Metabolism
Articles tagged with Metabolism
Garlic-derived compound shows potential to improve muscle health during aging
New study reveals how weight-loss drugs reshape the brain’s reward system
A new study from the University of Virginia finds that next-generation GLP-1 drugs can alter brain circuits controlling motivation and reward. The research shows that these drugs not only suppress appetite but also influence how the brain values food, helping explain their effectiveness and side effects.
FAU review: Obesity and Alzheimer’s linked by disease-driving metabolic pathways
A review from Florida Atlantic University links obesity to Alzheimer's disease through disruptions in metabolism, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function and gut-brain axis balance. Early detection and whole-body prevention may become possible through monitoring metabolic health.
Sustained reduction in abdominal fat preserves cognitive function
A long-term MRI study finds that lower accumulation of visceral fat is associated with preservation of key brain structures, better cognitive performance, and slower brain atrophy. The study suggests that glucose control and insulin sensitivity mediate the relationship between abdominal fat and brain aging.
Seals get their hearts racing to detox after foraging trips at sea
A new study found that fur seals' heart rate peaks six to eight hours after returning to land, indicating a delayed recovery from the physiological costs of foraging at sea. This suggests that seals use their time onshore to actively recover and replenish oxygen stores.
Sticks and stones may break my bones but “hybrid” macrophages could heal me
Scientists created hybrid macrophages that can simultaneously promote blood vessel and bone growth, potentially improving outcomes for patients with bone fractures. The discovery could lead to new cell-derived therapies that speed up recovery and improve healing.
Metabolic reprogramming on demand: enzymatic nanovesicles open a new frontier for acute kidney injury therapy
Scientists create a novel nano-delivery system that boosts NAD+ synthesis and reduces consumption, rapidly restoring energy metabolism in damaged kidneys. The approach halts disease progression and prevents chronic kidney disease, offering a promising drug development platform for AKI and other energy metabolism disorders.
Pennington Biomedical Research Advances understanding of how the brain senses diet to control appetite and metabolism
A recent study published in Cell Reports identified a key pathway through which the hormone FGF21 influences eating behavior and energy balance. The findings highlight the importance of nutrition in brain function and suggest that FGF21-based therapies could be optimized to target specific brain circuits.
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.
Surviving the gut: A highly stable oral nanoreactor targets metabolites to blunt cognitive decline
A novel oral nanoreactor targets isoamylamine, a gut-derived metabolite associated with age-related cognitive decline, by degrading it through monoamine oxidase. The treatment also reduces oxidative stress and improves spatial learning and recognition memory in aged mice.
Chinese Medical Journal study reveals how mitochondrial activity is regulated in heart muscle cells
A study published in Chinese Medical Journal reveals how mitochondrial activity is regulated in heart muscle cells. Mitochondrial dysfunction disrupts energy production and affects cardiac outcomes, with various proteins managing mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy.
Researchers identify mechanism for body weight-reducing hormone
A hormone called FGF21 reverses obesity in mice by signaling to the hindbrain, a region targeted by GLP-1 drugs. This finding provides insight into the naturally occurring hormone's benefits for weight loss and MASH treatment.
GLP-1 receptor agonists and noncardiometabolic outcomes
A meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonist studies found potential safety signals for gastrointestinal side effects, while some evidence suggested a link to reduced respiratory disease risk. Further research is needed to confirm the latter association.
Decoding the chemical messengers: Gut microbes talk to the whole body through metabolites
Research systematically maps how bacterial metabolites influence disease progression and immune cell functions, highlighting their dual effects on the body. The review emphasizes the need for holistic regulation of metabolite profiles to achieve precision interventions.
Researchers decode molecular secrets of surfactant-mediated enzyme protection in lignocellulose biorefining
A comprehensive study decodes structure-function relationships governing surfactant-mediated enzyme protection, revealing a competitive stabilization mechanism. The research identifies key factors influencing mitigation efficacy, including hydrophobicity and hydrogen bonding capacity, and provides predictive power for designing more ef...
Lifestyle factors and cardiometabolic risk
A review highlights the importance of healthy lifestyles in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Adhering to optimal lifestyle factors, such as a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep, can dramatically lower disease incidence.
From engineered fungal molecules to drug leads: Chem-bio hybrid synthesis for antiparasitic drug discovery
Researchers have identified and overcome metabolic instability as the key barrier to developing ovalicin, a potent relative of fumagillin. Using chem-bio hybrid synthesis, they created metabolically stable drug candidates that worked in animal models of amebiasis.
Scientists discover pathway that activates brown fat
Researchers have identified a key protein that activates brown fat by expanding blood vessels and nerves, which can regulate body temperature and is linked to weight loss. The findings suggest a new approach to treating obesity that deviates from suppressing appetite.
Registrations open for São Paulo School of Advanced Science in Obesity
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science in Obesity will provide graduate students and early career researchers with a two-week training program on obesity research and prevention. The school will feature renowned keynote speakers and cover topics such as epidemiological aspects, genetic nutrition, epigenetics, and emerging preventive ...
Long-term cardiometabolic outcomes in children with metabolically healthy and unhealthy obesity
Children with metabolically healthy obesity at treatment initiation have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Reduction in BMI z score is associated with reduced cardiometabolic risk, suggesting treatment should be recommended for these children as well.
Working night shifts makes it harder to manage type 2 diabetes
A study by King's College London found that night shift workers with type 2 diabetes face challenges in maintaining a healthy diet and managing their condition. The research revealed limited access to nutritious food options during night shifts, leading to poorer quality nutrition and greater variability in glucose levels.
Python blood could hold the secret to healthier weight loss
Researchers discovered an appetite-suppressing compound in python blood that promotes satiety without stomach problems. The compound, para-tyramine-O-sulfate, has potential for new weight loss treatments.
Pythons’ feast-and-famine life hints at new weight-loss pathway
Researchers discovered a metabolite called pTOS in pythons that increases appetite suppression in obese mice, leading to significant weight loss. The study sheds light on the power of studying extremes in the animal kingdom and may lead to new weight-loss treatments.
Engineered lipid nanoparticles reprogram immune metabolism for better mRNA vaccines
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed lipid nanoparticles that modify immune metabolism to strengthen mRNA vaccines and reduce common side effects. The new lipid boosts the metabolism of immune cells, providing energy for the body's defenses while dialing down inflammatory signals.
High-intensity interval training boosts muscle power plants
A new study shows that high-intensity interval training increases the number of mitochondria and expands the active membrane, enhancing energy production and potentially improving endurance. The findings, published in the University of Southern Denmark, also suggest that muscle mitochondria are more adaptable than previously thought.
Cancer has a unique nuclear metabolic fingerprint
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that human DNA is crowded with metabolic enzymes, which interact with DNA and play a crucial role in cancer cell growth and response to treatment. The unique pattern of enzymes differs by cancer type and tissue, providing new clues for understanding cancer biology.
Altered copper metabolism is a crucial factor in inflammatory bone diseases
Copper metabolism plays a crucial role in inflammatory bone diseases, with copper overload suppressing glycogen synthesis and increasing inflammatory activity. Researchers found that cuproptosis, a form of programmed cell death, can lead to bone weakening and osteoclast formation, providing a potential new therapeutic target.
How periodontitis-linked bacteria accelerate osteoporosis-like bone loss through the gut
Research reveals that salivary bacteria from gum disease alter gut metabolism, driving osteoclast activity and systemic bone loss. Microbial metabolites like indole-3-lactic acid inhibit osteoclast differentiation and activity.
Pennington Biomedical researcher publishes editorial in leading American Heart Association journal
A Pennington Biomedical researcher published an editorial on the benefits of fruit intake for vascular health, citing a study on increasing fruit intake with avocados and mangos. The findings suggest that diets rich in fruits can improve nutrient status and health outcomes, aligning with the goals of the Food Is Medicine initiative.
Team explores role of the mannose pathway in regulating cell fate decisions
A team of scientists discovered that the mannose pathway plays a crucial role in regulating cell fate decisions in low glucose environments, particularly in cancer cells. They found that reducing mannose pathway activity led to impaired N-glycan biosynthesis and activated pro-survival signals, which can contribute to cancer progression.
Trophodynamic of organophosphate ester in a typical terrestrial food chain from the Tibetan Plateau
Researchers found widespread occurrence of tri-OPEs and di-OPEs in the Tibetan Plateau's terrestrial ecosystem. The study confirmed the trophic dilution behavior of OPEs along a representative food chain, with bio-transformation and metabolism playing key roles.
Turning over a new leaf in analyses of natural products
Researchers created an automated method to quickly analyze the metabolic effects of natural products, such as kratom, using high-resolution mass spectrometry and molecular network mapping. This breakthrough provides a detailed view of how chemicals are reshaped by human metabolism, marking a major step in natural products research.
Vitamins: A tool to exploit against cancer
A University of Lausanne research team discovered vitamin B7's role in bypassing glutamine addiction in cancer cells. The study found that pyruvate, enabled by pyruvate carboxylase and vitamin B7, fuels cells' energy cycle even without glutamine.
Researchers sharpen understanding of how the body responds to energy demands from exercise
A new study published in Science Advances has shed light on how the body responds to energy demands from exercise, identifying a crucial cell signaling mechanism that could lead to a new treatment for diabetes. The research focuses on Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK), a regulator of energy production, and reveals...
A genetic brake that forms our muscles
A gene variant controlling blood vessel formation in muscles affects endurance and metabolism. High-intensity training can increase blood vessel growth by reducing the gene's activity.
Parkinson’s disease triggers a hidden shift in how the body produces energy
Researchers found that Parkinson's patients experience weight loss due to selective fat depletion, not muscle loss, driven by impaired carbohydrate-based energy production. This metabolic shift highlights a disorder of both the brain and body, driving disease progression.
Metabolic clues emerge from new molecular map of Alzheimer’s
Rice University scientists create a detailed map of the Alzheimer's brain using hyperspectral Raman imaging and machine learning. The findings show that chemical changes are unevenly distributed across the brain and extend beyond amyloid plaques, revealing broader metabolic differences between healthy and diseased brains.
Insilico Medicine nominates ISM5059, the peripheral-restricted NLRP3 inhibitor as preclinical candidate
Insilico Medicine nominates ISM5059, a peripheral-restricted NLRP3 inhibitor, as a preclinical candidate for treating various inflammatory diseases. The compound has demonstrated high potency, selectivity, and excellent in vivo efficacy across animal disease models.
The ‘yo-yo effect’ impairs metabolism and reduces brown fat activity in women
A study by UNICAMP researchers found that women with a history of yo-yo dieting have increased body fat, worse metabolic indicators, and reduced brown fat activity. The 'yo-yo effect' impairs metabolism and reduces BAT activity in women.
Wild blueberries: New review explores benefits for heart, metabolism and the microbiome
A new scientific review summarizes 12 human clinical trials on the cardiometabolic effects of wild blueberries, finding improvements in blood vessel function and beneficial changes to the gut microbiome. Regular consumption of one cup per day may support overall health benefits.
New study may offer hope to women suffering menopausal hot flashes, night sweats
A new study from the University of Victoria found that higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats. Insulin may be a stronger predictor of hot flashes when taking other metabolic variables into account, while body mass index (BMI) appeared more closely associated with estrogen level changes.
Discovery of key metabolic regulation mechanisms in cancer development
Researchers identify acetylation as a fine cellular regulatory mechanism that affects pyruvate kinase function and stability. The study reveals isoform-specific regulation of PKM by acetylation, which helps understand how cancer cells proliferate.
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.
Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report
A new consensus statement provides evidence-based guidance for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and return-to-play protocols for female athletes. The updated report includes a first-of-its-kind adolescent model of the Female Athlete Triad, addressing energy deficiency in growing adolescents.
Tissue repair slows in old age. These proteins speed it back up
Researchers discovered genes that regulate fibroblast growth, which builds the scaffolding between cells. Adjusting these factors reversed age-related changes and improved health outcomes in mice. The study offers new opportunities to understand and reverse aging-related diseases.
Hidden molecular switch controls taste, metabolism and gut function
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a hidden molecular control switch inside the protein TRPM5, which regulates taste, blood sugar control and gut health. The switch can be activated or inhibited by small molecules, unlocking new opportunities for therapeutic development.
Artificial metabolism turns waste CO2 into useful chemicals
Researchers at Northwestern University and Stanford University develop a new artificial metabolism that converts waste carbon dioxide into acetyl-CoA, a universal metabolite used by all living cells. The system, called Reductive Formate Pathway (ReForm), uses engineered enzymes to perform metabolic reactions never seen in nature.
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.
Metabolic analyses of animal fossils helps scientists reconstruct million-year-old environments
Researchers discovered metabolites in fossilized bones of animals that lived 1.3 to 3 million years ago, providing insights into their health, diets, and environments. The findings revealed warmer and wetter conditions compared to today.
The gut bacteria that put the brakes on weight gain in mice
Researchers identified a specific type of gut bacteria, Turicibacter, that promotes metabolic health and reduces weight gain in mice. The bacterium produces fatty molecules that are absorbed by the small intestine, improving ceramide levels and preventing excessive weight gain.
Theobromine from cocoa linked to slower biological aging
Researchers found that higher levels of theobromine are associated with slower biological aging in humans, as measured by epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and telomere length. The study suggests that theobromine may support healthy aging by influencing molecular epigenetic processes.
Three-hit model describes the causes of autism
A new study describes a three-hit metabolic signaling model that reframes autism as a treatable disorder of cellular communication and energy metabolism. The model suggests that up to half of all autism cases might be prevented or reduced with prenatal and early-life interventions.
Research Alert: How the Immune System Stalls Weight Loss
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine discovered that immune cells can slow fat breakdown when exposed to physiological stressors, helping early humans preserve energy stores. This finding provides new insight into the underlying metabolism of obesity and other metabolic disorders.
Study reveals how dietary restriction helps fuel cancer-fighting immune cells
A study by Van Andel Institute scientists found that reducing calorie intake helps cancer-fighting immune cells do their jobs more effectively. The researchers discovered that a low-fat, high-protein diet given once a day promotes the formation of ketones, which act as a cellular fuel for T cells to become more effective tumor fighters.
UCLA study uncovers how a key protein helps breast cancer cells survive in hostile conditions
Researchers mapped NBCn1's structure-function properties to understand how breast cancer cells thrive in hostile environments. The study provides insights into the protein's dynamics and ion transport pathways, paving the way for designing drugs that target this transporter.
How two Russian scientists changed the way we understand aging and cancer
Two Russian scientists' conceptual similarities challenge conventional aging views. Their ideas about hyperfunction and elevation remain relevant to modern research. Golubev explores the historical connections between Dilman and Blagosklonny, highlighting their contributions to aging science.
What your sweat can reveal about your health
A new study suggests that sweat can reveal information about a person's health, including hormone levels, medication doses, and early detection of diseases like diabetes and cancer. Wearable sensors using artificial intelligence can detect specific metabolites in sweat, providing personalized health insights.
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...
Aged blood vessel cells drive metabolic diseases
Researchers found that senescent blood vessel cells play a key role in developing metabolic disorders like diabetes. Transplanting these cells into lean mice caused inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.