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Researchers identify a novel cell type that makes survivors of sepsis more susceptible to infections

Studies on mice and septic patients show that a specific B lymphocyte subpopulation produces large amounts of CD39, leading to increased adenosine levels and reduced macrophage activity. This results in heightened susceptibility to opportunistic infections, with survivors experiencing a sevenfold higher risk of severe infections.

Recent research suggests new therapeutic role for caffeine in neuropsychiatric disorders

Researchers suggest caffeine as a potential therapeutic tool for treating motivational symptoms of depression and cognitive impairments in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A new study also proposes targeting the adenosine A1R-D1R heteromer to improve spinal cord injury outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Caffeine and Adenosine Research·DateJan 7, 2019

A new therapeutic avenue for treating insomnia

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have identified a potential alternative strategy for treating insomnia by targeting adenosine A2A receptors. The study found that enhancing endogenous adenosine A2A receptor signaling induces slow-wave sleep without affecting body temperature and cardiovascular function.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateOct 25, 2018

Why do we fall asleep when bored?

A new study published in Nature Communications finds that the nucleus accumbens, associated with motivation and pleasure, can produce sleep. This discovery may explain why people tend to fall asleep in boring situations, as it suggests a strong ability of this brain region to induce sleep.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2017

Adenosine can melt 'love handles'

Scientists at the University of Bonn have discovered a new signaling pathway that utilizes adenosine to stimulate brown fat cells. This 'browning' process may help convert white fat cells into energy-burning brown cells, potentially aiding in weight loss and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2014

Caffeine against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have found that caffeine can positively affect tau deposits in Alzheimer's disease, improving spatial memory and reducing pathogenic processes in genetically altered mice. The study suggests a new class of drugs may be developed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease using an A2A antagonist.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateApr 7, 2014

La Jolla Institute-led team illuminates cell pathway key to insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes

A La Jolla Institute-led team has identified the primary cellular players in an adenosine-fueled inflammation cascade that contributes to insulin resistance. By using an adenosine receptor blocker, the team prevented the activation of macrophages, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood sugar levels in diabetic animals.

Restore hearing thanks to new drug

A new drug called ADAC has been found to restore hearing in rats with noise-induced hearing loss. Early treatment with multiple injections of ADAC significantly attenuated noise-induced hearing loss and improved sensory hair cell survival.

Research sheds new light on heroin addiction

A study by researchers at the Howard Florey Institute in Melbourne found that manipulating the adenosine A2A receptor may contribute to heroin addiction. Mice without this receptor showed reduced desire for morphine and did not develop tolerance or conditioned place preference, suggesting a role in regulating opiate use and abuse.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateMay 14, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: March 13, 2008

Researchers found a link between high levels of adenosine and priapism in male mice with sickle cell disease. The study suggested that reducing adenosine levels or blocking its activation could provide new treatments for priapism. Additionally, two other studies explored the development of reproductive disorders in humans and the prote...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 13, 2008

JCI Table of Contents: July 13, 3006

Australian researchers identified a new protein in human airway epithelial cells that regulates allergic airway inflammation. A study suggests the protein aP2 plays an essential role in both type 2 diabetes and allergic airway diseases like asthma.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 13, 2006