Research Highlights

Discovery Reveals How Plants Make Cellulose For Strength and Growth

New research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine reveals how plants create the load-bearing structures that let them grow – much like how building crews frame a house. Funded by the U.S.…

Brain Cancer: Scientists Identify Gene Responsible For Deadly Glioblastoma

University of Virginia scientists have identified an oncogene (a cancer-causing gene) responsible for glioblastoma, the deadliest brain tumor. The discovery offers a promising new treatment target for a cancer that…

Lack of Lockdown Increased COVID-19 Deaths in Sweden

Sweden’s controversial decision not to lock down during COVID-19 produced more deaths and greater healthcare demand than seen in countries with earlier, more stringent interventions, a new analysis finds. But…

Blood Test At COVID-19 Diagnosis Can Predict Disease Severity, Study Finds

UVA researchers, Mary Young, Mayuresh Abhyankar, Bill Petri and Allie Donlan, found that doctors can examine COVID-19 patients’ blood to identify those at greatest risk of severe illness and most…

UVA Chemist Wins Cottrell Scholar Award For Her Work With Giant Molecules

The study of polymers – molecular structures composed of thousands of atoms – may be one of the fastest-growing fields in science today. According to the World Economic Forum, research…

Q&A: Infectious Diseases Expert Talks Vaccines and COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues its spread, harming and hampering lives and economies, one thing is clear: we need a vaccine. Dr. Steven Zeichner, a University of Virginia infectious diseases…

Exercise May Offer ‘Profound’ Benefits For Friedreich’s Ataxia, Research Suggests

A top exercise researcher at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is urging clinical trials of exercise in patients with Friedreich’s ataxia after finding that physical activity has a “profound” protective…