New Strategy Used for Prion Diagnosis
A technique to detect prions in brain tissue is more sensitive than procedures currently used, according to a UCSF research team. The finding indicates that conformation-dependent immunoassay (CDI) should be the standard approach.

Brain Tumor Treatment Varies Greatly
Primary malignant brain tumors are uncommon and often associated with a poor prognosis. A new study found that treatment of these tumors varies greatly among medical centers and can conflict with accepted guidelines of care.

Insulin May Determine Alcohol Susceptibility
Drunken fruit flies led to the discovery that insulin may determine susceptibility to alcohol. If confirmed in humans, the UCSF finding suggests a promising way to treat alcoholism using drugs that control insulin.

Brain Processes Sound in Alternate Way
UCSF scientists found that the brains of rats can be trained to learn an alternate mode of processing changes in sound volume. The discovery has potential for the treatment of hearing loss, autism and other sensory disabilities in humans.

New Frontiers in Treating Glioma

A number of parallel developments in clinical and basic science are making brain tumors more vulnerable than ever before. A new understanding of the underlying biology of cell growth, along with new tools for monitoring the tumor's growth and its response to therapy, has created a number of new clinical opportunities.

Ten or 15 years ago, stage IV metastatic cancer was a death sentence. Now, primary cancer is a bigger threat. New technologies and modifications of old technologies have drastically reduced mortality from metastatic cancer.

Neurointensivists meld neurology and intensive care medicine to provide the highest level of care for critically ill patients with damage to the central nervous system. With 20 neuro-ICU beds, UCSF has one of the largest units in the nation.

MS is a deadly disease with few therapeutic options. UCSF scientists discovered that the cardiovascular drugs called statins can have immunomodulatory effects that alleviate the animal model of multiple sclerosis. Researchers are beginning a trial to discover if statins will benefit humans with MS.

A blind sculptor is afflicted with postural headaches. UCSF physicians conduct a long search to locate and address the source of his pain.

UCSF Medical Center has been designated a training site for physicians learning how to implant the Charite artificial lumbar disc.

See information on upcoming continuing medical education courses.

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