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Bright light alters metabolism

A new study found that bright light exposure increases insulin resistance compared to dim light exposure in both the morning and evening. This could lead to excess blood glucose, weight gain, and a higher risk of diabetes over time. The study suggests that lighting impacts health outcomes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 19, 2016

Digesting sweet taste

A study from the Monell Center found that gut enzymes sucrase and maltase are also expressed in sweet taste cells on the tongue, breaking down complex sugars into glucose and fructose. This discovery may lead to the development of non-caloric sweeteners with a better sweet taste.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 9, 2016

New human on chip technology permits unparalleled insight into cellular function dynamics

Researchers developed a new Liver-on-Chip device with glucose and lactate micro-sensors to track metabolic function in real-time, enabling detection of chemical toxicity before cellular damage. The technology has the potential to redefine studies on neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and drug discovery.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

Brown fat may warm us up at dawn

Researchers discovered that human brown fat cells show circadian fluctuations in glucose consumption, which may act as a glucose buffer and lessen the stress on the pancreas. Individuals with high brown fat abundance showed less variability in glucose levels over time.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 10, 2016

Sugar rush shrinks brain cell powerhouse

Researchers found that mitochondria in brain cells rapidly change shape and function in response to high blood sugar levels, affecting peripheral tissue functions. The study suggests that alterations in this mechanism may be crucial for type 2 diabetes development.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateFeb 25, 2016

Everyday mindfulness linked to healthy glucose levels

A study of 399 participants found an association between higher mindfulness scores and healthier glucose levels. The researchers identified obesity risk and sense of control as potential mediators of this link, with mindful individuals being less likely to be obese and more likely to believe they can change their lives.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateFeb 23, 2016

Advances in continuous glucose monitoring technology will pave the way to an artificial pancreas

The article discusses the development and future promise of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, which combines CGM with an insulin pump and sophisticated algorithms for automating insulin control. Key challenges facing successful commercialization include cost, reimbursement issues, and lack of FDA approval for insulin dosing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateJan 19, 2016

Too much sugar? There's an enzyme for that

Scientists at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre have discovered an enzyme that can stop the toxic effects of sugar in various organs. The enzyme, glycerol 3-phosphate phosphatase (G3PP), plays a central role in controlling glucose and fat utilization and has been shown to detoxify excess sugar from cells.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2016

Preventing diabetes at the office

A workplace intervention program significantly reduced fasting blood sugar levels and led to greater weight loss compared to a control group. Participants who attended more group discussion sessions and monitored their food and physical activity lost more weight.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateDec 11, 2015

'Healthy' foods differ by individual

A new study published in Cell Press found that the glycemic index of foods varies significantly between individuals, contradicting traditional dietary recommendations. The research, led by Eran Segal and Eran Elinav, used a large cohort of participants to demonstrate the power of personalized nutrition in managing blood sugar levels an...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 19, 2015

FSU research uncovers new pathways for diabetes research

Researchers at Florida State University have uncovered a previously unknown activation mechanism for the glucokinase enzyme, which plays a crucial role in glucose regulation. This discovery sheds new light on how the enzyme's functional properties manifest in disease, including hyperinsulinemia and diabetes.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2015