In a series of announcements from 2010, the University of Utah reported several medical breakthroughs and institutional achievements. These updates covered topics ranging from genome sequencing to advancements in mental health services and cancer research.
Researchers at the University of Utah participated in a landmark study that sequenced the entire genome of an entire family for the first time. This work aimed to enable accurate estimation of mutation rates. Additionally, scientists reported decoding words from brain signals.
The University of Utah Health Care was recognized as number one in a national quality study focused on patient safety and quality measures. The University of Utah Hospital also received distinction for excellence in stroke care, becoming the only facility in Salt Lake County to earn that recognition.
Several leadership and research developments were noted, including the naming of Michael W. Deininger, M.D., Ph.D., as chief of the Division of Hematology. Monica L. Vetter, Ph.D., was named chair of the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy. Furthermore, Norman Foster, MD, was honored for his work in Alzheimer's disease research.
Medical expansion projects were also announced, such as a planned 80-bed, 120,000 square-foot expansion to the University Neuropsychiatric Hospital to increase access to mental health services. Additionally, the University of Utah Health Care celebrated an expanded rehabilitation center that increased inpatient bed capacity from 28 to 38.
Other scientific reports from the period included studies on Tibetan evolution at high elevations, the role of the STX1A gene in Williams Syndrome, and the development of a potential HIV drug candidate named PIE12-trimer.
