Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Cannabis compounds show promise in fighting fatty liver disease

Researchers discovered that CBD and CBG can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health by creating a backup energy reserve and restoring cellular cleaning crews. These compounds also showed promising effects on treating metabolic diseases, including reducing body fat mass and improving insulin sensitivity.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2026

Scientists uncover novel function of autophagy protein ATG-9 in regulating lysosome integrity

Researchers have uncovered the molecular mechanism of ATG-9 in regulating lysosome integrity by modulating phospholipid distribution. This study suggests that reduced ATG-9 scramblase activity facilitates lysosome biogenesis and repair, highlighting ATG-9 as a promising therapeutic target for diseases related to lysosomal dysfunction.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2025

NUS Medicine study: Inability of cells to recycle fats can spell disease

A new study from NUS Medicine has found that the protein Spns1 plays a key role in recycling fats out of cell compartments called lysosomes, preventing diseases like lysosomal storage disorders. The research uses cryoelectron microscopy to understand how Spns1 transports fats and highlights its importance for cellular health.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2025

Genetic variations may predispose people to Parkinson’s disease following long-term pesticide exposure, study finds

A new study found that genetic variants in lysosomal genes may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease in individuals exposed to high levels of pesticides. The research suggests a potential gene-environment interaction, where minor changes in these genes can lead to increased disease risk under stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 25, 2024

A tidy cell seems to keep aging at bay

A study published in PNAS reveals that HKDC1 protein plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial and lysosomal function, thereby preventing cellular senescence. The researchers found that HKDC1 helps regulate the removal of damaged mitochondria through mitophagy and facilitates lysosomal repair.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 1, 2024

New understanding of the inner world of lysosomes

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have identified a protein called Spns1 that transports broken-down phospholipids out of lysosomes and into the cytoplasm, where they can be recycled. This finding further understanding of the role of lysosomes in lipid metabolism and disease, particularly in rare genetic disorders.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2022

Advancing our view at the subcellular level

Researchers at University of Cincinnati develop a new probe and imaging technique to study lysosomes, aiding in cancer and neurodegenerative disease research. The probe, known as EC Green, enables multidimensional analysis of lysosome dynamics and provides stable tracking capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2022

Scripps research scientists shed light on potential treatment for Gaucher's disease

A Scripps Research Institute team has discovered a mechanism to enhance the cellular folding and function of mutated lysosomal enzymes, which are linked to Gaucher's disease. The researchers used FDA-approved drugs to increase calcium levels in cells from patients with Gaucher's disease, potentially paving the way for clinical trials.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 9, 2010