Discovery's Edge Fall Online Issue

Monday, November 15, 2010

Here are highlights from the fall issue of Discovery's Edge, Mayo Clinic's research magazine. You may cite and link to this publication as often as you wish. Republication is allowed with proper attribution. Please include the following subscription information as your editorial policies permit: Visit Discovery's Edge for subscription information.

Detangling Risk in Neurodegenerative Disease
Clues to Alzheimer's and Beyond
A Mayo Clinic research team is taking a "road less traveled" in pursuing the cause of Alzheimer's disease and other similar conditions. The Tau protein is a less-understood potential culprit, causing disruptive tangles in the brain. Leonard Petrucelli, Ph.D., and his colleagues are beginning to find new clues on this trail.

Mesothelioma: Two New Approaches
Asbestos or other silicate particles inhaled decades ago are proving a time bomb for many who worked in mining or manufacturing industries. There isn't a cure for this disease, only a timeline for patients whose lungs slowly disintegrate. Mayo researchers are trying two different ways to help.

New Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation Catheter ablation procedure avoids drugs and surgery
It's a heart problem that can cause a range of problems, including the potential for suffering a stroke. Mayo Clinic's expertise in heart rhythm problems and cardiac technologies has led to a better way to treat patients and a 21st century means to see inside the heart during treatment.

Hormones, the Pancreas and Obesity
These hormones are in your digestive tract, in the gut and can influence what happens in the pancreas, the source of insulin. Laurence Miller, M.D., has studied both for decades and is now working to understand how these mechanisms could impact obesity. The ultimate goal could be a treatment to keep people from overeating.

SNAPSHOT: Decade of Discovery: Conquering Diabetes Within a State
Ending diabetes — both Type 1 and Type 2 — in a decade? Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota put that stake in the ground this fall, and their scientists are now developing a coordinated plan of attack. Audacious? Yes. It will take much help and many collaborators. Mayo's executive dean of research expressed it simply: "Minnesota is taking on diabetes. Come join us."

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