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Science News for August 16, 2005


Gene loss accelerates aging

Researchers have discovered that the loss of the p63 gene accelerates aging in mice, leading to hair loss, reduced fitness and body weight, progressive curvature of the spine, and a shortened lifespan. This study suggests that p63 plays a fundamental role in maintaining health and preventing cancer.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 16, 2005

U of M researchers show that increasing sugar processing in the liver can lower blood sugar

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that increasing fructose-2,6-bisphosphate in the liver can decrease blood sugar levels in mice. This process may also lead to weight loss by reducing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. The study's findings could potentially lead to new treatments for diabetes and obesity.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 16, 2005

Other highlights in the August 17 JNCI

Researchers found that screen-detected breast cancers tend to have better prognoses than clinically detected ones, but may not lead to lower mortality. Meanwhile, patients on cetuximab therapy are at risk of hypomagnesemia and require magnesium supplementation. Additionally, men with Klinefelter syndrome may be more likely to develop c...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 16, 2005

Driving metastasis

Researchers found RhoC essential for tumor metastasis, but dispensable for embryonic development and tumor initiation. RhoC-deficient mice display reduced tumor metastasis, lower cell motility, and survival properties in secondary sites.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 16, 2005

Weight control protein may yield antiobesity drugs

Researchers found that SH2-B regulates leptin sensitivity, energy balance, and body weight in mice, leading to obesity and metabolic syndrome. The study identifies SH2-B as a critical component in maintaining leptin sensitivity, potentially serving as a therapeutic target for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 16, 2005

New analytical tool helps detect cancer

Researchers at Ames Laboratory developed a method called dynamic multiple equilibrium gradients (DMEG) that enables hyperselective separation and concentration of specific analytes. This advancement allows for the detection of smallest substance traces, including estrogen-derived conjugates and DNA adducts in human fluid samples, poten...