A new theory proposes that critical illness arises from loss of physiological coordination, not just organ failure. The Entropic Critical Illness Theory views living organisms as open systems with a continuous need to regulate entropy.
A new study reveals that patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have elevated lipocalin-2 levels and exhibit early signs of cardiovascular and cognitive impairment. The findings highlight the importance of considering MASLD as a systemic condition affecting multiple organ systems.
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.
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.
Researchers found that Bofutsushosan reduced fibrosis in fat tissue and liver of mice with obesity, and identified herbal components with anti-fibrotic activity. The study suggests that Bofutsushosan may have benefits beyond weight control, providing a scientific basis for studying Kampo medicines.
The IOF Musculoskeletal Rare Diseases Training Course bridges latest scientific advances with current clinical guidance, covering disorders-specific programs. Clinicians can access high-quality educational content at their own pace to deepen expertise in rare skeletal conditions diagnosis and management.
A new study published in the Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease found that high-dose niacin therapy can improve survival outcomes in children with NAXD deficiency, a rare genetic disorder. The treatment has been shown to halt significant deterioration and reduce life-threatening complications.
A new analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials found that different GLP-1 medications have distinct effects on heart and metabolic health, suggesting a need for personalized treatment selection. Oral GLP-1 therapies are emerging as strong options that could expand accessibility and flexibility.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge solved the puzzle of why stimulating and blocking a specific 'switch' in the brain can help people lose weight. By targeting distinct regions of the brain, they found that GIPR agonists suppress appetite, while GIPR antagonists boost weight loss by releasing a 'brake'.
Researchers identified endotrophin as a biological marker that rises and falls with changes in body fat, reflecting changes in metabolic health. The study suggests endotrophin could serve as a valuable biomarker and therapeutic target for reducing obesity-related health risks.
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...
Dr. Kaja Falkenhain receives the Peter J. Reeds Early Career Investigator Award for her groundbreaking work on human nutrition and metabolism. Her research focuses on cardiometabolic health and glycemic control, highlighting the impact of nutritional exposures on energy expenditure.
A new study published in Hepatobiliary Communications reveals that standard CT scans can detect stage-specific tissue patterns predicting severe liver complications in chronic hepatitis B-related cirrhosis. Visceral fat and muscle shifts carry different warning meanings based on the patient's disease stage.
Researchers propose using the glucose ketone index (GKI) to track metabolic health in non-communicable diseases, which cause three in four deaths worldwide. The GKI measures blood glucose and ketones and may indicate metabolic state, assess long-term nutritional adherence, and support mitochondrial function improvement.
A new review calls on Mexico to add liver health to its existing chronic disease programs, citing the country's high liver disease prevalence. Liver disease affects nearly half of Mexican adults and is linked to diabetes and 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.
Researchers developed a new mouse model that closely reproduces eosinophilic gastritis, identifying key immune pathways and mechanisms behind the disease. The study provides a biological explanation for therapies targeting IL-4Rα, suggesting potential improvements in treatment precision.
Researchers found that yeast-based supplements can reprogram early-stage immune cells to produce enhanced anti-tumor responses. The study suggests a potential solution for obesity-related immune dysfunction and cancer, using a food-grade supplement with an excellent safety record.
Dr. Joe Northup, a renowned metabolic and bariatric surgeon, has been elected the 40th president of ASMBS. He aims to ensure patients understand the role of surgery in comprehensive obesity care.
The study demonstrated sustained improvements in disease features in mouse models with effects lasting throughout their lifespan. Genespire's approach has the potential to translate into human health as a single-administration treatment for patients with MMA.
A large Swedish study found that certain bacteria in the gut microbiota can be seen in people who develop type 2 diabetes years later. Fluctuations in metabolism and low fibre intake may also contribute to the risk. The discovery paves the way for early identification of at-risk individuals.
The NUTRITION 2026 meeting will present over 1,650 scientific presentations on topics including food additives, GLP-1 therapies, and ultra-processed foods. Experts will discuss the latest research on potential risks and clinical considerations of these substances.
The study found a 37% increase in obesity and a two-fold increase in severe obesity among both adults and youth over 20 years. Obesity rates have major implications for cardiovascular disease and mortality, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives to address the rising epidemic.
Researchers have identified high rates of overweight/obesity (82%) and hypertension (higher than statewide average) in Franklin Parish, with income levels linked to lower hypertension rates. Older residents are also more likely to have undiagnosed high cholesterol and diabetes.
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.
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.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that longer sleep is linked to more stable blood sugar levels in healthy 18-year-olds, even among those with no previous health issues. The researchers tracked participants over two weeks and found a two-way relationship between sleep duration and blood sugar stability.
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.
Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed epigenetic drugs that can reprogram perivascular fat cells to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health. By targeting specific gene-expression regulators, these drugs aim to prevent vascular damage in people with obesity and metabolic disease.
Researchers found that over-the-counter probiotics contain only 36 unique species of bacteria, with most common species being forms of Lactobacillus. The analysis suggests a lack of consistency in the combination of species used to support gut health and vaginal health claims.
A survey of over 5,700 Chinese adolescents found significant associations between screen time, body weight, and mental health with sleep quality. Rural adolescents and girls fared worse overall, highlighting the need to address these factors to improve sleep.
A study found that prebiotic xylo-oligosaccharides reduced harmful metabolites and improved liver health in overweight adults. The composition of the gut microbiota prior to supplementation influenced the benefits observed.
A recent international study identified 26 genetic regions associated with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), including ten previously unknown regions. The study found a strong link between genetic susceptibility to ICP and bile acid metabolism, offering new avenues for research into maternal health and pregnancy-related live...
A cohort study found that demographic, clinical, and healthcare factors influence the uptake of metabolic bariatric surgery among US adults with obesity. The study suggests improving access to this life-changing procedure through targeted policies and interventions could have a significant impact.
A new study investigates whether obesity contributes to faster brain aging and earlier memory decline. Researchers found that high K63 polyubiquitination levels in young obese rats matched those seen in older brains, suggesting a connection between obesity-induced and age-related memory loss.
A recent study found that women and individuals with minimal motivation to lose weight experienced greater weight loss on tirzepatide. The research also identified baseline clinical, demographic, and behavioral variables associated with weight loss trajectories over 12 months.
A study found that tirzepatide significantly increases brown adipose tissue activity and volume in premenopausal women with obesity. The medication also shows potential signs of converting white subcutaneous fat into more metabolically active 'beige' fat.
The Critical Path Institute's Type 1 Diabetes Consortium is strengthening regulatory science and evidence frameworks for disease-modifying therapies. The expanded C-peptide evidence base supports ongoing evaluation of the biomarker as a drug development tool.
A study found that nearly 4 in 10 patients stopped GLP-1 medication within the first year and nearly two-thirds restarted therapy within two years. The researchers also identified sociodemographic, clinical, and provider-level predictors of discontinuation, including Medicaid or Medicare status, Black patients, and side effects.
The study found a significant increase in type 1 diabetes cases among Hispanic/Latino adolescents in Puerto Rico, from 10.1 per 100,000 in 2009 to 24.1 in 2021, with an average annual increase of 4.1%. This trend has important implications for patient care and public health.
A recent study of 42,000 adults taking blood pressure medications and GLP-1s found higher rates of hypotension events, including dizziness and fainting. The study highlights a potential safety concern for patients aged 65 and older and those with diabetes.
A study found that adults taking GLP-1 receptor agonist medications experienced significant decreases in daily step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to promote exercise alongside obesity treatment.
A new study by Pennington Biomedical and collaborators found that Americans with the highest levels of obesity are undergoing fewer surgical procedures overall. Despite the increasing prevalence of extreme obesity, these individuals appear to be receiving proportionally fewer surgical interventions each year. The research highlights gr...
Researchers at UVA are testing the SIPsmarter program to reduce sugary drink consumption among children and their parents. The study aims to improve beverage quality and overall health outcomes in rural areas with high rates of sugary drink consumption.
A new study by Tampere University researchers found that maternal pre-pregnancy hypertension and child body composition may contribute to the development of fatty liver disease. The study also identified dietary factors, such as high protein intake and low fruit consumption, as risk factors for elevated liver enzyme levels in children.
Adults with both obesity and an autoimmune disease who took a GLP-1-based medication had fewer emergency department visits and lower mortality rates compared to those not taking the medication. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 adults treated in the OneFlorida+ network between 2014 and 2024.
Researchers from Pennington Biomedical will showcase their latest findings on prevention, care, and cures for diabetes and obesity at the American Diabetes Association's 2026 Scientific Sessions. The sessions will highlight cutting-edge advancements driving progress in diabetes research and management.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that removing olfactory groove meningioma may improve blood sugar control and weight in some patients with diabetes. The research team tracked long-term changes in hemoglobin A1c levels after tumor removal surgery.
Researchers at Pennington Biomedical published the first study to estimate pediatric obesity prevalence among US children and adolescents aged 5-18 years using the new Lancet Commission definitions. The study found that many children are already experiencing measurable health impairments associated with obesity.
Researchers highlight latest developments in pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of MASLD and IPFD, revealing correlations with chronic diseases like liver cancer and pancreatic cancer. Innovative treatments, such as AI-driven approaches and organ-targeted therapies, show promise for precision prevention and therapy.
A new study published in JAMA Neurology finds ecopipam to be effective in suppressing tics in patients with Tourette syndrome. The medication was well-tolerated and showed no significant adverse effects over a period of up to 24 weeks.
A major new study has found that severe asthma patients are often battling other health conditions, with nearly all suffering from at least one major issue. The study identified three distinct profiles linked to how well asthma is controlled and the treatments needed, offering potential breakthroughs for improving care.
A study published in Nature Metabolism has found a crucial link between mitochondrial lipid deficiency and gut inflammation, revealing that cardiolipin plays a key role in maintaining immune homeostasis. The research suggests that targeting the metabolism of immune cells could be a new approach to treating inflammatory bowel diseases.
Researchers are developing a multi-organ model on a chip to study the complex interactions between organs, hormones, and cells in diabetes and dementia. The GlucoBrain project aims to understand how signals move between the brain, gut, and pancreas, potentially leading to new treatments for millions affected by these diseases.
A research study, COACH trial, is testing different ways to help children and families improve their health through lifestyle changes delivered by primary care clinics. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of personalized nutrition counseling, community resources, and online interactive lessons on weight management.
Weight loss followed by weight regain, known as 'yo-yo dieting,' is not supported by strong scientific evidence. The authors found that benefits of losing weight outweigh the theoretical risks of weight cycling in most cases. Repeated attempts at weight loss can provide meaningful periods of improved metabolic health and quality of life.
Researchers found that gut luminal exosomes from older animals carried molecular signals associated with insulin resistance, inflammation and disruption of the gut barrier. Transferring these to young animals elicited similar effects, while transferring exosomes from young animals to older animals mitigated metabolic aging findings.
The condition is recognized as a complex, multisystem disorder involving endocrine, metabolic, reproductive, dermatological, and psychological health. The new name, PMOS, is expected to reshape how the condition is diagnosed, treated, and researched globally.
Research found that girls born to mothers with higher insulin resistance during pregnancy are more likely to have more abdominal fat at age 7. Maternal insulin resistance was not associated with body fat in boys, suggesting girls may be more susceptible to the mother's insulin resistance during late pregnancy.
Professor Eiichi Araki's pioneering research on insulin signaling has led to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of diabetes. His discoveries remain foundational for researchers striving to overcome insulin resistance and improve treatment options.