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New genetic model reveals calcium-induced calcium release is dispensable for skeletal muscle contraction

A genetically engineered mouse model shows RyR1-mediated calcium-induced calcium release plays a minimal role in normal skeletal muscle contraction, but is crucial in life-threatening muscle disorders. The study confirms depolarization-induced calcium release as the main driver of muscle contraction.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

Small study finds Alzheimer's-like changes in some COVID patients' brains

A small study found that COVID patients' brains display similar molecular changes to those with Alzheimer's disease, including increased phosphorylated tau and defective ryanodine receptors. The findings suggest a link between the immune response and neurological symptoms in long COVID patients.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022
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Novel intervention in senior housing communities increases resilience and wisdom

A new study found that Raise Your Resilience program, focusing on gratitude and positive attitude toward aging, increased resilience and wisdom among seniors. The program, delivered by non-licensed staff, reduced daily stress and improved overall well-being in senior housing communities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Psychogeriatrics·DateFeb 5, 2020

Puzzle maker: Building a chemical from the ground up

Researchers at Caltech develop efficient synthesis route for ryanodol, a key intermediate on the path to producing the insecticide ryanodine. The new method reduces reaction steps by five, enabling faster production of the molecule. This breakthrough also opens up possibilities for studying biological function and developing new drugs.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 25, 2016

The ryanodine receptor: Calcium channel in muscle cells

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology studied the three-dimensional structure of the ryanodine receptor using electron cryo-microscopy and a new technique for detecting electrons. The high-resolution structure reveals how the protein changes its shape upon binding calcium ions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2014
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Researchers solve puzzle of proteins linked to heart failure

A new study published in PLoS ONE reveals how two individual but very similar proteins cooperatively adjust calcium levels inside heart cells, which may degenerate in heart failure. This dual regulation may lead to irregular heart rhythms and increased risk of sudden cardiac death.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2012

Exercise in a pill may protect against extreme heat sensitivity

A compound called AICAR has been found to prevent heat-induced deaths in mice with a gene mutation that makes them sensitive to heat. The study's findings suggest that AICAR could protect young athletes and soldiers from heat-related illnesses, potentially saving lives during exercise.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 8, 2012
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Targeted drug therapy prevents exercise-induced arrhythmias

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered that the clinically available drug flecainide prevents potentially lethal arrhythmias in patients with CPVT. In two patients, flecainide prevented exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmias and allowed them to live normal lives.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 29, 2009

Molecular defect found that may cause heart failure

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has identified a molecular defect in specialized proteins called ryanodine receptors (RyRs) as a possible cause of heart failure. The RyRs malfunction, leading to calcium imbalances that prevent the heart from contracting effectively and relaxing adequately.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2005

Novel compounds show promise as safer, more potent insecticides

Researchers have identified two novel compound classes that target the ryanodine receptor in insects, offering a promising alternative to older, less-selective insecticides. These compounds, developed by Nihon Nohyaku Co., Ltd. and Bayer CropScience AG, show high potency and mammalian safety against pest insects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 28, 2005