Lipid Metabolism
Articles tagged with Lipid Metabolism
Genetic study finds new pathways involved in cardiometabolic disease
A study published in PLOS Medicine has identified two new genetic pathways contributing to cardiometabolic disease, including heart disease and obesity. The research analyzed lipid metabolites and their link to disease, suggesting that targeting specific metabolic pathways could prevent or lower the risk of disease.
Exosomal miR-122-3p identified as key driver of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
A study identified exosomal microRNA-122-3p as a key driver of MASLD pathogenesis. Elevated miR-122-3p levels induced triglyceride accumulation and reactive oxygen species production in liver cells.
Cannabis compounds show promise in fighting fatty liver disease
Researchers discovered that CBD and CBG can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health by creating a backup energy reserve and restoring cellular cleaning crews. These compounds also showed promising effects on treating metabolic diseases, including reducing body fat mass and improving insulin sensitivity.
How the fats we eat shape our ability to fight disease
A new study found that a diet with a lower ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids to monounsaturated fatty acids can make T cells more resilient and resistant to cell death. This discovery could potentially enhance vaccine protection and improve the success of cancer treatments.
Oxytocin attenuates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease via AMPK/SREBP1c/FAS-mediated suppression of hepatic lipogenesis
Researchers investigated the therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms of oxytocin in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Oxytocin attenuates lipid accumulation and accelerates lipid metabolism by regulating the AMPK/SREBP1c/FAS axis.
First-in-human drug trial lowers high blood fats
Scientists developed a compound that targets Liver X Receptor specifically in liver and gut to lower triglycerides. In first-in-human clinical trial, participants showed significant drops in triglycerides and remnant cholesterol after taking the drug.
New study reveals skin-boosting lipids hidden in rice bran by-products
Researchers have identified three new skin-protective compounds called oryzaceramides A, B, and C from rice bran by-products. These acylated glucosylceramides play a crucial role in maintaining epidermal integrity and demonstrate significant skin barrier-enhancing effects.
UMBC-led team to study how HIV and cancer drugs harm the brain
Researchers will investigate how HIV and cancer drugs damage brain cells over time, identifying potential early biomarkers of neurotoxicity. They will use human brain organoids grown in the lab to mimic brain physiology.
Metabolism, not just weight, improved when older adults reduced ultra-processed food intake
A controlled feeding study out of South Dakota State University shows that older adults who reduced ultra-processed foods naturally consumed fewer calories, lost weight and abdominal fat, and showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and inflammation. This study provides evidence that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can deliver s...
Chemerin receptor structures disclose new mechanism of lipid metabolism
Researchers elucidated the structure of GPR1 bound to chemerin and β-arrestin, revealing a dynamic transition from a pre-coupled state to a fully engaged state. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanism underlying arrestin-mediated modulation of non-canonical GPCRs.
Scientists observe metabolic activity of individual lipid droplets in real time
Researchers developed a probe to visualize lipid breakdown in living cells, revealing differences in breakdown rates among individual droplets. The study found that an enzyme called ATGL drives these variations, which may contribute to abnormal lipid metabolism in liver cancer cells.
Research progress on leptin in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease
Research on leptin reveals its multifaceted roles in MAFLD, including regulation of energy balance and metabolism. Leptin therapy shows promise in rare cases of leptin deficiency but is largely ineffective in obesity-associated hyperleptinemia.
The role of hepatic SIRT1: From metabolic regulation to immune modulation and multi-target therapeutic strategies
This review highlights SIRT1 as a key regulator in MASLD, orchestrating metabolic homeostasis, immune modulation, and inter-organ communication. SIRT1's therapeutic potential is supported by natural product activators and synthetic small-molecule compounds.
New drug protects mitochondria and prevents kidney injury in mice
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found that AKI is triggered by ceramides, which cause serious injury by damaging kidney mitochondria. Using a backup drug candidate, the team was able to preserve mitochondrial integrity and prevent kidney injury in mice.
New study elucidates obesity’s role in fueling breast cancer progression
Researchers found that the leptin-SCD pathway fuels breast cancer growth and motility, leading to poorer recurrence-free survival. Selectively blocking SCD activity can counteract pro-tumorigenic effects driven by leptin, revealing a potential therapeutic target for obese patients.
USC Superfund researchers identify “forever chemical” PFHpA as risk factor for severe liver disease in adolescents
Researchers identified a significant association between perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) exposure and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. The study used advanced models to reveal PFHpA's role in disrupting biological pathways, leading to liver damage and inflammation.
Study in mice reveals long-term metabolic risks of ketogenic diet
A study published in Science Advances found that the ketogenic diet can have potentially dangerous impacts on metabolic health, including impaired blood sugar regulation and fatty liver disease. Mice fed the diet developed severe metabolic complications, with some changes starting within days.
How immune cells deliver their deadly cargo
Researchers identified key genes connected to cellular lipid metabolism that guide the precise release of cytotoxic granules in human NK and T cells. This discovery explains how immune cells work and sheds light on diseases caused by genetic defects.
Fatty acids feed cancer-promoting bacteria: How chronic cellular stress alters the gut microbiome
Researchers identified a cellular mechanism that alters the gut microbiome in a way that promotes cancer. Long-chain fatty acids serve as food for certain bacteria, such as Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis, which multiply and displace other microbes.
Chinese Medical Journal study reviews the association between lipid metabolism and Parkinson’s disease
A Chinese Medical Journal study reviews the association between lipid metabolism and Parkinson’s disease. The research highlights how lipid disruptions contribute to α-Syn aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation, suggesting lipids as a promising therapeutic target for PD.
MIT study explains how a rare gene variant contributes to Alzheimer’s disease
A new study from MIT neuroscientists reveals how rare variants of the ABCA7 gene contribute to Alzheimer's risk by disrupting lipid metabolism and cell membrane function. Treating neurons with choline can reverse some cellular effects of ABCA7 loss.
Leveraging microproteins to treat obesity, aging, and mitochondrial disorders
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a new microprotein, SLC35A4-MP, that regulates mitochondrial structure and function in brown fat tissue. The study reveals the microprotein's role in maintaining healthy cellular metabolism and regulating body temperature.
SARS-CoV-2 infects testicular cells and uses cellular machinery to replicate and form
The COVID-19 virus replicates using cellular machinery responsible for testosterone production, altering lipid metabolism and potentially leading to lower testosterone levels. This study reveals the mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 targets testicular cells, offering insights into male vulnerability to COVID-19.
Research reveals a new prognostic factor for advanced lung adenocarcinoma
A new study in The American Journal of Pathology reveals that perilipin 2 protein modulates aggressive cancer progression in advanced lung adenocarcinoma by regulating lipid droplet accumulation. High perilipin 2 expression is associated with more aggressive disease progression and shorter recurrence-free survival times.
On the origins of life: recreating cellular metabolism
Scientists from UC San Diego develop an artificial cell membrane that can remodel itself through metabolic activity, shedding light on how life may have emerged on prebiotic Earth. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in drug delivery, biomanufacturing and environmental remediation.
Fat may play an important role in brain metabolism
A recent study published in Nature Metabolism found that electrical activity in synapses can lead to the use of lipid droplets as an energy source in the brain. Researchers discovered that neurons can break down fat into fatty acids and produce ATP, even when glucose is not present.
Creatine is safe, effective and important for everyone, longtime researcher says
Creatine has broad health benefits beyond athletic performance, including maintaining energy in stressed cells and preventing muscle loss with aging. Studies have shown no significant side effects from creatine supplementation, contradicting common misconceptions.
Metabolic markers found in obese adolescents guide vascular aging intervention
Researchers identified biomarkers like uric acid and bile acids as critical regulators of arterial stiffness and inflammation in adolescents with obesity. These findings provide new avenues for early intervention to prevent the progression of vascular stiffness and cardiovascular disease.
Keep the cool feeling: A lipid enzyme for maintaining cool temperature sensation and avoidance
Researchers have identified a monoacylglycerol acyltransferase (MGAT)-coding gene named bishu-1 that maintains the expression level of thermal receptors and modulates cool temperature sensation and avoidance behavior. The discovery could promote the development of lipid-mediated treatments for maintaining thermosensation in humans.
Lipid metabolic reprogramming and the tumor immune microenvironment
Tumors exploit lipid metabolism to evade immune surveillance and manipulate the tumor microenvironment. Lipid metabolism-related molecules serve as potential biomarkers for early cancer detection and guide diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions.
Novel technology enables better understanding of complex biological samples
Researchers developed t-SPESI technology to visualize cell parts and analyze lipid distributions in complex biological samples. This enables the detection of abnormal lipids linked to disease, advancing therapies and diagnostic techniques.
MCT4: A novel therapeutic target for NAFLD
Researchers found that MCT4 inhibition up-regulates genes involved in triglyceride and fatty acid synthesis, increasing intracellular lipid accumulation. Overexpression of MCT4 reduces lipid accumulation by down-regulating hepatic lipid metabolism-related genes.
Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 upregulates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway to mitigate hepatocyte ferroptosis in chronic liver injury
This study found that inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 reduces liver ferroptosis and fibrosis by upregulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. COX-2 inhibition also restored antioxidant defenses in hepatocytes, reducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation.
The role of solute carrier family transporters in hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis
SLC transporters contribute to the development of hepatic steatosis by regulating lipid metabolism, particularly with SLC2A2, GLUT4, and GLUT5. These proteins influence processes like de novo lipogenesis and insulin resistance in hepatocytes.
PanK4 identified as a regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism
Researchers discovered that PanK4 plays a crucial role in regulating glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation in skeletal muscles. The protein is activated by physical exercise and has potential as a target for treating metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
Impact of intermediate-term oral contraceptive use on oxidative stress, lipid profile, and liver function in Iraqi women
This study found that intermediate-term oral contraceptive use was associated with lower antioxidant levels and higher triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels. Regular monitoring of these parameters is recommended for OCP users to mitigate potential metabolic and hepatic effects.
New skeletal discovery offers hope for regenerative medicine
A global team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery of a new skeletal tissue called lipocartilage, composed of fat-filled cells that provide super-stable internal support. This unique tissue has immense potential for treating facial defects, birth injuries, and cartilage-related conditions.
Metabolome and RNA-seq reveal discrepant metabolism and secretory metabolism profile in skeletal muscle between obese and lean pigs at different ages
Researchers identified distinct metabolic profiles in skeletal muscle of Taoyuan Black pig compared to Duroc pig, with correlations to intramuscular fat content and lipid metabolism. The study provides insights into the muscle-adipose axis and potential targets for nutritional regulation.
SOX9 overexpression ameliorates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis through activation of the AMPK pathway
This study investigates SOX9's role in MASH pathogenesis and explores its underlying mechanisms. SOX9 overexpression alleviates hepatic lipid accumulation by activating the AMPK pathway.
SeoulTech researchers propose a novel method to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity
The study proposes a novel approach for simultaneous extraction of metabolites and lipids from zebrafish embryos to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity. The researchers found that sphingolipids are a reliable biomarker of PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and the method can be expanded to various biomolecules.
Putting a lid on excess cholesterol to halt bladder cancer cell growth
Researchers discovered that the protein PIN1 drives bladder cancer by triggering cholesterol synthesis, which fuels out-of-control cell growth. A combination of statins and a PIN1 inhibitor effectively blocks tumor growth in mice, offering a promising therapeutic approach for this deadly disease.
Lipid lifelines: the metabolic shifts behind regeneration
The study found that both axolotls and fruit flies exhibit distinct lipid adjustments during regeneration, with males increasing circulating lipids and females storing lipids in the liver. Insulin signaling pathways play a crucial role in adapting lipid metabolism to meet the needs of cell proliferation.
Anti-hepatitis b virus treatment with tenofovir amibufenamide has no impact on blood lipids: A real-world, prospective, 48-week follow-up study
A 48-week follow-up study found that TMF treatment did not significantly affect blood lipid profiles in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Lipid indices remained stable, regardless of baseline characteristics.
Starving cancer cells of fat may improve cancer treatment
Researchers at Van Andel Institute discovered that cutting off cancer cells' access to fat makes them highly sensitive to ferroptosis and drugs that induce it. This finding has promising implications for developing new anti-cancer strategies and potentially tailoring diets to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Mechanism of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Important role of lipid metabolism
MASLD's complex molecular mechanisms underpin fat accumulation and progression. Targeting lipid metabolism with GLP-1 agonists, FXR agonists, and CPMs holds promise for effective treatments.
A simple blood test warns of possible cardiometabolic complications for children with obesity
A study from the University of Copenhagen detected lipid biomarkers in obese children that indicate a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, liver, and heart disease later in life. A one-year lifestyle intervention lowered these biomarkers, demonstrating the importance of early intervention for children with obesity.
Discovering a new fashion of regulation in red blood cell production
A study by Kumamoto University researchers reveals that ApoE plays a crucial role in promoting hematopoietic stem cells to produce more red blood cells in response to acute anemia. This mechanism differs from the previously known pathway and may pave the way for new treatments for patients with severe anemia.
New chemical tool for infection research: Visualizing the sphingomyelin metabolism
Scientists have created a new chemical probe to visualize the distribution of sphingomyelin and its degradation by sphingomyelinase during infections. The researchers observed increased metabolization of sphingomyelin molecules during Chlamydia infection, paving the way for targeted strategies against infectious diseases.
Controlling lipid levels with less side effects possible with new drug
Scientists have developed a new compound, ZTA-261, which selectively binds to the thyroid hormone receptor beta (THRβ) to treat lipid disorders. Mice administered the drug showed decreased lipid levels in the liver and blood with fewer side effects compared to existing compounds.
Aging exacerbates oxidative stress and liver fibrosis in an animal model of Down Syndrome
Researchers found increased liver oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defenses in a DS murine model. The study suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress and lipid metabolism to prevent or mitigate liver-related complications.
Roles of orexin in energy metabolism during sleep in humans
A study found that suvorexant, an orexin receptor antagonist, increased fat oxidation and decreased protein catabolism during sleep in healthy men. The effect persisted after waking up, suggesting a potential clinical use for orexin receptor antagonists in managing energy metabolism.
Cracking the aging code: Insights into lipid changes
The study reveals age-related changes in lipid metabolism, including increased BMP-type lipids in kidneys and liver, and sex-specific differences in galactosylceramide levels. These findings may lead to better understanding of chronic diseases and the development of targeted treatments.
How killifish embryos use suspended animation to survive over 8 months of drought
Researchers discovered that killifish embryos co-opted ancient genes, originating over 473 million years ago, to enable diapause during the annual dry season. The team found significant overlap in gene expression patterns between killifish and other animals, including house mice, suggesting a common mechanism for diapause evolution.
Softer tumors fuel more aggressive spread of triple-negative breast cancer
Researchers have discovered how softer tumor environments prime cancer cells to better survive metastasis. The study found that soft environments alter the cancer cells' preference for 'fuel', equipping them with a more resilient energy pathway.
PFAS in blood are ubiquitous – and they are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases
A study of over 2,500 adults found a correlation between PFAS levels and unfavorable lipid profiles, increasing cardiovascular disease risk. Researchers suggest stricter regulation of PFAS to protect health.
Fat flies live longer on a diet at any age
Researchers found that switching fruit flies to a low-calorie diet extends their lifespan, even in old age. This study suggests that obese humans may benefit from reducing calorie intake in old age, as it can dramatically change their metabolisms and extend their lives.
Lowering a form of brain cholesterol reduces Alzheimer’s-like damage in mice
Researchers have found that lowering a form of brain cholesterol known as cholesteryl esters helps prevent brain damage and behavioral changes in mice with Alzheimer's-like tau deposits. The study suggests that reducing cholesteryl ester levels could be a promising candidate to test in neurodegenerative diseases.
Being a vegetarian may be—partly—in your genes
A genome-wide association study reveals 34 genes potentially involved in choosing a vegetarian diet, including those related to lipid metabolism and brain function. The findings suggest that genetics play a role in the ability to subsist on a vegetarian diet.
Being a vegetarian may be partly in your genes
A new study found three genes strongly linked to vegetarianism, including those involved in lipid metabolism and brain function. The study suggests that genetics play a role in determining whether someone can stick to a strict vegetarian diet.