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Pilot study finds metabolic alterations related to sexual and physical abuse

A pilot study at the University of Eastern Finland found metabolites related to oxidative stress and transsulfuration to be associated with a history of sexual or physical abuse in depressed adolescent outpatients. The study's findings suggest that further research into the biological mechanisms underlying trauma is needed.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEuropean Journal of Psychotraumatology·DateApr 11, 2023
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Key mechanism for kidney disease identified

Researchers at Penn Medicine discovered that maintaining nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels may protect against kidney disease. NAD supplements were shown to be effective in reversing NAD loss and suppressing inflammation in mouse kidneys, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for kidney disease prevention and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 22, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

A common metabolite may help treat autoimmune diseases

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered itaconate's modulatory effect on T helper and T regulatory cells, potentially leading to new treatments for autoimmune diseases. The study found that itaconate inhibits Th17 cell differentiation and promotes Treg cell development, reducing disease symptoms in mice models.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2023

Biological network in cells helps body adapt to stresses on health

Scientists at the University of Utah Health have discovered a complex network of protein-metabolite interactions within cells that enable them to respond to environmental cues and maintain homeostasis. The study, published in Science, highlights the importance of these interactions in regulating metabolic processes and preventing disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Mass General Brigham researchers uncover metabolic secrets of anaerobes and identify new strategies to treat c. difficile infections

The study found that Clostridioides difficile uses fermentation to rapidly colonize the gut and identified critical pathways converged on a metabolic integration point to produce amino acid alanine, driving bacterial growth. The findings provide new targets for small molecule drugs to counter C. difficile colonization and infection.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2023

How a metabolite causes inflammation and disease

A new study has discovered a connection between a mitochondrial metabolite and the activation of an inflammatory response. Fumarate, produced in the mitochondrion, triggers mitochondrial damage that releases genetic material into small vesicles, leading to inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023
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Research aims to expand understanding of link between chronic stress and heart disease, among other age-related conditions

A University of Massachusetts Amherst epidemiologist is leading a team to better understand the effects of chronic stress on future health risks. They will examine metabolites in blood samples from a large, racially diverse population to identify potential biomarkers for heart disease, diabetes and cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateFeb 13, 2023

Metabolites better reflect consumption of the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy compared to self-reported dietary measures, study finds

Researchers found that metabolites associated with the Mediterranean diet may serve as an objective measure to assess adherence among pregnant individuals. The study identified several key metabolites linked to maternal physiology and outcomes, including gestational diabetes and chronic diseases.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Gene cluster reshuffling drives natural sunscreen evolution in lichens

Lichen-forming fungi have evolved unique gene clusters to produce orange 'sunscreen' pigments, allowing them to thrive in sunny environments. The discovery of a critical ABC transporter gene within the pigment gene cluster provides a potential hypothesis for toxicity avoidance in these organisms.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Donor hearts can be reprogrammed with medication for longer storage, improved transplant outcomes

A new study found that a medication previously used to treat seizures can reprogram donor hearts to boost the production of beneficial enzymes, increasing storage time and improving post-transplant function. This technology could lead to a paradigm shift in extending heart storage and reducing primary graft dysfunction.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with distinct changes in the microbiome and gut metabolites

Two studies reveal that ME/CFS is associated with reduced levels of butyrate-producing microbes and differences in gut metabolites. Researchers found distinct changes in the microbiome of patients with short-term and long-term ME/CFS, suggesting a potential link between gut dysbiosis and the disease's severity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023
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Scientists discover rare superfast muscles in mouse legs

Researchers have identified superfast muscles in mouse legs using new technology, opening up possibilities for therapeutic interventions to improve human limb movements. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind fast twitch muscles and fatigue-resistant oxidative muscles.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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How habanero peppers respond to stress

Researchers found that metabolite changes were most evident in ripe fruit, with nitrogen deficiency increasing some compounds and phosphorus deficiency decreasing diversity. Salinity threshold above which metabolites change was identified, which could impact harvested pepper resistance to pathogens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Agricultural Science & Technology·DateJan 19, 2023

A plethora of plant molecules provides a ple"flora" of data

A searchable library of 1,600 chemically-diverse plant extracts has been established, providing valuable insights into plant metabolites' roles in drug development. The library shares both data and methods, making it an exceptional resource for advancing chemodiversity digitization.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2023

Differences in gut microbiome linked to risk of death in COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure

A study found that patients with severe COVID-19 who suffered progressive lung failure had a different gut microbiome composition compared to those who recovered. The research identified key differences in bacteria and metabolites, including higher levels of Proteobacteria and lower levels of secondary bile acids in dying patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Scientists use machine learning to get an unprecedented view of small molecules

A new machine learning model developed by Aalto University researchers can identify small molecules with unprecedented accuracy, distinguishing between mirror image molecules. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, and identifying micropollutants in the environment.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateDec 19, 2022

Blood-based metabolic signature outperforms standard method for predicting diet, disease risk

A new study found that a machine learning-based blood test can accurately predict an individual's entire diet over 19 food groups, outperforming traditional methods. The test, which uses molecular profiling, also identifies who is more likely to develop diabetes and cardiovascular disease based on each food group.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2022

New biomarkers for coffee consumption

Researchers from the Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology have identified three metabolites as potential biomarkers for individual coffee consumption. These biomarkers could help determine the health value of coffee by objectively verifying coffee consumption levels.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

A master regulator of plant immunity

Researchers at KAUST have discovered a key protein that acts as a master switch for plant immunity, suggesting a simpler way to develop more resilient crops. The protein, OXI1, triggers the production of immune-promoting molecules, but its overactivity can harm plants.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNew Phytologist·DateDec 5, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Grape consumption helps counter UV damage to skin

A recent human study published in Antioxidants found that consuming grapes protected against ultraviolet (UV) damage to the skin. The study showed increased resistance to sunburn and unique microbiomic and metabolomic profiles in subjects who consumed whole grape powder, suggesting a correlation between the gut and skin.

SourceCalifornia Table Grape Commission·JournalAntioxidants·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 2022

Three new biomarkers identified to detect consumption of emerging synthetic cannabinoid

A team of scientists has identified three new biomarkers for detecting the consumption of emerging synthetic cannabinoids like OXIZID. These biomarkers will facilitate work by drug enforcement agencies worldwide in monitoring OXIZID abuse, enabling more accurate identification of abusers and potentially preventing overdoses.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalClinical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022

New study provides a unique resource for understanding how environmental exposures in early life affect our health

Researchers have developed a unique resource for understanding the impact of early life environmental exposures on health. The study, which analyzed data from 1,301 mother-child pairs, identified associations between 92 in pregnancy and 116 in childhood with molecular profiles at different levels.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Genetic background has an effect on the metabolism of essential fatty acids

A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that genetic background has an effect on the metabolism of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid. The study showed that the FADS1 genotype modifies the responses to diets rich in alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateNov 18, 2022

Uterine fibroid growth activated by chemicals found in everyday products

Scientists at Northwestern Medicine have discovered a causal link between environmental phthalates and increased uterine fibroid growth. Exposure to certain phthalates, such as DEHP, may activate a hormonal pathway that causes fibroid tumors to grow. This study explains the mechanisms behind this association.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2022

UCalgary study points to potential new treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases

Researchers at UCalgary have discovered a potential new treatment for fibrosis, a condition that causes thickening of the gut wall and life-threatening blockage in people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The study suggests that drugs targeting specific sensors may prevent inflammation-associated gut blockage.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2022

NIH grant funds HIV research

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to examine how alcohol use alone or in combination with fentanyl affects HIV medications, including PrEP medication. The study aims to determine metabolite signatures and pharmacological biomarkers of PrEP in HIV-negative populations.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 2, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Maternal, paternal exercise in mice affects metabolic health in offspring

A recent mouse study published in Diabetes found that maternal and paternal exercise significantly improved metabolic health in offspring. The study used metabolomics profiling to examine the effects of parental exercise on tissue metabolites, revealing extensive changes in glucose and fatty acid metabolism.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalDiabetes·DateOct 21, 2022

Yellow pigment keeps social amoebae together

Researchers at Leibniz-HKI discovered a yellow natural substance that regulates the multicellular stage of the amoeba <em>D. discoideum</em>. The polyketide, dictyoden, prevents premature hatching from spores, maintaining the development cycle. The study provides insights into the complex transition from single- to multicellularity.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2022
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Drug discovery method identifies naturally occurring metabolite that converts ‘bad’ fat to ‘good’ fat

A team of scientists at Scripps Research and Calibr discovered a naturally occurring metabolite called myristoylglycine that can convert white fat cells into brown fat cells, potentially treating obesity and related diseases. The breakthrough uses a novel drug discovery method to identify endogenous metabolites with therapeutic potential.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMetabolites·DateOct 13, 2022

New insights into how serotonin regulates behavior

New research by Frank Schroeder's team reveals two parallel biosynthetic pathways for serotonin production in C. elegans, challenging the long-held assumption that serotonin is made and quickly broken down. The findings suggest new therapeutic targets for treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2022

Catnip and pea aphid came up with different ways to make the same molecule

Researchers discovered that catnip and pea aphid use different enzymes to produce nepetalactone, a complex sex pheromone. The biosynthetic pathways of these two organisms share identical intermediates, but employ distinct catalytic mechanisms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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Multiple health benefits of b-type procyanidin-rich foods like chocolate and apples consumed in right amounts

Researchers found that B-type procyanidins induce hormesis in hemodynamic and metabolic responses, with optimal doses triggering improved cognitive functions and stress resistance. The study suggests a link between B-type procyanidin intake and CNS neurotransmitter receptor activation.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2022

Study links prenatal phthalate exposure to reduced childhood lung function

A study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found a strong association between prenatal phthalate exposure and reduced lung function in children. The researchers analyzed data from 641 mother-child pairs and discovered that gestational phthalate exposure was associated with decreases in forced vital capacity and forced expirat...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeObservational study·DateOct 3, 2022

Disarming the body’s defenders

A study published in Science reveals that tumor cells with a specific mutation release a chemical metabolite that weakens nearby immune cells, rendering them less capable of killing cancer cells. The findings highlight the critical role of the tumor microenvironment in cancer growth and provide insights into developing targeted therapi...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateSep 29, 2022

Strong link between gut bacteria and metabolites

A recent study published in Nature Communications has found a strong connection between the gut microbiome and certain blood metabolites. The research, led by Uppsala University, analyzed fecal and blood samples from over 8,500 participants in the SCAPIS study, identifying novel associations between gut bacteria and plasma metabolite s...

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2022
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Diet could play a role in cognitive function across diverse races and ethnicities

Researchers found that blood metabolites related to sugars were linked to older adults' global cognitive health, while a Mediterranean diet was associated with higher levels of beta-cryptoxanthin. This study expands on previous work and highlights the importance of diet in safeguarding cognitive function across different populations.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateSep 16, 2022

Metabolic markers could give clues for brain hypertension

A new study identified distinct metabolic profiles in women with Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension (IIH), a condition characterized by raised brain pressure. Weight loss programs showed positive effects on results, suggesting that metabolism plays a role in disease development.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNeurology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2022

Understanding breast cancer recurrence, metastatic spread

Breast cancer recurrence and metastatic spread remain a significant challenge, with researchers identifying a metabolic signature that can predict patient outcomes. The signature could be used to develop new therapies targeting cancer metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

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Why thinking hard makes you tired

A study found that prolonged mental labor leads to glutamate accumulation in the prefrontal cortex, causing cognitive fatigue and altering control over decisions. Researchers suggest taking rest and sleep as a solution to overcome this limitation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

Research links red meat intake, gut microbiome, and cardiovascular disease in older adults

A new study found that higher red meat consumption is linked to a 22% increased risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults, with gut bacterial metabolites like TMAO playing a key role. The study also suggests that traditional ASCVD risk pathways like blood cholesterol and blood pressure may be less important than previously thought.

SourceTufts University·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2022

Increased heart disease risk from red meat may stem from gut microbe response to digestion

Research suggests that chemicals produced by gut microbes after eating red meat may contribute to cardiovascular disease. The study found a 22% higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease associated with increased red meat consumption, which was partly attributed to elevated levels of TMAO and related metabolites in the blood.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateAug 1, 2022

New dog food? Study shows Fido's gut bacteria could turn over within a week

A new study from the University of Illinois found that dog gut bacteria can change rapidly after introducing a new diet, with microbial turnover occurring in under a week. The research also confirmed previous findings on the health benefits of high-fiber diets over high-fat and high-protein diets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnimal Microbiome·DateAug 1, 2022
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CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.