Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Researchers discover bullfrog brains can make their own backup fuel

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered that bullfrogs can generate ketone bodies in their brains, allowing them to continue critical neural functions even when glucose levels are low. This finding could have implications for understanding human brain health and potentially treating neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2026

Weight loss alone does not explain lower heart disease for those on semaglutide

A new study suggests that semaglutide reduces heart disease risk beyond just weight loss, but the exact mechanism is unclear. The study analyzed data from a clinical trial of semaglutide, which found that patients taking the drug had a 20% lower risk of heart disease, but only half of this reduction could be explained by changes in kno...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 23, 2026

Effects of obesity decoded

Researchers discovered that immune cells in adipose tissue require the enzyme ACC1 to maintain metabolic health, but its inhibition leads to metabolic impairment and inflammation. The study provides new insights into the complex relationship between obesity, immune cells, and metabolic health.

Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s 2026 Childhood Obesity Conference: “Be the Reason Kids Greaux Healthy” to be held Sept. 24

The 2026 Childhood Obesity Conference, 'Be the Reason Kids Greaux Healthy,' will explore strategies for preventing and treating childhood obesity, bringing together healthcare professionals, researchers, educators, and community leaders. The conference will feature keynotes, sessions, and poster presentations on emerging topics in pedi...

Shouldering the changes in bone mineral density

Researchers found distinct patterns of bone density change after anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, with significant declines in bone mineral density over time in patients with osteoporosis. These findings suggest that optimizing osteoporosis treatment and monitoring bone density may improve long-term outcomes after re...

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalThe Bone & Joint Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2026

A promising new weight loss and diabetes treatment helps burn fat while keeping muscle

A new molecular compound, TOFA, identified by UC Berkeley scientists, helps cells burn extra energy with no change in food intake or exercise, improving insulin sensitivity and glucose control. The treatment, which works by increasing energy expenditure, shows promise in mouse models and may be used in combination with GLP-1 medications.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2026

Muscle-boosting molecule released during exercise

A key molecule released during exercise, L-β-aminoisobutyric acid (L-BAIBA), has been discovered to strengthen muscles, improve exercise performance, and protect against muscle damage in type 2 diabetes. The study reveals L-BAIBA's role in muscle adaptation, metabolism, and contraction, offering promising insights for future therapies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2026

Immune cells may hold the key to fighting obesity-induced muscle dysfunction

A study published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle reveals that deleting transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) from macrophages enhances muscle regeneration and mitochondrial function. The research found that this approach protected against obesity-related muscle wasting and improved exercise performance.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalJournal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2026

New approach to obesity classification could better guide treatment decisions

Researchers from Pennington Biomedical Research Center propose a new framework for defining and diagnosing obesity, which considers the effects of excess adiposity on organs and tissues. This approach provides a more biologically grounded and clinically actionable method for guiding treatment decisions.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateJul 31, 2026

Pennington Biomedical earns fifth NIH renewal for nationally recognized Nutrition Obesity Research Center, one of only 11 in the nation

The Pennington-Louisiana Nutrition Obesity Research Center has received a five-year, $5.66 million renewal grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The award reaffirms Pennington Biomedical's position as a national leader in nutrition, obesity, and metabolic health research. The center su...

Louisiana study shows promising outcomes for bariatric surgery in adolescents and young adults with severe obesity

A new study from Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Louisiana demonstrates safe and effective bariatric surgery outcomes for young patients with severe obesity. The study found significant improvements in weight loss and obesity-related health conditions, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary care models.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalObesity Surgery·DateJul 13, 2026

Are lung cancer tumors hijacking the nervous system?

A new study by Thales Papagiannakopoulos and colleagues found that lung cancer tumors talk directly to the nervous system through sensory neurons in the lungs, promoting cachexia. Silencing these nerves or blocking the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) reduced cachexia, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2026

Unearthing new cancer treatments from fungi

Researchers have developed a gene-editing tool that unlocks the secrets of fungi, a kingdom rich in antibacterial compounds. The tool, called fPE7max, enables precise control over DNA sequences and has identified three novel molecules with anti-cancer properties.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2026

Healthy but sedentary individuals show early decline in cellular energy production

A CU Anschutz study reveals reduced mitochondrial efficiency in healthy yet sedentary individuals, which may precede the development of major diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. Regular exercise acts as a literal shield for cellular health, helping mitochondria seamlessly switch between burning fat and carbohydrates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz·JournalClinical Bioenergetics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 29, 2026