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Science News for August 12, 2003


Natural hormone could reverse heart damage

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that altering leptin's signaling pathway can minimize or even reverse left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition causing the heart to expand and stiffen. Leptin infusions led to weight loss and improved heart function in mice with obesity, while caloric restriction had no effect.

Study calls for major reforms in marketing of ephedra

A study found that 41% of web sites selling ephedra products failed to disclose potential adverse effects or contraindications, while 53% did not reveal the dosage of ephedra alkaloids. The authors recommend that makers of dietary supplements containing ephedra should voluntarily disclose pertinent information about the supplements.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 12, 2003