DR. PAUL B. GREENBERG, MD

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Researchers studied treatment-resistant metastatic prostate cancer to find new ways to target the disease with immunotherapy. They discovered seven specific mutations that create new proteins, called neoantigens, which can provoke an immune response. In particular, they found that a mutation known as AR H875Y produces three new neopeptides that lead to strong cancer-fighting T-cells, showcasing their ability to attack prostate cancer cells effectively both in the lab and in living models. This matters because it opens up potential new treatments for patients who have limited options due to resistance to existing therapies. Who this helps: Patients with treatment-resistant metastatic prostate cancer.

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This study examined whether giving patients a steroid called dexamethasone during surgery can help reduce pain after wisdom tooth removal when combined with either nonopioid painkillers (like NSAIDs and acetaminophen) or opioids. Researchers found that patients who received dexamethasone reported less pain on the first day after surgery—an average reduction of 0.78 points out of 10 for those using nonopioids and 1.22 points for those using opioids. This is important because it shows that adding dexamethasone can enhance pain relief, potentially leading to fewer complications and a better recovery experience after surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from wisdom tooth surgery.

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Researchers studied a treatment called OL-1, which contains live bacteria, to see if it could boost immunity against COVID-19 in unvaccinated adults who had been previously infected with the virus. They found that adults who took a standard dose of OL-1 showed a significant increase in a specific immune response (plasma IgG levels) after 42 days compared to those who received a placebo, with a notable p-value of 0.02, while those taking a higher dose did not see the same benefit. This matters because it suggests that OL-1 could be a potential way to enhance immunity for people who are unvaccinated but previously infected with COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps unvaccinated individuals who have previously been infected with COVID-19.

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This study investigated how melanoma cells avoid being attacked by the immune system. Researchers found that melanoma cells release tiny particles called melanosomes that are covered in proteins, which distract and weaken immune cells known as CD8 T cells. By analyzing samples from melanoma patients, they confirmed that these melanosomes trap immune cells, reducing their ability to fight the cancer. Who this helps: This benefits patients with melanoma by identifying a new target for treatments that could improve their immune response against tumors.

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This study looked at ways to improve the effectiveness of T cells that are engineered to target specific tumors (which express markers like MAGE-A1). Researchers found that modifying a part of these T cells (the CD8 co-receptor) to include a signaling component from another molecule (CD28) led to better performance, including increased ability to fight tumors in mouse models. This new approach showed enhanced T cell activity, persistence, and tumor control compared to traditional methods. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients receiving T cell therapy, especially those with solid tumors.

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This study looked at a protein called KLHL6 and how it affects T cells—important immune cells that help fight cancer. Researchers found that increasing KLHL6 in T cells helped them avoid becoming dysfunctional and improved their ability to fight tumors and viral infections. For example, boosting KLHL6 led to better long-lasting responses in T cells against cancer. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by potentially enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapies.

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This study examined how mutations in a gene called SF3B1, common in certain blood cancers and solid tumors, affect the splicing of non-coding regions of messenger RNA (mRNA). The researchers found that these mutations lead to significant changes in mRNA, particularly increasing the levels of a protein called DCAF16, which can enhance cancer cell growth. This is important because it opens up a new avenue for treatment, using drugs that target the altered DCAF16 to specifically attack SF3B1 mutant cancers, showing promise for better cancer therapies. Who this helps: Patients with SF3B1 mutant cancers, including those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

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This research focused on a protein called p14ARF, which is linked to many cancers, especially those with mutations in another protein called p53. The study found that a specific version of p14ARF is present in over 50% of these tumors and can be effectively targeted by a new type of treatment using specially modified immune cells, showing strong results in laboratory tests. This matters because it opens up a new approach to treat cancers that have been hard to target, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients with cancers that have p53 mutations.

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This research studied patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), which are disorders where the bone marrow fails to produce enough healthy blood cells, and it focused on comparing those with normal genetic structures (karyotypes) to those with abnormal ones. The study found that while both groups had similar levels of certain blood cell abnormalities, patients with abnormal karyotypes had significantly more issues with a type of blood cell called megakaryocytes. Specifically, megakaryocyte dysplasia was more pronounced in abnormal cases, indicating a distinct difference in disease severity related to genetic mutations. Who this helps: This research helps doctors understand the different characteristics of MDS in patients, leading to better-targeted treatments.

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This study examined a patient who experienced severe health issues after taking chlorthalidone, a medication for high blood pressure. The patient suffered from low potassium, weight loss, and high blood sugar, but after receiving treatments, their condition improved within days. Genetic testing revealed a specific mutation linked to a condition similar to Gitelman syndrome, which affects electrolyte balance and could shed light on how certain medications impact potassium levels and blood sugar. Who this helps: This helps doctors manage patients on diuretics and understand potential genetic factors affecting their treatment.

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This study looked at a rare but serious eye condition called post-injection endophthalmitis (PIE) that can occur after patients receive their first anti-VEGF injection, a common treatment for eye diseases. Out of over one million eyes treated, only 600 (about 0.06%) developed PIE, with symptoms usually showing up 3 to 8 days after the injection. Factors that increased the risk included living in U.S. territories and having previous corticosteroid eye treatments, while not smoking decreased the risk. Who this helps: This research benefits patients receiving anti-VEGF treatments by identifying risk factors for complications, allowing for better monitoring and management.

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This study looked at how cells in the immune system, specifically T cells, use a sugar called mannose and how this impacts their ability to fight tumors. Researchers found that when they boosted mannose metabolism in T cells, it improved their effectiveness against cancer. For example, T cells treated with D-mannose showed better anti-tumor activity and maintained their ability to grow and function even after being expanded over a long period. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients who could receive more effective immune therapies.

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In this study, researchers looked at whether nonopioid pain relievers (ibuprofen and acetaminophen) are as effective as opioids (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) for managing pain after having wisdom teeth removed. They found that patients taking the nonopioid combination felt significantly less pain on the first day, were equally comfortable overall, and reported a higher satisfaction rate of 85.3% compared to 78.9% for those on opioids. This matters because it shows that nonopioid options are not only effective but also safer, supporting recommendations to reduce opioid prescriptions after dental surgeries. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from dental surgery by providing a safer pain management option.

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This study examined how specific receptors on CD8 T cells interact with antigens from the SARS-CoV-2 virus and how these interactions influence the characteristics and longevity of T cells after they respond to the virus. Researchers analyzed data from 951 SARS-CoV-2 antigens tied to T cells from 62 COVID-19 patients and found that certain features of the antigen and T cell receptor pairings were linked to both the type of T cell response and how long the T cells lasted in the body. These findings are important because they help clarify why some T cell responses to COVID-19 are stronger or longer-lasting than others. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors understand T cell behavior in response to COVID-19.

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This study looked at risk assessment models that help cataract surgeons predict complications during surgery. Out of over 4,100 articles reviewed, only eight met the criteria, revealing that most models focus on specific complications like zonular problems and ruptures, often linked to factors such as older age and poor patient positioning. The findings show that while these models can aid decision-making, they have limitations like not using standard measures and needing more validation, which are crucial for improving surgical outcomes. Who this helps: This helps cataract surgeons to make better decisions for their patients.

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This study examined how specific immune cell receptors (CD8 T cell receptors) respond to different parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in COVID-19 patients. Researchers analyzed data from 62 patients and found that certain features of the viral proteins and their corresponding T cell receptors can predict how T cells behave and last after activation. This is important because it helps us understand how the immune response can be tailored to fight infections more effectively. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.

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This study explored the safety of personal care products (like hair and skin care items) used by a sample of people from a university in New Jersey. Researchers found that out of 9,349 products used, 68% had a hazardous score linked to potential chemical risks. Notably, non-Hispanic Black women were nearly twice as likely to use hair products with high hazard scores compared to non-Hispanic White women, and those who frequently used apps to check product safety or read labels tended to choose safer options. Who this helps: This information benefits consumers looking for safer personal care products and health professionals advising patients on product safety.

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This study looked at eye injuries from car accidents in emergency rooms across the United States from 2000 to 2020. About 224,231 people had these injuries during this time, with rates dropping from 0.34 to 0.27 injuries per 10,000 people. Males were more affected, making up nearly 63% of cases, and American Indian/Alaska Natives had the highest injury rates at 11.3 per 10,000 people, while most injuries were minor and patients were usually treated and sent home. Who this helps: This information is important for health officials, emergency doctors, and support services for those at higher risk, such as younger adults and specific ethnic groups.

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This research paper looks at the latest guidelines for treating myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a type of blood cancer. The guidelines include new recommendations based on recent studies that show important advances in treatment options for both lower-risk and higher-risk MDS cases. These updates help doctors choose the best therapies for patients, ultimately improving care and patient outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and their doctors.

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This study looked at whether giving the antibiotic vancomycin to patients receiving stem cell transplants could prevent infections from Clostridium difficile (C. difficile), which can make recovery harder. The researchers found that just 1.4% of patients who received vancomycin developed a C. difficile infection, compared to 23.6% of those who did not receive it. This is important because it shows that vancomycin can significantly lower the risk of C. difficile infections, which can help improve outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplants.

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Researchers studied the rules for who can participate in clinical trials for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and found that many patients are often excluded without good reason. Of 191 trials they looked at, only 13% matched the safety signals of the drugs being tested, indicating that the rules are often too strict and not based on safety concerns. This is important because it means many patients who could benefit from new treatments are missing out on participating in these trials. Who this helps: This helps patients with MDS by giving them more access to clinical trials.

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This study looked at how changes in protein production within cancer cells can create unusual peptide fragments that T cells can recognize and attack. When researchers removed a specific protein called TYW2 from tumor cells, these cells produced more of these recognizable fragments, resulting in a stronger immune response against the tumor. They found that tumors with low levels of TYW2 responded better to a treatment called checkpoint blockade, which is designed to enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients who may respond better to immunotherapy treatments.

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This study examined the immune response of patients with multiple myeloma, focusing specifically on a type of immune cell called T-cells. Researchers found that newly diagnosed patients did not show signs of T-cell exhaustion, which is often seen in other cancers, indicating that these cells could still be effective in fighting the disease. This is important because understanding how the immune system behaves in multiple myeloma can help develop better treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple myeloma by potentially leading to improved immunotherapy treatments.

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This study looked at the genetics of dry eye disease (DED), which affects up to 25% of adults and can cause significant discomfort. Researchers analyzed data from over 132,000 people with DED and discovered ten key genetic areas that are linked to the condition, as well as connections between DED and other health issues like fibromyalgia and PTSD. Understanding these genetic links is important because it can help doctors identify and treat DED more effectively and potentially address related conditions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with dry eye disease and related chronic pain conditions.

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This study looked at how stress experienced by pregnant mothers affects the tiny molecules called tRNA fragments in newborns, and it found that this effect varies between boys and girls. Specifically, female newborns showed greater changes in these tRNA fragments linked to stress, while male newborns had higher levels of a stress-related enzyme. Understanding these differences is important because it could improve how we diagnose and treat developmental issues caused by maternal stress. Who this helps: This helps parents of newborns and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the use of pesticide-coated corn to produce biofuel led to serious contamination in the environment around a U.S. ethanol plant. Out of 459 surveyed households nearby, 82% were worried about water quality, 79% about soil quality, and 72% about air quality. Although many felt stressed about their health, over half did not think they had symptoms linked to the contamination, though common issues included respiratory problems and stress. Who this helps: This helps local communities and leaders address environmental health concerns.

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This study looked at eye injuries related to swimming and water sports that led people to visit emergency departments across the United States from 2013 to 2022. Researchers found about 42,500 injuries, with most victims being children (73%) and injuries mainly happening in the summer (69%) at public places like pools. The most common issue reported was eye irritation or inflammation, with nearly half of the cases stemming from swimming. Who this helps: This information is beneficial for parents, pool operators, and healthcare providers.

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The study looked at how often people in workplaces across the U.S. see mistreatment of their colleagues, such as bullying or harassment. It found that 64.5% of employees witnessed at least one type of mistreatment in the past year, with many witnessing these behaviors multiple times. This information highlights the need for comprehensive training programs that can help bystanders intervene effectively in these situations, taking into account various factors like the employee's social identity and job level. Who this helps: This helps employees who witness workplace mistreatment and the organizations working to create safer environments.

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This study looked at specific proteins in pancreatic cancer cells that the immune system can recognize. Researchers found that about 30% of these proteins, called cryptic peptides, are unique to cancer and could trigger a strong immune response. This is important because it opens the door for new treatments that could help the immune system attack pancreatic cancer more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatic cancer by paving the way for new immunotherapy options.

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This study looked at a new type of therapy for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who have relapsed after receiving a stem cell transplant. Researchers tested a special kind of immune cell, called T-cells, engineered to target a certain antigen, but found that these T-cells didn’t work as well as hoped; although they were safe to use, they didn’t significantly improve patient outcomes, and some T-cells changed in a way that made them less effective. One patient showed better results when paired with another treatment, which suggests we need to find better ways to keep T-cells functioning well in order to improve cancer treatment. Who this helps: This research helps patients with acute myeloid leukemia who have relapsed after treatment.

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This study looks at new ways to improve cell-based gene therapies that treat cancers, specifically focusing on solid tumors, which are harder to treat. Researchers found that hundreds of gene edits can enhance T-cell function, but testing them one by one in traditional trials is impractical. They propose a new trial design that tests multiple gene changes in one go, which could speed up identifying the most promising treatments while ensuring patient safety and ethical standards are met. Who this helps: This helps patients with difficult-to-treat cancers and the doctors who care for them.

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This research paper focuses on how to properly diagnose eye problems that may occur in patients suspected of having Lyme disease, which is an infection spread by ticks. The study found that eye issues are more common in the early stages of Lyme disease and emphasizes the importance of using correct tests to identify these problems, ensuring patients receive timely treatment. Proper diagnosis can lead to quicker referrals for effective care, improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps eye care clinicians and patients with suspected Lyme disease-related eye issues.

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Researchers studied 268 patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) to see how different genetic features affect their treatment responses and outcomes. They found that about 35% of patients responded to treatment with hypomethylating agents (HMA), with response rates varying by genetic subgroup: for example, 50% of patients with the U2AF1 mutation responded, compared to just 7% in a subgroup without any identified mutations. This matters because it shows that understanding a patient's specific genetic profile can help doctors choose the most effective treatment and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in tailoring treatments based on genetic information.

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This study looked at how a woman's age affects the thickness of the lining of the uterus during frozen embryo transfer cycles. Researchers found that, while there was a slight decline in pregnancy rates for women with endometrial thicknesses below 8 mm, thickness levels from 8 to 18 mm did not impact pregnancy chances. It also revealed that pregnancy rates drop with age, even though the thickness of the endometrium does not seem to be affected by age. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and fertility specialists working with women undergoing assisted reproductive technology.

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This study looked at how embryos get rid of old maternal mRNA to start making their own proteins as they develop. Researchers found that in zebrafish, frogs, mice, and humans, the timing and speed of this mRNA clearance match how quickly each species develops. For instance, faster-developing species show specific patterns of mRNA degradation. Understanding this process is important because it helps explain how embryos initiate growth and development properly. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying early embryo development and could impact treatments in reproductive medicine.

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This study looked at a new treatment for ovarian cancer by combining engineered T cells, which are designed to attack cancer cells, with a special treatment that blocks signals that often prevent T cells from working effectively. Researchers found that using a combination of three different blockers (PD-1, Tim-3, and Lag-3) along with the T cells significantly improved the ability of the T cells to fight the cancer and increased survival in mice by delaying tumor growth. This is important because it suggests that targeting multiple obstacles in the cancer environment can make treatments more successful for patients. Who this helps: Patients with ovarian cancer.

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This paper focuses on improving the way scientists name and categorize different types of T cells, which are important players in the immune system. Researchers found that existing naming conventions were confusing and inconsistent, leading to misunderstandings and a lack of clear communication in the field. They propose new guidelines that encourage clearer definitions and a more flexible naming system that describes T cells based on their specific traits instead of rigid categories. Who this helps: This helps researchers, educators, and clinicians in immunology and related fields.

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This study looked at the outcomes of freezing eggs and later using them to achieve pregnancies at an egg freezing clinic over eight years. Researchers found that out of 4,659 egg freezing cycles, about 10.4% of patients returned to use their frozen eggs, and those who thawed more than 20 eggs had a live birth rate of 81.8%. This is important because it shows that women freezing their eggs, especially at younger ages, have a strong chance of achieving a pregnancy later on. Who this helps: This helps women considering egg freezing for future family planning.

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The study looked at how payments from Medicare for eye surgeries and treatments have changed from 2003 to 2024, especially in six different areas of eye medicine. Researchers found that payments for procedures done in private practices dropped by nearly 39%, while those in hospitals fell by about 34%. This steep decline in payments, particularly in retina treatments, is concerning because it could threaten patients' access to eye care and the financial stability of ophthalmologists. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on Medicare for eye care.

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This study looked at two ways to perform cataract surgery on both eyes: doing them on the same day (immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery or ISBCS) versus waiting a short period (delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery or DSBCS). Out of nearly 48,000 patients, only about 1,151 (2.4%) had surgery on the same day, and those patients often traveled further for their surgeries but had fewer eye health issues. The important finding is that despite different circumstances, the rate of complications after surgery was similar between the two groups, which is reassuring for both patients and doctors. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need cataract surgery, especially those considering having both eyes done at once.

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This study looked at how a specific type of chemotherapy can help a new cancer treatment that uses T cells to target unique tumor markers, specifically the KRAS.G12V mutation found in cancers like colorectal, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Researchers found that when they used this chemotherapy along with T cell therapy, the T cells were much better at attacking tumor cells, leading to a more effective treatment. They observed that chemotherapy improved the visibility of tumor markers to the immune system, which is crucial for fighting cancer. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients, especially those with KRAS.G12V mutations.

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This study examined a new type of protein that can change harmful signals in tumors into signals that help T cells grow and thrive. Researchers created fusion proteins that allow T cells to respond positively to a usually suppressive substance, TGF-β, leading to better T cell survival and growth. They found that these modified T cells not only grew more effectively when exposed to TGF-β but also improved their ability to kill tumors, which is crucial for making cancer treatments more effective. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients receiving adoptive T cell therapy.

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This study looked at how well artificial intelligence (AI) can diagnose exudative age-related macular degeneration (eAMD), a serious eye disease that can quickly worsen vision. The analysis included data from over 16,000 participants and found that AI algorithms had a high accuracy in detecting eAMD, with a sensitivity of 94% (correctly identifying those with the disease) and a specificity of 99% (correctly identifying those without it). This matters because quicker and more accurate diagnosis can lead to better treatment outcomes for patients at risk of vision loss. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of developing severe vision problems due to age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at a severe brain disease called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), caused by a virus known as JC virus (JCV). Researchers identified specific parts of the JCV that can trigger an immune response and successfully created immune cells (T cells) that target these parts. For instance, one particular part of the virus, called VP1(100-108), was found to produce a strong immune response, and T cells engineered to recognize it were able to effectively eliminate JCV-infected cells. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with PML, particularly those with a specific genetic makeup (HLA-A2) who struggle to fight the virus on their own.

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This study looked at the genetic factors behind age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss, in different populations, focusing particularly on African and Hispanic/Latino groups. Researchers discovered 63 genetic locations associated with AMD, including 30 that were previously unknown, and found that the genetic risks varied significantly between populations. This is important because understanding these differences can lead to better treatments and preventive measures tailored for diverse groups. Who this helps: This benefits patients with AMD, especially those from different ancestry backgrounds.

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This study looked at how a type of immunotherapy using special T cells affects patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after they received a stem cell transplant. Researchers found that while some T cells persisted longer, they changed in ways that made them less effective at fighting the cancer. In one patient, T cells that maintained their function helped control the disease for a longer period, highlighting the challenges in creating effective treatments for AML relapse. Who this helps: This helps patients with acute myeloid leukemia who are at high risk of relapse after treatment.

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This study examined how well planning teams worked together during the early phase of the New Jersey Kids Study, a large statewide research initiative on child health. Teams with more senior researchers and larger size were more effective, while greater age spread and diversity of institutional affiliations were associated with lower team effectiveness. Leadership quality stood out as a key factor in whether researchers wanted to stay involved with the project.