Articles tagged with Gerontology
A novel study found that using a topical testosterone gel in conjunction with exercise can selectively reduce visceral fat in older women who have suffered a hip fracture. This reduction in visceral fat has beneficial health impacts, including decreased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A QUT study found wide variation in GP involvement in voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in Queensland, highlighting the need for improved remuneration, streamlined processes, and broader education. GPs reported confusion about who was eligible and how to discuss VAD with patients.
A new platform, Build Better Bones, offers evidence-based guidance and practical resources for osteoporosis management. The platform, developed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, provides a trusted place for people with osteoporosis to start their journey, with a focus on exercise, nutrition, and home safety.
Researchers found that D, L-buthionine-(S, R)-sulfoximine (BSO) replicates the anti-obesity effects of sulfur amino acid restriction without causing bone loss in male mice. The study suggests BSO as a promising tool for dissecting the beneficial versus deleterious axes of sulfur amino acid biology.
Experts will address critical issues in voluntary assisted dying and dementia, including community attitudes, Indigenous perspectives, and organ donation. The conference, open to the media and public, features over 130 presentations on VAD and its intersection with dementia.
The Alliance trial explores the combination of zanubrutinib and sonrotoclax for CLL treatment, aiming to send cancer into remission and allow patients to stop treatment earlier. The study has the potential to be life-changing for patients and their families, reducing the burden of ongoing therapy and improving quality of life.
Research reveals that aging significantly alters the electron transfer behavior of pyrogenic carbon in soils and environments, with some materials becoming more electron-conductive while others become less so. These changes can influence nutrient cycling, pollutant degradation, and microbial processes in environmental systems.
Researchers developed a fast, non-invasive, and affordable diagnostic tool using retinal images to differentiate between ALS and Alzheimer's disease. The tool, based on polarized light analysis, accurately predicted disease severity and type with high accuracy.
Aging gut affects memory formation, new study reveals gut microbiome plays a critical role in cognitive decline, but altering gut-brain communication can reverse effects in mice
A new study reveals that p38 MAPK plays a key role in epigenetic regulation of fibrotic genes in lung fibroblasts, particularly in senescent cells. Pharmacological inhibition of p38 MAPK significantly reduced α-SMA and Col3A1 expression, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for treating age-related fibrotic diseases like IPF.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
A new report finds that nearly nine in 10 primary care providers use standardized paper assessments, but are interested in adopting digital cognitive assessments. The surveys revealed key priorities for enabling broader adoption, including providing more support to clinicians.
A scoping review found that shorter, simpler programs with caregiver support lead to better outcomes for dementia patients. Mind-body interventions can improve depression, anxiety, stress, and quality of life, especially when tailored to individual needs.
A new metabolic theory proposes that a decline in glycolytic ATP production is the fundamental mechanism limiting lifespan. Species with an optimal rate of decline survived, suggesting that maintaining a stable glycolytic flux may support repair processes and tissue regeneration. The authors propose testing this hypothesis through expe...
A new study reveals that fecal transplants from older female mice significantly improve ovarian function and fertility in young mice. The transplants show a direct link between the gut microbiome and ovarian health, with potential implications for fertility and overall health as women age.
A recent study found that higher IL6 levels are associated with increased mortality, while genetically higher IL6R levels reduce all-cause mortality through cardiovascular mechanisms. The researchers suggest that IL6R antagonism may be a potential strategy for preventing cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOSA) accelerate biological aging in middle-aged men, with effects being strongest in this age group due to lifestyle factors. PFAS pollution has been linked to human cancers, obesity, infertility, and hormonal imbalances.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center suggests that a simple blood test can accurately predict short-term survival in older adults by detecting specific piRNA molecules. Lower levels of these molecules are linked to longer survival, echoing patterns seen in simple organisms where reducing them can extend lifespan.
A six-month study found that consuming 43 grams of peanut butter daily significantly increased muscle power in older adults. This improvement enables them to perform daily activities like stair climbing and rising from a chair more efficiently.
The Barshop Institute will conduct the VITAL-H trial, evaluating the repurposing of FDA-approved medications to delay age-related health decline in generally healthy middle-aged adults. The trial aims to preserve everyday abilities during a critical window of midlife aging.
A new poll finds that pets contribute to healthy aging benefits for older adults, including increased sense of purpose and reduced stress. However, 31% of pet owners aged 50+ report that owning a pet strains their budget, mainly due to financial costs.
Researchers developed a new single-cell transcriptomic clock called Tictock to measure aging in specific immune cells. The study found that COVID-19 and HIV alter T cell composition and accelerate the biological age of naïve CD8 T cells, while long-term antiretroviral therapy stabilizes T cell proportions.
Researchers highlight polyploidy-induced senescence as a coordinated biological program that may drive aging, tissue repair, and cancer risk. Polyploidization in healthy tissues could help maintain organ structure and barrier integrity, but its instability can promote chromosomal instability and malignant transformation.
A study of 77,947 patients found that those over 80 and with low initial ADL scores benefited from holiday rehabilitation. This suggests prioritizing interventions for elderly and independent individuals can lead to better outcomes.
Researchers from Arizona State University are addressing the challenges of aging, loneliness and cognitive decline through innovative technology-enabled interventions. The university's Edson College is leading a panel discussion on scalable solutions for older adults living alone with cognitive decline.
The new GSA video series highlights the KAER framework's four steps to improve timely detection of cognitive impairment and enhance dementia care. Clinicians share insights on implementing the framework, emphasizing the importance of early conversations and activated ecosystems of care.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin shows that one in eight older people in Ireland require medical attention for falls annually, with significant gaps in prevention and access to specialist services. The study highlights the need for a coordinated national approach to address this growing issue.
The supplement issue documents unprecedented progress in establishing dementia as a public health priority, with brain health and caregiving now core components of public health practice. The Healthy Brain Initiative and BOLD Act have built a robust framework prioritizing brain health.
Recent research highlights thriving as a cornerstone of high-quality aged care, encompassing medical, social, and psychosocial competencies. Factors influencing thriving include resident attitude, care quality, activities, environment, and health.
A UC San Diego study found that older women with a history of depression and anxiety had a 78% higher risk of developing long COVID. The researchers analyzed data from the Women's Health Initiative and hope to inform preventative measures for public health officials and policymakers.
Vertebral fractures are a devastating complication of advanced kidney disease, associated with increased risk of further fractures and cardiovascular events. The first global consensus statement offers practical recommendations for clinicians to identify and manage vertebral fractures in patients with chronic kidney disease stages G4–G5D.
A new study finds that hospitals treating more patients with Medicare Advantage plans face higher readmission penalties despite taking similar actions to prevent repeat hospitalizations. The analysis highlights the need to incorporate Medicare Advantage data into the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program.
A new study found that shingles vaccination is associated with lower inflammation, slower epigenetic aging, and overall slower biological aging in older adults. Vaccination showed benefits even four years after the initial dose.
A new review proposes a two-stage model explaining how different determinants of aging interact to generate late-life disease. Early-life damage and late-life genetic activity are identified as key drivers of age-related illnesses.
Research finds age-related DNA methylation alterations in sperm may contribute to autism risk in offspring. Advanced paternal age is associated with specific changes in sperm DNA, influencing early development in children.
A 12-year longitudinal study found that nearly three-quarters of older adults in Ireland have high blood pressure not optimally managed. The study highlights the urgent need to improve recognition and treatment of hypertension, which can cause serious health risks like heart disease and dementia.
Researchers found that CD47 knockdown improves glucose homeostasis and alleviates dyslipidemia in aged male mice by reducing visceral fat and enhancing brown fat tissue function. This breakthrough suggests CD47 as a key regulator of age-related metabolic dysfunction.
A new WSU study reveals that medical students receive little or no formal training in end-of-life care, leading to confusion and unwanted treatment. Researchers advocate for integrated educational interventions across the medical school curriculum to address this critical gap.
A recent Buck Institute study revealed that spaceflight accelerates aging due to changes in immune cell composition and epigenetic markers. However, researchers also found evidence of intrinsic rejuvenation factors that can counteract these age-accelerating stressors.
A recent study by researchers at the University of California, Riverside, found that a specific brain region known as the caudate nucleus is strongly linked to physical strength in older adults. The discovery could help detect and prevent frailty before it begins.
The meeting report highlights the emerging importance of infection-driven senescence in understanding chronic diseases, including respiratory viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Researchers found that senescent cells contribute to persistent inflammation and reduced healing, particularly in older adults during chronic infections.
Researchers identified common aging-related alterations in genes involved in RNA splicing and processing across eight human tissues. These findings suggest a shared biological response to aging, pointing to the importance of RNA processing in accurate protein production.
A new study introduced epigenetic clocks in skeletal muscle from an Asian population, identifying DNA methylation sites associated with age and developing accurate age prediction models using NGS and SBE. The findings offer a reliable method for estimating age and its potential applications in forensic science.
A new study analyzed over 460,000 scientific abstracts to identify key themes, trends, and research gaps in aging research. The study found a growing separation between basic biological studies and clinical research, highlighting the need for integration to translate laboratory discoveries into medical applications.
A new study found that choosing ARB drugs from the start can lead to better adherence and improved cardiovascular health. The study, which analyzed data from 340,000 patients, showed that ARB treatment resulted in fewer side effects and higher persistence rates compared to other drug classes.
Research found that older women with younger biological ages were more likely to experience increased depressive symptoms during the pandemic. The study suggests that this may be due to reduced social connections and daily routines, which can affect mental health.
A novel analysis found that financial strain and food insecurity accelerate biological aging and increase mortality risk, surpassing traditional risk factors. The study emphasizes the need for targeted preventive interventions and patient-centered care to address social determinants of health.
Researchers from MIT and Broad Institute develop temporary 'factory' in the liver to generate T-cell-stimulating signals, boosting immune response to vaccination and cancer immunotherapy treatments. Aged mice showed significant increases in T cell population size and function after treatment.
A new study found that slower reaction time and lower response accuracy in cognitive tasks are associated with higher levels of frailty. The association can be detected in late midlife among individuals aged 57 to 70 years.
The journal has integrated ResearchGate to improve accessibility and impact of research on aging. This allows authors to connect their work with a wider network of peers, fostering collaboration and advancing understanding of the biology of aging.
Researchers found that higher levels of theobromine are associated with slower biological aging in humans, as measured by epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and telomere length. The study suggests that theobromine may support healthy aging by influencing molecular epigenetic processes.
Research by Li-Mei Chen finds that digital tools provide measurable benefits for caregivers and persons living with dementia, improving self-efficacy, emotional well-being, and social connectedness. However, equity gaps remain due to limited access to culturally adapted and inclusive technologies.
Researchers found that glycation stress, caused by methylglyoxal, promotes aortic stiffening and cellular senescence. Natural compound Gly-Low, containing nicotinamide and alpha-lipoic acid, reversed these effects and reduced stiffness in aging mice.
Researchers found that a mitochondrial protein called COX7RP increases healthy lifespan in mice by improving its mitochondrial energy efficiency. The study also showed improved glucose homeostasis, healthier lipid profiles, enhanced muscle endurance, and lower fat accumulation in the liver.
The webinar series aims to increase awareness of anti-amyloid treatment benefits and provide practical guidance for clinicians. Early intervention with these therapies can slow AD progression and preserve brain function.
This study found that older mice blood worsens Alzheimer’s-related changes, while younger blood improves memory and cognitive function. The researchers identified key proteins involved in neurodegeneration and inflammation, suggesting new avenues for targeting blood-borne factors to slow or modify disease progression.
Researchers found that the tenascin-C protein promotes a thriving community of functional muscle stem cells needed for efficient muscle regeneration. Aging reduces skeletal muscle regeneration due to lower levels of TnC and impaired muscle stem cell function.
The Gerontological Society of America has selected three new editors-in-chief for its peer-reviewed journals, effective January 1. Jason Flatt will lead the Social Sciences section of The Journal of Gerontology, Series B, while Karen Kopera-Frye will oversee Gerontology & Geriatrics Education. Joyce Siette will take charge of the Medic...
A study by NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing found that older, unpaid caregivers who used the internet more often felt less lonely and coped better with stress. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,957 participants ages 65 and older, and discovered a buffering effect: internet use reduced loneliness in caregivers with health issues.
Two Russian scientists' conceptual similarities challenge conventional aging views. Their ideas about hyperfunction and elevation remain relevant to modern research. Golubev explores the historical connections between Dilman and Blagosklonny, highlighting their contributions to aging science.