A study of over 1 million births found that excessive weight gain during pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of life-threatening maternal complications. Gaining too much weight, regardless of starting weight, increases the risk of bleeding, pre-eclampsia, and ICU admission during childbirth.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered that a naturally occurring protein, interferon lambda, helps control viral infections, lowers inflammatory molecules, and strengthens immune responses. The protein appears to strike a balance between fighting viruses and reducing inflammation, offering a promising approach to future therapies.
Researchers linked ultra-processed food consumption to increased brain damage in healthy middle-aged adults, suggesting a potential link between diet and brain health. Those with the highest intake of ultra-processed foods were 40% more likely to show signs of brain damage compared to those with the lowest intake.
A McMaster University study of nearly half a million people found that many who develop chronic pelvic pain may have shown warning signs years before diagnosis. By 10 years into adulthood, 28% of those who sought gynecologic care as teenagers had developed CPP, compared to 15% of those who did not.
Common viral infections like influenza and COVID-19 may accelerate the onset and progression of ALS by triggering an inflammatory response in the nervous system. Researchers at McMaster University found that even non-infectious respiratory viruses can leave lasting changes to the nervous system, leading to accelerated disease progression.
Researchers have identified a trait shared by broader-spectrum phages that allows them to target multiple bacterial strains. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective phage therapies, making them more accessible to patients with drug-resistant infections.
Researchers found that ethinylestradiol increased competition around active nests, causing males to spend more time defending territories and eggs, leading to reduced parental care and population collapse. The hormone changed the social conditions in the lake, having ripple effects on reproduction across the population.
Researchers from McMaster University identified a molecular mechanism behind heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a rare but life-threatening immune reaction. They discovered a previously unknown 'molecular switch' in platelet factor 4 (PF4) that controls whether it becomes a target for harmful antibodies.
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.