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Science News for December 31, 2000


Converging pathways regulate energy metabolism

Researchers discovered two converging pathways regulated by leptin, which modulate energy expenditure through the TRH promoter. Thyroid hormone also suppresses TRH production, integrating various signals to control energy metabolism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 31, 2000

Early treatment of blinding eye disease in infants can prevent severe vision loss

The Early Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ETROP) study demonstrated that premature infants who receive early treatment have better vision outcomes compared to waiting until the traditional treatment threshold. The study also established a new risk assessment model to identify high-risk infants, reducing poor visual outcomes a...

SourceSmith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateDec 31, 2000

NIH scientists highlight role of macrophages in HIV infection

New research suggests that macrophages are an underappreciated reservoir of virus in HIV infection. Macrophages continue to produce large amounts of an HIV-like virus even after CD4+ T cells are depleted, providing new insight on how the virus survives. This discovery may lead to new strategies for eliminating the virus from the body.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 31, 2000

Chemokines and angiostasis

Human microvascular endothelial cells express CXCR3 receptor in response to cell cycle regulation, leading to antiproliferative effect. This mechanism provides an additional pathway for controlling angiogenesis, potentially blocking tumor growth.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 31, 2000

Some Americans, fed up with conflicting diet and nutrition messages, respond with less healthful eating habits

A study by researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that people who feel frustrated with dietary recommendations are more likely to eat a fat-laden diet. The study, which surveyed 1,751 adults in Washington state, also found evidence of 'nutrition backlash,' where negative feelings about diet messages lead to unhealthy ea...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateDec 31, 2000