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Science News for September 1, 2003


Hot pepper chemical links tongue to heart

Researchers discovered that 'hot pepper' receptors on the heart trigger symptoms of heart attack and may lead to new treatments for angina pectoris. The study found that these receptors cause blood vessels to constrict and increase blood pressure, leading to chest pain.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateSep 1, 2003

Study shows brain activity influences immune function

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that individuals with greater activity in the left side of the prefrontal cortex had a stronger immune response against disease. The researchers measured brain activity and immune function in 52 individuals between 57-60 years old, and found a positive corre...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 2003

Dual action anthrax vaccine more effective

A new vaccine targets both the anthrax bacterium and its toxins, demonstrating improved effectiveness in mice tests. The dual-action approach also holds promise as a therapeutic vaccine to help those already infected control the bacteria over time.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 2003