News from NYU Langone Health
Why Jesse Eisenberg Donated His Kidney
The Checkup with Doctor Mike
This podcast episode featured an in-depth interview with Robert Montgomery, MD, DPhil, the H. Leon Pachter, MD, Professor of Surgery, chair of the Department of Surgery, and director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute. Dr. Montgomery discussed kidney transplantation, his personal journey with heart disease leading to his own heart transplant at NYU, and his pioneering work in alternative organ sources, including xenotransplantation. Actor Jesse Eisenberg also discussed his recent anonymous kidney donation, mentioning his positive experience with NYU Langone Health. He explained that after a conversation with a doctor, he simply called NYU and was in for testing within days, describing the process as easy and the care as "state-of-the-art."
4/27/2026
Your Blood Test Might Already Show Alzheimer’s Risk
SciTechDaily
A new study led by researchers at NYU Langone Health suggests that a routine blood test marker, the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), may help identify the risk of Alzheimer's disease years before symptoms appear. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 400,000 patients, found that individuals with higher NLR values had a significantly greater likelihood of developing dementia. 'Our study is the first large-scale investigation showing that neutrophil metrics are associated with increased risk of dementia in humans,' said study first author Tianshe (Mark) He, PhD, a data scientist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Jaime Ramos-Cejudo, PhD, an assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and co-senior author, explained that while NLR alone is not a definitive predictor, it could be a valuable tool when combined with other risk factors for early screening and intervention. The findings also support the theory that these immune cells may actively contribute to the disease's progression.
Also reporting was: Earth
4/27/2026
How To Talk About Fertility With Your Partner
Women's Health
Bobby Najari, MD, director of the Male Infertility Program at NYU Langone Health, emphasizes that proactive evaluation and open communication are vital for successful family planning. Since male factors contribute to half of all infertility cases, Najari advocates for couples to view fertility as a shared responsibility rather than a solo burden. He recommends early, noninvasive screenings—like semen analysis—to provide critical insights into reproductive health. Additionally, he highlights that common issues like varicoceles are highly treatable, potentially doubling pregnancy odds. By normalizing early testing and honest dialogue, NYU Langone helps partners navigate diverse paths to parenthood with confidence and clarity.
4/24/2026
Skin cancer uses one protein switch to grow faster and hide from the immune system
Earth.com
A new study has identified a single protein, HOXD13, that helps melanoma grow faster while simultaneously hiding from the immune system. The research, led by Pietro Berico, PhD, a postdoctoral research fellow at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Perlmutter Cancer Center, found that tumors with high levels of HOXD13 had more blood vessels supplying them with nutrients and fewer cancer-fighting immune cells. "Our study provides new evidence that transcription factor HOXD13 is a potent driver of melanoma growth and that it suppresses the T cell activity needed to fight the disease,” Dr. Berico said. The discovery suggests that future treatments may need to combine therapies that block both the tumor's growth and its immune-suppressing mechanisms.
4/26/2026
I Love to Strength Train. Do I Really Need Cardio, Too? *
The New York Times
Julia Iafrate, DO, a sports medicine physician at NYU Langone Health, observes a "pendulum swing" toward muscle-building workouts, as strength training often offers more visible results and time efficiency than cardio. While strength training alone reduces the risk of death by approximately 15%, Dr. Iafrate emphasizes that combining it with aerobic exercise is significantly more effective. She notes that performing both reduces mortality risk by an "astronomical" 40%, a benefit she asserts cannot be matched by "biohacking" or "peptides."
4/27/2026
Surgeons Explore Potential and Challenges of Robotics in Lung
SCIENMAG
At a recent conference, the role of robotics in lung transplantation was a key topic of debate. Stephanie Chang, MD, surgical director, Lung Transplantation Program, NYU Langone Transplant Institute, advocated for the technology, emphasizing its potential to minimize the physiological burden on patients. She argued that robotic systems allow for smaller, more precise incisions and enhanced visualization, which can lead to reduced bleeding, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays. Dr. Chang also suggested that as the techniques evolve, they could expand transplant eligibility to older and more frail patients. However, other experts urged caution, pointing to the high costs and lack of robust evidence showing superior outcomes compared to established minimally invasive methods.
Also reporting was: Medical Xpress
4/25/2026
48 Summer Flowers to Transform Your Garden
Good Housekeeping
Gwenn Fried, manager of Horticulture Therapy at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation, emphasizes that gardening and exposure to nature have a profound impact on health and wellness. She notes that spending time in calm, green environments can effectively lower cortisol levels and improve a person's overall mood. This therapeutic connection highlights that a well-curated summer garden serves as more than just an aesthetic home improvement—it is a vital tool for stress reduction and mental well-being.
4/24/2026
What is a bone plug? Jermod McCoy knee injury clouds NFL draft
USA Today
An article about Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy's knee injury, which impacted his 2026 NFL Draft prospects, explains the medical procedure known as a 'bone plug.' The report details concerns from NFL teams regarding the bone plug used to repair cartilage in McCoy's surgically-repaired knee. To define the procedure, the article cites NYU Langone Health, explaining that doctors transplant a plug of bone and healthy cartilage from a non-weight-bearing area of the knee to repair the defect, creating a smooth joint surface. The typical recovery time is four to six months.
4/25/2026
UCSD study: Millions of Americans are using ‘magic mushrooms’
FOX 5 (San Diego, CA)
A new study led by researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, in partnership with NYU Grossman School of Medicine, estimates that millions of Americans are using psilocybin. The research, based on the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, found that about 2.8% of Americans age 12 and older reported using the substance in the past year. Usage was higher among young adults, men, and people who use other substances. Researchers cautioned about the risks of using psilocybin outside of supervised clinical settings and advised clinicians to ask patients about its use.
Also reporting was: KLAS-TV (Las Vegas, NV)
4/25/2026
MSN
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle is recovering from an Achilles tendon tear and is reportedly ahead of his rehabilitation schedule, 13 weeks after surgery. While his return for the team's September 10 season opener in Australia remains uncertain, his surgeon is encouraged by the progress. Providing independent commentary, Daniel Kaplan, MD, a sports orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone Health, confirmed the significance of the tear's location. He noted that a key difficulty with Achilles injuries is the reduced blood flow in the tendon's 'avascular region,' which can impact healing.
4/26/2026
How To Get Mounjaro: Eligibility Criteria And Where To Buy
Forbes Health
The medication Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is approved by the FDA to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes but may be prescribed off-label for weight management, says Gillian Goddard, MD, endocrinologist and adjunct assistant professor of medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. The article discusses eligibility, safety, and cost, which is over $1,100 per month without insurance. Dr. Goddard notes that insurance generally covers Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes but is unlikely to cover it for off-label weight loss. The piece also mentions Zepbound, which contains the same active ingredient and is FDA-approved for weight loss.
4/27/2026
What can cannabis treat? NY researchers hope to learn more after US reclassification.
Gothamist
The Trump administration's reclassification of medical marijuana as a less dangerous drug could expand research opportunities, according to New York researchers. Ellicott Matthay, PhD, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, commented that very little is known about the health effects of cannabis products. Matthay noted the policy shift could attract more researchers and potentially open new sources of cannabis for study. The U.S. Department of Justice's move recognizes some medicinal benefits and a lower potential for abuse. Researchers from Columbia University and Mount Sinai also commented on the need for more data.
4/26/2026
30 Haircare Mistakes That Cause Breakage and Thinning
Women's Health
An article outlines 30 common haircare mistakes that can lead to breakage and thinning, such as tight hairstyles, brushing wet hair, and excessive coloring. Among the experts cited, Kristen Lo Sicco, MD, associate professor of dermatology at the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU Langone Health, explains that emotional stress from events like grieving, moving, or a toxic work environment can cause rapid hair loss. She advises identifying the source of stress and incorporating healthy lifestyle habits like journaling, daily walks, or therapy to help relieve the emotional toll.
Also reporting was: Yahoo Health
4/27/2026
2026 AAN Annual Meeting: Treatment Breakthroughs from Epilepsy to Autoimmune Diseases
HealthDay
Jacqueline French, MD, director, The Epilepsy Study Consortium (TESC) and professor of neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, presented results from a phase 3 trial for azetukalner, a new anti-seizure medication for treatment-resistant focal epilepsy. The study found the 25-milligram dose led to a 53% median reduction in monthly seizures, compared to a 10% reduction for placebo. A statistically significant reduction in seizures was observed within one week of treatment. Based on these results, the next step is to seek FDA approval for the drug, which has a novel mechanism of action as a potassium channel opener.
4/27/2026
Open Hearts, Bold Futures: The HMS Inaugural Hippocratic Medical Symposium
The National Herald
The Hellenic Medical Society held its inaugural Hippocratic Medical Symposium on April 19 in New York City, focusing on cardiovascular innovation, science, and therapies. The event featured over 10 hours of scientific programming and more than 20 lectures from over 30 leading experts. Physicians and researchers from major academic and clinical institutions participated, including NYU Langone Health, Northwell Health, and Mount Sinai Health System. The symposium aimed to foster a multidisciplinary exchange among leaders in medicine, business, and philanthropy, highlighting the future of cardiovascular medicine.
4/27/2026
Microdosing GLP-1s Is Gaining Popularity—But Does It Work?
Health
Some people are microdosing GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy by taking lower or less frequent doses to reduce costs and side effects. Holly Lofton, MD, director of the Medical Weight Management Program at NYU Langone Health, notes that while some use lower doses for weight maintenance, the practice is largely unstudied. She calls microdosing a 'Wild West scenario,' warning that its safety and effectiveness are unclear. Dr. Lofton also explains that stretching out doses can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms and that lower doses may yield no results.
Also reporting was: Aol
4/27/2026
Noiseless ‘Infrasound’ May Explain Feeling Creeped Out in Spooky Places
Everyday Health
New research suggests that infrasound, or noise below 20 Hertz, may explain why people feel 'creeped out' in certain places. A study found that exposure to infrasound increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol. According to Thea Gallagher, PsyD, clinical assistant professor of psychology and director of Wellness Programs in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, people are wired to make meaning out of unexplained arousal. She explains this phenomenon as a 'misattribution of arousal,' where the brain misidentifies the source of physiological activation, especially in a context primed for mystery like a haunted building.
4/27/2026
13 Delicious High-Protein Foods To Eat Daily
British Vogue
An article lists 13 high-protein foods for daily consumption, including fish, eggs, and Greek yogurt, emphasizing protein's role in bodily functions. Heather Hodson Py, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian at the Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease at NYU Langone Heart, explains that Greek yogurt contains significantly more protein and fewer carbohydrates than regular yogurt. The piece also offers guidelines for daily protein intake based on a person's weight, age, and activity level, highlighting other protein-rich foods like lean meats, quinoa, and cottage cheese.
4/27/2026
Daily Mail
An article highlights nine jobs that can pay up to $100,000 annually without requiring a four-year college degree. Among the professions listed is registered nurse, a role described as in-demand, stable, and accessible through an Associate Degree in Nursing or a hospital-based diploma program. The piece identifies major employers for registered nurses, including large hospital systems such as NYU Langone Health. Other roles mentioned include business consultant, IT manager, and sales director, emphasizing that skills and alternative training can lead to high-paying careers.
4/27/2026
Hegseth’s flu reversal risks military’s health
New York Daily News
In an opinion piece, Arthur Caplan, PhD, the founding director of the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, argues that the Department of Defense's decision to make annual flu shots voluntary for service members is dangerous and unethical. He contends the policy ignores lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, where outbreaks on naval vessels severely impacted military readiness. Caplan asserts that prioritizing personal choice over vaccination compromises the health and safety of the armed forces and threatens national security, and he calls for the policy to be promptly rescinded.
4/28/2026
