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Newsweek
6 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
Opioids: Parasitic Worm Discovery Could Lead to Safer Painkillers
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The evolutionary trick of parasitic worm that sneakily burrows into the skin of its victims could provide new alternatives to opioid-based pain treatments. Opioids are currently used to treat moderate to severe pain, as well coughing and diarrhea. Although they can provide effective relief, long-term use can also lead to dependence, with negative physical and mental health consequences. Researchers discovered that the worm—Schistosoma mansoni—suppresses neurons in the skin to evade detection in a mechanism likely developed to enhance its own survival. The molecules responsible for this suppression of sensation could help in the development of new painkillers, according to the team at the Tulane School of Medicine. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by helminths, a type of worm known to survive in their mammal hosts for many years. Their larvae can infest freshwater bodies like lakes, ponds and rivers—infecting people who, for example, swim, fish or wash clothes in the water. "While bacteria often cause painful cutaneous reactions, host skin invasion by the human parasitic helminth Schistosoma mansoni often goes unnoticed," the researchers wrote in their paper. Medical microscopy showing parasite. Medical microscopy showing parasite. defun/Getty Images S. mansoni often evades detection by the immune system, unlike other bacteria or parasites that cause pain, itching or rashes—a feat the team set out to investigate. After conducting experiments on mice, the researchers found that S. mansoni produces molecules that suppress the activity of TRPV1+, a protein used to send signals that the brain interprets as heat, itching or pain. As part of the pain-sensing process in sensory neurons, TRPV1+ regulates immune responses in scenarios including allergy, autoimmunity, cancer, infection and even hair growth, the researchers explained. It is likely the parasitic worm evolved its ability to block TRPV1+ because it enhance its survival, the researchers said. "If we identify and isolate the molecules used by helminths to block TRPV1+ activation, it may present a novel alternative to current opioid-based treatments for reducing pain," said paper author and immunologist professor De'Broski R. Herbert| in a statement. "The molecules that block TRPV1+ could also be developed into therapeutics that reduce disease severity for individuals suffering from painful inflammatory conditions." Open spillage bottle of opioid pain killing tablets. Open spillage bottle of opioid pain killing tablets. BackyardProduction/Getty Images The study also revealed that TRPV1+ is necessary for initiating host protection against S. mansoni. Activation of the protein leads to rapid mobilization of immune cells, including gd T cells, monocytes and neutrophils, which induce inflammation. This inflammation, the researchers explained, plays a crucial role in host resistance to the larval entry into the skin. These findings highlight the importance of neurons that sense pain and itching in successful immune responses. "Identifying the molecules in S. mansoni that block TRPV1+ could inform preventive treatments for schistosomiasis. We envision a topical agent which activates TRPV1+ to prevent infection from contaminated water for individuals at risk of acquiring S. mansoni," said Herbert. In the study, mice were infected with S. mansoni and evaluated for their sensitivity to pain as well as the role of TRPV1+ in preventing infection. "S. mansoni infection significantly reduced thermal pain sensitivity evoked by TRPV1+ neurons. Consistently, isolated skin sensory neurons from infected mice had significantly reduced calcium influx and neuropeptide [chemical messenger] release in response to the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin [an irritant for humans and mammals] compared to neurons from naïve controls," the study authors wrote. "Using gain-and loss-of-function approaches to test whether TRPV1+ neurons initiate host-protective responses revealed that TRPV1+ neurons limit S. mansoni skin entry and migration into the pulmonary tract." The researchers are now planning to identify the nature of the secreted or surface-associated helminth molecules that are responsible for blocking TRPV1+ activity and specific gd T cell subsets that are responsible for immune responses. They also seek to further understand the neurons that helminths have evolved to suppress. Newsweek has reached out to the researchers for additional comment. Do you have a tip on a health story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about opioids? Let us know via health@ Reference Inclan-Rico, J. M., Stephenson, A., Napuri, C. M., Rossi, H. L., Hung, L.-Y., Pastore, C. F., Luo, W., & Herbert, D. R. (2025). TRPV1+ neurons promote cutaneous immunity against Schistosoma mansoni. The Journal of Immunology.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Surgeon Jim Bonnet remembered for impact on medicine and the community
May 28—Described as "brilliant," "compassionate," and "generous," Dr. Jim Bonnet was a shining light in the Flathead Valley. From bringing vascular surgery to the valley to opening the hospital's first dedicated breast center to serving on the founding board of the Glacier Symphony, Bonnett's reach ranged and helped to grow Flathead County's medical capacity and cultural opportunities. Bonnet died May 6 of cancer in Kalispell, leaving behind a legacy that will be etched into the Flathead Valley. He was 78. His light will never dim, said longtime friend Gayle Vidal. "He was more than a blessing, he was such a credit, such a force in the community without really letting people know about it. He just did it quietly because it was the right thing to do," Vidal said. Now 77 years old, Vidal reflected on the first time she met Jim Bonnet. Gary Robbins, a surgeon and friend of Vidal's, invited her and her husband to a house party on Flathead Lake in their early 20s. Bonnet was Robbin's new surgical partner. The way Vidal explains it, Bonnet immediately drew people in. The first time she saw him, he was standing in a doorway, wearing an emerald green robe. The first thing he said, Vidal laughed, was "bless you, my friends." A man from Louisiana, with Cajun roots and a Catholic background, Vidal said it just made perfect sense. "I looked at my [husband] and said, we have got to get to know this guy better, and we did," she laughed. From that point on until the day he died, the Vidals and Bonnet talked nearly every day. When Vidal got sick in 2020 and was bound to a wheelchair, she remembers hearing a surprise knock at the door, after they had moved out of Kalispell. "Who was it but Jim Bonnet," she said. Bonnet stayed for three days, assisting with daily tasks and helping with medicine. If it reveals anything, Vidal said, it was that Bonnet was an incredible man. An incredible friend. "I don't know another person like him, a person with that sort of capacity, medical expertise and devotion. The work he did overseas, the work he did here. He truly was amazing," Vidal said. Born in 1946 in Lafayette, Louisiana, Bonnet's interest in medicine began at an early age. He graduated from the Tulane School of Medicine in 1971 before completing a five-year residency at the University of Southern California. He then went on to complete a fellowship in peripheral vascular surgery in Australia before joining various medical missions in need of a surgeon, traveling to Nepal, India, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Bonnet connected with Dr. Gary Robbins while living in California, and, upon his return from overseas, the pair started what turned out to be a 30-year partnership in general and vascular surgery in Kalispell. "I feel privileged and fortunate to have known him in my life," said Michael Barth, president of the Logan Health Foundation. In 2002, Bonnet opened an office dedicated to solely breast-related health care after watching his sister Carol's struggle in negotiating her state's medical system for the treatment of breast cancer. In 2009, the endeavor turned into the Bass Breast Center, a coordinated care center on the Logan Health campus. "We have a breast center at Logan Health because he was a leader," Barth reflected. Just last year, Bonnet honored his sister's legacy further with a donation to the Logan Health Foundation to start Carol's Fund, an endowment providing essential resources and assistance for breast cancer patients. For Judy Cowan, one of Bonnet's longtime surgical nurses, his medical expertise and awareness was one of a kind. "He was an excellent doctor and a great surgeon," Cowan said. "What stands out most to me was his ability to take wonderful care of his patients. He had great hands; he was as talented as the first day he operated with me to the day he retired." While expanding Kalispell's medical capabilities, Bonnet was also a generous patron of the arts. He served on the board of what is now the Glacier Art Museum and served on the founding board of the Glacier Symphony. Many remember him for his love of music. Bonnet retired from surgery in 2007. After 14 years of remission from a previous cancer diagnosis in 2009, cancer was found in his throat and was treated aggressively without success. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carol, and his parents. He is survived by his partner of many years, Patrice LaTourelle. "We all have an opportunity to be more like Dr. Jim Bonnett, to follow his example, to follow his lead, to find opportunities to quietly give back and make our community stronger in however we see fit," Barth said. "We all have an opportunity to do our part to make this world a better place like he did." On Thursday, May 29 there will be "A Gathering of Friends to Pay Tribute to Jim Bonnet, the Man, Medicine and His Music" at 3 p.m. in Room 139 in the Arts & Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College. Reporter Kate Heston may be reached at 758-4459 or kheston@
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Stroke Awareness Month: Neurosurgeon Dr. Kendrick Johnson Discusses Stroke Symptoms and Treatments with YourUpdateTV
For Stroke Awareness Month, Dr. Kendrick Johnson from the Tulane School of Medicine, Discusses the Importance of Acting FAST During a Stroke NEW YORK, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stroke can happen anytime, anywhere and to anyone. In the US, there are approximately 800,000 strokes a year, among people of all ages. May is Stroke Awareness Month, and recently, Dr. Kendrick Johnson, Neurosurgeon from the Tulane School of Medicine, teamed with Penumbra, Inc. on a nationwide media tour to discuss the importance of early intervention, treatment options, and common symptoms to look out for. This May, for Stroke Awareness Month, healthcare leaders across the country are urging people to take simple steps that could make a life-saving difference: learn the signs of stroke and act quickly. Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term disability in the U.S., and it can strike without warning. But with early recognition and immediate treatment, recovery is more possible than ever. The best way to spot a stroke? Remember the FAST acronym: - F – Face drooping on one side - A – Arm weakness or numbness - S – Speech difficulty or slurred words - T – Time to call 911 Every minute a stroke goes untreated, up to two million brain cells can die. But recent medical innovations are helping with stroke survival. One of the most promising advancements is mechanical thrombectomy—a minimally invasive procedure that physically removes the blood clot causing the stroke. Using a thin, tube-like catheter inserted into an artery and tracked to the brain, doctors can reach the blockage and remove the clot, often in minutes. When performed early, thrombectomy can restore blood flow quickly and potentially improve outcomes, giving patients the chance to return to full, independent lives. This Stroke Awareness Month, everyone should familiarize themselves with the signs of stroke so that they can BE FAST if stroke is suspected. Early action doesn't just change outcomes—it can help save lives. To learn more, visit About Kendrick Johnson Dr. Johnson is a dual fellowship trained Cerebrovascular and Endovascular Neurosurgeon. He has special expertise in the open and minimally invasive treatment of carotid artery disease, brain aneurysms, AVMs, stroke, and other diseases of the cerebral vasculature. In addition to his specialized interest in cerebrovascular neurosurgery, Dr. Johnson can also care for patients with spine disorders, brain tumors, trauma, and general neurosurgical care. Dr. Johnson is a Louisiana native, hailing from St. Joseph, LA, in Tensas Parish. He graduated with honors in Chemistry from Southern University and A&M College. Dr. Johnson then completed medical school at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport. He then went on to complete residency training at the University of Illinois School of Medicine in Peoria, where he also completed an Enfolded Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology fellowship. Following completion of residency training, Dr. Johnson then completed additional fellowship training at Semmes-Murphey Clinic in Open Cerebrovascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery. Dr. Johnson's research interests center around equity in stroke care, the anatomic basis of cerebrovascular disease, as well as aneurysm and stroke treatment outcomes. *YourUpdateTV is a property of D S Simon Media. The video included and release was part of a media tour that was produced by D S Simon Media on behalf of Penumbra, Inc. Dante MuccigrossoDirector of Media Integration & Client ReportingE: dantem@ 973.524.0104 A video accompanying this announcement is available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
