JONATHAN MICHAEL DESANTIS, M.D.

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Researchers developed a new drug called PROTAC 6 that targets and reduces a key protein used by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. This compound lowered the levels of this protein by nearly 90% in infected cells and also showed antiviral effects in human lung cells. This discovery is important because it could lead to new treatments for COVID-19 and other related viral infections. Who this helps: This helps patients with COVID-19 and healthcare providers looking for effective treatments.

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This study focused on improving the methods for tracking how lipids (fats) are processed in mammalian cells. The researchers developed a new technique using liquid chromatography and advanced software to quickly analyze and identify different types of lipids in a sample. They found specific patterns in how lipids from two fatty acids (palmitic and oleic acid) were incorporated into cells, which revealed key insights into lipid metabolism. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying cell metabolism and could also impact patients with metabolic disorders.

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This study looked at new compounds that could help fight SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, by targeting a key protein called the Main protease (M). The researchers found that two specific compounds, called 1 and 11, were able to prevent this protein from functioning in infected cells, which is important for the virus's ability to replicate. These compounds work by keeping the protein in a single form instead of its usual dimer form, potentially leading to new antiviral treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing new options for COVID-19 treatment.

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This study looked at how machine perfusion (MP) technologies can improve lung transplants from donors who died from circulatory death (DCD), as there are often not enough suitable lungs available for transplant. The findings showed that using MP can lead to better lung function and increase the chances of successful transplants without compromising patient survival, overcoming many of the issues that DCD lungs face. This matters because it helps expand the available donor pool for lung transplants, potentially saving more lives. Who this helps: This helps patients in need of lung transplants, especially those with limited donor options.

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This study focused on developing new drugs for bipolar disorder by creating compounds that target two different receptors in the brain at the same time. Researchers found that a compound called ARN25657 was particularly promising, as it effectively engaged the dopamine receptor (D3R) and inhibited another target (GSK-3β) better than their initial candidate, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients. ARN25657 showed a significant improvement in its effects on both targets and had better overall properties, which is important for making new medications. Who this helps: This helps patients with bipolar disorder.

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This study looked at the outcomes of two types of breast expanders—smooth and textured—used during breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Researchers analyzed data from 167 patients and found that there was no major difference in negative outcomes, like infections and misplacement of the expanders, between the two types. However, patients with smooth expanders had slightly quicker recovery times, and factors like age, obesity, and radiation treatment significantly influenced complications. Who this helps: This information benefits breast cancer patients seeking reconstruction options, as well as their doctors who make decisions about using expanders.

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This study focused on developing new anti-coronavirus drugs using a technology called PROTAC to target and degrade a specific virus protein involved in SARS-CoV-2. Researchers created a series of these drugs, with one promising compound, known as PROTAC 6, showing strong effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 in lung cells, achieving low concentrations needed for antiviral activity. This advancement is significant because it offers a new approach to treating coronavirus infections, potentially leading to more effective therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from COVID-19 and other coronavirus-related illnesses.

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This study focused on improving the production of a special type of drug called PROTACs, which can target and degrade harmful proteins, including those that cause diseases like COVID-19. The researchers found that using a new solvent, called [OMIM][ClO], significantly increased the efficiency of the crucial final step in creating these drugs. With this method, they achieved very high yields, meaning they got a lot of usable product quickly and easily. Who this helps: This benefits scientists working on drug development, particularly for diseases linked to harmful proteins.

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Researchers studied the properties of 44 new drug candidates known as PROTACs, focusing on their solubility and how well they dissolve in different environments. They found that PROTACs typically have low solubility and high lipophilicity, making them difficult to predict using existing methods. By creating new models based on experimental data and the 3D structure of PROTACs, they improved the ability to understand these drugs better. Who this helps: This research benefits drug developers and researchers working on new therapies.

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This study looked at how three cancer drugs—olaparib, rucaparib, and niraparib—break down under harsh conditions. Researchers found that olaparib produces three harmful breakdown products and breaks down significantly in basic conditions, while rucaparib has six new breakdown products when exposed to oxidative stress, and niraparib remains stable in all conditions tested. Understanding how these drugs degrade helps ensure their safety and effectiveness for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients taking PARP inhibitors and their doctors.

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This research paper focuses on electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a treatment for people who have severe depression that hasn't improved with regular medications. It highlights that about one in three people with depression don't find relief with antidepressants and need alternative options like ECT, especially if they are also facing suicidal thoughts or psychosis. Understanding ECT and reducing the stigma around it are important because this treatment can significantly help those who feel hopeless when other treatments fail. Who this helps: Patients with treatment-resistant depression, particularly those at risk of suicide or experiencing psychosis.

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This study looked at how using a specific scoring system (the Caprini score) to decide on blood clot prevention for plastic surgery patients affected their recovery and costs. Researchers compared two groups of patients: those who received standard care without strict guidelines (78.6% got blood clot prevention) and those who followed a new protocol where only 20% received it. After applying the new guidelines, patients spent less time in the hospital (0.4 days vs. 0.7 days) and had lower readmission rates (2.4% vs. 6.5%), while also reducing costs per patient from $9.11 to $4.23. Who this helps: This helps plastic surgery patients by improving their recovery and lowering medical costs.

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This study looked at gambling disorders, which are serious issues affecting people's lives by harming their relationships, jobs, and finances. It found that individuals with gambling disorders often struggle to control their gambling behavior, experience significant mental health problems like depression and anxiety, and rarely seek help. Tailored treatments, including therapy and medication, are important for recovery. Who this helps: This helps patients with gambling disorders and their families by providing effective treatment options.

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This study investigated a new class of drug molecules called PROTACs, which are designed to help control the breakdown of proteins in the body. Researchers found that when they used a specific type of PROTAC that targets the VHL protein, it broke down into a smaller component by losing 200 units of mass during metabolism. To improve these drugs, scientists developed modified versions that are more stable, which could lead to better treatments for various diseases. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing effective therapies for conditions that involve protein regulation, such as cancer.

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This study investigated a new three-step surgical method for treating patients with hypospadias who face challenges after their initial surgery, particularly those with scarring and insufficient skin. The researchers treated five patients using a procedure that included skin grafting and tissue expanders, which successfully resolved skin closure issues for all. Although there were some minor complications, the overall success rates and the benefit from a team of specialists make this approach promising for those with complex needs related to hypospadias. Who this helps: This helps patients with complex hypospadias and their families.

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This research paper looks at small molecules that could work as treatments for yellow fever, a serious viral infection spread by mosquitoes. The study highlights that while there is an effective vaccine, no antiviral drugs exist to treat the infection; however, several candidates have shown promise in blocking the virus across different strains. This is important because yellow fever can cause severe health issues in a significant number of patients, reaching up to 15% who develop serious complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for yellow fever and healthcare providers seeking effective treatments.

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Researchers studied ways to develop new drugs that can target the main protease of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is responsible for COVID-19. They discovered 30 promising compounds that showed antiviral activity, with some capable of inhibiting the virus at low doses in lab tests. This is important because it opens the door to creating more effective treatments for COVID-19 and potentially other coronaviruses. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from COVID-19 and healthcare providers treating them.

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This research focused on studying protein cavities in three coronaviruses: SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. The researchers created a database called CROMATIC that identifies common and unique features of these cavities, which may help in designing treatments targeting multiple aspects of the viruses. They found that certain cavities are conserved across the different viruses, providing valuable information for developing multi-target therapies. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and drug developers working on COVID-19 and other coronavirus-related diseases.

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This study explored how changing specific parts of a type of drug called PROTACs—particularly focusing on a part called a piperazine linker—affects how these drugs are charged (protonated). The researchers found that small changes in the structure of the piperazine linker could significantly impact its properties, which in turn affects how well the PROTACs work. Understanding these effects is crucial because it helps in designing more effective drugs for targeting unwanted proteins in diseases. Who this helps: This helps researchers and pharmaceutical developers working on new therapies.

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This study looked at immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) rates for Black and White women after mastectomy between 2004 and 2016. The findings showed that while both groups saw an increase in IBR—33.9% for White women and 30.2% for Black women—the gap remained at about 4%, meaning over 2,500 Black women did not receive IBR compared to their White counterparts. This matters because it highlights ongoing racial inequities in healthcare access, indicating that calls for equality in IBR have not led to closing the gap. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly Black women undergoing mastectomy.

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This study looked at a new approach to drug development using a technology called PROTAC, which aims to selectively break down specific proteins in the body. The researchers focused on a protein called TRIM33 and used a method to find compounds that could bind to it, discovering three new compounds that fit well. This is important because it opens up new possibilities for treatments that can precisely target and degrade harmful proteins, potentially leading to better therapies for various diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients who need targeted treatments for diseases involving problematic proteins.

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This study looks at how the influenza virus uses specific protein interactions to function and replicates, focusing on a crucial part called the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP). The researchers found that small molecules can disrupt these protein interactions, particularly between two key parts, PA and PB1, which can help create more effective antiviral drugs. This matters because targeting these protein interactions can lead to treatments that work against different strains of the virus and are less likely to become ineffective over time. Who this helps: This benefits patients who suffer from flu infections and may need effective antiviral treatments.

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This study examined a new drug called MTX-23, designed to target and eliminate two forms of the androgen receptor linked to aggressive prostate cancer that does not respond to standard treatments. Researchers found that MTX-23 significantly reduced cancer cell growth, especially in prostate cancer cells that remain responsive to androgens. Specifically, it effectively worked at low concentrations, with a half-maximal effective dose of 0.37 micromoles per liter for one variant of the receptor and 2 micromoles per liter for the full-length form, and it decreased tumor growth in resistant cancer models. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced prostate cancer that has become resistant to current treatments.

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This study looked at how lansoprazole, a medication, breaks down under different stressful conditions like acidity, heat, and moisture. Researchers found that using a combination of advanced technology (MassChemSite and WebChembase) allowed for better and faster identification of what happens to the drug when it's stressed, ensuring that no important information is overlooked. This matters because understanding how drugs degrade helps ensure they remain safe and effective for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by ensuring medications are reliable and safe.

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This study looked at how two training programs could improve empathy in medical students at Okayama University over six years. Researchers found that after participating in both the medical interview training and the Humanitude training, students' empathy scores increased significantly—by around 10% after the first program and even more after the second. However, these improvements didn't last, suggesting that more ongoing training might be needed to keep their empathy levels high. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and ultimately their future patients.

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This study looked at a common anti-inflammatory drug called indomethacin (INM) and its potential as a treatment for coronaviruses, including different strains of SARS-CoV-2. Researchers created new compounds called PROTACs based on INM, and found that two of these compounds were significantly more effective at fighting the virus than INM alone. This is important because it opens up new possibilities for developing treatments that target a range of coronaviruses, making it easier to respond to future outbreaks. Who this helps: This research benefits patients by providing new options for coronavirus treatments.

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This study created a new questionnaire called the Attitudes Toward Osteopathic Medicine Scale (ATOMS) to measure how much medical students value osteopathic medicine. It involved 5,669 first-year osteopathic medical students who completed the survey, showing that the scale is reliable and valid based on different tests, scoring an 0.83 for reliability. This matters because the ATOMS can help improve medical education, patient care, and how schools select students for their programs. Who this helps: This helps medical students, educators, and healthcare organizations.

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This study looked at feelings of inadequacy, known as the imposter phenomenon (IP), among first-year medical students. It found that 87% of students felt high levels of IP when they started school, and by the end of the year, these feelings worsened significantly. Students with higher IP scores generally had less self-compassion, lower social confidence, and higher anxiety levels, indicating that these feelings can negatively impact mental health and well-being. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and educators by highlighting the need for mental health support in medical education.

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This study looked at how empathy changes among medical students in their four years of training at osteopathic (DO) schools across the U.S. Researchers surveyed over 10,000 students and found that empathy scores dropped significantly from the preclinical years (1st and 2nd years) to the clinical years (3rd and 4th years), with a small overall decline (0.13 on a specific scale). Understanding this decline is important because maintaining empathy in medical practice helps improve patient care. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and patients who rely on compassionate care.

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This study looked at how "grit"—a measure of perseverance and passion—related to personality traits in 241 medical students. The researchers found that students with higher grit scores tended to have better self-esteem and empathy, while also showing lower levels of loneliness, aggression, and impulsive behaviors. For instance, grit scores were significantly linked to a 35% increase in self-esteem and a 26% increase in empathy. These findings highlight the importance of fostering grit in medical education, as it may lead to better patient care and healthier professional relationships. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and ultimately their future patients.

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This study looked at how empathy in medical students varies by gender, age, race, academic background, and career interests across the United States, involving over 10,000 osteopathic medical students. It found that women and students from African-American and Hispanic backgrounds scored higher in empathy. Additionally, students with backgrounds in social sciences or arts and those interested in people-oriented specialties, like psychiatry, also showed greater empathy. These findings are important because they can help shape career counseling and support for students who may need to improve their empathetic skills in patient care. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and career advisors.

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Researchers studied a new type of compound called 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-]pyrimidines to see if they could block a specific part of the HIV virus called ribonuclease H (RNase H), which has not been targeted by current drugs. They found that certain variations of these compounds effectively inhibited RNase H at low concentrations without affecting other important functions of the virus. This discovery could lead to new treatments for HIV, especially for patients facing drug-resistant strains of the virus. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV, especially those with drug-resistant infections.

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This study focused on developing new anti-tuberculosis drugs by modifying a group of existing compounds called phenothiazines (PTZs). Researchers created new versions of these drugs that were more effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, particularly targeting non-replicating bacteria, and found that one compound significantly reduced the risk of serious side effects in the brain compared to an existing treatment. Specifically, the new dibromo and tetrachloro compounds showed better anti-TB effects and less interaction with certain brain receptors than thioridazine, a commonly used drug. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with tuberculosis by offering potentially safer and more effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how a new class of drugs called PROTACs is processed in the body, focusing on their metabolism using human liver cells. Researchers tested 40 different PROTACs and found that their metabolism varied significantly and couldn't be predicted just by looking at their individual components. They discovered that the chemical structure and length of the linkers in the PROTACs were key factors in how they break down in the body, and certain enzymes could actively metabolize them. Who this helps: This benefits drug developers and researchers working on targeted cancer therapies.

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This study looked at how the "No One Dies Alone" (NODA) program affects the empathy of medical students. It found that students who volunteered for the program had higher empathy scores compared to those who didn’t volunteer, with a significant difference noted in the results; however, spending time with dying patients didn't increase empathy as anticipated. The findings are important for understanding how volunteer programs can foster compassion in future doctors, especially for patients facing loneliness at the end of life. Who this helps: This helps dying patients who may be alone during their final hours.

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Researchers studied whether communication skills training could improve empathy among medical students in Japan over six years. They found that after completing the training, students' empathy scores increased significantly, with an improvement shown on the Jefferson Scale of Empathy. However, this increase did not last long-term, highlighting the need for ongoing reinforcement to maintain gains in empathy. Who this helps: This helps medical students and ultimately leads to better patient care.

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This research studied how certain chemical compounds can inhibit specific functions of the HIV virus. The researchers modified a known compound and found that a particular new compound, called benzothienooxazinone derivative 22, effectively blocked two key functions of the virus, with low concentrations needed—0.53 micromolar against one function and 2.90 micromolar against another. This matters because it provides new strategies for developing treatments for HIV that could be more effective. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV by potentially leading to better treatment options.

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This study looked at new compounds that can fight influenza viruses by disrupting the interaction between two important viral proteins. The researchers found that some of these compounds were very effective against different strains of the virus, including one that is resistant to the current treatment, with effectiveness measured in very small amounts (nanomolar to low-micromolar levels). Importantly, these new compounds not only work well but also seem to have a strong defense against the virus developing resistance to them, which is a significant improvement over existing treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from influenza, especially those infected with resistant strains.

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This study focused on creating national benchmarks for measuring empathy in osteopathic medical students using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy. Researchers gathered responses from over 16,000 students across 41 campuses during the 2017-2018 academic year and produced norm tables that categorize empathy scores into percentiles for different stages of medical education. These findings matter because they provide a way to assess individual empathy levels and can enhance admissions processes for medical schools and residency programs. Who this helps: This benefits medical students, educators, and admission committees.

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This study examined a group of compounds called 2-phenylquinazolinones to see how well they can inhibit tankyrases, which are enzymes linked to cancer growth. The researchers found that these compounds were much stronger at blocking tankyrases than they were at blocking another enzyme (CDK9), with the ability to inhibit both types of enzymes at similar strengths. Understanding how these compounds work is important because it could lead to better cancer treatments that target specific pathways involved in tumor growth. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by potentially leading to more effective treatments.

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This research studied a compound called furamidine that may help reduce harmful proteins in Huntington's disease (HD) by disrupting a process that leads to their production. The study found that furamidine significantly lowers levels of the mutant Huntingtin protein in cells affected by HD, showing a promising reduction of this toxic protein. This is important because lowering mutant Huntingtin levels could help lessen the damage caused by the disease and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with Huntington's disease.

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This study looked at the Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE), which measures how empathetic medical students are. The researchers found that first-year students at U.S. osteopathic colleges had an average empathy score of 116.54, with female students scoring higher than male students. The findings are important because they provide the first national benchmarks for empathy in these students, which can help improve patient care and education. Who this helps: This benefits medical students, educators, and ultimately patients who receive care from these future doctors.

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This study focused on developing new compounds to inhibit an enzyme called ARTD10, which can influence cell activity and contribute to cell death when overactive. Researchers found that two specific compounds, OUL35 and another called compound 32, were effective at low concentrations of 330 nM and 230 nM, respectively, in stopping ARTD10 from causing cell death in lab-grown human cells. Understanding and developing these inhibitors is important because it can lead to better treatments for conditions where ARTD10 impacts cell functions. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on therapies for diseases related to cell death and dysfunction.

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This study looked at how health providers can better engage patients in HIV care and treatment. Researchers interviewed 22 health providers and found that they used different strategies, such as building personal relationships, normalizing the disease, and involving couples in discussions. These approaches help patients feel more comfortable and supported, which is critical for improving HIV screening and treatment adherence. Who this helps: Patients living with or at risk for HIV.

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This study focused on how patients think about their doctors' empathy and developed a new tool to measure this perception. The tool was designed with five simple questions and was found to be both reliable and valid for assessing how patients feel. Understanding patient views on doctor empathy is important because it strengthens the patient-doctor relationship, leading to better healthcare experiences. Who this helps: Patients and doctors looking to improve their communication and connection.

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This study looked at new, efficient ways to create certain chemical compounds known as 7-aryl-5-methyl and 5-aryl-7-methyl-[1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines. The researchers found that one specific compound, identified as compound 20, showed strong potential in blocking a key part of the influenza virus responsible for its replication. This matters because it could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs to treat influenza. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of influenza and the doctors treating them.