Publications by authors named "A R Caffrey"

Background: The human ZFP57 gene is a major regulator of imprinted genes, maintaining DNA methylation marks that distinguish parent-of-origin-specific alleles. DNA methylation of the gene itself has shown sensitivity to environmental stimuli, particularly folate status. However, the role of DNA methylation in ZFP57's own regulation has not been fully investigated.

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Background And Purpose: The limited effectiveness of current pharmacological treatments for alcohol use disorder (AUD) highlights the need for novel therapies. These may involve the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor or the amylin receptor, as treatment with agonists targeting either of these receptors lowers alcohol intake. The complexity of the mechanisms underlying AUD indicates that combining agents could enhance treatment efficacy.

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Article Synopsis
  • A recent study within the US Veterans Affairs Healthcare System evaluates the effectiveness of the BNT162b2 XBB.1.5-adapted COVID-19 vaccine against JN.1-related healthcare outcomes.
  • The study found that vaccine effectiveness (VE) was significantly lower (24-35%) during JN.1 dominance compared to higher effectiveness (50-61%) during XBB dominance for hospitalization and emergency visits.
  • Results highlight the importance of matching vaccines to circulating strains to enhance public health outcomes from COVID-19 vaccination efforts.
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Folate, vitamin B, vitamin B and riboflavin interact by functioning as cofactors within one-carbon metabolism (OCM), a network of interrelated cellular pathways essential for numerous biological processes, including the biosynthesis of DNA, amino acid interconversions and methylation reactions. The pathways of OCM are influenced by endocrine signals and genetic polymorphisms and are particularly responsive to relevant B-vitamin intakes. Physiological changes in healthy pregnancy, leading to a steady decline in B-vitamin status, add another layer of complexity to the regulation of OCM.

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