Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The dark side of artificial sweeteners

Consuming artificial sweeteners has been associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Regular consumption can also lead to altered brain activation patterns and overindulgence in high-calorie foods.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateJul 10, 2013

Calcium supplements linked to longer lifespans in women

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that taking calcium supplements up to 1,000 mg per day can lower the risk of death in women. The research, conducted on 9,033 Canadians over 12 years, showed no benefit for men and no conclusive evidence that vitamin D has an impact on mortality.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 22, 2013

How much a single cell breathes

Researchers have developed a method to precisely control the distance between electrodes and cells, allowing for accurate measurement of single-cell oxygen consumption. This enables quick analysis of cell activity and metabolic processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 13, 2013

New light shed on early stage Alzheimer's disease

A study published in PNAS reveals how disrupted cellular energy metabolism contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease. In early-stage Alzheimer's, amyloid-beta-peptide accumulation disrupts mitochondrial function, leading to over-accumulation of calcium and neuronal death.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2013

LA BioMed researcher receives highest honor in field

Christina Wang, a leading LA BioMed researcher, has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of andrology. Her research has focused on male reproductive health and disease, with a particular emphasis on androgen replacement therapy and hormonal male contraceptive development.

Host cholesterol secretion likely to influence gut microbiota

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that changes in dietary cholesterol can alter the gut flora, leading to a shift in bacterial populations. The researchers discovered that this change triggered an increase in cholesterol excretion into the gut, which in turn affected the abundance of certain bacterial taxa.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 18, 2012

Raising the blockade

Researchers have elucidated the function of Translation Elongation Factor P (EF-P) during protein synthesis, revealing its role in regulating protein copy numbers in response to changing conditions. EF-P helps stalled ribosomes overcome a specific proline-rich motif, allowing for adjusted protein production.

Mother's vitamin D level linked to birth weight

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that a mother's vitamin D level is positively related to birth weight and head circumference. Additionally, a deficiency in vitamin D during the first trimester was negatively associated with the risk of a baby being born small for gestational age.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 10, 2012

At high altitude, carbs are the fuel of choice

High-altitude mice utilize carbohydrates for energy due to low oxygen levels, a strategy that could be relevant to humans and other high-altitude mammals. This evolutionary adaptation allows them to efficiently use energy in oxygen-poor environments.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 6, 2012

Genetic protection against arsenic

A study found that a gene variant producing efficient arsenic metabolism is common among Atacameño Indian villagers in Argentina, reducing health risks associated with high levels of arsenic. The research suggests human evolutionary adaptation to environmental toxins may vary among populations.

SourceLund University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 16, 2012

Length matters in gene expression

Research reveals that gene length is crucial for protein expression, with shorter genes utilizing specialized terminators to avoid repression. This finding highlights the importance of gene ends in regulating gene activity.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 2, 2012

Study uncovers racial disparities in diabetic complications among underinsured

A recent study found that African American diabetic patients experienced higher rates of end-stage renal failure but lower rates of coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke compared to white diabetic patients. The study also showed female diabetic patients had lower rates of complications than male patients.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 2, 2012

Hummingbirds make flying backward look easy

Researchers discovered hummingbirds' reverse flight is cheaper than hovering and equally costly to forward flight, employing unique kinematic adjustments. The study found that the birds reduce wing beat frequency and inclination during backwards flight, making it 20% more efficient.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 27, 2012

How genetics shape our addictions

A study at McGill University reveals that people with genetically fast nicotine metabolism have a greater brain response to smoking cues than those with slow metabolism. This finding may lead to tailoring smoking cessation programs based on individual genetics.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuroImage·DateSep 11, 2012

Study finds that yo-yo dieting does not thwart weight loss efforts or alter metabolism long term

A new study published in the journal Metabolism found that yo-yo dieting does not negatively impact metabolism or weight loss ability in the long term. The study involved 439 overweight women who were assigned to different weight loss groups, and found no significant differences between those with a history of yo-yo dieting and those w...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalMetabolism·DateAug 14, 2012

A non-invasive intracellular 'thermometer' with fluorescent proteins has been created

Scientists develop a technique to measure internal cell temperatures without altering cellular metabolism, opening doors for studying metastasis and differentiating healthy from cancerous cells. The 'fluorescence polarisation anisotropy' method uses green fluorescent proteins to provide non-invasive temperature readings.

Coordinating the circadian clock: Molecular pair controls time-keeping and fat metabolism

Researchers have discovered that Rev-erb proteins play a crucial role in controlling the body's internal clock and fat metabolism. When both proteins are not functioning, the liver fills with fat, leading to metabolic disorders. The study highlights the importance of understanding the circadian rhythm of metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 6, 2012

Quantum effects and cancer

Researchers propose that quantum metabolism explains metabolic changes causing healthy cells to become cancerous, enabling cells to outcompete for space and nutrients. Understanding this process could lead to new cancer treatment approaches.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMar 27, 2012

Keeping track to selenium metabolism

Scientists have developed a new method for studying selenium metabolism in living organisms, which could help clarify the element's potential anti-tumor properties. The technique uses enriched stable isotopes to track selenium concentrations in biological tissues and fluids, revealing its presence and behavior in the body.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateMar 21, 2012

Recent study by Mars, Incorporated and partners underscores importance of metabolism in understanding health benefits of cocoa flavanols

A recent study by Mars, Incorporated and partners reveals the extensive metabolism of flavanol compounds after consumption, challenging existing in vitro studies. This research provides a critical step forward in understanding how cocoa flavanols exert their circulatory and cardiovascular benefits.

SourceCNC (UK) Ltd.·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateJan 25, 2012

Natural compound helps reverse diabetes in mice

Scientists have found that nicotinamide mononucleotide, a naturally occurring compound, can reverse diabetes in mice by improving glucose tolerance and reducing cholesterol levels. The study suggests that this compound may one day be used to treat or prevent type 2 diabetes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 4, 2011

Study puts a new spin on ibuprofen's actions

Researchers discovered that ibuprofen and other NSAIDs selectively block endocannabinoid metabolism, potentially leading to new analgesic medications with fewer side effects. This finding raises the possibility of targeting inflammation and pain without the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks associated with traditional NSAIDs.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 25, 2011

Hot flashes may be fewer in older, heavier women

A recent study found that heavier women have fewer hot flashes than their leaner counterparts after menopause. The inverse association between body size and hot flashes was observed only among older women, suggesting that age plays a significant role in this relationship.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 31, 2011