Sugarcoating fruit fly development
Researchers found that adding a sugar tag to nuclear proteins is vital for normal development in fruit flies, revealing a critical link between Ogt and Polycomb protein function.
Sugars
Articles tagged with Sugars
Scientists work to plug microorganisms into the energy grid
Researchers are exploring alternative biomasses for microorganisms to ferment into ethanol and other fuels. The goal is to unlock the sugars trapped in cellulosic biomass, making it possible to produce sustainable biofuels.
LSUHSC public health researcher finds reason for weight gain
A study by LSUHSC public health researcher Liwei Chen found that reducing liquid calorie intake, especially from sugar-sweetened beverages, is significantly associated with weight loss. The study's findings suggest that policy recommendations and public health efforts to reduce liquid calorie intake can help combat obesity.
Nutrition experts propose new class of low-sugar drinks to help stem obesity and diabetes epidemics
Experts suggest reduced-calorie beverages with no more than 1g of sugar per ounce, free from non-caloric sweeteners. The FDA is recommended to require calorie information on beverage containers.
Reducing sugar and increasing fiber intake may improve diabetes risk factors in Latino teens
A 16-week study found that reducing added sugar intake by 47 grams per day and increasing fiber intake by 5 grams per day improved insulin secretion and reduced visceral adipose tissue volume. Participants who increased fiber intake also saw significant reductions in body mass index and visceral fat.
Iowa State chemist synthesizes carbohydrates, launches startup company
Nikki Pohl's breakthrough technology can produce complex carbohydrate molecules in 24 hours at a fraction of the cost of current methods. The startup company, LuCELLa Biosciences Inc., plans to develop an online catalog and sell custom-order carbohydrates to researchers and pharmaceutical companies.
Nutritious new low-sugar juice targeted for diabetics, individuals with high blood sugar
Scientists have created a new low-calorie, low-sugar vegetable juice by fermenting vegetables with lactic acid-producing bacteria. The process significantly removes sugar while retaining nutritional content, making it suitable for diabetics and pre-diabetic individuals.
Caltech scientists create new enzymes for biofuel production
Researchers at Caltech developed 15 new highly stable fungal enzyme catalysts that efficiently break down cellulose into sugars at high temperatures. This breakthrough is crucial for creating cost-efficient processes to extract sugars from cellulose, a key material in producing renewable fuels like ethanol or butanol.
Doubling a gene in corn results in giant biomass
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a corn variety with increased biomass, which can be used as an energy crop and as feed for livestock. The modified plants produce larger stalks and more leaves, leading to increased sugar content in the stalks.
High CO2 boosts plant respiration, potentially affecting climate and crops
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels stimulate plant respiration, increasing energy production and potentially supporting greater crop yields. The study used microarrays to detect changes in gene activity, revealing over 600 genes altered by high CO2 conditions.
Enzyme with a sugar antenna
Researchers achieve semisynthesis of homogeneous glycoproteins, a complex task in biomedical studies. They used a novel strategy to synthesize ribonuclease C, a glycosylated bovine pancreatic enzyme with a unique sugar component.
Food advertisements in your magazine: How healthy are they?
Researchers at Newcastle University discovered that food adverts in popular UK magazines often feature sugary and salty products, despite promoting a healthier lifestyle. The study analyzed 30 widely-read weekly magazines and found that nearly every one contained unhealthy food options.
Novel prostate cancer vaccine taking aim at cancer cell 'sweet spot'
A new vaccine aims to treat and stop prostate cancer by targeting the unique sugar molecules expressed on cancer cells. The vaccine has shown promise in preclinical studies and could potentially be used against other types of carcinomas such as breast, lung, and ovarian cancers.
Displacing petroleum-derived butanol with plants
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a way to produce higher concentrations of butanol using microorganisms. The mutant strain can use five or six carbon sugars, making it more versatile and efficient. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a second-generation strain with targeted genetic alterations.
Low-carb diets prove better at controlling type 2 diabetes
Researchers found that a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet resulted in a three-fold improvement in type 2 diabetes, with 95% of participants eliminating or reducing diabetes medications. This study suggests that cutting out carbohydrates can lead to significant reductions in blood sugar levels and weight.
Nutritious fast-food kids' meals are scarce, researchers find
Only 3% of fast-food kids' meals met federal dietary guidelines, with fruit as a side dish and milk being common, while most exceeded sodium and added sugar limits. Researchers call on the industry to develop nutritious options and parents to make informed choices.
Body clock linked to diabetes and high blood sugar in new study
A genome-wide association study found that a mutation near the MTNR1B gene is associated with increased average blood sugar levels and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. The researchers suggest that treating sleep problems could partly tackle diabetes and high blood sugar levels.
Metabolic reactions: Less is more in single-celled organisms
Researchers found that single-celled organisms spontaneously silence large numbers of metabolic reactions to optimize growth, with around 300 active reactions for all four organisms under optimal conditions. This finding provides new insights into the interplay between metabolic network activity and biological function.
September 2007 Sumatran earthquakes research findings
Scientists analyzed coral and GPS data to determine the details of the 2007 breaks, finding that only one section had broken, releasing a quarter of the accumulated deficit over two centuries. The study provides valuable insights into the stress accumulation on the Sumatra megathrust.
Sweet molecule could lead us to alien life
Researchers discovered glycolaldehyde, a basic sugar molecule, towards a star-forming region where habitable planets may exist. The detection suggests that the production of this key ingredient for life could be common throughout the galaxy.
Drink brewed tea to avoid tooth erosion
A study published in the Academy of General Dentistry journal found that brewed tea has a lower erosive effect on teeth compared to soft drinks and acidic juices. The study suggests that drinking brewed tea can help prevent tooth erosion, which can wear away the enamel and lead to irreversible damage.
Johns Hopkins researchers detect sweet cacophony while listening to cellular cross-talk
Researchers have discovered a key role of sugar molecules in regulating cellular processes, potentially leading to new treatments for diseases like diabetes, neurodegeneration, and cancer. The findings suggest that sugar molecules can influence protein function and interactions, providing a new target for manipulation by drugs.
Tracking down the cause of mad cow disease
Researchers at TU Munich and ETH Zurich develop a new method to synthesize anchored proteins, enabling in-depth studies of prions and their influence on conversion to pathogenic forms. The team successfully produces a synthetic GPI-anchored protein, which attaches to cell membranes, helping to track down the infectious form of the prion.
School vending machines dole out excess calories, fat
Recent figures from the HEALTHY Study found that standard school vending machine offerings contain high-calorie beverages and snacks, contributing to excess calorie intake among students. The study aims to limit snack calories to 200 and eliminate unhealthy options from vending machines.
Variety of foods -- the key for child nutrition
New research by Sugar Nutrition UK reveals that most children have sufficient levels of essential vitamins and minerals in their diets. The study found that even though children consume more added sugars than recommended, they still get the required amounts of most nutrients.
New process derives 'green gasoline' from plant sugars
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to convert plant sugars into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The new process produces identical molecular compounds to traditional petroleum-based fuels, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels.
Killer carbs -- Monash scientist finds the key to overeating as we age
A Monash University scientist has discovered that appetite-suppressing cells in the human brain degenerate over time, leading to increased hunger and potential weight gain. The research found that free radicals attack these cells after eating meals rich in carbohydrates and sugars.
New 'nano-positioners' may have atomic-scale precision
Researchers at Purdue University developed a new monolithic comb drive device that can precisely move or sense movement at an atomic scale. The device has twice the dexterity of similar devices and could improve probe-based sensors for detecting viruses and biological molecules.
Candy-coating keeps proteins sweet
Researchers at NIST have developed a method to evaluate the stability of protein-based drugs at room temperature using a fluorescent probe. This new method can measure the lifetime of hydrogen bonding networks that stabilize proteins, reducing the time and expense associated with traditional methods.
Study: Spices may protect against consequences of high blood sugar
A University of Georgia study reveals that common herbs and spices can inhibit tissue damage and inflammation caused by high blood sugar. The extracts of 24 herbs and spices were found to block the formation of AGE compounds, which contribute to aging and diabetes.
Innovative diabetes program in Bloomington-Normal, Ill., a success
The Diabetes Checks & Balances program has shown positive outcomes in its first year, with 29% of participants receiving all four tests, including HbA1c and eye exams. This increase is nearly twice as high as in 2006, suggesting improved diabetes management among local residents.
Compound that helps rice grow reduces nerve, vascular damage from diabetes
Researchers found a compound in germinated brown rice that helps normalize blood sugar and enzymes out-of-whack with diabetes. This growth factor, ASG, increases levels of good enzymes and helps protect nerve membranes and homocysteine levels.
Sugar study is sweetener for stem cell science
Scientists investigate how cells make different sugar types and test theories on how sugars influence cell behavior. They aim to develop new ways to instruct cells to behave in particular ways, potentially leading to therapies for heart disease and nerve damage.
89 percent of children's food products provide poor nutritional quality
A study found that 63% of children's foods made some sort of nutritional claim, including 62% with high sugar levels. Only 11% met the CSPI nutritional standards, and 34% of high-sodium products made health claims.
A short and sweet diagnosis for cancer?
A team of scientists has developed a system to detect potential 'biomarkers' of early forms of cancer by analyzing sugar molecules attached to proteins. The system aims to provide more accurate early diagnosis and monitoring of cancer progression.
ACCORD clinical trial publishes results
Researchers found that intensively lowering blood sugar to near-normal levels did not significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, but increased the risk of death. The intensive strategy group had a 22% higher risk of death compared to the standard group.
Are microbes the answer to the energy crisis?
Researchers are discovering microbes that can efficiently produce inexpensive, environmentally friendly biofuels as alternatives to oil. These microorganisms can ferment biomass into ethanol and biodiesel, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.
Toad research could leapfrog to new muscle model
Researchers are rethinking how muscles work by studying toads' rapid feeding actions. They've discovered that muscles behave like springs, allowing for efficient energy storage and release. This new model could lead to innovations in prosthetics, electric motors, and treatments for Parkinson's disease.
Sugar-coated antibiotics
Researchers have elucidated the structure and function of an enzyme decorating antibiotics with sugar molecules, which can help overcome antibiotic resistance. By understanding how these sugars are made, they aim to develop unnatural sugars with different properties.
Disabling mouse enzyme increases fertility
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that disabling an enzyme that attaches sugars to a hormone increased fertility levels in mice by nearly 50 percent. The altered hormone regulation may be used to enhance human fertility.
Blocked brain enzyme decreases appetite and promotes weight loss
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that blocking the CaMKK2 brain enzyme decreases appetite and promotes weight loss in mice. The study also showed that this enzyme is required for appetite control and protects against obesity-related health issues.
Turning fungus into fuel
A team of researchers has decoded the genetic sequence of Tricoderma reesei, a fungus that can break down plant fibers into simple sugars. This finding could unlock possibilities for industrial processes that convert corn, switchgrass, and cellulose-based waste into ethanol.
Glowing zebrafish help researchers track role of sugars in the cell
Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a method to image carbohydrates inside living cells using glow-in-the-dark fish. This technique allows study of carbohydrate coating on cell surface, shedding light on stem cell development and disease markers.
MIT-led teams unravel heparin death mystery
A contaminant in heparin, oversulfated chondroitin sulfate, was detected using advanced analytical techniques. The presence of this contaminant can trigger an allergy-like reaction, leading to severe symptoms like low blood pressure and abdominal pain.
Cow stomach holds key to turning corn into biofuel
Scientists from Michigan State University have discovered a way to convert entire corn plants into biofuel using an enzyme found in cow stomachs. This breakthrough enables the production of affordable cellulosic ethanol by unlocking plant fibers previously considered unusable.
Where college students live can impact their weight, eating and exercise habits
A new study found that female college freshmen who lived on campus consumed significantly more calories and sugar than their off-campus counterparts. However, the on-campus students also engaged in higher levels of physical activity, with an average of 90,000 steps per week compared to 42,000 for off-campus students.
Once-daily basal insulin glargine vs. thrice-daily prandial
The APOLLO study found that once-daily basal insulin glargine achieved similar reductions in haemoglobin A1c to thrice-daily prandial insulin lispro, with improved patient satisfaction. Insulin glargine was associated with fewer injections, lower risk of hypoglycaemia, and greater patient satisfaction compared to insulin lispro.
Insects take a bigger bite out of plants in a higher CO2 world
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels in soybeans attracted more adult Japanese beetles, Western corn rootworms, and Asian soybean aphids. The study suggests that global environmental change is multifaceted, with increased insect damage due to impaired plant defenses.
MGH initiates phase I diabetes trial
Scientists at MGH are exploring a potential cure for type 1 diabetes through a Phase I clinical trial. The trial uses the BCG vaccine, which has shown promising results in mouse models of autoimmune diabetes.
ETH Zurich researchers develop antibody test
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel antibody test that can detect specific antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum's toxic sugar molecules. This test has the potential to protect adults from severe malaria and could also be used to develop a selective vaccine for infants under 5, who are most vulnerable to the disease.
UCF technique promises to aid doctor's ability to identify, treat bacterial infections
A new technique developed by a University of Central Florida chemist will help physicians more quickly identify the bacterial infections patients have so they can be treated in hours instead of days. The method uses gold nanoparticles coated with a sugar and a protein that binds to sugars, allowing for rapid testing of antibiotics.
Impaired fat-burning gene worsens diabetes
A study discovered a 'fat-burning' gene that plays a crucial role in insulin sensitivity. When this gene is impaired, it can lead to increased risk of obesity and worsening diabetes.
Intensive blood sugar treatment in trial of diabetes and cardiovascular disease changed
The NHLBI has stopped intensive blood glucose lowering treatment in a clinical trial of adults with type 2 diabetes, citing increased risk of death compared to standard treatment. Participants will now receive the less-intensive standard treatment.
Study of sugars on cell surface identifies key factor in flu infection
Researchers have identified a key factor that determines influenza virus ability to infect human upper respiratory tract cells. The H5N1 avian flu virus must adapt to bind to specific sugar molecules coating the cells of our noses and throats.
The devil in the dark chocolate
While flavanol-rich dark chocolate offers cardiovascular benefits, manufacturers often remove these compounds to balance calorie content, rendering the product less healthy than claimed. Flavanols have antioxidant properties but are not a guarantee of healthiness.
Story ideas from the Journal of Biological Chemistry
Researchers found that high sugar consumption led to obesity, insulin resistance, and cognitive decline in mice. The study highlights the potential link between sugary drinks and Alzheimer's disease, a finding that could have significant implications for human health.
Hormone links sleep, hunger and metabolism, researchers find
A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers found that the hormone orexin activates HIF-1, which increases energy production in cells. This activation is linked to the body's response to low blood sugar and hunger, suggesting a new mechanism for metabolic regulation.
Hungry microbes share out the carbon in the roots of plants
A study at the University of York found that microbes in plant roots rapidly consume sugars and convert them into carbon dioxide, creating a shortcut in the carbon cycle. This process was demonstrated using C-13-labeled carbon dioxide, allowing researchers to identify the active microbes.
New research on structure of bones raises questions for treatment of osteoporosis
Researchers discovered that specialized sugars are predominantly responsible for bone's characteristic toughness and stiffness, challenging previous beliefs about collagen's role. This finding could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis and other bone disorders by targeting sugar molecules.
Cell-surface sugar defects may trigger nerve damage in multiple sclerosis patients
Researchers found that defects in protein glycosylation, a process adding sugars to proteins, promote inflammation and neurodegeneration in MS. A dietary supplement similar to glucosamine may correct these defects and treat both short-term and long-term symptoms.