BETHESDA, MD—The science into the biological mechanisms behind the psychological symptoms of PTSD is still in its infancy, but studies have linked PTSD to other serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, fatigue, and metabolic disorders. Research funded by NIH is suggesting that the cause of this link might have its roots in endocrine and immune function differences in patients with PTSD and most significantly in those with co-morbid major depressive disorder.

BETHESDA, MD—While the hunt for an HIV vaccine has run into a number of roadblocks the past few years, researchers are still meticulously searching for aspects of the virus and the transmission process that could prove to be viable targets for future interventions. NIH grantee Cynthia Derdeyn, PhD, is at the forefront of HIV vaccine research. She and her colleagues at Emory University have been exploring the dynamics of HIV sexual transmission—research that has led to a number of discoveries that could prove fruitful in the creation of a vaccine.

BETHESDA, MD— “In 1981, we were not at all prepared in the attitude at the time, and in the availability of responsible, qualified basic medical virologists. I was there. I know how people got involved, and it wasn’t by responsibility, but by chance.”
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BETHESDA, MD—For years now, physicians have been imploring the nation to get more exercise. Pointing to research showing great benefits in overall health and in combating chronic disease, researchers have also been pressing employers to include exercise and nutrition programs into the workplace.

BETHESDA, MD—To help advance research on how genes affect responses to medicines, NIH is spending $15 million over five years to expand the Pharmacogenomics Knowledge Base (PharmGKB).

WASHINGTON, DC—The federal government is taking every step possible to keep funding flowing to research projects involving the use of embryonic stem cells after a judge ordered a halt to such funding.

BETHESDA, MD—Harold Varmus, MD, former director of NIH, does not think of his new post as director of the National Cancer Institute as a step back, but rather as the perfect place to be for someone who has spent his career researching cancer.

BETHESDA, MD—While most of the Healthcare and Education Reconciliation Act‚ the 2,000 page health care reform bill signed into law by President Obama in March‚ is centered on ensuring all Americans have access to health insurance, there are a number of implications for clinicians, federal and private, and for clinical researchers.

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WASHINGTON, DC—Over the last several years, federal agencies have made a concerted effort to direct research and funding to those rare diseases that might not get attention if left to the whim of market forces. For rare pediatric diseases, the challenge can be even greater.

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