Research on muscle biology and repair. Covers tissue maintenance, Parkinson's protection, repair-cell preservation, and muscle strength with age.
Researchers discovered that scalloped hammerhead sharks close their gill slits during deep dives to prevent heat loss and keep warm. This unique behavior allows them to hunt effectively in cold water depths.
A study by University of California, Riverside found that older adults are less likely to ignore distractors in their surroundings while engaging in a cognitive task and an effortful physical task. This decline is greater when simultaneously performing a physical task, such as driving or carrying grocery bags.
A 16-week remote exercise program improved cardiorespiratory fitness, lung function, and functional capacity in severe COVID-19 survivors. The study found significant benefits in health-related quality of life and reduced persistent symptoms.
Researchers developed a predictive model to identify tumor biomarkers of cachexia in lung cancer patients. The study used machine learning to build a muscle loss prediction model based on muscularity, clinical data, and the transcriptional profile from the tumor microenvironment.
Renowned astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti received the International Osteoporosis Foundation President’s Award for her collaboration on the "Lift Off For Bone Health" public awareness campaign. The campaign reached over three million people, with videos viewed close to two million times.
Scientists discovered that inhibiting microRNA-141-3p can reduce chronic inflammation, muscle loss, and bone degradation in aged mice. By blocking this tiny RNA, researchers found improvements in the spleen's immune response, lower levels of pro-inflammatory proteins, and a more youthful profile in bones and muscles.
A new study published by Edith Cowan University found that boxing programs can improve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, including fatigue and sleep, in early-stage patients. The program combined elements of exercise, computerized cognitive training, and socialization into a single activity.
Research from Edith Cowan University found that lower grip strength and slower timed-up-and-go tests were significant risk factors for presenting with dementia. The study suggests that incorporating muscle function tests into dementia screening could help identify high-risk individuals who may benefit from primary prevention programs.
Researchers have developed a jellyfish-like robot capable of collecting and transporting waste particles in the ocean without causing harm to marine species. The robot uses electrohydraulic actuators to swim and create currents, allowing it to trap objects along its path and transport them to the surface for recycling.
Researcher Brian Clark presents findings on the role of the nervous system in age-related muscle weakness, exploring potential therapeutic targets such as exercise and physical therapy. His work identifies neural mechanisms linked to low nerve cell excitability, impaired signal transmission, and reduced motor network integrity.
Researchers found that exercise releases chemical signals that promote neuronal development in the hippocampus, a crucial area for learning and memory. Astrocytes play a critical role in mediating the effects of exercise on brain health, helping to regulate neuronal activity and prevent hyperexcitability.
Limbitless Solutions has been selected as one of eight winners for the 2023 Unity for Humanity Grant. The organization will use $85,000 to develop its video game Quantum's Pursuit, which aims to empower children and adults with limb differences to learn how to use their bionic arms in a fun and engaging way.
A major UK study has discovered that disturbed sleep patterns in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 were likely a driver of breathlessness. The study found that 62% of participants experienced sleep disruption, which persisted for at least 12 months and was associated with anxiety and muscle weakness.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a genetic therapy to correct myotonic dystrophy in mice by targeting the abnormal splicing of the Clcn1 gene. The treatment restored muscle strength and corrected muscle stiffness, reversing muscle fiber type transitions.
Researchers have created a new material that responds to substantially lower electrical charges, making it suitable for use in medical devices. The material, made of bottlebrush polymers, was found to expand and contract over 10,000 times before degrading when stimulated by voltages as low as 1,000 V.
A novel small molecule, MK-8722, has been shown to trigger improved muscle health in mice with muscular dystrophy by activating AMPK. This finding highlights the potential of this class of AMPK activators as a cost-effective and efficacious method for DMD treatment.
Researchers found that metformin + leucine (MET+LEU) treatment prevents myotube atrophy by reversing cellular senescence and improving proteostasis. The study used C2C12 myoblasts, aged mouse single myofibers, and human primary myotubes to demonstrate MET+LEU's skeletal muscle cell-autonomous properties.
Researchers found that applying ice to minor muscle damage in rats enhances muscle repair and reduces inflammation. The study used an animal model of mild injuries and showed that icing attenuates the recruitment of pro-inflammatory macrophages, preventing injury expansion. This contradicts previous findings on the negative effects of ...
A study found that regular exercise increases mitochondrial fusion, benefiting muscle cells and maintaining physical fitness even in old age. Daily sessions of exercise throughout life delay the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria and decline in physical fitness.
A new study from the University of Exeter finds that a vegan diet rich in mycoprotein can support muscle growth during resistance training to the same extent as an omnivorous diet. The study shows comparable increases in muscle mass and strength in response to both diets.
Researchers propose incorporating 'hopamine' into therapeutic mix to personalize care for individuals with Parkinson's disease. By considering each person's unique physical and personal characteristics, healthcare professionals can avoid false hopes and create more effective treatment plans.
A team of researchers has designed fully biodegradable artificial muscles using gelatin, oil, and bioplastics, demonstrating potential for sustainable technology. The new materials system shows outstanding performance and is electromechanically competitive with non-biodegradable counterparts.
Researchers have discovered a novel medication that effectively treats a rare hereditary muscle disease causing complete immobility and death. The treatment has also shown promise in treating severe statin-associated myopathy, with improved symptoms in patients awaiting treatment.
A study by IMBA researchers links muscle degeneration to a deficiency in the enzyme PCYT2, essential for lipid synthesis. PCYT2 depletion affects mitochondrial function and muscle energetics, highlighting the importance of lipid balance in muscle health.
Researchers developed the first wearable sensor for monitoring muscle atrophy, a condition typically caused by degenerative disease or aging. The sensor can measure small-scale volume changes in overall limb size and monitor muscle loss of up to 51%. This technology has the potential to create less burden on patients and improve treatm...
New research directly measures human muscle contractile properties, revealing that extrapolating animal data to humans based on size is inaccurate. The study finds that human muscle fiber-specific tension is 24% smaller than traditionally used in small mammals.
Recent review article discusses clinical development in long-acting growth hormone (LAGH) therapy, which mimics natural GH release patterns. LAGH therapies reduce daily injection burden, improving patient compliance and treatment outcomes.
A study by the University of Missouri found that older adults who completed an eight-week resistance training program maintained long-term exercise habits and increased their physical energy despite COVID-19 restrictions. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program improved participants' sleep, balance, flexibility, and self-confidence in da...
Researchers found that COVID-19 survivors with persistent symptoms were more likely to be sedentary, especially those experiencing breathlessness and fatigue. The study, supported by FAPESP, included 614 participants who were analyzed for physical activity and lifestyle habits.
A protein complex formed of HuR and YB1 is crucial for messenger RNA stability during muscle-fiber formation. Further research could help scientists influence protein synthesis and develop novel therapeutics for muscle-related pathologies.
Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have found a new treatment for ADCY5-related dyskinesia using the asthma drug theophylline. The treatment has been shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in affected individuals.
Researchers found that gut microbes drive the production of regulatory T cells, which act as immune healers that repair muscle injury. These cells were previously thought to be only produced in the gut, but now it's clear they also play a role in healing damaged livers.
A new study found that eccentric contractions prove most effective in preventing muscle wasting and damage after immobilization. Strengthening the unaffected arm through weightlifting also counteracted muscle atrophy, with a stronger cross-education effect observed for eccentric contractions.
A multidisciplinary team developed a physiologically accurate model of octopus arm muscles, providing insight into biological and design challenges. The model enables energy-shaping control, simplifying arm control design and enabling life-like motion in soft robots.
Automated AI body composition tools achieved high technical adequacy rates (97.8-99.1%) in a large sample of external abdominal CT scans. The results support the generalizability and potential for widespread adoption of these tools, which can help build trust among radiologists and physicians.
Researchers found that strengthening hip abductor muscles can provide effective compensation for weaknesses in knee extensor muscles, leading to improved mobility in people with below-the-knee amputations. The study tested the hypothesis in eight military personnel who had undergone a lower limb amputation and showed promising results.
Researchers created adaptive optical phantoms by combining multiple pigments to mimic target tissue's optical properties, successfully validating them in extensive experiments. The new platform enables broader band spectra for emerging hybrid modalities and novel instruments.
A recent study published in JHEP Reports found that individuals with low thigh muscle volume and high muscle fat infiltration had an increased mortality risk. The researchers also discovered that poor muscle health was not associated with a worsened prognosis in people with fatty liver disease.
A recent study from the University of Toronto found that greater screen time is associated with more symptoms of muscle dysmorphia among Canadian young people. The researchers analyzed data from over 2,500 adolescents and young adults and found that social media use, texting, TV watching, and video chatting were linked to muscle dysmor...
Researchers create 'Lego-like' BIND interface to assemble stretchable devices with excellent mechanical and electrical performance. The interface allows for easy connection of modules, enabling the development of highly functional wearable devices or soft robots.
Research found combining Kegel exercises before resistance training improves pelvic floor strength and reduces urinary leakage. Over 8% of incontinent women no longer experienced urinary leakage after performing resistance training.
A study found that competition preparation temporarily reduces resting energy expenditure in physique athletes, primarily due to reduced energy intake and lower levels of thyroid hormone T3. This reduction can complicate weight loss and make it difficult for athletes to compete.
Scientists at Nagoya University developed an index to estimate a bird's wing use based on coracoid bone strength and body mass. This new tool sheds light on how ancient birds evolved to fly, including the flapping abilities of extinct species.
Nicotinamide riboside has been found to increase muscle mitochondria, improve gut bacterial composition, and boost NAD+ concentrations in humans. The findings suggest that NR supplementation may be a promising therapeutic option for diseases characterized by muscle mitochondrial dysfunction and/or gut microbiota imbalance.
Researchers have identified superfast muscles in mouse legs using new technology, opening up possibilities for therapeutic interventions to improve human limb movements. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind fast twitch muscles and fatigue-resistant oxidative muscles.
A new study finds that age-related abdominal fat is associated with lower muscle density, leading to less effective muscle function. This accumulation of visceral adipose tissue may represent a modifiable risk factor for poor musculoskeletal outcomes with aging.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
A new smartphone application called FAST.AI uses machine learning algorithms to recognize facial asymmetry, arm weakness, and speech changes in people experiencing a stroke. The app's accuracy was validated through a study involving nearly 270 patients with acute stroke, showing promise as a tool for prompt individuals to seek care.
Researchers discovered that myosin motor proteins must be activated before muscles can contract, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating inherited cardiac conditions. This new understanding could lead to medical remedies for diseases like dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
A study by researchers in Brazil found that loss of muscle mass during COVID-19 hospitalization is associated with the development of persistent symptoms such as weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The study also showed that patients who lost more muscle mass had higher healthcare costs six months after discharge.
Researchers found that the F-box gene FBXC-58 is a novel mediator of dietary restriction effects on extending the health span of Caenorhabditis elegans. FBXC-58 prevents muscle aging and extends longevity through an S6 kinase-dependent pathway.
Concordia researchers analyzed muscle and fat mass data from a large US sample population to find that high levels of fat mass are linked to poorer overall health. While BMI was surprisingly effective in predicting some cardiometabolic outcomes, the study suggests new body-composition phenotypes may be a better predictor.
Researchers studied cavefish metabolism to understand how humans might adapt over long periods of inactivity, finding genetic changes that enable muscle endurance and efficient energy storage. The study suggests potential implications for understanding and mitigating the negative effects of sedentary lifestyles on human health.
Research published in BMJ Open found that carrying excess weight from mid-life onwards increases the risk of physical frailty in older age. The study tracked over 4500 participants and found that obesity and high waist circumference were associated with a higher risk of pre-frailty/frailty, highlighting the importance of maintaining a ...
A new study found that consuming dietary nitrate from beetroot juice significantly increases muscle force while exercising. The researchers discovered a 7% increase in muscle torque production, providing the best evidence to date on the mechanisms behind why dietary nitrate improves human muscle performance.
Biomarkers of bone turnover are essential for diagnosing and treating metabolic musculoskeletal diseases. The International Osteoporosis Foundation, IFCC, and ESCEO have collaborated to publish authoritative reviews on the use and interpretation of these biomarkers.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a hybrid hydrogel combining natural squid tissues with synthetic polymers, exhibiting hierarchical anisotropy and toughness.
A recent study found that adolescent boys and young adult men in Canada experience high levels of muscle dysmorphia symptoms, with one in four at clinical risk. The study highlights disparities among sexual identities and racial/ethnic groups, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and knowledge among healthcare professionals.
Researchers at Kyoto University found that a poor, low-yeast diet causes fruit flies' larvae to grow dendrites in an unexpected way. The hyperarborization phenotype is triggered by a simultaneous deficiency in vitamins, metal ions, and cholesterol, which increases the production of Wingless signaling molecules from body wall muscle.
A new study by researchers at Florida Atlantic University explored the effects of resistance training on older adults' cellular level. The study found that resistance training did not significantly affect inflammatory proteins or redox balance markers, but showed a significant reduction in a specific protein ratio. This may support the...