University of California San Francisco
Scientists have thought that when we hear language, the brain processes it the same way, whether it's familiar or foreign. A new study reveals that exposure to a language changes how certain clusters of neurons respond to the familiar sounds. From those changes, we develop the understanding of syllables, words, and syntax.
New research shows how brain networks differ in neurodiverse children who are and aren't resilient in the face of sensory overload.
A UCSF-led study reveals combining genetic risk factors like APOE4 with cardiovascular risks such as high LDL, obesity, and hypertension can predict dementia likelihood. Lifestyle changes targeting modifiable risks may delay or prevent symptoms, offering hope for proactive dementia prevention strategies.
Using a mix of outreach methods – texts, automated calls, and live phone calls – can improve follow-up care for discharged patients, especially hard-to-reach groups. UCSF Health’s study found this approach significantly boosts engagement and reduces disparities in care, particularly among African American patients.
Differentiated thyroid cancer is the most frequently diagnosed thyroid cancer in the U.S. Recently, the American Thyroid Association (ATA) released new practice guidelines for Differentiated thyroid
Women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face increased pregnancy risks, often leading to confusion and fear. UCSF’s PIANO study and global guidelines highlight safe medication use, debunk myths, and improve care.
UCSF will continue operations during a two-day, UC-wide strike by the AFSCME union, November 17–18. The university has contingency plans in place to maintain services and expects the labor action to have a limited impact on patient care.
The KRAS gene mutation, responsible for a quarter of all cancerous tumors, has met its match. Thanks to UCSF research, a tiny “pocket” on a protein that signals the cells to grow and divide was discovered, leading to the world's first FDA-approved drugs that can now target and destroy these cancer cells.
Late-breaking results from clinical trials, debates about lifestyle choices and cardiovascular risk, and improving clinical care with generative AI are among the topics being presented by UC San
Senescent fibroblasts are aging cells in connective tissue that no longer divide and protect against tumor development. Yet, these same cells can promote cancer growth in a laboratory setting.Until
UCSF researchers are studying whether large language models, a type of artificial intelligence (AI), can analyze the clinical notes of multiple physicians and other care providers to improve the diagnosis of complex liver conditions like hepatorenal syndrome (HRS).
A study found that drinking at least a cup of caffeinated coffee daily significantly lowered the risk of atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition.
Development of a novel RNA biomarker for prostate cancer detection using seminal fluid and mismatched opioid prescriptions following urologic surgery are among the topics being presented by UCSF
UCSF's Chancellor Hawgood urged transition to a "Second Curve" of innovation, leveraging philanthropy, new infrastructure, and AI to overcome funding challenges and ensure sustained excellence.
New testing in maternal hyperoxia — giving extra oxygen to pregnant people — shows that prenatal interventions might yield better outcomes for babies with congenital heart disease.
UCSF researchers used AI to personalize Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's gait problems, leading to meaningful, customized improvements in walking and mobility—a major breakthrough for patients.
To address the specific challenges faced by older adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), UCSF Health created the UCSF IBD Longevity Clinic to provide comprehensive and specialized care for patients aged 65 and older with this chronic condition.
Lee May, diagnosed with aggressive multiple myeloma at 59, defied odds with cutting-edge treatments at UCSF Health, including CAR-T therapy and NIH-funded innovations. Now 74 and in remission, May credits advanced research for his survival. UCSF leads the way in transforming blood cancer care.
Doctors have reduced opioid prescribing since the opioid epidemic’s peak, but a UCSF study found that this trend affects nursing home residents with chronic pain. An analysis of 3M residents saw declines in opioid use, with racial disparities in prescribing.
Neurologist Dr. Ptacek explains how "falling back" disrupts the 24-hour circadian clock, affecting mood and performance, with mitigation tips.
In a first, experts have created treatment guidelines and recommendations for women who experience low sexual desire or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), a common yet largely undertreated issue experienced by women.
A $100 million gift to UCSF's renowned Memory and Aging Center (MAC). It is the first gift to name a UCSF division, which will now be the Edward and Pearl Fein Memory and Aging Center.
A study reveals how cigarette price sensitivity varies between U.S. adults who do and do not use cannabis. The findings could help shape tobacco tax policies to reduce cigarette use among cannabis users, offering key insights for effective tobacco control strategies.
UCSF researchers and clinicians presented innovative research and treatment strategies at the American Society of Radiation Oncology’s 2025 Annual Meeting in San Francisco, which ran from Sept. 27 to Oct. 1
Martin Kampmann’s work, supported by the National Institutes of Science (NIH), maps cellular “decision points” that determine whether brain cells survive or die, laying the groundwork for treatments that intervene before irreversible brain damage occurs from dementia.
Debbie Menzies shares her story about debilitating seizures and depression, occurring in a part of the brain associated with mood that caused severe depression. After multiple suicide attempts, Debbie was diagnosed with a rare seizure disorder known as hypothalamic hamartoma (HH), which was treated non-invasively thanks to a grant from the NIH.
How do our bodies adapt to the changing length of days as we go from winter to summer and back? UCSF researchers found that unsaturated fat plays an important role in regulating circadian cycles, and that dietary changes may improve sleep and energy levels, and prevent chronic disease.
The UCSF School of Pharmacy's inaugural PharmTech to PharmD pathway program provides one-on-one mentoring to roughly three dozen pharmacy technicians who aspire to become pharmacists, and guarantees successful participants an interview at UCSF. The program hopes to provide pathways to well-paying jobs and help fill gaps in access to health care in California.
Christine E. Dehlendorf, MD, and Tracey Woodruff, PhD, MPH, have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) this year, one of the highest honors in the field of health and medicine.
Image In the human brain, neurofilament light chain (NfL, shown in brown) is seen in brain cells and the neural wires that connect them. UCSF
