|
|
|
 PATHOLOGY: Study Gets Handle on Papillomavirus Infection
New Target Could Lead to First Specific Antiviral Drugs for Precancerous Cervical Lesions
HMS researchers have uncovered a missing link in our understanding of how human papillomaviruses gain their foothold in the rapidly dividing cells of the skin and mucous membranes. The discovery, reported in the April 30 Cell, could lead to new treatments for a host of human papillomavirus-related conditions, from the nuisance of plantar and genital warts to life-threatening precancerous cervical lesions. "We have uncovered a new target that could potentially lead to new antivirals. There is certainly a need because there are no specific human papillomavirus antivirals out there," said Peter Howley, senior author on the paper, shown with first author Jianxin You.
|
 INITIATIVES: The University Inaugurates Stem Cell Institute, Examines Issues
The new Harvard Stem Cell Institute was inaugurated on Friday, April 23, in a one-day symposium devoted to the science and social context of stem cell research. The afternoon scientific program was preceded by an introductory morning session, opened by Harvard president Lawrence Summers, that debated the purpose, ethics, policy, and economics of stem cell technology. Codirectors of the fledgling institute are David Scadden (left) of HMS and Douglas Melton (right) of Harvard University.
|
 WOMEN'S HEALTH: Curtain Drawn on Hormone Therapy for Older Women
Estrogen-only Trial in Women's Health Initiative Spotlights Increased Risk of Stroke
For women age 60 and older, the risks of hormone therapy appear to outweigh the benefits. The latest results from the estrogen-only arm of the Women's Health Initiative, published in the April 14 Journal of the American Medical Association, mark an overwhelming reversal of a decades-old effort to market hormone treatment as a way to prevent chronic diseases of aging, especially heart disease. Yet the same results provocatively suggest a potential cardiovascular benefit for women younger than 60 who start estrogen therapy at menopause. JoAnn Manson is heading one of eight centers in a new study designed to investigate the unanswered questions.
|
Copyright 2004 by the President and Fellows of Harvard College
|
|
