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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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2024

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.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2023

The fat tax: Long-term, systemic antibiotic use for the treatment of adolescent acne can promote fat accumulation

Researchers found that long-term antibiotic use during adolescence disrupts the healthy gut microbiome, leading to changes in liver metabolism that promotes central fat accumulation. The study suggests that antibiotic treatment may have lasting detrimental effects on liver metabolism and promote adiposity.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Discovery of metabolic switch could lead to targeted treatment of obesity, cancer

Researchers at Iowa State University have identified a metabolic switch that can be modified to control fat production, which could lead to more effective treatments for childhood obesity and cancer. The discovery involves altering the acetylation levels of fatty acid synthase, an enzyme critical to de novo lipogenesis.

SourceIowa State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2023

Disruptions in brain sphingolipid metabolism reveal new insights into cause of Gaucher disease

A study found that disruptions in brain sphingolipid metabolism lead to neuronal damage and neurodegeneration in animal models, revealing a new molecular perspective on Gaucher's disease. The research also shows that neuronal activity triggers the production of glucosylceramide, a key factor in the development of this disorder.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2022

Furthering fat loss in the fasting response

A study by Osaka University investigated the relationship between autophagy and metabolism during fasting. Autophagy was found to play a key role in promoting fat loss during fasting, particularly through the upregulation of adipogenic genes. The findings may have important implications for understanding metabolism during aging.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAutophagy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

Polymeric nanomicelles improve internalization of lipid metabolism modulators in brain cells

Researchers have developed poly-ion complex (PIC) nanomicelles loaded with CPT1A inhibitors to deliver drugs into brain cells, reducing fatty acid oxidation and improving treatment for glioblastoma. The delivery system successfully increased cellular concentration of the cargo and biological activity.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalBiomaterials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2021

Lipid metabolism controls brain development

A recent study by University of Zurich researchers has identified a key mechanism controlling brain development and cognitive function. The study found that a lipid metabolism enzyme, fatty acid synthase (FASN), regulates the lifelong activity of brain stem cells, leading to reduced division and learning deficits.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 7, 2020

Enzyme with surprising dual function

Scientists at the University of Bonn have found that ceramide synthase not only produces vital lipids but also regulates gene activity, particularly in response to nutritional status. The enzyme's homeodomain plays a crucial role in adapting gene expression to energy requirements.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 23, 2018

A fattening gene

Researchers have identified a key gene in energy metabolism, revealing its crucial role in regulating fat storage. The Sirt7 gene plays a central role in the process, enabling mice to maintain normal weight despite high-fat diets, suggesting new therapeutic approaches for obesity and metabolic disorders.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2014

Recycling fat might help worms live longer

Researchers found that increased autophagy in germline-less worms led to higher activity of a fat-digesting enzyme, extending their lifespan. The study suggests that recycling fat is beneficial for worms, and may have implications for human diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 6, 2011