Add BrightSurf on Google Email

How infection can trigger autoimmune disease

Scientists confirm that an infection can trigger an autoimmune disease by identifying the exact conditions for an autoantibody response to occur. The research reveals a unique problem with the immune system's ability to distinguish between self and non-self, leading to autoimmunity in certain cases.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalImmunity·DateNov 9, 2012

Light dependency underlies beneficial jetlag in racehorses

A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that racehorses can adapt rapidly to changes in the daily light-dark cycle, leading to improved physical performance. The horses were able to run at full gallop for an additional 25 seconds before reaching fatigue after experiencing a shift in their 24-hour light-dark cycle.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateOct 18, 2011

What makes a happy meal?

Researchers found that ghrelin hormone is required for prolonged psychosocial stress to promote preference and intake of high-fat food in mice. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic targets for curbing stress-related food behavior.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2011

Proof that a gut-wrenching complaint -- irritable bowel syndrome -- is not in your head

Biologists at TUM have discovered mini-inflammations in the gut mucosa that upset the balance of the bowel and cause IBS symptoms. The team's research suggests that treating IBS with antihistamines may improve symptoms by normalizing nerve activity. Successful identification of physical causes could lead to effective treatments for IBS.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 19, 2010

Seeing family for the holidays? Scientists discover how the stress might kill you

Researchers found that the nervous system controls regulatory T cells, which help end an immune response, and that breaking this link can lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases like lupus and arthritis. The study shows that stress from everyday events like seeing family around the holidays can negatively affect the immune system.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 30, 2009

Tiny details in three dimensions

Heidelberg researchers use cryo-electron tomography to visualize the structure of Lyme disease bacteria, revealing differences in motility systems that may explain varying symptoms between European and North American patients. The study provides new insights into the complex biology of borreliosis and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalMolecular Microbiology·DateFeb 13, 2009

Move over, sponges

A comprehensive analysis confirms that Placozoans are the most primitive non-bilateral animals, with a genome that shares key tools for nervous system development. This challenges traditional views of animal evolution, placing Placozoans as the closest living surrogate to the ancestor of all animals.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 26, 2009

Gene mutation in worms key to alcohol tolerance

Researchers discovered that a naturally occurring gene mutation in worms leads to reduced sensitivity to alcohol's effects, enabling the body to consume more without adverse reactions. The study suggests potential applications in identifying individuals with a predisposition to alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateOct 22, 2008

Women recover muscle strength more slowly than men

A recent study by Ohio University researchers found that women's muscles require longer and more intensive rehabilitation after bed rest and cast immobilization. Women lose around 30% less muscle strength within one week of cast removal compared to men, suggesting different rates of muscular strength-building may be the cause.

The APCs of nerve cell function

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identify adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) as a central organizer of neuronal cholinergic synapse assembly. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms directing synapse formation, potentially shedding new insights into learning and memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and schi...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalMolecular and Cellular Neuroscience·DateJun 16, 2008

Origins of nervous system found in genes of sea sponge

Researchers discovered genes in a sea sponge that resemble those found in human synapses, suggesting the nervous system evolved earlier than previously thought. The study reveals that sponges have genetic components of synapses, indicating they may have interacted with each other similarly to humans and mice.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 5, 2007

New guideline for treating Lyme disease

The American Academy of Neurology has published a new guideline for treating Lyme disease affecting the nervous system, finding conventional antibiotic courses highly effective. Prolonged antibiotic treatment does not improve outcomes for patients with persistent symptoms after standard therapy.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 23, 2007