A new paper by over 20 protein experts examines widely held propositions about dietary protein, concluding that some science is insufficient or not robust enough to support certain claims. Key findings include the importance of protein quality, individual essential amino acids, and nuance in high-protein intake during weight loss.
The review highlights LRRK2's diverse cellular functions and pathogenic mechanisms in various diseases, including Parkinson's disease and inflammatory disorders. Therapeutic strategies targeting LRRK2, such as kinase inhibitors and emerging approaches like PROTACs and gene therapy, show promise for correcting cellular imbalances and re...
A research team discovered that leucine prevents the degradation of specific mitochondrial proteins, enabling efficient energy production. This mechanism allows cells to adapt to increased energy demands during periods of nutrient abundance.
A new study suggests that supplementing with BCAAs alongside an exercise program may help reduce fatigue, improve strength, and ease symptoms of depression for older adults. The research found notable improvements in participants who combined a BCAA supplement with an eight-week exercise program.
A New Zealand study found that three-quarters of long-term vegans met daily total protein requirements, but only half met daily lysine and leucine requirements. Legumes and pulses were key contributors to overall protein and lysine intake.
Researchers have shown that repeated administration of lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA therapy significantly extended survival and reduced serum leucine levels in a mouse model of maple syrup urine disease. The treatment approach may represent a potential long-term universal treatment for MSUD.
Researchers developed a treatment approach using lipid nanoparticles to deliver mRNA therapy for MSUD, extending survival and reducing serum leucine levels. The study also identified a novel AAV variant with desirable biodistribution properties for targeting peripheral organs.
Researchers discovered that consuming over 22% of daily calories from protein can lead to increased activation of immune cells contributing to atherosclerotic plaque formation. Leucine, an amino acid found in animal-derived foods, plays a disproportionate role in driving pathological pathways linked to atherosclerosis.
Researchers have found that sorghum bran packs a bigger nutritional punch than whole grain due to its high levels of calcium, magnesium, leucine, and valine. The climate-resilient grain holds its own against other top grains in terms of macro- and micronutrients.
Scientists develop a method to construct crystalline artificial steric zippers in peptide β-sheets, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies and materials. The research utilizes metal ions to prevent aggregation and form needle-shaped crystals with specific structural characteristics.
Researchers found that metformin + leucine (MET+LEU) treatment prevents myotube atrophy by reversing cellular senescence and improving proteostasis. The study used C2C12 myoblasts, aged mouse single myofibers, and human primary myotubes to demonstrate MET+LEU's skeletal muscle cell-autonomous properties.
Researchers in China find that a leucine deficient diet has antidepressant effects on chronic restraint stress-induced depression-related behaviors, mediated by hypothalamic AgRP neurons and GCN2 signal. This study provides a new perspective for exploring the relation of nutrition, hypothalamus, and depression.
Researchers discovered three essential amino acids - leucine, valine, and tryptophan - as potential metabolic biomarkers for HCC. The study used metabolomics to analyze the differences in tumor and non-tumor tissue metabolomes, revealing striking differences that could aid in diagnosis.
Researchers at University of Cologne discovered that specific diets can safeguard against acute kidney injury in mouse models. The six tested diets showed overlapping changes in cysteine catabolism as a potential mechanism for organ protection.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discover relationship between leucine and tamoxifen resistance in ER+ breast cancer. A diet high in leucine may fuel the growth of breast cancer cells, while reducing leucine levels could be beneficial for patients with ER+ breast cancer.
Scientists discovered a yeast species that randomly translates DNA codons as either serine or leucine, breaking the universal genetic code. This unique trait has been retained for 100 million years and may provide benefits in rare occasions.
Dr. Phillips' review suggests that protein sources high in leucine, such as whey protein, can maximize muscle protein synthesis and growth. Whey protein's high-quality amino acid profile and digestibility make it an ideal supplement for strength trainers and those looking to preserve muscle mass with age.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified a molecular system of protection that involves the androgen receptor protein in Kennedy's disease. The study suggests that targeting specific regions of the protein may lead to new therapeutic targets for the condition.
Researchers identify Sestrin2 as a highly specific leucine sensor that activates the mTORC1 pathway upon binding, promoting cell growth. The discovery suggests potential therapeutic applications for treating diseases such as aging, muscle atrophy, and insulin-related disorders.
A study on Mt. Everest climbers suggests that leucine supplementation can help retain muscle mass while burning fat during periods of food restriction. The researchers found that the food item in which leucine was delivered was critical to its effectiveness, and future studies aim to improve the palatability of the supplement.
Researchers found that mice on high-fat diets who received extra leucine showed improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Adding leucine to the diet improved metabolic health in animals with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute found that depriving human melanoma cells of the essential amino acid leucine can lead to their death. Leucine deprivation triggers apoptosis in melanoma cells, providing a potential framework for targeted therapy. The study suggests that inhibiting autophagy with chloroquine may enhance this effect.
Researchers isolated an enzyme from Arabidopsis thaliana that catalyzes glucosinolate formation and found it resembles an enzyme involved in leucine synthesis. This structural similarity enabled the plant to produce toxic compounds as a defense mechanism, highlighting the importance of small genetic changes in evolutionary adaptations.
Researchers found that Alzheimer's disease is associated with disrupted brain clearance of a sticky plaque component called amyloid-beta. The study's findings have important implications for diagnosis and treatment, as scientists seek to understand how this process can be improved.
Researchers found that mice with a disrupted enzyme involved in protein metabolism became slimmer despite eating more food, showing improved glucose and insulin tolerance. The study suggests a new potential weight-loss therapy by manipulating protein turnover through pharmacological means.
Researchers developed a safe way to monitor amyloid beta peptide production and clearance rates in the human central nervous system. This test could improve diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease, as well as help scientists better understand its causes.
Research found that adding leucine to the diet restored a balanced metabolism in old rats, which had excessive protein breakdown. The study suggests that age-related muscle loss results from defective inhibition of proteasome machinery, and leucine supplementation can fully restore correct function.
A protein-rich diet combined with exercise leads to greater weight loss and fat reduction compared to a high-carbohydrate, lower-protein diet. This study found that dieters on the protein-rich diet lost almost 100% of their weight in fat, while those on the low-protein diet lost 25-30% of their weight as muscle.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that consuming foods containing leucine immediately after intense workouts can stimulate muscle protein synthesis and improve recovery. The optimal dosage is unclear, but athletes are advised to consume a balanced diet with protein-rich food and carbohydrate-rich fluids.