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Scientists identify two hormones that burn fat faster, prevent and reverse diabetes in mice

Researchers discovered naturally occurring hormones 'notum' and 'lipocalin-5' that accelerate fat burning and protect against Type 2 diabetes. Lipocalin-5 also enhances muscle's ability to metabolize nutrients, reducing obesity and diabetes risk. The findings could lead to new drugs for halting obesity and heart disease.

Why alcohol, sugar lead to thirst

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identify a hormone that stimulates thirst in response to nutrient stresses, challenging traditional views on hydration. The study's findings suggest that FGF21 works through a novel pathway to increase water intake, potentially limiting alcohol consumption and protecting against its effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 12, 2018

FASEB Journal: Study shows offspring response to maternal diet and male hormone

A novel study found sex-specific responses to maternal diet and androgen excess in animal offspring, with female offspring developing anxiety-like behavior due to maternal androgen exposure. Male offspring were unaffected by maternal androgens but displayed anxiety-like behavior on a high-fat-high-sucrose diet.

Inexplicable spasms can now be explained with hormones

Researchers at Aarhus University have found a hormonal link to unexplained seizures in women, revealing a biological cause for the previously psychologically attributed condition. The study measured hormone levels in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and found lower neuropeptide Y levels, associated with stress re...

SourceAarhus University·JournalStress·DateNov 3, 2017

Lactation hormone also helps a mother's brain

Researchers found that signalling by prolactin to its receptors is essential for mothers to show vital maternal nurturing behaviour towards their young. This discovery may explain why some animal species abandon their young and highlights the importance of prolactin in establishing a bond between mother and baby.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2017

Violent sleep patterns & stress hormones change after a violent crime in the neighborhood

A new study found that violent crime can disrupt sleep patterns and increase stress hormones in youth, leading to decreased academic performance. The study, conducted on 82 youth aged 11-18, showed that sleep and cortisol levels changed after a violent crime occurred nearby, with the largest effects seen for homicides.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 25, 2017

Got a sweet tooth? Blame your liver

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that a liver hormone called FGF21 may play a role in determining who has a sweet tooth. The researchers discovered two variants of the FGF21 gene associated with increased intake of sweets and candies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 2, 2017

Keeping up the pressure

Researchers discovered a separate mechanism in the brain that deals only with chronic stress, involving a small group of nerve cells in the paraventricular nucleus. The CRFR1 system is thought to play a role in regulating cortisol levels and may be involved in depression, with patients having more of this receptor than average.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateApr 9, 2017