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A radical signal to the progeny

Researchers at Ghent University found a worm globin protein that generates free radical signals, which are essential for reproductive cell generation and regulation of hydrogen peroxide concentrations. Genetic knockdown of the new globin results in sterility, suggesting a crucial role for this signaling process in biology.

SourceGhent University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2015

Ants do drugs

Researchers at University of Helsinki found that black ants can change their food taste in response to fungal pathogens. By consuming a diet with high levels of free radicals, the ants show improved resistance to infections.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEvolution·DateAug 24, 2015

The simplistic beauty of a free radical

Korean scientists have successfully created a new class of radical compounds by reacting nitric oxide with N-heterocyclic carbenes. The resulting nitric oxide compounds show potential for targeted NO delivery, which could lead to new therapeutic applications in various human diseases.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 18, 2015

Premature aging: Scientists identify and correct defects in diseased cells

Researchers have identified and corrected defects in diseased cells, restoring normal activity in Cockayne syndrome patients. The study reveals the role of an enzyme, HTRA3 protease, in mitochondrial defects that contribute to premature aging. Therapeutic strategies using HTRA3 inhibitors or antioxidants may soon be tested in patients.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2015

New research into health benefits of coffee

Monash researchers, in collaboration with Illycaffè, conducted a comprehensive study on the behavior of free radicals and antioxidants during coffee brewing. They discovered that under certain conditions, coffee can act as an antioxidant, providing a deeper understanding of its potential health benefits.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 30, 2015

'Cleaner' protein protects against atherosclerosis

Researchers found that A1M stops the oxidation of blood fats and repairs damaged molecules, protecting against atherosclerosis. The protein can also clean and reduce oxidised blood fats from LDL and take care of dangerous substances from MPO.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateFeb 3, 2015

Cause of aging remains elusive

A recent study aimed to determine the role of free radicals in aging, but was refuted due to limitations with the measurement tool used. The researchers found that changes in pH levels inside mitochondria, rather than free radical release, were responsible for the signals detected by the probe.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2014

What doesn't kill you may make you live longer

Researchers at McGill University found that free radicals stimulate a molecular mechanism that increases cell defenses and promotes longevity. The study used the roundworm C. elegans as a model organism and found that elevating free radical generation induced a substantially longer life.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell·DateMay 8, 2014

Broken cellular 'clock' linked to brain damage

Researchers found that disabling a circadian clock gene blocks the brain's antioxidant surge, allowing free radicals to cause more damage. This can lead to neurodegeneration and age-related brain cell injury, similar to Alzheimer's disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 25, 2013

Diet rich in vegetables may help stave off acute pancreatitis

A diet high in vegetables may help prevent acute pancreatitis by reducing oxidative stress. The study found that individuals who consumed the most vegetables daily were 44% less likely to develop the condition than those who ate the least. This protective effect was strongest among heavy drinkers and overweight individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·DateJun 27, 2012

Energy squeeze

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that squeezed polymers can generate significant amounts of energy for chemical reactions. However, they also found that certain polymer-based medical implants release harmful free radicals under moderate pressure, raising concerns about their safety.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 2, 2012

Free radicals may be good for you

A new study reveals that free radicals act as signal substances that increase the heart's contractions with the correct force. Persistent stress can lead to chronic levels of free radicals, potentially contributing to heart failure.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 28, 2011

Free radicals in cornea may contribute to Fuchs dystrophy, most common cause of corneal transplants

Scientists have found that free radicals contribute to the damage in patients with Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD), a hereditary disease impacting nearly four percent of the population over age 60. The discovery holds promise for early and preventative treatments, such as a diet rich in leafy green vegetables and multivitamins.

SourceSchepens Eye Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJan 31, 2011

Rosemary chicken protects your brain from free radicals

Researchers discover mechanism by which rosemary's carnosic acid fights off free radical damage in the brain, potentially leading to new treatments for stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. The active compound activates a novel signaling pathway, providing a 'pathological-activated therapeutic' approach with reduced side effects.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 2007

Heart smart: new drug improves blood flow

A new drug has been shown to improve blood flow in diseased arteries by reactivating a damaged enzyme, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks. The discovery is a significant development for the treatment of cardiovascular disease and aims to challenge orthodox thinking on heart health.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 3, 2006

RPE meets EPR

Scientists have found that melanin, a pigment in the body, acts as a sponge to absorb and destroy free radicals that damage retinal cells. This discovery offers hope for preventing macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 28, 2005

Intervention cuts nerve damage, boosts life span

Researchers discovered that inserting human UCP2 into fly nerve cells extended lifespan by 28% in females and 11% in males. The increased mitochondrial uncoupling led to reduced ROS production and oxidative damage, without affecting reproductive or physical activity levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 15, 2005