OHSU

ONPRC Breakthroughs

Below is a short list of past breakthroughs that took place at the Oregon National Primate Research Center. All of the studies were published in well-respected medical journals or presented at prestigious medical gatherings. References are included along with each breakthrough.

  • Advancements in fertility research allowing women who become infertile while battling cancer to have children once they become cancer free (Nature, 2004 Mar 11; 428 [6979]:137-8; Live birth after ovarian tissue transplant)
  • Methods for counteracting some negative effects of nicotine in unborn babies when the mother refuses to stop smoking (Am J Respir Crit Care Med., 2005 May 1; 171[9]:1032-9; Vitamin C prevents the effects of prenatal nicotine on pulmonary function in newborn monkeys)
  • New testing methods to detect and prevent premature birth (JAMA, 2004 Jul 28; 292 [4]:462-9; Diagnosis of intra-amniotic infection by proteomic profiling and identification of novel biomarkers)
  • The role of the hormone leptin in the development of lifelong weight issues (Science, 2004 Apr 2;304 [5667]:108-10; Trophic action of leptin on hypothalamic neurons that regulate feeding)
  • The role of female hormones in weight gain during menopause (Abstract presented at 2003 Society for Neuroscience meeting)
  • Important findings showing how smallpox vaccination protection lasts many years longer than previously thought (Nature Medicine, 9[9]: 1131-1137, 2003; Duration of antiviral immunity following smallpox vaccination)
  • Findings regarding the role of the brain in controlling weight gain, research that may help combat the nation’s obesity epidemic (Ann N Y Acad Sci., 2003 Jun; 994:175-86; Electrophysiological actions of peripheral hormones on melanocortin neurons)
  • Information detailing how a supplement may help slow the decline associated with Parkinson’s disease (New England Journal of Medicine, 348:312-317, 2003 Coenzyme Q induces nigral mitochondrial uncoupling and prevents dopamine cell loss in a primate model of Parkinson’s disease)
  • Information regarding natural body controls of appetite – a discovery that may assist in combating America’s obesity epidemic (Nature, 418:650-654, 2002 Gut hormone PYY [3-36] physiologically inhibits food intake)