Dr. Chaim's research primarily delves into genetic conditions that affect health, particularly those related to heart problems and skin sensitivity. He studies rare syndromes and their genetic origins, aiming to discover how mutations can lead to severe health issues, particularly in infants. Additionally, he examines surgical techniques to repair tendon injuries, noting significant improvements in patients' mobility post-surgery. His research also includes historical perspectives, as he investigates ancient agricultural practices surrounding olive production, providing insights into human dietary evolution.
Key findings
In a study of a rare genetic condition in infants, researchers identified a mutation in the iASPP protein linked to dilated cardiomyopathy, which contributed to the early death of affected children.
The study on the XPD mutation found that individuals with two genetic changes were at risk for developing late-onset skin tumors and cognitive decline, highlighting the importance of understanding genetic risk factors.
After surgical repair of the tibialis anterior tendon, patients improved their ankle function scores from 55.5 to 93.6 out of 100 after 4.5 years, demonstrating effective outcomes regardless of age.
Research on dietary effects in mice showed that offspring of nephrectomized mothers had improved kidney filtration rates, particularly when fed high-protein or high-salt diets.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Chaim study genetic heart conditions?
Yes, he focuses on genetic syndromes that cause heart issues, particularly in infants.
What surgical improvements has Dr. Chaim researched?
He has studied the repair of tibialis anterior tendon ruptures, showing significant improvements in patient mobility after surgery.
Is Dr. Chaim's work relevant to patients with skin sensitivity?
Yes, his research on the XPD gene helps patients with skin sensitivity and related risks.
What insights does Dr. Chaim provide on ancient agriculture?
He investigates ancient olive production methods, shedding light on early agricultural practices.
Publications in plain English
Early production of table olives at a mid-7th millennium BP submerged site off the Carmel coast (Israel).
2021
Scientific reports
Galili E, Langgut D, Terral JF, Barazani O, Dag A +10 more
Plain English Researchers studied ancient sites in Israel to understand how olives were produced around 7,000 years ago. They found evidence that at a site called Hishuley Carmel, people were preparing table olives while another nearby site, Kfar Samir, focused on making olive oil. This suggests that making table olives came after olive oil production in this region, marking important steps in the early use of olives.
Who this helps: This research benefits historians and archaeologists studying ancient food production and agriculture.
Sequence variation inresults in a novel form of cardio-cutaneous syndrome.
2017
EMBO molecular medicine
Falik-Zaccai TC, Barsheshet Y, Mandel H, Segev M, Lorber A +22 more
Plain English This study looked at a rare genetic condition affecting five infants from Arab Christian families, all of whom had a severe heart problem called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) along with some skin, teeth, and hair issues. These infants died before they turned three, and researchers discovered a specific genetic change in the iASPP protein that likely made the heart more sensitive to inflammation, which is linked to their heart condition. Understanding this genetic cause is important because it can help in identifying similar cases and could lead to better care and treatments for affected children.
Who this helps: This helps patients with similar genetic heart conditions and their families.
A novel XPD mutation in a compound heterozygote; the mutation in the second allele is present in three homozygous patients with mild sun sensitivity.
2012
Environmental and molecular mutagenesis
Falik-Zaccai TC, Erel-Segal R, Horev L, Bitterman-Deutsch O, Koka S +10 more
Plain English This research focused on a genetic mutation in the XPD gene that affects DNA repair, which can lead to conditions like sun sensitivity and skin tumors. The study found an 18-year-old with mild sun sensitivity carrying two mutations in the XPD gene, and a family where members had a specific mutation. Out of those individuals, three developed late-onset skin tumors, and two showed signs of premature aging and cognitive decline. Understanding these mutations helps in managing sun sensitivity and related health risks to prevent complications for affected individuals.
Who this helps: Patients with sun sensitivity and related genetic disorders.
Surgical repair of acute and chronic tibialis anterior tendon ruptures.
2009
The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume
Sammarco VJ, Sammarco GJ, Henning C, Chaim S
Plain English This study looked at repairing the tibialis anterior tendon, which affects ankle movement, in 18 patients aged 21 to 78. The researchers found that after surgery, patients saw a marked improvement in their ankle function, with scores increasing from 55.5 to 93.6 out of 100 after an average follow-up of about 4.5 years. This matters because it shows that surgical repair can greatly enhance mobility and strength in affected individuals, regardless of their age or other health issues.
Who this helps: This helps patients with tibialis anterior tendon ruptures.
Effect of dietary manipulations on glomerular filtration rate of mice offspring of nephrectomized mothers.
1993
American journal of nephrology
Aberbukh Z, Weissgarten J, Berman S, Cohn M, Chaim S +4 more
Plain English This study examined how different diets affect the kidney function of mice whose mothers had part of their kidneys removed. Researchers found that the offspring of these mothers had a better ability to filter blood than those whose mothers had not undergone the surgery. Specifically, the offspring from mothers with one kidney showed significantly higher filtration rates, especially on high-protein or high-salt diets, while only the high protein/high salt diet increased filtration in the other group.
Who this helps: This research can benefit patients with kidney issues by providing insights into how dietary changes might improve kidney function.