Researchers found that supplementing healthy mice with NMN reduced signs of aging such as weight gain, loss of insulin sensitivity, and declines in physical activity. Long-term effects showed improved energy metabolism, better liver function, and increased tear production.
Researchers have identified changes primarily in brain regions connected to sensation and sensory processing in children with Tourette's syndrome. The findings suggest that the condition may be related to unusual sensations, leading to involuntary movements and vocalizations.
Researchers have designed small compounds to correct mitochondrial dysfunction in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, potentially slowing its progression. The compounds, GoFuse and TetherX, work by targeting the mitofusin 2 protein, which is essential for healthy mitochondria and tissues.
Researchers found that mutations in the NF1 gene contribute to autistic behaviors in nearly half of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. The study provides insights into the genetic roots of autism and may lead to better treatments for children with NF1 and autism.
A high-protein diet eliminates improvements in insulin sensitivity after weight loss in obese postmenopausal women. Women who consumed more protein lost less lean tissue, but the total difference was only about a pound.
The tarsier genome analysis confirms that tarsiers belong to the dry-nosed primate category, sharing recent transposon families with humans and bushbabies. The study also identified 192 genes linked to the tarsiers' unique traits, which may be associated with human diseases.
Researchers find Gli1 positive stem cells, which can become smooth muscle cells, bone-building osteoblasts, and other connective tissues, contribute to vascular calcification. The study provides insights into the active process behind calcified blood vessels in chronic kidney disease.
Researchers have found Zika virus genetic material in human tears and live virus in mouse eyes, raising questions about transmission through bodily fluids. The study's findings have implications for corneal transplantation and potential new diagnostic methods, such as testing tear samples for viral RNA or antibodies.
Research from WashU Medicine found that cholera toxin hyperactivates a key signaling molecule in intestinal cells, leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration. People with type O blood are more susceptible to this effect, making them more likely to die from cholera.
An international team of researchers identified eight additional types of cancer linked to excess weight and obesity, including stomach, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, ovary, meningioma, thyroid cancer, and multiple myeloma. Limiting weight gain may help reduce the risk of these cancers.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified the protein CD300lf that norovirus uses to infect cells. By expressing this protein on human cells, researchers can study noroviral pathogenesis and search for treatments in people.
Researchers found that males lost neurons detecting female pheromones after chronic exposure, while females showed no effect from male urine. This study explains differences among individuals and between the sexes through sensory experience rather than innate or hormonal factors.
A large-scale study found that both high and low levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of premature death. Intermediate levels, however, may increase longevity. The research used data from over 1.7 million male veterans and showed a U-shaped curve relationship between HDL cholesterol levels and mortality.
A new study analyzes breast tumors before and after hormone-reduction therapy, revealing the genetic complexity of these tumors and their varying responses to estrogen-deprivation treatments. The findings suggest that analyzing a single sample is insufficient for understanding how a patient should be treated.
Researchers have clarified the beneficial function of a brain protein associated with prion diseases, revealing its role in maintaining nerve cell insulation. The study found that properly folded proteins play a crucial role in keeping axons insulated, enabling rapid nerve signal propagation.
A study found that recruiting minorities and poor people to participate in genetic research is challenging, even with the internet. Despite high rates of online access, groups with lower education levels, income, or African-American status had lower engagement rates.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified six antibodies capable of protecting against Zika virus infection in mice, providing crucial information on how these antibodies interact with the virus. The discovery could lead to the development of a vaccine, diagnostic tests, and potentially new therapies for Zika-related diseases.
Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered a region of the brain involved in decisions made under uncertainty and identified cells that suppress value-coding neurons when making a risky choice. This study could lead to treatments for psychological disorders, such as problem gambling and anxiety disorders.
A new detailed map of the brain's cerebral cortex will aid researchers studying brain disorders and elucidate human uniqueness. The map divides both hemispheres into 180 areas based on physical and functional differences.
Scientists have discovered how sensory nerve cells work together to transmit itch signals, identifying a new potential target for treating itching. The discovery suggests that interfering with the activity of sensory neurons may inhibit multiple types of itching.
Researchers have developed a technique to program stem cells to grow new cartilage on a 3-D template shaped like the ball of a hip joint. The cartilage can release anti-inflammatory molecules to fend off arthritis. The discovery may provide an alternative to hip-replacement surgery, particularly in younger patients.
A genetic mutation in the lysyl oxidase gene has been identified as a cause of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections. Researchers have found that this mutation disrupts the structure and strength of the aorta, leading to increased risk of rupture.
Researchers found that a specific enzyme is necessary to turn off genes after physical activity ceases, leading to faulty brain wiring and impaired learning. The inability to shut off these genes can affect motor skills and learning abilities, even in adults.
New studies suggest functional brain scans can help predict recovery and guide treatment for stroke patients. The severity of a person's disability correlates with the extent of disruption to their brain's communication networks, which are not measured by most brain scans.
Researchers have found that a combination of immunotherapy and FAK inhibitors can improve survival times in mice with pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that targeting fibrous tissue in tumors may render them more responsive to immune therapies.
Researchers identified that West Nile virus may cause long-term neurological problems like memory loss by over-activating the immune system in the brain. The study suggests that intervening in this immune response may help prevent brain damage or aid recovery.
Researchers discovered a single gene pathway vital for Zika and flaviviruses to spread infection between cells. Shutting down this gene renders flaviviruses unable to leave infected cells, curbing their spread. The study identifies SPCS1 as a potential drug target.
A new study published in Diabetes suggests that age and dopamine receptors may play a role in the preference for sweet foods in people with normal weight, but not in those with obesity. The researchers found that insulin resistance could contribute to the altered brain response in obese individuals.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine identified over 850 DNA mutations linked to cancer that may be responsive to existing drugs. The study provides a list of mutations and associated drugs that could benefit patients, expanding the number of cancer treatments available.
Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that a metabolite produced by beneficial gut microbes restricts the proliferation of intestinal stem cells. This limits the intestine's ability to repair itself after injury or damage, potentially hampering treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
New research identifies genetic variants associated with autoimmune diseases, providing potential therapeutic targets for treatments. The study mapped DNA regions regulating immune cells and found links to various autoimmune diseases.
A study of over 216,000 adolescents found a 24% decline in marijuana-related problems and a 10% decrease in marijuana use between 2002 and 2013. Behavioral problems also decreased, suggesting a link between early treatment and reduced substance abuse.
Researchers found a gene called CYP2J19 that converts yellow carotenoids into red ones in the skin and feathers of red birds. The study suggests that for a bird to grow red feathers, it needs not just the redness gene but also a special form of the gene involved in feather growth.
A study found that chicken coops and sewage treatment plants are hotspots of antibiotic resistance, with bacteria sharing resistance genes through DNA exchange. This poses a risk to the food system and public health, particularly in developing countries where antibiotic use is high.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a new imaging agent that better predicts Alzheimer's disease progression than amyloid beta. The study found elevated tau levels are associated with cognitive decline and predict symptoms of dementia.
Researchers developed mouse models to study Zika virus infection during pregnancy, revealing fetal brain damage and potential for long-term neurological problems. The studies also showed the importance of understanding how the virus latches onto the placenta to prevent transmission.
Scientists at Washington University School of Medicine and Harvard University have produced insulin-secreting cells from stem cells derived from patients with type 1 diabetes. The new cells can produce insulin in response to glucose and may offer a potential cure for the disease.
Researchers found that neurons in a small brain area, the orbitofrontal cortex, assign values to options and re-map to make different decisions when circumstances change. This neural circuit is remarkably stable while allowing for flexibility in individual neurons.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a newborn screening test for Niemann-Pick type C, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that typically isn't diagnosed until age 2. The test quickly identifies infants with NPC using a two-tiered testing strategy and measures levels of bile acid produced by the liver.
A study found that premature babies fed mostly breast milk had larger brains and more brain tissue than those given little or no breast milk. The researchers used MRI scans to measure brain volume and cortical surface area, and the results showed a significant correlation between breast milk consumption and brain development.
Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that children whose mothers were nurturing during the preschool years have more robust growth in brain structures associated with learning, memory and stress response. The study suggests there is a sensitive period when the brain responds more to maternal support.
A new study reveals that laboratory mice infected with common human viruses develop an immune system similar to newborn humans, but unlike adult humans. This finding suggests that the lack of infection may be a reason why research mice differ from humans.
Research found that delaying radiation therapy after surgery increases the risk of recurrent tumors in women with stage 0 breast cancer. Women who received radiation within eight weeks had a lower rate of recurrence compared to those who delayed treatment. The study suggests that timely radiation therapy is crucial for reducing the ris...
Researchers created mice with a mutation associated with human stuttering and found they vocalized in an abnormal pattern reminiscent of the disorder. The animal model may help scientists understand the molecular and neurological basis of stuttering and develop treatments.
Researchers have established a mouse model that mimics aspects of Zika virus infection in humans, allowing for the testing of vaccines and therapeutics. The model shows high levels of the virus in the brain, spinal cord, and testes of male mice, supporting clinical data on sexual transmission.
Researchers have identified 122 new types of RNA bacteriophages in diverse ecological niches, providing an opportunity to define their contributions to ecology and explore them as novel tools. The study suggests that RNA bacteriophages likely play a much larger role in shaping the bacterial makeup of worldwide habitats than previously ...
Patients with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY1) benefit from therapies targeting a specific pathway regulating insulin secretion, not oral medications linked to beta-cell destruction. Research suggests MODY1 patients may become dependent on insulin injections sooner due to cellular stress levels.
A large-scale study reveals that premature babies with necrotizing enterocolitis have a distinct mix of gut microbes compared to healthy infants. The researchers identified Gram-negative bacteria and anaerobic bacteria as potential contributors to the disease, and found that breast milk may offer some protection.
A new study found that premature infants' gut bacteria are vulnerable to antibiotic resistance, with almost 800 genes identified, including those associated with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. The study suggests that routine antibiotic use in preterm infants may not be effective and could lead to increased infection risk.
Researchers have identified two genes that, when altered, promote or undermine cardiovascular health. ANGPTL4 is associated with lower triglycerides and reduced risk of coronary disease, suggesting strategies to lower triglycerides could help prevent heart attacks. Future therapeutics targeting this pathway are in development.