Human Biology
Articles tagged with Human Biology
A simple 30-second sit-to-stand test that can predict how well you age
A simple 30-second sit-to-stand test can estimate muscle power and identify individuals at higher risk of hospitalization and mortality. The test revealed a strong association between low muscle power and increased risks of falls, fractures, hospitalizations, and mortality in older adults.
Pregnant women’s mental images are directly linked to vaccine hesitancy and uptake
A study of over 400 pregnant women found that vivid mental images are directly linked to their opinion of vaccines and whether they get vaccinated. Positive mental images were associated with increased vaccination rates, while negative images predicted higher hesitancy towards certain vaccines.
New UH tool measures whether lactating mothers’ psychological needs are being met
Creatine is claimed to benefit our body and mind. Here’s what the latest science does – and doesn’t – tell us
Creatine supplementation has been shown to increase muscle energy and improve cognitive function, particularly in populations with lower baseline creatine levels. Emerging evidence also explores its potential therapeutic applications for conditions like Parkinson's disease and menopause-related muscle loss.
Can birth weight influence endurance limits?
A study published in Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution found that optimal birth weight for minimal kidney damage during extreme endurance events is around eight pounds. Individuals with lower or higher birth weights may face a greater risk of kidney stress or damage.
Placental contractions may occur in 6 in 10 healthy pregnancies
Researchers found placental contractions in 60% of healthy pregnancies, changing the shape of the placenta and lasting longer than uterine contractions. These findings lay groundwork for future studies on placental function and may lead to improved ways to identify potential pregnancy problems.
Re-conceptualizing Parkinson’s disease as a lifelong neurobiological trajectory: A framework for prevention
A new review proposes a prevention-focused framework for understanding Parkinson's disease risk, highlighting the role of early-life vulnerability, environmental exposures, and resilience factors. The study suggests that susceptibility to PD may begin earlier in life through interactions between biology and environment.
New research uncovers hidden risks of chemical mixtures
A new EU project study found that combined exposures to man-made chemicals can lead to measurable biological effects not explained by individual substances, underestimating overall risk. The research identified a continuous exposure pathway from environment to people, including breast milk and umbilical cord blood.
UT Arlington researcher earns AHA award for aging research
A University of Texas at Arlington researcher is leading a study investigating cardio-sarcopenia, the combined loss of heart and muscle health in aging adults. The grant aims to uncover how heart dysfunction and muscle loss interact and detect biomarkers for earlier intervention.
Why the Nordic hamstring exercise protects against injury
Research shows that nine weeks of Nordic hamstring exercise training increases eccentric knee flexor strength and allows participants to control the exercise through a greater range of motion. The study found that muscle fibers can stretch to longer lengths during exercise without overstretching, reducing injury risk.
Stuart Gansky named recipient of the 2026 AADOCR Irwin D. Mandel Distinguished Mentoring Award
Stuart Gansky, a University of California, San Francisco researcher, has received the AADOCR Irwin D. Mandel Distinguished Mentoring Award. He was recognized for his outstanding mentorship efforts in fostering academic and professional growth among students and junior faculty.
Rethinking the gut microbiome: Health is not about staying the same
Nasir Bashir named recipient of the 2026 IADR John Clarkson Fellowship
Nasir Bashir, a researcher from the University of Cambridge, has been awarded the 2026 IADR John Clarkson Fellowship. He will receive funding for training and experience in dental public health at a center of excellence.
Donald Chi named recipient of the 2026 IADR E.W. Borrow Memorial Award
Donald Chi, a professor at the University of Washington, has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on fluoride treatments and its impact on children's oral health. He is being awarded the 2026 IADR E.W. Borrow Memorial Award for his work in caries prevention.
Researchers make big step toward safe, reversible male contraception
Researchers at Cornell University have made a breakthrough in developing a safe and reversible male contraceptive. By targeting meiosis with the small molecule inhibitor JQ1, they successfully stopped sperm production without affecting fertility or offspring health. The study shows promise for a non-hormonal, long-acting, and 100% effe...
Representative Debbie Dingell named recipient of the 2026 AADOCR Honorary Membership
Rep. Debbie Dingell received the 2026 AADOCR Honorary Membership for her dedication to improving access to quality oral health care, particularly for underserved communities. She championed initiatives to increase the oral health workforce and invest in research for prevention and disease management.
Hiroshi Ogawa named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Service Award
Hiroshi Ogawa, Head of Preventive Dentistry at Niigata University, received the 2026 IADR Distinguished Service Award. He has contributed significantly to global oral health initiatives and served on various IADR committees.
Xuesong He named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award for Research in Oral Biology
Xuesong He, a professor at ADA Forsyth, has been recognized with the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award for his groundbreaking research in oral biology. His work has greatly advanced our understanding of microbial ecology in the human mouth and its connections to various diseases.
Falk Schwendicke named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award
Falk Schwendicke, a renowned researcher, has been awarded the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award for his groundbreaking work on caries detection and management. His research, including AI-assisted caries detection, has set new standards for clinical research in this field.
Pekka Vallittu named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Wilmer Souder Award
Pekka Vallittu, a renowned expert in biomaterials, has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to dental health. He is the first from Finland to receive this prestigious award, which acknowledges his groundbreaking work on biocomposites and bioactive materials.
Mary C. Farach-Carson named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Salivary Research
Mary C. Farach-Carson, an internationally recognized leader in extracellular matrix biology and salivary tissue engineering, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award. Her research reveals key functions of ECM components in organizing stem/progenitor cell microstructures and guiding cell migration.
Mario Brondani named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Geriatric Oral Research
Mario Brondani, Associate Professor at UBC, has been recognized with the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Geriatric Oral Research. He is being honored for his extensive research experience and contributions to the field of dental geriatrics.
University of Cincinnati opens state-of-the-art zebrafish research facility to study infertility
The University of Cincinnati has opened a zebrafish research facility to investigate the effects of environmental contaminants on human fertility. The lab will use zebrafish as a model organism to understand molecular mechanisms behind reproductive biology and infertility.
Brian Foster named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Basic Research in Biological Mineralization
Brian Foster, Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, has been recognized for his work on biological mineralization. He is the recipient of the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award, supported by Unilever Oral Care, for his contributions to cementum and biomineralization research.
David Conway named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award
David Conway, Professor of Dental Public Health at the University of Glasgow, has been recognized for his research on socioeconomic inequalities in health and oral health, particularly head and neck cancer and child oral health. His work has attracted significant funding and informed public health policies globally.
Joy Richman named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Craniofacial Biology Research
Joy Richman, a renowned researcher at the University of British Columbia, has been recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to craniofacial biology research. Her work focuses on tooth development and regeneration, with notable findings using chicken and reptile models.
Finbarr Allen named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Behavioral, Epidemiologic, and Health Services Research
Finbarr Allen recognized for outstanding contributions to behavioral science and health services research in dentistry. He has published over 200 peer-reviewed papers and developed innovative methods for interpreting quality of life data.
Maobin Yang named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Isaac Schour Memorial Award
Maobin Yang has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of regenerative endodontics, integrating stem cell biology and biomaterials science. His research program has secured over $700,000 in competitive funding, with support from top organizations.
Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections
A Cochrane review found that chlorhexidine application to umbilical cord stumps likely reduces infections by 29% and may lower mortality rates, particularly in LMICs. Umbilical cord care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healthy healing.
Improving heart health may not be enough to protect against Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers found that exercise and aggressive cardiovascular risk reduction improved heart health, but did not produce measurable cognitive benefits over two years in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The study highlights a critical gap between vascular risk reduction and brain health.
Mediterranean diet may boost mitochondrial signals linked to heart and brain health
Researchers found that people following a Mediterranean-style diet have higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet may directly influence mitochondrial biology.
To attempt world record, researchers will use their finding that prep phase is most vital to accurate three-point shooting
Researchers from the University of Kansas used motion capture technology to analyze shooting mechanics, finding that greater flexibility in the preparatory phase is crucial for accuracy. The study's findings will be used to attempt a new world record for most consecutive made three-point shots.
Alliance trial aims to improve outcomes for chronic lymphocytic leukemia
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.
Eyes as a window to hidden brain diseases
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.
Eating more ultra-processed foods linked to poorer bone health, study finds
A study from Tulane University found that consuming more ultra-processed foods is linked to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of hip fractures. The study involved over 160,000 participants and found that even small increases in ultra-processed food intake can increase the risk of hip fractures.
Contraception without hormones: Goethe University researches alternatives to “the pill”
Researchers at Goethe University are developing non-hormonal contraceptives to address declining pill use and side effects. The PREVENT project aims to create safe and effective alternatives, focusing on small molecules that block proteins in sperm or egg cells.
Study identifies molecular cause of taste loss after COVID
Researchers identified molecular defect in taste receptor cells due to reduced levels of PLCβ2 protein, which strengthens the signal before transmission to the brain. Taste cells that detect salty and sour flavors are less affected.
Yawns in healthy fetuses might indicate mild distress
A study published in PLOS One found that fetuses who yawned more frequently during pregnancy had a lower birth weight, suggesting mild fetal distress. The research observed healthy fetuses between 23-31 weeks and recorded their yawning behavior using ultrasound.
New blood test signals who is most likely to live longer, study finds
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.
Human liver tissue cell architecture reconstructed in 3D at a cellular level
Researchers create detailed 3D reconstructions of human liver tissue, comparing healthy and cirrhotic livers, showing dysregulation of metabolite transport, reduced specialized cells, and disruption of vascular networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding organ structure for bioprinting artificial organs.
Scientists map brain's blood pressure control center
A group of nerve cells in the brainstem has been identified as a stabilizing system for blood pressure, preventing fluctuations between daily activities. The study suggests that loss or dysfunction of these cells can lead to unstable blood pressure and is associated with conditions such as multiple system atrophy.
A yeast enzyme helps human cells overcome mitochondrial defects
A yeast enzyme, Sc URA, has been found to sustain nucleotide synthesis independently of mitochondrial respiration in human cells. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating mitochondrial diseases with no cure, and could provide a valuable experimental tool for understanding rare diseases and cancer.
Physical inactivity drives a significant share of diabetes complications worldwide; new global study finds
A new global study finds that physical inactivity is a significant driver of diabetes complications, with up to 10% of cases potentially preventable. The research emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to promote physical activity among people with diabetes, particularly addressing social and gender inequalities.
Taxiing through the gut: Formic acid in the microbiome
Blautia luti produces formic acid as an electron taxi, bypassing the energetically costly production of hydrogen. The bacterium detoxifies formic acid via a special metabolic pathway, linked to sugar breakdown and acetic acid production.
Choline intake in pregnancy linked to lower inflammation
A new study from Cornell University suggests that choline, a nutrient often consumed too little during pregnancy, may play an underappreciated role in regulating inflammation. Higher recent dietary choline intake was associated with lower levels of inflammation in the third trimester.
Validation of SOFA-2 score in sepsis and exploration of its extension with additional immune markers
The study validates the use of SOFA-2 in sepsis care and research, demonstrating its ability to identify clinically meaningful organ dysfunction. The findings suggest that incorporating immune markers may not improve predictive performance, highlighting the biological complexity of sepsis.
Study shows athletes with better jumping ability generate faster golf club head speed
Researchers from the University of Kansas discovered that taller, leaner athletes with improved jumping ability generate faster club head speeds. The study developed golf-specific load velocity profiles to help athletes and coaches develop plans for improvement, focusing on exercises like squats and building lean mass.
Most common methods of inducing labour similarly effective
A new review of over 100 clinical trials found that 13 common labor induction methods are similarly effective, with low-dose vaginal misoprostol being the most commonly used and safest. However, some methods showed better success rates for specific outcomes, such as oxytocin with amniotomy for achieving vaginal birth within 24 hours.
Exposure to wildfire smoke late in pregnancy may raise autism risk in children
A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester may raise the risk of autism diagnoses in children. Mothers who were exposed to more than 10 days of wildfire smoke had a 23% higher risk of their child being diagnosed with autism by age 5.
Shingles vaccine linked to slower biological aging in older adults
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.
While exploring the cosmos, astronauts also fuel explorations of the biology of aging and cellular resilience
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.
Codes in the cilia: New study maps how Cilk1 and Hedgehog levels sculpt tooth architecture
Researchers identified cilia-mediated Hedgehog signaling as a key regulator of tooth development. The study found that disrupting Cilk1 levels can lead to stepwise changes in tooth formation and morphology, including extra teeth or fused molars. This discovery may support earlier diagnosis for children with ciliopathies.
Blocking a key inflammatory pathway improves liver structure and vascular function in cirrhosis, study finds
Researchers have identified an effective strategy to reduce structural liver damage and improve hepatic vascular function in cirrhosis. Blocking the PAF-R receptor can help rebalance immune and inflammatory responses within the liver.
Menopause symptoms may be frequent and have negative effects, according to female endurance athletes
A new study found menopause symptoms are frequently reported by female endurance athletes, with 88% experiencing sleep problems and 83% feeling physical and mental exhaustion. These symptoms negatively affect training and performance, particularly musculoskeletal changes and quality of life.
New study suggests a way to rejuvenate the immune system
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.
Refining the uncharted landscape of human transcription factors: a strategic framework for future prioritization
A study analyzed large-scale human ChIP-seq data to identify unmeasured transcription factor-tissue/cell type pairs, revealing significant gaps in current knowledge. These findings indicate that essential regulatory mechanisms may have been overlooked, emphasizing the need for strategic prioritization of measurement targets.
FDA drug trials exclude a widening slice of Americans
A study found that only 6% of FDA-approved drugs reflect the US racial and ethnic makeup, with a decline in Black and Hispanic enrollment between 2021 and 2023. The researchers recommend setting diversity goals at preclinical stages and collecting biological samples to understand how people's bodies react to medications.
How maternal distress affects neurological development in children: New study sheds light
A new study found that maternal psychological distress experienced at 1 year postpartum has a stronger association with neurodevelopmental delay in toddlers compared to prenatal distress. The researchers also discovered that experiencing distress during both pregnancy and postpartum periods further amplifies the risk of delays.
Researchers build bone marrow model entirely from human cells
Scientists have created a complex tissue model of human bone marrow using only human cells, replicating the cellular complexity of the body's 'blood factory'. This breakthrough reduces the need for animal experiments in blood cancer research and potentially enables personalized therapies.