GOOD NEWS

Migraine relief

Researchers at Oregon Health and Science University have uncovered an interaction between two proteins in the nerve cells that carry pain information from the head and neck to the brain. The team found that the trigeminal nerve cell protein, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), is a likely culprit behind head and facial pains. The finding could play a significant role in the development of therapies to cure migraines, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, periodontal pain, dental surgical pain, trigeminal neuralgia, head and neck cancer pain, and other inflammatory pains, according to the Journal of Neurochemistry.

Better HIV regimen

Regimens to treat HIV infection that are based on a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) are as effective as treatment with a protease inhibitor but require patients to take fewer pills each day, according to a new study published in the journal Lancet. NNRTI-based regimens were found to be up to 60 per cent more likely to suppress the amount of virus in patients’ blood than protease inhibitor-based regimens. While some protease inhibitors require four doses each day, one NNRTI, efavirenz, can be taken in one daily dose. This convenience could increase the likelihood that patients will adhere to their HIV regimens.

BAD NEWS

Drug resistant TB

Strains of tuberculosis (TB) that are resistant to both first-line and second-line drugs could threaten the success of not only tuberculosis programmes, but also HIV treatment programmes worldwide, according to an article published in the online edition of the journal Lancet. The report details a study by a team of investigators from the US and South Africa, who found that highly resistant strains of TB were more common than previously thought in a rural area of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, and were associated with high death rates in patients with HIV infection.

Oral pills risk

A meta-analysis published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings indicts oral contraceptives as putting premenopausal women at increased risk for breast cancer, especially women who use them prior to pregnancy. The meta-analysis builds on many studies with similar findings. But even as the findings stack up, many women are unaware of the risks posed by oral contraceptive use before pregnancy, say the researchers.