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One hormone to rule them all

Researchers at Stockholm University have identified a hormone called corazonin that helps fruit flies counteract stress and restore their internal balance. The discovery has implications for finding environmentally friendly ways to control pest insect populations.

SourceStockholm University·JournalOpen Biology·DateNov 2, 2016

Newborns with borderline thyroid function at higher risk of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes

A University of Sydney study found that infants with moderately high thyroid stimulating hormone concentrations have a higher risk of poor educational and development outcomes. Infants with TSH levels below the screening cut-off but in the top quartile have an increased likelihood of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes at school age.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 27, 2016

Lost hormone is found in starfish

Researchers discovered a lost hormone in starfish that is linked to human sexual maturity and evolution. The study found that the evolutionary history of the hormone gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is written in the genes of the starfish, with two GnRH-like hormones found in both humans and fruit flies.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 28, 2016

Weight gain in children associated with low hormone levels

A Mayo Clinic-led study discovered that obese teenagers have lower levels of the hormone spexin, which may play a role in weight gain. The study suggests that spexin could be involved in childhood obesity and potentially used to treat or manage the condition.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 26, 2016

Low hormone levels linked to obesity in teens

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has found that obese teenagers have lower levels of the hormone spexin, which may contribute to weight gain and obesity. The study suggests that spexin may play a role in regulating body fat mass and energy balance.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 24, 2016

Duplicate DNA a hallmark of tick genome

Researchers have sequenced the Ixodes scapularis tick genome, which supports redundancy and has implications for disrupting disease transmission. The large genome includes duplicative elements and hormones regulating development, suggesting potential for developing a 'birth-control pill' to eradicate ticks.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2016

Life-extending hormone bolsters the body's immune function

A Yale University study found that the hormone FGF21 protects against age-related loss of immune function by promoting T cell production. Increasing FGF21 levels may be an additional strategy to bolster immune function in the elderly or cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2016

Births down and deaths up in Gulf dolphins

A NOAA-led team found that only 20% of pregnant dolphins in Barataria Bay gave birth to healthy calves, compared to an 83% success rate in a similar population. The study also revealed high rates of reproductive failure and death among dolphins exposed to oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill.

Discrimination during adolescence has lasting effect on body

Researchers at Northwestern University found that discrimination during adolescence can have a lasting impact on cortisol levels, leading to flatter diurnal rhythms and increased risk of fatigue, mental health issues, and cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that cumulative experiences of discrimination, particularly during adole...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateSep 9, 2015

Overeating caused by a hormone deficiency in brain?

A new Rutgers University study found that a hormone deficiency in the brain can lead to overeating and a preference for high-fat food. Researchers discovered that reducing glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the central nervous system caused mice to consume more calories and show an increased preference for high-fat foods.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 23, 2015

A high-fat diet may alleviate mitochondrial disease

Researchers at Salk Institute find that a high-fat diet amplifies the effects of FGF21, granting mice resistance to obesity and associated diseases. The study provides insight into potential new therapies for mitochondrial and metabolic diseases in humans.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2015