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Breakthrough in regulating fat metabolism

Researchers at University of Warwick have found that the CPT1 enzyme has a switch controlling its activity, which can lead to better understanding of individual metabolic rates. This discovery may lead to development of drugs targeting specific patients with conditions like diabetic keto acidosis.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 8, 2011

The role of fat in assessing breast cancer risk

A new study finds that both dense and non-dense fat tissue are independently associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The research used sophisticated computer software to analyze mammograms of postmenopausal women with breast cancer, comparing them to controls without cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateOct 25, 2011

Study shows answers for treating obesity-related diseases may reside in fat tissue

A study by Boston University School of Medicine shows that the quality of fat tissue, not just its quantity, contributes to inflammation and vascular disease in obese individuals. The research identified that 30% of obese subjects demonstrated reduced fat inflammation, less insulin resistance, and similar vascular function.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 4, 2011

Genetic study shows that low body fat may not lower risk for heart disease and diabetes

A recent genetic study found a link between a specific gene variant and lower body fat percentage, yet an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The researchers discovered that this gene only affects the subcutaneous fat under the skin, which may store fat elsewhere in the body, increasing organ function interference.

Aberrations in adipose tissue could increase risk of diabetes in PCOS

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have aberrations in their fat tissue that can lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, found that large fat cells and low levels of adiponectin are strongly associated with ins...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 17, 2011

Fat cells become useful stem cells in tissue reconstruction

Researchers have isolated and characterized adult fat cell-derived stem cells, which maintain their stem cell characteristics and could aid in tissue regeneration. The study's findings suggest that these cells may be useful for cell-based therapies and represent a promising area of research for plastic surgery applications.

Eating mostly whole grains, few refined grains linked to lower body fat

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consume several servings of whole grains per day and limit their intake of refined grains appear to have less visceral adipose tissue, a key factor in cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The study observed a 10% lower VAT volume in...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 20, 2010

Mayo Clinic finds upper, lower body gain weight differently

Researchers found that increased abdominal fat increases the risk of metabolic disease, while fat gain in the thighs lowers the risk. The study challenges the concept that the number of fat cells remains stable in adults and suggests a potential protective effect of lower-body fat cells.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2010

Maternal diet high in trans fats doubles risk of excess body fat in breastfed babies, study finds

A University of Georgia study suggests that mothers who consume a diet high in trans fats double the likelihood that their infants will have high levels of body fat. Infants whose mothers consumed more than 4.5 grams of trans fats per day while breastfeeding were twice as likely to have high percentages of body fat.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 29, 2010

Ultrasound could boost tissue implant success

Researchers discovered that low-intensity ultrasound therapy can improve the survival and function of tissue grafts after surgery. The treatment increased cellular activity, reduced waste buildup, and enhanced molecular motion, leading to better outcomes for patients undergoing various surgical procedures.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalJournal of Tissue Engineering·DateMay 27, 2010

A 'fat forward' research tool

Researchers have developed a microscope-based cell scanner to measure physical parameters in Petri dishes, allowing scientists to investigate fat cells at the cellular level. This tool enables rapid assessment of individual cell changes under experimental conditions, providing clues about treatment toxicity or effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalTissue Engineering·DateMay 6, 2010

Your fat may help you heal

A Rice University researcher has developed a natural extracellular matrix from adipose cells that supports the growth of living cells into tissues. The substance, called Adipogel, has been proven effective for growing liver cells and may be used to repair damaged organs in the future.

SourceRice University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 25, 2010

Low levels of vitamin D linked to muscle fat, decreased strength in young people

A recent study by Dr. Richard Kremer found that nearly 60% of healthy young women had insufficient vitamin D levels, leading to increased body fat and decreased muscle strength. The research highlights the importance of vitamin D in maintaining overall health and suggests a potential link between low vitamin D levels and various diseases.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 5, 2010

Ethnic background may be associated with diabetes risk

A new study found that South Asians are more likely to develop insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes due to their body composition, specifically higher total body fat and lower muscle mass. Researchers measured insulin levels in four ethnic groups and discovered a strong association between body fat distribution and diabetes risk.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 6, 2009

From fat to chronic inflammation

A new study reveals that angiopoietin-like protein 2 (Angptl2) is a primary contributor to chronic inflammation in fat tissue, exacerbating conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Elevated Angptl2 levels have been found in obese individuals and those with insulin resistance.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 1, 2009

Ben-Gurion U. researchers identify how stressed fat tissue malfunctions

Ben-Gurion University researchers have identified a key signaling pathway in intra-abdominal fat that contributes to obesity-related disorders. The study found that this pathway is activated in response to fat accumulation in the abdomen, correlating with increased cardio-metabolic risk and whole-body insulin resistance.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateJul 14, 2009