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Research Highlights

FINDING THE ROOT CAUSE
A study led by Dr. Robert Inman found that a
type of immune cell—known as a CD8+ T cell—is
present in the gut and in the joints of those with
spinal arthritis. While many studies have found
a link between the immune system in the gut and
inflamed joints, the identified cell could mediate
this crosstalk and be the key to new immune-
based therapies. Full Story / Scientific Article

UNCOVERING A HIDDEN RISK
Dr. Frances Chung found that individuals with
unrecognized severe sleep apnea are at greater
risk of cardiovascular complications for 30 days
after surgery. This finding represents a great
opportunity: before surgery, diagnosis and
therapy can be tailored to those with sleep apnea
to protect them from complications.
Full Story / Scientific Article

CONCUSSIONS THAT LEAVE A MARK
Research led by Dr. Carmela Tartaglia shows that
athletes with a history of repeated concussions
display high levels of tau protein in their
cerebrospinal fluid. Because not everyone who
experiences multiple concussions suffers harmful
effects, the levels of tau proteins may serve as a
readout to help doctors identify who is at risk.
Full Story / Scientific Article

A STEP IN A NEW DIRECTION
Findings from the laboratory of Dr. Michael
Fehlings are rewriting our understanding of
which parts of the brain control our ability to
walk. While it is generally accepted that the motor
cortex controls the planning and initiation of
(Opposite page) surface-rendered three-dimensional
reconstruction of the tectum, showing growth projections of limb movements, Dr. Fehlings’ team found that
neurons that connect to the eye. (above left) Dr. Monnier and a different region of the brain—known as the
(top of page) Hidekiyo Harada, postdoctoral fellow and first sensory cortex—can control walking in direct
author of the study. (above right) A specialized type of neuron response to sensory information.
(green) showing proteins phosphorylated by VLK (red). Full Story / Scientific Article

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