A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center researchers identifies the melanocortin system as a key player in regulating body weight. The discovery sheds light on how appetite suppressant drugs like fenfluramine work, offering new insights into the complex interactions between serotonin and melanocortin systems.
Researchers will examine genes responsible for prostate cancer growth and identify potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. The study aims to understand why prostate cancer spreads into bones, leading to a better understanding of this disease and potential treatments.
Researchers at MGH Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology found that GLP-1 causes adult islet stem cells to differentiate into functional beta cells. This discovery may help devise strategies for using islet stem cells to treat diabetes.
Research suggests that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin may be effective in treating uterine cancer by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. The study also found increased levels of COX-2 and prostaglandins in endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue from the uterus attaches to other organs.
A study published at the Endocrine Society meeting found elevated cortisol levels in cerebrospinal fluid of child-bearing-aged women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), a condition affecting 5% of reproductive-age women. Cortisol levels were higher than those in circulating blood, suggesting stress impacts more than fertility.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo found that estrogen can suppress production of pro-inflammatory components, reducing atherosclerosis risk. Estrogen may help explain why women have lower heart disease risk until menopause.
A study led by REI investigators found that testosterone gel replacement significantly improved sexual motivation and performance, reduced fat mass, and increased lean body mass in hypogonadal men. The treatment was also found to increase bone mineral density and cause minimal skin irritation.
A one-year study found that a diet reducing fat and calories, combined with walking, led to an average weight loss of 8.5% and improved blood sugar levels. Exercise was reported as the most beneficial behavior among participants.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo found that consuming a high-fat meal causes an increase in inflammatory components in the blood. However, taking antioxidant vitamins E and C before consumption can nullify this effect.
A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that insulin sensitizer rosiglitazone (Avandia) has a significant anti-inflammatory effect in Type 2 diabetes patients. The drug decreased levels of oxygen free radicals and inflammatory markers, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Dr. You's research highlights the effects of endocrine-active chemicals on biological systems, finding altered gene expression in male rats exposed to high levels of genistein and methoxychlor. The study suggests plant-based estrogens can alter the effects of synthetic compounds like pesticides.
Women with irregular periods are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis later in life, according to a recent study. The research found that nearly all women with premature ovarian failure reported changes in their menstrual cycle, highlighting the importance of early evaluation and treatment.
A study by UCSF found that consuming excessive salt increases calcium loss, while a potassium supplement helps maintain bone density. Potassium-rich foods like bananas and spinach can be beneficial for preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
A recent study by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that toddlers and preschool children with Type I diabetes can successfully use insulin pumps with proper supervision. The study involved nine children who were treated with insulin pumps for seven to 19 months, resulting in improved blood glucose control and a significa...
Researchers have identified a human gene that appears to be the counterpart to the mouse Mater gene, essential for fertilized egg development. The discovery may lead to new approaches in studying and treating female infertility, as well as understanding the role of the immune system in premature ovarian failure.
A new research study identifies a protein called PTP1B that helps overcome leptin resistance, a common issue in obese individuals. The knockout mice lacking PTP1B displayed increased energy expenditure and were resistant to high-fat diets.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism has linked six genetic base substitutions to absorptive hypercalciuria, a condition that causes about 45% of all kidney stones. The presence of these base substitutions increases the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
Researchers found that women who develop preeclampsia have reduced levels of SHBG protein in their first-trimester blood tests. The association remains even in lean or overweight women, suggesting insulin resistance as a true risk factor.
A study suggests that insulin can suppress a pro-inflammatory transcription factor that promotes clot formation in blood vessels. Insulin infusion reduced levels of tissue factor and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, key players in the development of human and mouse atherosclerosis.
Recent improvements in hormonal therapy and understanding of molecular mechanisms indicate that hormone therapy is more effective than chemotherapy in treating early breast cancer. The use of GnRH antagonists and aromatase inhibitors holds promise for treating younger women and post-menopausal patients, respectively.
A Yale study found that 25 percent of severely obese children are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The condition was more prevalent among girls and affected children from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
A Mayo Clinic study finds an association between estrogen status and reduced coronary calcium and plaque area, suggesting a potential benefit against heart disease. Estrogen may modulate the calcium content of atherosclerotic plaques, slowing progression of atherosclerosis in women.
A study suggests that metformin, an oral diabetes drug, reduces the risk of miscarriage in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Researchers found that 8.8% of pregnancies treated with metformin ended in miscarriage, compared to 41.9% in those not receiving the medication.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found a remote control mechanism that sets human growth hormone into action, operating from 15 kilobases away. This discovery could lead to an eventual gene therapy for type of dwarfism resulting from pituitary gland's inability to manufacture hGH.
Research with monkeys shows that low energy availability due to strenuous exercise training causes amenorrhea. Increasing food intake reverses the effect, suggesting a key role for energy balance in exercise-induced amenorrhea.
Researchers found that growth hormone therapy stimulated immunity-promoting cells in bone marrow and other organs of aging rats, increasing red and white blood cell production by up to three times. This approach could lead to increased reserve capacity for immune cells in the elderly.
The Society for Women's Health Research has published proceedings from its Second Annual Conference on Sex and Gene Expression. The conference explored topics such as sex differences in embryonic development, cognitive functions, and mitochondrial DNA. Researchers from various backgrounds shared their findings contributing to the emerg...
A recent study reveals a critical link between obesity and type 2 diabetes through the AMPK pathway and leptin hormone. Researchers found that AMPK activation, triggered by leptin, inhibits an enzyme involved in fat metabolism, increasing fat burning.
Researchers used Sangamo's ZFP technology to repress a specific gene variant, preventing fat cells from developing. This breakthrough demonstrates the precision of ZFPs in regulating gene expression and may lead to new treatments for diseases related to fat cell development.
Researchers found that levels of IL-12 and TNF alpha decreased during pregnancy, while cortisol, norepinephrine, and 1,25 hydroxyvitamin D3 increased. After birth, these stress hormones surged, possibly contributing to the resurgence of immune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers found significant susceptibility for thyroid autoimmune disorders and Type 1 diabetes mellitus associated with DQ2 alleles, primarily transmitted from fathers to affected daughters. Hormonal factors may also regulate this interaction, as observed in the transmission of disease to pre- and postpubertal individuals.
The American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine has released a comprehensive guide for primary care doctors on obesity diagnosis and management. Obesity rates increased by 30% between 1980 and 1994, carrying significant direct health care costs for the United States. The guide addresses key aspects of medical a...
A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that insulin can reduce pro-inflammatory components in the bloodstream while increasing anti-inflammatory components. The results suggest that insulin may have anti-atherosclerotic effects and potentially reduce the risk of heart attack, contrary to previous assumptions.
A strong association has been found between depression and osteoporosis, with depressed individuals experiencing lower bone mineral density. Research suggests that depression may contribute to hormonal abnormalities leading to bone loss and changes in body composition.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that fat cells can trigger insulin resistance in muscle and liver, leading to type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Nature, reveals a potential new target for diabetes treatment and prevention by disrupting the communication between fat cells and other tissues.
A new study from the University at Buffalo reveals that obese individuals carry a massive oxidative load that increases their risk of heart disease. Severe calorie restriction decreases free radical production by over 50%, reducing the risk of developing heart disease without medication.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center found a faulty releasing hormone receptor gene in three families with isolated growth hormone deficiency type 1-B, the most common type of growth hormone-deficient dwarfism. The study suggests that this condition is not caused by a defect in human growth hormone production.
Researchers found that mitochondrial organization in eggs is crucial for developing embryos. The study showed that the symmetry or asymmetry of mitochondria-carrying microtubules may determine an embryo's viability and success.
A low dose of estrogen was as effective as a higher dose in reducing bone turnover and preventing osteoporosis in older women. The study found that women taking 0.25 mg estradiol had no more side effects than those taking a placebo, improving bone health with fewer risks.
A recent study published in Endocrinology found that mice engineered without the receptor for growth hormone lived almost one year longer than normal mice, suggesting that the natural hormone may actually shorten lifespan. The researchers are now searching for genes regulated by growth hormone that might play a specific role in life span.
A recent study published in Thyroid journal found paclitaxel to have significant clinical activity against ATC, with 53% of patients showing improved survival time. The drug was infused continuously over 96 hours every three weeks for one to six treatments.
A preliminary study suggests that estrogen can effectively boost mood in women experiencing depression during perimenopause. The hormone significantly improved symptoms such as early morning awakening and loss of enjoyment, with relief achieved within three weeks.
A study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that excess glucose consumption stimulates the generation of free radicals, which can damage cells lining blood vessels. The researchers also observed a decrease in levels of a-tocopherol, a powerful antioxidant.
Researchers discovered a new receptor site in the brain that causes mice to become obese by storing fat and expending less energy. The study sheds light on genetic determinants of obesity, metabolism, and regulation of fat mass.
Insulin reduces expression of molecule promoting inflammation and clogging of arteries, increasing production of vasodilator nitric oxide. The study's findings indicate insulin may have an antiatherosclerotic role, potentially protecting people at risk of CVD.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Children's Center study 14 women with Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), finding they can experience good libido and normal sexual activity without sensitivity to androgens. The study challenges current ideas about hormone-to-behavior interactions in humans.
A new study suggests that proteins alphav-beta3 and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) may serve as biomarkers for identifying women with endometriosis-related infertility. The research found a marked reduction in embryo implantation in mice injected with peritoneal fluid from infertile women with endometriosis.
For couples experiencing unexplained infertility, a five-step treatment program has shown a 75% success rate in conception. The program includes careful evaluation and escalating steps such as antibiotics, intra-uterine insemination, and IVF with ICSI.
Researchers found that Avandia improves beta cell function, as measured by proinsulin to insulin ratio, indicating potential benefits for long-term glycemic control and disease progression. The study's results support the use of Avandia in type 2 diabetes treatment and suggest its potential to delay disease progression.
Researchers link HIV-protease inhibitors to increased diabetes risk due to impaired glucose storage, prompting reevaluation of screening methods and development of new treatments. Up to 83% of patients on the drugs develop excess belly fat and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully cloned a gene called Prestin, which codes for a protein that plays a critical role in the functioning of outer hair cells. The discovery could hold promise for treating hearing disorders and developing new biocompatible motors for nanotechnology applications.
New research reveals that menstrual function matures rapidly after the first period, accompanied by a surge in hormones, rather than gradually over four to six years as previously thought. This finding has significant implications for adolescent pregnancy prevention and contraception initiation.
A multicenter clinical trial has found that premature infant formula containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) improves visual development in preterm infants. The study involved 470 premature infants who received either DHA- and AA- fortified formula or standard premature infant formula.
Researchers at McGill University have identified a novel receptor combination that could lead to new treatments for various neurological disorders. The discovery involves the interaction between dopamine and somatostatin receptors, which can produce synergistic responses when activated simultaneously.
The NIH will hold a Consensus Development Conference on Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy, bringing together experts to discuss the latest research findings. The conference aims to clarify factors associated with prevention and better diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.
Researchers found that diabetics under specialist care had significantly lower blood glucose levels and higher participation in self-care practices. The effect was particularly notable among patients with lower education levels.
Researchers have identified a family of proteins that bind to human sperm, which may help explain why sperm that haven't passed through the epididymis fertilize eggs poorly. The discovery could lead to identifying potential targets for male contraception, including a contraceptive vaccine.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed transgenic mice that overexpress hepatocyte growth factor, leading to increased beta cell proliferation and insulin production. The study suggests that this approach may lead to new therapies for diabetes by enabling islet cells to proliferate and produce insulin more effectively.
Researchers at UCSF have identified a new chemical pathway in the brain involved in regulating mood, which may improve treatment for depression. The study found that popular antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft increase the synthesis of a key neurosteroid, potentially providing a new target for mood-regulating drugs.
The fourth annual Skull Base Surgery Symposium will take place at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center from November 4-6, 1999. Renowned experts in the field of skull base surgery will share their knowledge on advanced technologies and procedures.