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The cell's 'New World'

Scientists at EMBL have created a first complete atlas of RNA-binding proteins, revealing over 300 previously unknown proteins. This discovery opens new avenues for studying diseases such as diabetes and glaucoma, suggesting that gene mutations may affect RNA control rather than protein function.

PCB can increase risk of abdominal fat

A new study published in Obesity found a correlation between PCB exposure and increased distribution of body fat to the abdomen. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 70-year-olds and found that high levels of PCB189 were related to a high proportion of visceral fat.

SourceUppsala University·JournalObesity·DateMay 28, 2012

Phone contact with nurses linked with better outcomes for women with gestational diabetes

Women referred to the telephone-based nurse management program had a lower risk of high baby birth weight and were more likely to have postpartum glucose testing, leading to earlier identification and management of postpartum glucose intolerance or diabetes. The study suggests that this program can improve outcomes for women with gesta...

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 25, 2012

Diabetes drug target identified

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified apolipoprotein A-IV (apoA-IV) as a promising target for a new diabetes treatment. The study found that apoA-IV improves insulin secretion and reduces blood sugar levels in mice with impaired glucose tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2012

New pregnancy risk for babies and moms

A new study reveals that overweight pregnant women with mildly elevated blood sugar levels are at a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes than previously thought. These women, who do not have gestational diabetes or obesity, carry significant risks for their health and the health of their babies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateApr 11, 2012

Moving towards a better treatment for autoimmune diabetes

Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating autoimmune diabetes using genetically modified gut bacteria, increasing the frequency of cured mice compared to traditional methods. The new approach has no adverse side effects and allows the immune system to function normally.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 9, 2012

Enzyme in saliva helps regulate blood glucose

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that genetically-determined differences in salivary amylase activity influence blood glucose levels after starch consumption. Individuals with high salivary amylase activity tend to have lower blood glucose levels and may be better adapted to eat starch-rich foods.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateApr 4, 2012

Penn researchers find mentoring provides health benefits for African American veterans with diabetes

A study by Penn researchers found that peer mentoring significantly improved glucose control in African American veterans with diabetes. The intervention, which included financial incentives, showed a statistically significant effect on improving HbA1c levels. The authors suggest that social support and camaraderie among veteran partic...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 19, 2012

New study shines light on barriers to diabetes care in NYC Bangladeshi community

A new research survey found that the Bangladeshi community in NYC experiences significant barriers to diabetes care, including low English proficiency and limited awareness. The study also showed a high willingness among respondents to participate in community health programs for prevention and care.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 14, 2012

Lifestyle counseling reduces time to reach treatment goals for people with diabetes

A large-scale study found that lifestyle counseling significantly reduces time to reach treatment goals for people with diabetes, with those receiving regular counseling achieving lower blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. The study suggests that incorporating counseling into routine care can be an effective strategy ...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJan 24, 2012

Study finds age-related effects in MS may be reversible

A study published in Cell Stem Cell found that defects in myelin sheath regeneration surrounding nerves can be at least partially corrected following exposure to young immune cells. This suggests that regenerative therapies may work throughout the duration of MS, regardless of age. The findings provide new hope for treating this disease.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 6, 2012