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Eat me: The cell signal of death

Researchers at Kyoto University's iCeMS have identified a nuclear protein fragment that activates a lipid-scrambling protein to display an 'eat-me' signal on cell surfaces, alerting phagocytes to eliminate unwanted cells. This discovery sheds light on the complex process of cell death and its importance for maintaining tissue health.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 26, 2021

Lipid epoxides target pain, inflammatory pathways in neurons

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered modified compounds called epo-NA5HT and epo-NADA that target multiple cannabinoid receptors, interrupting pain and inflammation pathways. These lipid epoxides are much more potent than their precursor molecules and offer a promising alternative to opioid-based painkillers.

Uncovering how some corals resist bleaching

Researchers at Michigan State University and the University of Hawaii have discovered chemical signatures in corals that indicate resistance to bleaching. The study found that resistant corals host algae with saturated lipids, which differ from those found in susceptible corals with more unsaturated lipids.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 8, 2021

Synthesized very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids improved retinal function in mice

Synthesized very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) have been shown to increase lipid levels in the retina and improve visual function in both normal and defective ELOVL4 mice. The study opens up a new area of research, raising questions about oral administration, blood transport, and selective targeting to the retina.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2021

Indoor ozone chemistry

A study of indoor ozone chemistry in an occupied house found overall low ozone concentrations but multiple VOCs indicating ozone reactions with skin lipids and other surface chemicals. Volatile oxidation products from skin oil persisted for up to 5 days, suggesting a significant contribution of skin lipids to indoor ozone chemistry

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Boost to develop microalgae into health foods

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a novel protocol to detect lipid production in microalgae, enabling the mass production of omega-3 fatty acids and other healthy compounds. The technique improves on traditional fluorescent probes, allowing for easy and rapid evaluation of lipid conditions within microalgae.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·DateOct 14, 2020

Did our early ancestors boil their food in hot springs?

Researchers at MIT and the University of Alcalá in Spain discovered evidence of hot springs near early human archaeological sites in Olduvai Gorge. The proximity of these hydrothermal features raises the possibility that early humans could have used hot springs as a cooking resource, boiling fresh kills before controlling fire.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2020

New molecule reverses Alzheimer's-like memory decline

A new study published in Redox Biology shows that the drug CMS121 successfully reversed memory loss in a mouse model of inherited Alzheimer's disease. The drug works by normalizing lipid peroxidation and lowering levels of fatty acid synthetase, suggesting FASN as a potential target for treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalRedox Biology·DateAug 4, 2020

Biomedical researchers get closer to why eczema happens

A new study from Binghamton University connects lipids and bacteria to aid in understanding eczema. Researchers found that decreased levels of ceramides can allow Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to penetrate the skin barrier, leading to inflammation and infection. Further research is needed to unlock the secrets of atopic dermatitis.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTissue Barriers·DateJun 24, 2020

Surveying the lipid landscape

A groundbreaking tool, LipidCreator, has been developed to efficiently analyze specific lipid groups and signal molecules, accelerating the discovery of biomarkers for diseases. This software enables scientists to quantify 60 lipid classes and their signaling molecules in larger studies than previously possible.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2020

Scientists discover new clue behind age-related diseases and food spoilage

Researchers found that hydroxyl radicals have a surprising partner in crime - Criegee intermediate. This new pathway could help explain age-related diseases and cancer, as well as how food decomposes over time. The study points to an unexpected link between atmospheric chemistry and our bodies' ability to ward off disease.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2020

Missing link in rare inherited skin disease exposed

Hokkaido University scientists have discovered the missing link in a rare hereditary disease that impairs the skin's barrier function. They found that fatty acid transporter member 4 (FATP4) plays a critical role in synthesizing acylceramides, key skin lipids that prevent water loss and protect against pathogens.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2020

Shipment tracking for 'fat parcels' in the body

Scientists develop a new method to track lipid metabolism in the body, allowing for clearer distinction between marked and unmarked lipids. This breakthrough enables researchers to examine both normal and pathological deviations in detail, with potential applications for investigating drug side effects on fat metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 14, 2019

Tracking the HI virus

A European research team has developed a method to track the HI virus's spread between living cells using superresolution STED fluorescence microscopy. The study reveals that the HIV pathogen creates a specific lipid environment for replication, providing a potential target for antiviral drugs.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 2, 2019

Is intensive treatment to lower lipid levels beneficial to older patients after acute coronary syndrome?

A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found no significant benefit of intensive lipid treatment with simvastatin and ezetimibe compared to simvastatin alone in older patients after acute coronary syndrome. The study suggests that age may be an important factor in determining the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJul 17, 2019