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CNIC scientists discover a key mechanism in fat cells that protects the body against energetic excess

Researchers identify caveolae's role in protecting adipocytes from rupture and inflammation; this discovery opens new avenues for treating metabolic diseases like obesity. The study highlights the importance of the caveolin-1 protein in maintaining cellular integrity.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2024

New study reveals genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians

A new study from Queen Mary University of London has identified the genetic drivers of early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians, revealing a strong link to lower insulin production and unfavorable body fat distribution. The research also sheds light on treatment responses, highlighting the need for precision medicine approaches.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2024

Cause of the yo-yo effect deciphered

A study by ETH Zurich researchers has found that epigenetic markers in fat cells can lead to the yo-yo effect, where weight drops but returns. The researchers also found evidence of this mechanism in humans, suggesting that obesity can leave a lasting mark on gene expression.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2024

Study advances understanding of metformin effects on fetus

Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2024

A simple blood test warns of possible cardiometabolic complications for children with obesity

A study from the University of Copenhagen detected lipid biomarkers in obese children that indicate a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, liver, and heart disease later in life. A one-year lifestyle intervention lowered these biomarkers, demonstrating the importance of early intervention for children with obesity.

Does low lipoprotein(a) increase the risk of diabetes? New research suggests it does not

Researchers used genetic method Mendelian randomization to show high levels of fasting insulin cause reduction in Lp(a), rather than the other way around. Low Lp(a) is unlikely to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, independent of pre-existing hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance.

SourcePolskie Towarzystwo Lipidologiczne (Polish Lipid Association)·JournalCardiovascular Diabetology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 29, 2024

Obesity-induced inflammation increases the secretion of extracellular vesicles from adipose tissue

Research from the University of Eastern Finland found that obesity-induced inflammation increases the secretion of extracellular vesicles from human adipocytes, which may contribute to the detrimental health effects of obesity. Visceral adipose tissue secretes more extracellular vesicles than subcutaneous adipose tissue.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·DateAug 19, 2024

Swipe up! Health apps deliver real results en masse

A new study found that digital health tools can improve health and wellbeing by keeping people active, boosting steps, and improving diet and sleep. The research synthesised data from 206,873 people across 47 studies, indicating that electronic and mobile health interventions can help people achieve positive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 13, 2024

$2.4 million grant helping MCG scientists better understand what happens to our skeleton as we age

Researchers are studying the role of stress hormones and mineralocorticoid receptors in bone health as we age. The goal is to understand how balance between these factors affects our skeletons. By investigating this complex relationship, scientists hope to develop new insights into osteoporosis and other age-related bone disorders.

The sooner the better: teaching healthy habits in elementary school reduces abdominal fat

A large-scale study published in JACC shows that promoting healthy habits in elementary school children can effectively reduce abdominal fat and obesity markers. The study found that early intervention, particularly during the first three years of school, was more effective than delayed interventions.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 29, 2024

Pennington Biomedical Research Center recruiting participants for lipedema research study

The Pennington Biomedical Research Center is conducting a clinical trial to better understand lipedema. Participants will undergo comprehensive assessments and imaging techniques to help advance medical knowledge related to chronic disease. Compensation of up to $475 is offered for participation in the three-month study.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·TypeObservational study·DateJun 11, 2024

Proteomic signatures may indicate MRI-assessed liver fat

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have discovered a link between proteomic biomarkers and liver fat percentage, which may improve patient monitoring and therapy targeting for NAFLD. The study, conducted over 18 months, found that specific protein changes were independently associated with liver fat relative change.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalHepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 28, 2024

Intermittent fasting shows promise in improving gut health, weight management

A new study highlights the benefits of intermittent fasting and protein-pacing on gut health, weight loss, and metabolic responses. Participants showed improved diversity of the gut microbiota, decreased symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, and increased beneficial microbes linked to a lean body type.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 28, 2024

New study further illuminates ability of cancer drug to lower blood sugar

A new study reveals that a cancer drug can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels, but eliminating a specific gene related to fat metabolism worsens insulin resistance. The research highlights the interconnectedness of fat metabolism in organs and the need for simultaneous treatment of obesity and insulin sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024

Hyperspectral dark-field microscopy for rapid and accurate identification of cancerous tissues

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that rapidly and accurately identifies cancerous tissues in breast samples. The method uses machine learning algorithms trained on hyperspectral dark-field microscopy data to pinpoint regions of invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive mucinous carcinoma.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 8, 2024

New drug candidate reverses obesity in mice

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new class of drugs that block mitochondrial function and reverse diet-induced obesity, fatty liver, and diabetes in mice. The treatment increased fat metabolism, leading to drastic weight loss and restored glucose tolerance.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2024

Understanding the cellular mechanisms of obesity-induced inflammation and metabolic dysfunction

The study reveals that TM4SF19 protein inhibits a pump in lysosomes, impeding macrophage clearance of dead cells. Macrophages lacking TM4SF19 demonstrate enhanced efficacy in clearing dead adipocytes, reducing weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. The findings may open new avenues for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2024

Weight training improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in old people, study confirms

A study published in Psychiatry Research confirms that weight training improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in old people. The analysis of over 200 articles identified the types of training most indicated for these cases, recommending exercises done three times a week with short sets and proper structure.

Novel treatment strategy reduces inflammation and cardiometabolic risk in adolescents with obesity

A one-year interdisciplinary therapy program reduced inflammation and cardiometabolic risk in obese adolescents, improving insulin resistance and weight management. The semi-intensive model produced better results than previous intensive models, reversing hyperlipidemia and promoting energy balance.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 21, 2024

Disrupted cellular function behind type 2 diabetes in obesity

A recent study published in PNAS suggests that impaired macrophage function plays a key role in the development of type 2 diabetes in obese individuals. The research found that collagen breakdown is handled by macrophages, which become deactivated in obesity and insulin resistance, leading to the accumulation of collagen fragments.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2024

A spinal muscle’s size and shape is linked to body fat, according to new Concordia research

A new study by Concordia researchers found a strong positive relationship between percentage body fat and echo intensity, indicating more fat within the muscle. The study also revealed differences in lumbar multifidus characteristics between male and female athletes, with females having larger LMs than males.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Musculoskeletal Disorders·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Holidays crank up kilos for Aussie kids

Research shows that Australian children are at risk of excessive weight gain and declining fitness during school holidays. The two-year study found that body fat increased at a faster pace and aerobic fitness declined faster than in-school periods. Promoting physical activities during holidays could help address unhealthy weight gain.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeCase study·DateDec 11, 2023