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Quantum optical phenomenon in the brain challenges conventional view of amyloid in Alzheimer’s

Researchers discovered that amyloid fibrils can harness quantum superradiant effects to mitigate oxidative stress, potentially transforming dementia treatments and understanding of Alzheimer's disease. This finding raises questions about the conventional view of amyloid's role in the disease.

SourceHoward University·JournalFrontiers in Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 25, 2024

Probiotics during pregnancy shown to help moms and babies

A new study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that probiotics can improve the immune system and behavior of both mothers and their offspring during pregnancy. Probiotics may also help counteract negative effects of prenatal stress, such as changes in brain inflammation and amino acid metabolism.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2024

Could eating turkey ease colitis?

Researchers found that supplementing tryptophan in mice diet increased inflammation-suppressing T-reg cells and reduced colitis symptoms. The findings suggest a potential non-invasive method for improving long-term colitis management.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2023

New sensor detects valuable rare earth element terbium from non-traditional sources

Researchers at Penn State developed a luminescent sensor that can detect and quantify low concentrations of terbium in complex acidic samples. The sensor uses a protein called lanmodulin, which is selectively binding to rare earth elements, and has the potential to help develop a domestic supply of these metals.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021

The chemistry lab inside cells

A team of scientists at Osaka University has discovered a new protein called QhpG that enables the conversion of amino acid residues on polypeptides into an enzyme cofactor. This finding may lead to the development of novel bioactive peptides and enzymes for bioremediation purposes.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021

Researchers discover brain pattern that could improve mental health disorder diagnosis

A unique brain pattern that shifts tryptophan metabolism from serotonin production to neurotoxicity has been identified in individuals with major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. This finding holds promise for developing new diagnostic tests and targeted treatments for these conditions.

More turkey dinners for people with celiac disease?

A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that tryptophan, an amino acid present in turkey, combined with certain probiotics, can help individuals with celiac disease heal and manage symptoms. The research suggests targeting tryptophan metabolism in the gut may offer a potential therapy for better symptom control.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 2020

Good vibrations help reveal molecular details

Rice University researchers have developed a new method to analyze molecules in biomembranes, called SABERS. It uses plasmonic properties of gold nanoparticles to extract structural details from unlabeled molecules. The technique was tested on three structures and found the surfactant layer tilted by 25 degrees.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 15, 2017

When the oxygen kills

Researchers identified a gene mutation increasing superoxide production, which damages DNA and cellular components. The study also shows the importance of understanding living systems and developing therapies for patients with related gene mutations.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016

Diet could combat adverse side-effects of quinine

Researchers at the University of Nottingham found that individuals with high tryptophan levels experience fewer quinine side effects. The study suggests that dietary changes could potentially alleviate toxic effects of quinine treatment, improving its effectiveness and reducing risk of adverse reactions.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateSep 11, 2012

UCLA life scientists' study of abalone yields new insights into sexual reproduction

Researchers studied interactions between individual sperm and eggs in red abalone, making precise chemical measurements and physical models of these interactions. They found that the egg releases a plume of tryptophan to attract sperm, greatly increasing its target area. Ocean flow conditions also play a significant role in fertilization.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2011

Tryptophan-enriched diet reduces pig aggression

A study by US Department of Agriculture researchers found that a tryptophan-enriched diet reduces aggression in young female pigs, making them calmer and easier to manage. The supplement raised blood concentrations of serotonin, a calming neurotransmitter, leading to reduced behavioral activity and aggression.