Articles tagged with Metabolites
A team of researchers has developed a new imaging technique to visualize the chemical interactions between small animals and their microbes. This allows for a better understanding of how these interactions form and persist in animal tissues. The method, called chemo-histo-tomography, combines chemical imaging with micro-computed X-ray ...
Researchers found that a low-tryptophan diet increased systemic inflammation and altered the gut microbiome in aged mice. The study suggests that a balanced metabolite mix may be essential for maintaining optimal gut function.
A study published in eLife reveals how plants produce defence chemicals that vary across Europe due to genetic variation, environmental pressures, and geographical location. The research found that different regions have unique profiles of these chemical compounds, shaped by factors such as weather conditions and landscape features.
Researchers have created a new tool to evaluate infant brain health by assessing chemical markers in the brain. The tool uses standard values for several metabolites to provide a more reliable way to evaluate metabolite concentrations, allowing for early detection and intervention for potential brain development issues.
Researchers develop new technique to hyperpolarize and purify fumarate for MRI, offering cost-effective and convenient way to track metabolism in real-time. The method has potential applications in monitoring tumor responses to therapy and imaging acute kidney injuries.
Researchers have identified a hidden region on the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein that is masked by metabolites, making it inaccessible to antibodies. This finding highlights the importance of targeting this region in developing new vaccines.
Scientists at BIH have found a new metabolite, S-2-hydroxyglutarate, that regulates endothelial cell quiescence and prevents excessive vessel growth. This discovery brings the researchers closer to developing targeted therapies for vascular diseases.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that medical cannabis products often contain more THC than expected, while some products labeled as CBD-only contained no detectable levels of THC or CBD. This raises concerns about the accuracy of product labeling and its impact on patient safety.
A study of over 11,000 participants found that certain metabolic processes are associated with up to 14 diseases. The researchers identified key factors influencing human metabolism and developed a web application to make their results publicly available.
A new study published in Nature Medicine has identified key risk factors that increase the likelihood of individuals developing multiple non-communicable diseases. The analysis found that underlying biological links exist in individuals with multimorbidity, which is a growing public health challenge. The researchers also identified pot...
Researchers used models to predict cross-feeding interactions between microbes in the human gut, which could aid doctors in understanding gut health. The model was supported by genomic annotations and accurately predicted about 65% of its predictions.
A research team has discovered a metabolic footprint associated with the perception of satiety, revealing that higher concentrations of glycine and linoleic acid are linked to increased satiety. The study involved 140 volunteers with overweight and obesity, showing that certain metabolites in the blood can predict postprandial satiety.
Researchers analyzed gut microbiomes from over 9,000 people, finding distinct signatures linked to healthy aging and survival. The unique microbial compositions were correlated with specific metabolites in blood plasma, suggesting a direct link between the microbiome and health as we age.
Researchers used machine learning models to identify metabolites in walnuts associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study found a 17% lower risk of type 2 diabetes and 29% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, contributing to our understanding of the health benefits of walnuts.
Researchers at Monash University have discovered two novel molecules that provide profound protection in experimental models of asthma and reduce the severity of asthma attacks. These molecules, including one commercially available as a dietary supplement, also show promise in treating respiratory illness associated with COVID-19.
Researchers have identified a potent antifungal agent, attinimicin, produced by nearly two-thirds of Pseudonocardia strains in Brazilian ants. This compound has broad geographic distribution and shows promise as a potential drug candidate for fighting fungal infections.
Dr. Benjamin Tu's research on cellular roles of small molecule metabolites has led to the discovery of a unique pathway supporting cancerous cell growth. His work challenges the long-held belief that metabolites are merely passive in their function, unveiling that they may drive key cellular processes.
A new study at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden has developed a urine test to identify and verify the type of asthma. The test uses lipid biomarkers to measure urinary metabolite levels of certain prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are known mediators of asthmatic airway inflammation.
Researchers discovered hundreds of previously unknown genetic variations affecting small molecule concentrations in the blood, which can impact diseases such as diabetes and eye disorders. The findings provide valuable biomarkers for clinical diagnosis and therapy.
Researchers found that mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder had significantly different metabolite levels, including lower folate and vitamin B12 levels, compared to mothers of typically developing children. These differences may be related to how carnitine is metabolized in some mothers' bodies.
A study by Texas A&M University researchers investigated the role of metabolites in melanoma growth and spread. The team found significant differences in metabolite amounts between primary melanoma and surrounding tissues, suggesting that these substances may be responsible for tumor initiation and maintenance.
Researchers found that certain metabolites can predict which patients are most likely to relapse into major depressive disorder. The study identified six metabolic pathways and specific lipids associated with the condition, suggesting a new approach for predicting vulnerability to depression recurrence.
Researchers develop a biosensor using pillar[6]arene to detect 1-MNA, associated with aggressive cancer and metabolic syndrome. The sensor shows promise for early diagnosis and treatment of related pathologies.
A new NIH grant will support advanced statistical models for analyzing large-scale metabolomics data sources, aiming to better understand the links between metabolic action and chronic health conditions.
A Rutgers-led study identifies chemical indicators of heat stress in corals, allowing scientists to pinpoint species at risk from climate change. The discovery could inform conservation efforts and protect coral reefs worldwide.
Researchers found that oral hormone therapy alters the metabolome of postmenopausal women, with estrogen-alone therapy providing a protective effect against cardiovascular disease. The study also identified metabolites associated with increased CHD risk in combination therapy.
Autophagy enables efficient nutrient use and survival in cells by recycling amino acids. The study found that autophagy-derived metabolites, particularly serine, facilitate respiratory growth by supporting one-carbon metabolism and mitochondrial protein synthesis.
A new study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University researchers suggests that melatonin and its metabolite AMK promote long-term memories in mice and shield them from cognitive decline. In the study, young and aging mice were able to form and recall memories after receiving doses of melatonin and AMK.
Researchers identified 10 metabolites associated with the risk of stroke, including a lower risk for ischemic stroke and higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke. Histidine and high-density lipoprotein cholesterols were found to have protective effects, while pyruvate increased the risk of ischemic stroke.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that mice without gut microbes had altered sleep patterns, including increased REM and non-REM sleep episodes. The researchers discovered that gut microbes play a crucial role in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Bioinformaticians at Friedrich Schiller University Jena developed a new method called CANOPUS that assigns structural properties to unidentified metabolites, increasing knowledge gained from examining molecules. The two-stage process uses machine learning methods to identify compound classes.
Researchers discovered that short bursts of exercise induce changes in the body's levels of metabolites correlated to improved cardiometabolic, cardiovascular, and long-term health. Favorable shifts in specific metabolites were found to be associated with reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and decreased longevity.
A study published in mSphere found that gut microbiota from healthy donors can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through microbial transfer therapy (MTT). The research showed significant metabolic changes in plasma samples and modest alterations in fecal samples after the procedure.
Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a way to harness energy from living cells by modifying highly functionalized PCAs into biorenewable molecules. The new catalyst enables the selective hydrogenation and dehydration of Krebs cycle metabolites, producing compounds with valuable applications in plastics and polymers.
A new study has identified two types of bacteria that can provide protection against radiation exposure by increasing production of propionate and tryptophan. These metabolites were found in leukemia patients undergoing radiotherapy, suggesting a potential alternative to expensive and potentially harmful treatments.
Researchers discovered specific metabolites that can distinguish COVID-19 patients from healthy participants and predict disease severity. Dietary supplements targeting these metabolites may also boost biochemical pathways, leading to improved health outcomes.
Research by Sahar El Aidy and her team from the University of Groningen found that gut bacteria can deaminate levodopa, a main treatment for Parkinson's disease, into DHPPA, reducing gut motility. This metabolite may worsen constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease.
A recent study has provided a detailed picture of fuel and nutrient use by the human heart, establishing a new framework for studying heart function in health and disease. The study found that healthy hearts rely heavily on fatty acids as energy sources, while failing hearts consume more ketones and release more amino acids.
A study by University of Zurich's Brain Research Institute found that early childhood trauma can lead to changes in lipid metabolism and glucose levels in offspring and grand-offspring. The researchers discovered a molecular mechanism involving the PPAR receptor, which is activated by fatty acids and regulates gene expression.
A novel screening method could lead to earlier detection of life-threatening complications in babies born preterm and help reduce racial disparities in outcomes. The study identified a combination of six newborn characteristics and 19 metabolites that reliably predict preterm babies at increased risk for death and severe illness.
A new computational tool, Metabolite Translator, uses deep learning to predict metabolites in the human body, providing a broader understanding of how drugs interact with enzymes. The method has been shown to perform as well as existing rule-based methods and identified novel enzymes involved in drug metabolism.
Researchers have designed a synthetic molecule that mimics the function of zaxinone, a natural growth-promoting plant metabolite, to improve root growth and limit Striga infestation in rice plants. The new molecule, MiZax3, has shown excellent activity and stability, with two mimics performing even better than zaxinone itself.
Researchers analyzed urine samples from 100 pregnant women to detect DINCH metabolites, finding concentrations in most samples but no evidence of hormone disruption. The study found higher concentrations in African American women compared to Caucasian women, highlighting the need for further research on potential disparities.
The study reveals distinct responses of Arabidopsis thaliana to two generalist caterpillar species, the cabbage looper and beet armyworm. Researchers found that plant defense mechanisms differ in response to these caterpillars, suggesting potential strategies for coping with herbivory.
A UCLA study reveals that a mother's gut microbiota plays a crucial role in fetal neurodevelopment. The research found that depleting the maternal gut microbiota during pregnancy disrupted fetal brain development, including reduced axon growth and impaired sensory behaviors.
A new study by University of Copenhagen scientists found that time-restricted feeding alters the rhythmic concentration of metabolites in blood and muscle, influencing gene expression and amino acid transport. The study suggests that time-restricted feeding's positive health impact may be driven by diet rather than the body's core clock.
A new study reveals that reducing calorie intake triggers significant health benefits by lowering body temperature. The research, led by Scripps Research Professors Bruno Conti and Gary Siuzdak, provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of temperature in metabolism during calorie restriction.
A recent study suggests that free, circulating vitamin D levels in the blood may be a better predictor of future health risks in aging men than total vitamin D. The study found that higher levels of free 25-hydroxyvitamin D were associated with a lower risk of death, while free 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was not predictive of mortality.
A new study published in Journal of Lipid Research reveals that the gut microbiomes of breastfed infants differ from those of formula-fed infants due to dietary sphinganine, a nutrient found in human milk. Researchers developed a technique to track specific nutrients as they interact with gut microbes, identifying two types of bacteria...
A double-blind study found that middle-aged mice treated with alpha-ketaglutarate had a significantly improved healthspan, experiencing fewer diseases and disabilities before death. The study suggests that AKG may suppress chronic inflammation, which is a major driver of aging.
Researchers at Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology have identified new genetic markers for controlling glucosinolate content in rapeseed. This discovery can help crop breeders create oil-rich rapeseed varieties, improving oil quality.
Researchers at George Mason University are developing a contactless fingertip imaging system to detect COVID-19. The system utilizes sweat metabolite biometrics, which is non-invasive and potentially more accurate than current temperature checks.
Emanuela Marasco and her team aim to diagnose COVID-19 through sweat metabolites, leveraging machine learning algorithms and advanced image processing techniques. Their proposed detector will be compared to traditional tampon-based testing methods, potentially revolutionizing non-invasive diagnosis.
A study of fruit flies has found that analyzing small molecules involved in cell metabolism can help understand how calorie-restricted diets affect aging and lifespan. The research identified several genes linked to changes in metabolite levels, shedding light on the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and diet.
A new urine test measures diet quality and identifies an individual's unique 'fingerprint', providing insights into their nutritional needs. The test reveals associations between metabolites in urine and dietary intake of specific foods, nutrients, and health conditions.
Scientists used mass spectrometry and statistical measures to analyze plant metabolites in response to herbivore attack. The results show that plants regulate their metabolism directionally to produce effective defenses, supporting the theory of optimal defense.
A study from North Carolina State University has identified blood plasma metabolite markers that can aid in ALS diagnosis, rule out environmental neurotoxin involvement, and predict disease progression. Elevated creatine levels and decreased creatinine and methylhistidine were found in ALS patients.
Researchers developed a new technology to monitor cholesterol in brain tissue, revealing major locations of cholesterol and its metabolites. This breakthrough could lead to the discovery of new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's disease.
A newly identified metabolic signature can evaluate an individual's adherence and metabolic response to the Mediterranean diet, indicating future CVD risk. The signature consists of 67 metabolites that were highly reproducible across different study populations.
Scientists have developed a method to predict which plant groups and regions are likely to have medicinal effects. The study found that specific plant families and mountainous regions are rich in anti-infective compounds.