Articles tagged with Toxins
The US Harmful Algal Bloom Control Technology Incubator aims to advance innovative ways to control blooms impacting marine ecosystems and regional economies. The partnership between UMCES and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium will offer funding and guidance for innovative control technology projects.
A new study proposes reducing toxic proteins in the blood as a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease. By doing so, it aims to improve memory and learning capacity, as well as correct cognitive impairments. The next step is to test this treatment at a clinical level.
A study by Colorado State University found that indoor air contains more known human toxins than outdoor air, particularly when cooking or cleaning. The research, called HOMEChem, identified compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, and acrolein as potential health risks.
Scientists have discovered a molecule that binds to the deadly Shiga toxin, reducing its toxic effects. The compound, MMβA-mono, helped identify the inhibitory molecule that can bind to the A-subunit of Stx2a, a lethal subtype of the bacterial toxin.
Researchers found that lactating mothers expose their pups to triclosan, leading to early signs of liver damage that can progress to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Exposure to triclosan in early life may lay the groundwork for future development of fatty liver disease.
Researchers discovered a vast network of ultrasonic signals among moths, revealing complex acoustic mimicry rings. These sounds may be used by moths to evade bats and are found in many species beyond previously known tiger and hawk moths.
A new study found that the O139 cholera variant lost antimicrobial resistance and changed toxin production, leading to its unexpected decline. The findings suggest continuous monitoring of genetic changes is key to preventing future outbreaks.
The WVU program trains next generation of toxicologists to collect, analyze air samples from mining, fracking sites, using the university's Inhalation Facility. Students will work with preceptors from various fields to investigate health effects of inhaling toxicants.
Children are at higher risk of health changes due to air pollution and climate change impacts, including increased asthma rates and vector-borne diseases. Caregivers can take steps to minimize exposure by making personal and family changes such as using electric cars, reducing meat consumption, and improving indoor air quality.
Researchers analyzed polar bear fecal samples and dietary intake to understand how chemical contaminants accumulate inside the body. They found that polar bears store high amounts of fat, leading to higher levels of toxins in their bodies.
Researchers have identified avocado meal as a safe and palatable fiber source for dogs, rivaling industry standards in digestibility and energy intake. The study found that persin levels were undetectable in processed meal, contradicting long-held concerns about avocado toxicity in pets.
Researchers at UBCO's School of Engineering have developed a new, faster method for analyzing toxic waste materials using fluorescence spectroscopy and convolutional neural networks. This method can detect key toxins such as naphthenic acids in oil sands samples, providing a low-cost alternative to current methods.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that certain Candida albicans yeast strains produce a potent toxin called candidalysin, which damages immune cells and triggers pro-inflammatory responses. The study suggests a possible way to personalize treatments for IBD patients by targeting these high-damaging strains.
A new study by Japanese researchers at Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine found a correlation between maternal lead exposure and an increase in male births. The research suggests that even low levels of lead can affect the sex ratio of offspring, potentially contributing to Japan's declining proportion of male births.
Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland used molecular modeling to investigate nano-plastic transport into cell membranes. The study found that some microplastics can passively penetrate the membrane, potentially causing adverse health effects.
Prenatal exposure to industrial toxin TCDD may cause long-term damage to brain circuits and potentially lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. Researchers found that pharmacological manipulation can restore microglia function, suggesting a possible therapeutic avenue for these disorders.
A new study by WVU researcher William Walker found that the blood-brain barrier is dynamic and more receptive to chemotherapy at night. This could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients with brain metastasis.
Researchers discovered a bacterial toxin that can accelerate colon cancer in mice, sharing similarities with human tumors. The study's findings suggest a potential link between transient food poisoning and colorectal cancer development, highlighting the need for further epidemiological studies.
A new technology developed by Aarhus University researchers uses sustainable biochar-based photocatalytic nanomaterial to break down PFAS into harmless substances. The process is powered by solar energy and produces non-toxic fluorides, CO2, and clean water.
Researchers have discovered that certain strains of Aspergillus can be used to degrade aflatoxins in crops, reducing the risk of food contamination. This biological control method utilizing biocontrol products is currently the most effective way to produce safe and healthy foods and feeds.
Researchers found monarch-like genetic mutations in four organisms that eat monarchs, including the black-headed grosbeak and eastern deer mouse. These mutations help these predators tolerate the toxic milkweed toxins stored in the butterflies' bodies.
Scientists have discovered that four types of monarch predators - a bird, a mouse, a parasitic wasp, and a worm - evolved the same unusual cellular mutations as monarchs. These mutations allow them to resist the toxic effects of milkweed plant toxins, which can be deadly to most animals.
Researchers will assess potential effects on individuals with pre-existing conditions and measure toxin levels in blood, urine, and nasal mucosa. The study aims to understand the long-term health impacts of exposure to harmful algal blooms and develop tools for measuring concentrations of toxins in the environment.
Researchers developed a color-changing indicator that detects rising levels of alkaline phosphatase, forecasting phytoplankton growth and impending algal blooms. The portable system reliably detected enzyme activity using smartphone scanning apps, potentially enabling real-time field monitoring and prediction.
A new study led by University of Delaware Associate Professor Kathryn Coyne found that warming temperatures contribute to an increasing number of harmful algal blooms. The study showed that changes in light conditions significantly influence the growth and impact of these algae, particularly for species like Karlodinium veneficum.
Researchers at Ural Federal University developed an ultra-sensitive sensor to analyze honey for nitrobenzene, a toxic compound. The sensor's exceptional accuracy and low sample requirements make it suitable for on-site analysis.
Nurses who worked in operating rooms for 15 or more years are at increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Long-term exposure to surgical smoke and disinfectants can lead to a higher risk of COPD.
A new study by PSE Healthy Energy reveals that over 16 billion barrels of oil and gas wastewater were disposed of in unlined pits, contaminating regional aquifers with salts and toxins. The Tulare Basin, home to four million people, is at risk due to a lack of regulatory protections for groundwater near these disposal sites.
Researchers have successfully used double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules as a bio-fungicide to suppress the production of a toxin in soybean plants. The study found that dsRNAs produced in bacterial cells can effectively manage fungal diseases, reducing the need for toxic chemicals and potentially mitigating fungicide resistance.
A new study found that daily phthalate exposure may lead to 100,000 premature deaths among older Americans each year, resulting in a $40 billion to $47 billion annual economic burden. The study suggests a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of heart disease and early death.
BIDMC researchers found a link between high toxin levels and disease severity in patients with suspected C. difficile infections. The study developed a highly sensitive test to measure toxin concentrations, paving the way for more predictive tests.
Researchers discovered a small RNA molecule that regulates both the production of the cholera toxin and the metabolism of the cholera bacterium. This finding provides a new target for developing treatments against cholera and has implications for biotechnological applications.
A new study from NYU Langone Health found that losing weight and managing excess body fat can significantly reduce the risk of lung disease in firefighters exposed to toxic substances on 9/11. The study analyzed 20 years of data from over 5,700 first responders and identified five key factors that predict lung disease.
A new USC study found a link between 'forever chemicals' and changes in glucose metabolism in Latina girls, potentially increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers measured the impact of PFAS on glucose metabolism over time among adolescents and young adults.
The researcher is investigating the inflammatory responses produced by exposure to chemical agents, comparing different chemical exposures at both whole-body and tissue levels. The study aims to develop a common treatment for chemical exposures and diagnose the responsible chemicals.
A new study by University of Miami scientists found that low-cost face masks and AC filters are effective at filtering out toxic algae in the air. Face masks filtered out over 90% of toxin-containing particles, while AC filters with high filter performance ratings reduced airborne toxins by 20-90%.
Researchers at UB aim to reduce unwanted toxicity in cancer treatments by combining antibody-drug conjugates with payload-binding selectivity enhancers. The five-year study may lead to safer and more effective treatments for 1.8 million US cancer patients.
A new study by Ohio State University provides the most accurate estimates of microcystin toxins in Lake Erie's western basin, revealing fluctuating concentrations over short distances. The research emphasizes the importance of frequent data collection to improve water safety and forecasting for the lake's estimated 11 million people.
Researchers have discovered that toxic animals produce 'toxin sponges' to mop up deadly toxins and prevent them from binding to vital proteins. This alternative autoresistance strategy may offer a general means of toxin protection, including the development of antidotes against various toxic agents.
Researchers from TUM discovered a toxin in the leafy vegetable Ebolo, which can cause liver damage. They successfully removed the toxin through breeding techniques, paving the way for safer consumption of this nutritious crop.
A review of previous scientific studies on pollutant release from sediments during extreme flood events reveals significant risks to human and environmental health. The study highlights the need for good river management to address long-term consequences of pollutants in riverbeds.
Researchers discover bacteria that can break down toxic chemicals like lindane and HBCD, which have been banned in many countries due to their persistence in the environment. The microbes produce enzymes that can degrade these pollutants, offering a potential solution for cleaning up chemical waste from landfills.
Environmental injustices, such as toxic landfills and chemical plants, are often located in predominantly Black, Latinx, and Indigenous neighborhoods, threatening the health of these populations. The Hastings Center Report highlights the need for bioethics to consider environmental injustice in its principles of justice.
Researchers at Southern Methodist University have found that P-glycoprotein can transport amyloid-β proteins out of the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to new treatments for the disease affecting nearly 6 million Americans.
A global assessment report by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission found that reported Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) events have increased in some regions, while decreasing or holding steady in others. The study highlights the need for more research on the linkages between HABs and growth of the aquaculture industry.
Researchers mapped river ecosystems' responses to remediation efforts, revealing strategies that improved some of the biggest problems of mining contamination. The team's methodology showed that restoration can improve water quality, but regulations need to consider all contaminants together.
A study by Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg found that cows can ingest hypoglycin A toxin from sycamore maple trees through their pasture, which is then transferred to their milk. Low concentrations of the toxin were detected in raw milk samples from northern Germany.
Researchers at UToledo are developing new technology for early detection and management of harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. The project aims to improve water quality from source to tap using advanced monitoring sensors and nature-inspired biological treatment methods.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have identified a group of glucosinolate-specific transporters in the horseradish flea beetle's excretory system, enabling it to accumulate high amounts of plant toxins for defense. This mechanism allows the beetle to turn itself into a 'mustard oil bomb' and deter predators.
A study examining deceased US eagles found that 82 percent had detectable levels of rat poison in their systems. The presence of these toxins was linked to mortality rates, suggesting a potential public health concern for bird populations.
Researchers detected anatoxin-a, a deadly cyanotoxin, in air and water near a Massachusetts pond with algal blooms. The toxin can cause respiratory paralysis, muscular twitching, and loss of coordination at high concentrations.
An international investigation has confirmed that a lethal cyanobacteria toxin is killing bald eagles and other wildlife in Arkansas lakes. The toxin, known as aetokthonotoxin, is produced by the invasive aquatic plant Hydrilla verticillata and causes neurological disease in affected animals.
A team of researchers from Harvard University has successfully evolved custom proteases that can target specific proteins with high selectivity, opening up new possibilities for neuroregeneration, growth hormone regulation, and cytokine storm treatment. The technology uses phage-assisted continuous evolution to generate bespoke protein...
Researchers identified a nontransitive evolutionary sequence in a 1,000-generation yeast experiment. The study found that an evolved clone outcompetes its recent ancestor but loses to a distant ancestor due to multilevel selection acting on both the yeast nuclear genome and an intracellular RNA virus.
Researchers found C. diff produces toxins causing inflammation and damage to the gut lining, allowing it to thrive in an environment with less competition for nutrients. This process enables the pathogen to utilize amino acids from collagen for growth, further promoting its survival and persistence.
A new study suggests that farmers' individual practices, such as continuous maize cultivation, can contribute to the spread of western corn rootworm resistance. Regular crop rotation and planting non-Bt maize can effectively manage rootworm and delay resistance development in surrounding populations.
Researchers identified five novel toxin-antidote pairs in nematode species Caenorhabditis tropicalis and C. briggsae. The study found that these elements can delay reproduction or kill non-carriers, causing defects in over 70% of progeny from a single cross.
Shiga toxin, produced by enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), is thought to be a killer of host cells, but new research suggests it may actually be designed to dampen the immune system instead. This unexpected role could lead to breakthroughs in treating deadly kidney disease and bloody diarrhea caused by EHEC infections.
Researchers have discovered a new toxin-antitoxin system that allows bacteria to slow down their activity and thrive during periods of scarcity. The HEPN/MNT system, the most abundant TA system in prokaryotes, enables bacteria to conserve energy and resources by inhibiting toxin production.
Researchers at UC San Diego found that weaker E.coli strains outcompete stronger ones in a microbial game of rock-paper-scissors, challenging the traditional notion that strength prevails. The study's findings have implications for understanding microbiome imbalances and potentially developing new life-saving treatments.