A large international study found that routine referrals to cardiologists or internists improved cholesterol levels in prostate cancer patients, but did not lead to fewer heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular deaths. Researchers noted that fewer participants experienced these complications than expected, making it harder to determi...
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a naturally occurring hormone, GDF15, that activates a brain-to-liver signaling pathway to suppress liver inflammation and slow the progression of liver scarring. The findings suggest future treatments may be able to complement existing weight-loss therapies.
A systematic review of 47 randomized trials found that oral antihistamines do not improve eczema symptoms and may cause harm. Alternative treatments like moisturizers, topical anti-inflammatory treatments, and whole-body treatments like phototherapy and biologics are recommended.
Most of the carbon released during Canada’s record 2023 wildfire season came from burning soil and peat. Underground carbon stores accounted for 76 per cent of wildfire emissions. The findings highlight the vulnerability of Canada’s soil carbon stores to intensifying wildfires.
A study published in Science reveals that high-altitude mice have adapted to extreme environments by maintaining body heat, sustaining oxygen use, and relying on unusual food sources like lichens. The findings suggest evolution is a complex process with multiple systems shifting to meet environmental challenges.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a targeted approach to treating IBD using bacteriophages, which selectively target harmful bacteria without disrupting the gut ecosystem. The phage therapy significantly reduced gut inflammation and enhanced the effectiveness of steroid treatments.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a biological pathway that may explain why some people experience muscle pain and weakness when taking statin cholesterol medication. This mechanism drives statin-induced muscle damage, challenging longstanding assumptions about how side-effects develop.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a cancer immunotherapy strategy targeting glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive brain tumours. The therapy, using Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy, recognizes and attacks both the tumour cells and immune cells that support their growth, offering a new approach to treatment.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered a 'megacluster' of genes in Streptomyces bacteria that produces four antibiotics working together to target biotin. The study found that the anti-biotin antibiotic megacluster is widespread across different species, suggesting it evolved long ago and has been conserved over millions of years.
Researchers analyzed permafrost samples to recover ancient environmental DNA, revealing genetic diversity among Arctic ground squirrels. The study uncovered previously unknown lineage dating back 700,000 years, challenging previous assumptions about fossil remains.
Researchers have discovered a new antibiotic called manikomycin that targets the ribosome's exit site, making it effective against priority pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. The discovery builds on work over 75 years ago, using an advanced laboratory technique to uncover a new compound.
Researchers find that climate change is weakening the ability of snow cover over burn scars to offset forest fire carbon emissions. Historically, this natural process helped cool the climate after northern wildfires.
Diagnostic interviews, long considered the 'gold standard' for identifying mental health conditions, may not be as consistent as previously thought. The meta-analysis found that standardized interviews are only moderately consistent when assessed repeatedly by the same person.
Scientists at McMaster University have developed a new immunotherapy that targets the uPAR protein on glioblastoma cells and nearby support cells. The therapy has shown promising preclinical results in eliminating deadly glioblastoma tumours and dismantling their biological infrastructure.
Fine particles from traffic and industry are linked to worse cognitive function, memory and mental speed. Higher levels of air pollution also cause visible damage to the brain on MRI scans, particularly in women.
Researchers identified a new class of Streptomyces-produced toxins that are toxic to insects but not humans, with potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. The discovery suggests ancient bacteria may have played a role in shaping human disease.
New research from McMaster University challenges existing theories of planet formation around mid-to-late M dwarfs. The study found that sub-Neptunes almost completely disappear around these stars, hosting many super-Earths instead. This suggests that water-rich worlds may be more common in these systems.
Researchers at McMaster University developed a new generative AI model that designed a brand-new antibiotic in early tests, drastically speeding up drug discovery. The model generated structurally novel antibiotic candidates from a vast chemical space of 46 billion possible compounds.
A study published in npj Aging found a novel region of DNA and two associated genes connected to frailty, offering new avenues for early detection and targeted intervention. The discovery provides biological insights into the condition and points toward personalized approaches to supporting healthy aging.
A large international study found that asundexian reduces the risk of a stroke in people who recently experienced a non-cardioembolic stroke or TIA without increasing bleeding. The medication works differently from existing anti-clotting drugs by blocking Factor XIa, a protein involved in harmful clot formation.
Research from McMaster University shows that people with celiac disease have reduced fibre-processing activity in the small intestine due to a lack of key bacteria. The study suggests combining dietary strategies like added fibre with probiotics may improve symptoms and healing.
A global research team has identified fluvoxamine as a medication that significantly improves fatigue and quality of life among adults with long COVID. The study found consistent and meaningful benefits from the widely available antidepressant.
Researchers analyzed data from 2,500 US women and found that those consuming fewer ultra-processed foods had higher fertility rates. The Mediterranean diet showed a positive association with fertility, but this benefit disappeared once obesity was factored in.
The new guidelines, based on 137 systematic reviews, emphasize the importance of consistency and effort in resistance training. The primary goal for most adults should be to build a consistent routine, which can be achieved with elastic bands, bodyweight training, or home-based routines.
A new study found that certain gut bacteria, such as Rothia species, can break down peanut allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions. This discovery may lead to new approaches in allergy prevention and treatment.
A Canadian study of 35,000 Canadians found a significant link between cannabis use and increased rates of anxiety and depression. The study suggests that stronger products, wider availability, and stress relief may be contributing to the observed patterns.
Astronomers discovered a distant planetary system around LHS 1903 that breaks the pattern of rocky planets orbiting close to their host star and gas giants farther away. The system's unusual architecture suggests an inside-out planet formation process, where planets form sequentially in ever-changing environments.
An international team discovered that a specific viral component can trigger dangerous antibodies against human blood proteins, leading to rare blood clots. The study identifies the K31E mutation as the key mechanism behind this misdirected immune response.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed wearable trackers that can detect depression relapse weeks before it occurs, providing a potential early warning system. The study monitored 93 adults with a history of depression using a research-grade actigraphy device, collecting over 32,000 days of sleep and activity data.
A new study found a combination of genetic, environmental, microbial and social factors influence childhood food allergies. Early-life factors like skin health, microbiome, and environmental exposures increase the risk of developing a food allergy by age six.
Researchers discovered that certain brain cells support glioblastoma growth by sending signals that strengthen the tumour. Blocking this communication slowed the cancer's growth significantly, suggesting an existing HIV medication could be repurposed to treat glioblastoma.
Researchers have discovered a novel drug candidate that can reverse metabolic liver disease and fibrosis, addressing a critical gap in treatment options. The compound, EVT0185, has been shown to control blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and destroy fat build-up that causes liver fibrosis.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a molecule called butyrolactol A, which can synergize with echinocandin drugs to kill fungi that the drugs alone cannot. The discovery marks a breakthrough in the fight against drug-resistant fungal infections, including those caused by Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida auris.
A new database, CANDID, brings together over a century of historical epidemiological data from across Canada. The dataset reveals the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in Canada's history, enabling better understanding of past outbreaks and preparation for emerging diseases.
A McMaster University study reveals that pantoprazole, a widely available medication, prevents serious stomach bleeding in critically ill patients while saving hospitals thousands of dollars. The study's findings have significant implications for critical care practitioners, pharmacy departments, and policymakers.
A large international study found that opening all blocked arteries with stents significantly reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular causes and future heart attacks compared to treating only the culprit artery. This study provides strong evidence for complete revascularization as a life-saving procedure.
Researchers at McMaster University found that simpler blood vessels increase cardiovascular disease risk and signs of biological aging. The study identified potential drug targets, including proteins MMP12 and IgG–Fc receptor IIb.
A new study finds that visceral and hepatic fat are strongly linked to carotid artery thickening and clogging, increasing cardiovascular risk. Hidden fat can silently increase heart disease risk even in people who appear healthy.
A new menstrual cup has been developed with a flushable tablet made from seaweed-based material to hold menstrual blood and minimize spills. The product complements the existing Bfree Cup and has potential for wearable health monitoring capabilities.
Researchers have discovered a new antibiotic targeting IBD, with AI predicting its mechanism of action. The AI model successfully identified the drug's target protein complex, reducing the development time by over two years and costs to $60,000.
A study published in Science Advances reveals a deeply complex evolutionary history of mastodons, with multiple migrations across North America driven by climate change. Genetic analyses confirm the presence of distinct genetic groups and lineages, including a mysterious Mexican lineage.
A rare but deadly reaction to the blood thinner heparin is caused by a single antibody, according to a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The discovery could lead to more precise diagnostics and targeted treatments for patients.
A study of nearly 16,000 adults found no increased risk of death associated with higher intake of animal protein, but a modest reduction in cancer-related mortality among those who ate more animal protein. The researchers used advanced statistical methods to estimate long-term dietary intake and minimize measurement error.
A global study reveals racialized and Indigenous communities face significantly higher rates of cardiovascular disease due to data gaps. The research highlights the importance of accurate data on race and ethnicity in addressing health inequalities.
A McMaster study found that older adults who participated in a community-based exercise program were able to maintain their function, lessen expected age-related fitness changes, and in some cases reverse them. The program's combination of social support and evidence-based physical activity promoted long-term health benefits.
A large international study found that spironolactone, a medication for high blood pressure and heart failure, does not reduce the risk of heart-related death or hospitalizations in people with kidney failure receiving dialysis. The study also showed an increased risk of severe hyperkalaemia.
A team of researchers developed an AI tool called PepMLM that can design small molecules to stick to and break down harmful proteins in the body. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for diseases that have resisted traditional drug development, including certain cancers, brain disorders, and viral infections.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antifungal molecules called coniotins, which show potent activity against Candida auris and other fungal pathogens. The discovery responds to a growing clinical need for new antifungal medicines.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a promising new treatment for liver cancer by targeting metabolism in tumours. The discovery, published in Nature, shows that inhibiting an enzyme called ATP citrate lyase can enable the immune system to kill liver cancer cells, particularly through B cell-mediated responses.
A team of Canadian scientists has discovered a molecule produced by microbes in the gut that fuels the liver to make more glucose and fat than necessary. Trapping this molecule using a safe, biodegradable polymer improves blood sugar control and reduces fatty liver disease in mice with obesity.