An experimental HIV drug, MK-0158, soon will become available to a select group of patients.

The first comparison of the long-term costs of all strategies for treating prostate cancer is presented in the February 1, 2007, issue of Cancer, published online December 21, 2006. Lead author is Leslie S. Wilson, PhD, associate adjunct professor of clinical pharmacy in the School of Pharmacy at UCSF.

A protein called HIPK2 is essential for the survival of dopamine neurons, the cells lost in Parkinson's disease, according to a study in mice. The results suggest that the molecular pathway in which the protein functions could be a possible new target for therapy, the study authors say.

Two novel treatments -- a basic compound found in every cell in the body and an extract of green tea -- may prevent brain damage caused from stroke, according to two studies in rats led by a researcher at the San Francisco VA Medical Center.

Sharice Harrison, a convicted thief and known trespasser on campus property, was arrested on December 21, 2006, after alert staff members at Long Hospital recognized her from an October 30, 2006, crime bulletin and called UCSF Police. This is the second time this month that vigilance from the UCSF community has resulted in the apprehension of a criminal suspect.

The second edition of the only comprehensive textbook on inherited disorders of the immune system, co-edited by UCSF Professor of Pediatrics and Human Genetics Jennifer Puck, MD, will soon be published in the United States. The new version has mushroomed in size from 35 to 48 chapters, reflecting the increase in the number of primary immune deficiency diseases that have been identified, as well as new information on their causes and treatments.

A long-term study of the most widely used osteoporosis drug has found that many women can discontinue the drug after five years without increasing their fracture risk for as long as five more years.

UCSF scientists have identified a cell population that is a primary target of the degenerative brain disease known as frontotemporal dementia, which is as common as Alzheimer's disease in patients who develop dementia before age 65.

The UCSF Sustainability Committee has these suggestions for a more eco-friendly holiday season.

A new grant for pediatric interns who show exceptionally compassionate, patient-centered care has been established in the name of Ahmad GhaneaBassiri, MD, by his children, two of whom are members of the UCSF faculty.