Beetles that taste like mustard
Flea beetles sequester glucosinolates without triggering the plant's defense mechanism. They utilize the compounds for their own communication and defense against predators.
Metabolites
Articles tagged with Metabolites
Life Sciences
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Decoding the chemical vocabulary of plants
Researchers developed a computational pipeline system to analyze plant genomes, revealing unusual properties in genes producing specialized metabolites. These findings offer an innovative strategy for discovering novel compounds with wide-ranging implications for agriculture, biotechnology, drug discovery, and synthetic biology.
Scientists emphasize metabolites' role in understanding disease
A University of Alabama researcher advocates for a greater emphasis on the body's metabolites in understanding illnesses, highlighting their potential to predict heart disease and response to environmental change. The study used fruit flies as animal models and identified nine new metabolites that are good predictors of these traits.
Factor present in gestational and type 2 diabetes could provide new treatment options
Researchers found that blocking the effects of CMPF may help prevent and treat diabetes. A fat metabolite called CMPF was dramatically increased in both gestational and type 2 diabetic individuals, impairing insulin secretion from beta cells.
New method is a thousand times more sensitive to performance-enhancing drugs
Researchers have developed a new testing method that can detect performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) 1,000 times more sensitively than current methods. The approach, called paired ion electrospray ionization (PIESI), uses mass spectrometry to gather and detect small drug bits in body fluids.
Banana plant fights off crop's invisible nemesis: Roundworms
The Yangambi km5 banana variety produces toxic metabolites that kill the nematode Radopholus similis, a major roundworm pest. This discovery could lead to the development of edible and pest-resistant banana varieties, as well as new pesticides against nematodes.
Joslin finds metabolic clues to diabetic kidney failure
A recent study by Joslin Diabetes Center researchers has identified key metabolic factors that may contribute to diabetic kidney failure. The study found increased levels of uremic solutes and myo-inositol in patients who developed end-stage renal disease, suggesting a potential link between tubular injury and kidney failure.
Less toxic metabolites, more chemical product
Researchers at Joint BioEnergy Institute create dynamic pathway regulation using stress-response promoters to improve chemical product production. This approach enables regulation of artificial metabolic pathways in response to toxic intermediate metabolites.
Urine biomarkers reveal mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic kidney disease
Researchers identified 13 metabolites that are significantly different in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease compared to healthy controls. Twelve of the metabolites are linked to mitochondrial function, suggesting suppressed mitochondria as a fundamental characteristic of diabetic kidney disease.
Researchers identify a metabolite as a biomarker of diabetes risk
A new study by Robert Gerszten and colleagues has identified 2-aminoadipic acid as a biomarker for Type 2 diabetes risk. Individuals with elevated levels of this metabolite were found to be at higher risk of developing T2D, with detectable levels present up to 12 years before disease onset.
Latest research on ingredients that make chocolate, olive oil, tea healthful foods
Scientists have identified several natural ingredients with potential health benefits, including curcumin, which inhibits cancer cell growth and induces apoptosis. Other compounds found in ginger, cranberries, and olive oil also show promise in reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.
MRI spectroscopy is highly sensitive for lipid-soluble metabolites from UC-MSCs
Researchers developed a method to extract and analyze lipid-soluble metabolites from human mesenchymal stem cells using MRI spectroscopy. The technique provides valuable insights into the metabolic characteristics of MSCs, which is essential for optimizing detection efficiency while minimizing cell usage.
Chemical reaction could streamline manufacture of pharmaceuticals and other compounds
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a new chemical reaction that can create phenolic compounds from aromatic hydrocarbons quickly and cheaply. This process resolves a long-standing challenge in organic chemistry, enabling the mass production of essential compounds such as pharmaceuticals and agricultural ch...
Adverse effects of phthalates on ovarian response to IVF
A new study found that phthalate exposure is associated with reduced fertility in women undergoing IVF treatment. Exposure to specific phthalates was linked to lower IVF success rates, including implantation failure and reduced oocyte retrieval rates.
Rate of aging may be determined in the womb and linked to birthweight, study reveals
A study by King's College London reveals that key metabolites in blood can indicate a person's long-term health and aging rate. The research identified a specific metabolite linked to birthweight and associated with age-related traits, suggesting it may be used to predict aging and develop therapies.
Metabolic biomarkers can predict mortality in the ICU
A new study has identified four metabolites that can be used to accurately predict mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The researchers analyzed plasma samples from 90 ICU patients and found that levels of lactate, mannose, gamma-glutamyltyrosine, and stearidonate were associated with high mortality rates.
How our cells cope with toxic small molecules
Scientists review 'metabolite damage-control' to understand how cells repair damaged metabolites and prevent fatal diseases. The field is in its infancy, with many unidentified reactions waiting discovery.
Problems with mineral metabolism linked with kidney disease progression
A study found that disordered mineral metabolism worsens with progressive chronic kidney disease and is linked to a higher risk of kidney failure among African Americans. Measuring mineral metabolites may be a useful way to determine CKD patient prognosis, while targeting these metabolites could help slow disease progression.
Metabolic biomarkers for preventive molecular medicine
Researchers have identified 48 metabolites linked to cellular ageing and disease risk in mice. The study reveals a strong connection between metabolism and biological age, offering new insights into preventive molecular medicine.
Mice with 'humanized' livers improve early drug testing, Stanford scientists show
Researchers characterized a drug about to enter clinical development by using mouse models with humanized livers, accurately predicting significant aspects of its behavior in humans. The findings hold huge implications for drug development, hinting that the drug could be both safe and effective in treating hepatitis C
14 new biomarkers identified for type 2 diabetes
Researchers identified 14 novel biomarkers for type 2 diabetes that can serve as the basis for developing new treatment and prevention methods. These biomarkers provide insight into the complex mechanisms of this disease, which are still not fully understood.
UC San Diego bioengineers take on key role in new NIH common funds metabolomics
Bioengineers from UC San Diego are playing a key role in the NIH's new metabolomics program, which aims to accelerate diagnosis and disease treatment. The project will analyze millions of microorganisms living within the human body, providing insights into their role in health and disease.
Expanding database enables discoveries in emerging field of metabolomics
A massive online metabolite database, METLIN, has been developed to provide comprehensive biochemical information about cellular metabolism. The database includes over 60,000 compounds with detailed tandem mass spectrometry information on more than 10,000 metabolites.
Finding new research frontiers in a single cell
Researchers have developed a new mass spectrometry technique that allows for the mapping of metabolites in plant material at the single cell level. This breakthrough provides unprecedented insights into plant biological processes and has significant potential for advancing biofuels research and crop genetics.
New clues about cancer cell metabolism emerge
Researchers have developed a technique to measure the flux of metabolites in cancer cells, revealing a link between glycine consumption and fast cell division. The study's findings suggest that glycine metabolism plays a crucial role in cancer cell proliferation, with implications for understanding cancer biology.
New more-sensitive blood test catches recurring breast cancer a year earlier
A new blood test has been developed to detect breast cancer recurrence up to 11-12 months before current tests, using a combination of biomarkers and mass spectrometry. The test shows promise for improving therapy outcomes by enabling earlier detection and treatment.
Circadian rhythms have profound influence on metabolic output, UCI study reveals
Researchers at UCI Center for Epigenetics & Metabolism discovered that circadian rhythms significantly impact liver metabolite production, with approximately 60% dependent on the body clock. This finding has implications for understanding obesity, high cholesterol, and metabolic diseases.
Weill Cornell researchers develop powerful tool to measure metabolites in living cells
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have developed a new tool to image small-molecule metabolites in living cells, offering clues about how to treat disorders. The technology uses modified RNA called 'Spinach' to sense levels of target metabolites in real-time.
Genetic regulation of metabolomic biomarkers – paths to cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes
Researchers identified 31 genetic regions associated with circulating metabolites, including biomarkers for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The study provides new insights into the biological processes leading to common diseases, suggesting that detailed data on multiple metabolites can help elucidate these processes.
Scripps Research scientists provide new understanding of chronic pain
Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have discovered dimethylsphingosine (DMS), a molecule produced at abnormally high levels in the spinal cords of rats with neuropathic pain, which appears to cause pain when injected. Inhibiting DMS production may be a fruitful target for drug development.
Focus on fats
A massive research project, LIPID MAPS, has identified the complete complement of lipids within cells and gained insight into their role in cellular functions. The new knowledge may have significant implications for understanding diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
New technique elucidates dynamics of plant cell metabolites
Researchers developed a novel technique to analyze metabolite concentrations at high spatial resolution in plant cells. The study found that metabolites are regulated and fluctuate under stress conditions, highlighting the role of the vacuole in cellular processes.
Researchers find link between common dietary fat, intestinal microbes and heart disease
A new study discovered that specific intestinal microflora metabolize phosphatidyl choline, a common dietary lipid found in animal products, into compounds associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that higher levels of these compounds are linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.
Researchers use novel methods to identify how cigarette smoke affects smokers
Researchers analyzed metabolites in blood and urine of smokers and non-smokers to understand how tobacco smoke affects human biology. The study found that nicotine-related metabolites varied among smokers, with overall metabolomic profiles differing between male and female individuals.
Metabolite levels may be able to improve diabetes risk prediction
Researchers found that levels of five amino acids, including isoleucine and leucine, can signal future disease risk and indicate candidates for preventive measures. The study used metabolite measurements to identify individuals at elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
New marker found for Sanfilippo disease
Sanfilippo disease is a rare metabolic disorder caused by the accumulation of complex carbohydrates in cells, leading to severe physical and neurological problems. Researchers at UC San Diego have identified a novel secondary metabolite, dermatan sulfate, as a potential biomarker for the disease.
Scripps Research study sheds light on RNA 'on/off switches'
Scientists from Scripps Research Institute have discovered a new type of RNA molecule, called riboswitches, that can turn genes on or off in response to cellular energy needs. These findings may have implications for designing new antibiotics against harmful bacteria.
How authentic is your pomegranate juice?
A chemist at UC Riverside is using advanced spectroscopy methods to verify the presence of pomegranate compounds in juices sold as pomegranate juice. By analyzing unique biochemicals, she aims to detect adulterated products and potentially apply this technology to other food and beverage items.
Initial trials on new ovarian cancer tests exhibit extremely high accuracy
The new test uses mass spectrometry to analyze metabolites in a single drop of blood serum, accurately identifying women with ovarian cancer in all tested patients. Further testing will be conducted on 500 patients to confirm the results and explore its potential for detecting other types of cancers.
Detailed metabolic profile gives 'chemical snapshot' of the effects of exercise
Researchers developed a detailed metabolic profile of exercise effects, revealing changes in over 20 metabolites reflecting sugar, fat, and amino acid processing as fuels. These findings have implications for optimal training programs, nutritional supplements, and potential treatments for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Scripps Research team provides groundbreaking new understanding of stem cells
The study found that embryonic stem cell metabolites have highly unsaturated structures compared to mature cells, and levels decrease as they mature. The researchers also discovered a pattern in the chemistry that mirrors the cells' increasing biological maturity.
Exploring Echinacea's enigmatic origins
Researchers analyzed DNA from 40 diverse Echinacea populations to understand the plant's genetic diversity. The study found that the species likely originated in southern refuges on both sides of the Mississippi River and hybridized as they moved northward, leading to blurred genetic distinctions.
Tiny molecules may tell big story about cardiovascular disease risk
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified specific metabolic profiles associated with coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and death. The study analyzed metabolites in nearly 10,000 patients and found two sets of metabolites that differentiated between those with and without cardiovascular disease.
From carnivorous plants to the medicine cabinet?
Carnivorous plants have been found to produce compounds that are effective against human fungal infections. The plant's pitchers contain enzymes and secondary metabolites that can dissolve fungi, providing a potential solution for treating infections like athlete's foot and skin fungal infections in hospitals.
Metabolite common among cancers
A study found that mutations in IDH1 enzyme result in excess production of 2-HG, a metabolite common among cancers including leukemia and brain tumors. Elevated serum levels of 2-HG were detected in approximately 8% of AML patients with these mutations.
Marine lab hunts subtle clues to environmental threats to blue crabs
A research team from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a new method to detect subtle clues to environmental threats affecting blue crabs. By analyzing metabolite levels in blue crab hemolymph using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, they found biomarkers that can identify specific sourc...
Pilot study relates phthalate exposure to less-masculine play by boys
A pilot study of 145 preschool children found that higher phthalate exposure was associated with less male-typical play, such as trucks and rough-and-tumble play. The study suggests that fetal exposure to anti-androgens like phthalates may alter masculine brain development.
New 'biofactories' produce rare healing substances in the endangered Devil's claw plant
A team of scientists has successfully produced the active ingredients in Devil's claw using a novel technique called hairy root biofactory. This breakthrough could lead to large-scale production of rare plant extracts at low cost, addressing the global shortage of medicinal compounds derived from endangered plants.
The dioxin poisoning of Victor Yushchenko -- methods needed for routine analysis of metabolites of the poison TCDD
The dioxin poisoning of Victor Yushchenko demonstrates the importance of monitoring TCDD and its metabolites in human tissues. Metabolites were predominantly found in faeces, indicating a slow metabolism by the liver and skin.
An easy way to find a needle in a haystack by removing the haystack
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology developed a new method, called MAILD, to quickly and reliably detect metabolites in biological samples. The technique uses classical mass spectrometry and enables the measurement of a large number of metabolites, opening doors for targeted and high-throughput metabolomics.
Molecular fingerprints point the way to earlier cancer diagnosis and more targeted treatment
Researchers are developing biomarkers using molecular fingerprints to detect early signs of cancer, such as leukemia, bladder, kidney, and breast cancer. By identifying metabolites that indicate cancer presence and aggressiveness, doctors can tailor optimal treatment and monitor success.
Dr. Arun Sreekumar lectures on new candidate biomarker at Annual EAU Congress
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a potential new biomarker, sarcosine, that can distinguish between aggressive and non-aggressive prostate cancers. Sarcosine levels in urine may help predict cancer aggressiveness and identify patients who need aggressive treatment.
Survey of metabolites finds new prostate cancer marker
Researchers have identified a new biological marker, sarcosine, that indicates prostate cancer progression and spreading. Sarcosine levels increase in tumor cells and urine samples as the disease develops.
Researchers discover metabolite linked to aggressive prostate cancer
A panel of small molecules, including sarcosine, has been identified as potential markers for aggressive prostate cancer. Sarcosine was found in higher levels in advanced prostate cancer samples and was a better indicator than traditional PSA test.
Soybean database will help breeders engineer better-performing plants
University of Missouri researchers are creating a comprehensive database of soybean proteins and metabolites to study changes under drought and stressed conditions. The database will help breeders engineer better-performing soybean plants using computerized models that predict physiological and biological changes.
Mayo Clinic researchers find tamoxifen's power comes from endoxifen
Mayo Clinic researchers found that endoxifen, a tamoxifen metabolite, degrades estrogen receptors and inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells. The study suggests that an agent mimicking endoxifen might be a more effective treatment than tamoxifen.
Advanced blood analysis may speed diagnosis of heart attacks
A new blood analysis technique identified markers that could improve treatment and save lives for patients having a heart attack. By analyzing hundreds of molecular markers, doctors can confirm the presence of a heart attack within minutes, allowing for rapid treatment.
How to spot a heart attack soon after it occurs
Researchers developed a new method for early detection of heart attacks using metabolite profiling, detecting changes in blood samples 10 minutes after the event. The approach has potential to improve early treatment and survival rates.
Healthy or diseased?
Researchers used metabolomics to identify groups of relevant biomarkers of disease in healthy and diabetic mice. The study found that the ratios between certain metabolite concentrations were more informative than their absolute concentrations.
The 21st century tomato
Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the complex metabolic networks involved in tomato fruit development. By analyzing over 1200 quantitative metabolic loci (QMLs), scientists identified associations between metabolites and genes that regulate fruit metabolism. This knowledge can be used to alter metabolic pathwa...