Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a receptor, dubbed B5, that plays a crucial role in the herpes simplex virus's ability to infect human cells. The team has developed a pig-cell system that could be used to test new anti-herpes drugs and has discovered that blocking the B5 receptor can prevent viral infection.
Researchers used a fluorescent marker to predict individual life spans of genetically engineered nematodes, revealing up to four-fold variation in lifespan based on stress levels. The study suggests chance metabolic processes dictate aging rates in genetically identical organisms raised in similar environments.
Researchers have identified new genes that regulate aging, with effects on insulin signaling, metabolism, and dietary regulation. Inhibiting these genes increases lifespan in certain organisms, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for age-related diseases.
A study published in PLoS Genetics found that domestic cats have a defective gene coding for the T1R2 protein, which is responsible for detecting sweet tastes. This defect leads to an unavailability of the T1R3 protein, resulting in a non-functional sweet receptor and explaining cats' indifference to sweets.
Cats have no way to recognize carbohydrates, resulting in a diet high in meat and fat. This is due to the pseudogenization of sweet-receptor genes, which prevents cats from tasting sweetness.
Patients taking statins prior to hospital admission with community-acquired pneumonia were 2.8 times less likely to die than those not on statins. Statins' impact on the immune system may contribute to their protective effect on patients suffering from pneumonia.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have isolated the ramosa1 gene, which controls flower-bearing branch arrangement in corn. This gene played a key role in suppressing branching in early domesticated corn, leading to straight rows of kernels and compact ears. The study also reveals that plants with different levels of ramosa1...
The study reveals that hyperactive Stat3 shuts down a vital controller of stomach cell growth, leading to cancer formation. Lowering Stat3 hyperactivity suppresses stomach cancer formation without affecting other roles in the body.
A study found that inhaling salt particles causes significant increases in blood pressure, putting factory workers at risk. Wearing protective gear can mitigate this effect.