure you add a bit of black pepper to your preparations. The black pepper actually helps the release of curcumin and its wonder properties that aid pain relief.

Ginger: Load up on this versatile root

Target: Migraines, sore muscles

Used widely as an excellent home remedy for stomach ailments, ginger has also widely established its efficiency in treating cough and cold. What’s more is that this pungent root can now help reduce migraine pains and ease sore muscles. Add it to your meals everyday or add a teaspoon of ginger juice to your cup of tea. Amazingly, sucking on ginger candy works well too. To put it short, it works as efficiently as a single dose of aspirin!

Herbal tea: Switch the caffeine for these antioxidant rich tea

Target: Headaches

Herbal teas, especially green tea is loaded with antioxidants and is a favorite amongst those trying to lose weight. Recent studies claim that these herbal teas also relieve headache by narrowing down blood vessels which dilate during an onset of headache. Swap your cup of black tea with green tea and make sure you limit your intake to three cups a day.Fishes: Tunas and mackerels, choose fresh ones

Target: Achy back, joints

Mackerels and tunas, rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, are highly efficient at maintaining your back pains. The spinal discs, present in between the vertebras of the vertebral column, are responsible for the transport of important nutrients and oxygen to the spinal cord. Omega 3 fatty acids from these fishes help the blood vessels transport these nutrients to the spinal cord and prevent the degeneration of the tissues.

Vegetarians can get their share of Omega 3 fatty acids from a handful of walnuts and flaxseeds.

Source - yahoo

5 shocking things we eat every day

1. Arsenic : Many of us view rice as a pretty safe, healthy food; however, studies have suggested that it may also contain unsafe levels of the toxic substance arsenic. One study has suggested that one in five packs of American long-grain rice contain potentially harmful levels of the toxic substance, while others have reported concern for the levels of arsenic in rice milk and baby rice. In fact, according to tests by Consumer Reports, those who ate rice had 44 per cent greater levels of arsenic in their bodies than those who had not. While there is relatively little risk of the odd bowl of rice causing any long lasting harm, the popular grain may be best enjoyed in moderation if reports are to be believed.


2. Insects : Most of us wouldn’t class insects as a component of our diets; however, you may be eating more of them than you think, as well as your fair share of rodent hair over the years. Surprisingly, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows for “natural defects” in food by permitting a certain amount of bugs and rodent hair to be present in food products. For example, chocolate products may contain an average of 60 insect fragments and one rodent hair per 100g, while citrus fruit juice can contain one maggot per 250ml.


3. Lead : Ladies, how often have you applied your lipstick in the morning only to find your glossy pout has faded within a matter of hours? While some of your makeup will inevitably smear off on objects throughout the day, apparently the average woman also eats a whopping four to nine pounds of lipstick in her lifetime! As a 2004 study revealed that up to 28 per cent of lipsticks contain chemicals that can cause cancer and a 2007 study by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that more than 50 per cent of lipstick brands contained lead, this may be bad news for our health. To cut down your consumption of lead and look after your health, try switching to natural, organic brands of lipstick.

4. Wood : From cooking utensils to tables and chairs, wood is an essential ingredient of many of our must-have items. However, did you know it is also a component of a large amount of the foods we eat? Cellulose (wood pulp) is increasingly added to processed foods to thicken foods, add texture and replace more expensive ingredients like flour and oil. While there are no reported health problems associated with consuming cellulose, it may come as a surprise to many that they are regularly splashing their cash on food products bulked out with wood.


5. 48 teaspoons of sugar : While many of us make a conscious effort to limit the amount of sugar in our diets, research has shown that even if you steer clear of obvious sources of sugar such as desserts and chocolate, you may still be eating well over the recommended maximum sugar intake. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, food companies have been increasing the sugar content of processed foods to make them more appetising, meaning that many are unaware of just how much they are eating. The study showed that some of us are unknowingly eating up to 46 teaspoons a day, increasing risk of health conditions including heart disease.

Source - Yahoo

Scientists criticise ‘weight is healthy’ study

, January 3, 2013 - The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Assocition, suggested the overweight were less likely to die prematurely than people with a "healthy" weight.

Scientists have slammed a recent study which suggests that being overweight can lead to a longer life.

One of the experts labelled the findings a “pile of rubbish” while another said it was a “horrific message” to put out.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, suggested the overweight were less likely to die prematurely than people with a “healthy” weight.

Researchers at the US National Centre for Health Statistics looked at 97 studies involving nearly 2.9 million people to compare death rates with Body Mass Index (BMI) — a way of measuring obesity using a person’s weight and height.

A healthy BMI is considered to be above 18.5 and below 25.

However, overweight people (with a BMI between 25 and 30) were 6 per cent less likely to die early than those considered to have a healthy weight, the study reported.

The study said being “overweight was associated with significantly lower all-cause mortality”.

Possible explanations included overweight people getting medical treatment, such as to control blood pressure, more quickly or the extra weight helping people survive being severely ill in hospital.

However, the researchers point out they looked only at deaths and not years spent free of ill-health.

“Have you ever seen a 100-year-old human being who is overweight? The answer is you probably haven’t,” Prof John Wass, vice-president of the Royal College of Physicians, said.

Prof Wass said the largest people will have died years before and pointed to health problems and higher levels of Type 2 diabetes.

Source - The Hindu

Over 8,60,000 ASHAs appointed to act as bridge between the communities and the health facilities in villages – Azad

Since the launch of National Rural Health Mission 7 years ago, substantial progress has been made in health sector. Over 8,60,000 ASHAs have been appointed to act as bridge between the communities and the health facilities in the villages. New Health Infrastructure has been created. A total of 70,000 beds have been increased in government health institutions for provision of essential and emergency services. 

Addressing the inaugural function of Ashwini Rural Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre (ARMCH) at Solapur in Maharashtra, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad said that his Ministry has taken several steps to improve health scenario in the country. To increase the human resources, nearly 1.6 lakh human resources such as Specialists, Doctors, Nurses, ANMs and Para-medics have been added. A Mother and Child Tracking System (MCTS) has been put in place to reach out to every pregnant woman and child for proper vaccination. The government has launched a scheme wherein male and female contraceptives are being delivered at the doorstep in the high focus districts of the country by ASHAs at a nominal cost. Another scheme has been initiated for the promotion of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls of rural areas in the age group of 10-19 years covering 1.5 crore girls in 152 districts of 20 states. There has been significant fall in MMR, IMR and TFR as well as reduction in new HIV cases by as much as 57% in the country. 

Shri Azad said since he took over the Health Ministry more than three years ago, his Ministry has been focusing on reforming policies related to medical and paramedical education with a view to overcome the acute shortage of human resources in health. A series of reforms in medical education were undertaken to increase the human resources at various levels. These path-breaking decisions have brought in positive results, never seen before in the past six decades. The availability of MBBS seats has gone up by nearly 40% and the number of PG seats by about 80%. This year, the increase in MBBS seats in the country will be 50% and PG seats increase will touch almost 100%. To overcome the shortage of Nurses and ANMs, his Ministry has already sanctioned 269 nursing schools in the last two years, mostly in remote, inaccessible and under-served districts. With an estimated outlay of Rs. 2,030 crores, these institutions will give an additional 20,000 nurses annually. To scale up the availability of para-medics through centres of excellence in para-medical education, a National Institute of Paramedical Sciences (NIPS) at Delhi and 8 Regional Institutes have been sanctioned. A total of 10,760 paramedic professionals are expected to be trained annually when these institutes of excellence are fully functional. 

He said the 12th Plan has just been finalized by the National Development Council. It is a matter of great satisfaction that “Health” has been given a central position in the 12th Plan and the outlay for health has gone up substantially. Several new initiatives have been envisaged during 12th Plan period. These are:- (1) Strengthening of Sub-Centres, which are the first port of call for the community for healthcare services in the remotest and inaccessible areas by providing additional manpower; (2) The District Hospitals would be equipped to become strong hubs for advanced secondary and multi-speciality care; (3) To cope with the increasing load at government facilities, 20,000 additional beds for mothers and children have been approved for District Hospitals and Community Health Centres; (4) It is proposed to introduce universal screening for all children for disease, disability and deficiency which would be followed up by free treatment where required; (5) Medicines account for 70% of out of pocket expenditure. It is proposed to ensure availability of free generic medicines to everyone coming to a government health facility; (6) Another area would be the launch of an urban health initiative to address health concerns of urban poor specially those living in the urban slums. 

Shri Azad hoped that Ashwini Rural Medical College and Hospital would render critical medical services to the people in surrounding rural areas. These would help in bridging the gap in accessibility and affordability of health-care services between the rural poor and the urban elite. This institute would also distinguish itself in the service of the people of Solapur and neighbouring areas and would add to the availability of quality human resources to meet the health needs of the state, region and country. 

(Release ID :91248)