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Oxidative DNA damage repair

The study reveals a DNA repair mechanism that can mitigate oxidative damage, which is linked to various diseases including cancer and Alzheimer's. This discovery holds promise for developing less invasive cancer therapies and early detection tests.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2011

Cellular repair could reduce premature aging

A study led by Durham University has identified a potential drug therapy for premature ageing diseases, including Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome. The treatment, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), controlled oxidative stress and DNA damage in cells, suggesting a possible model for understanding processes that cause us to age.

SourceDurham University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateNov 1, 2011

Link between racial discrimination and stress described in new study

Researchers found that African Americans experiencing racial discrimination had higher levels of oxidative stress, a potential pathway for cardiovascular and other age-related disease risks. The study suggests that psychological stress from racial discrimination may contribute to racial health disparities.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·DateSep 14, 2011

Exposure to parental stress increases pollution-related lung damage in children

Research finds that growing up in a stressful household is associated with larger traffic pollution-induced lung deficits in healthy children. High levels of perceived stress among parents, particularly Hispanic and Asian families, led to decreased lung function in children exposed to traffic-related pollutants.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 24, 2011

Discovery offers molecular insights into link between Parkinson's and pesticides

Researchers discovered a molecular link between pesticides and Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the oxidative stress that contributes to the neurodegenerative disorder. The study provides evidence that exposure to environmental toxins may be a primary cause of Parkinson's, with potential implications for prevention and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Missouri School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·DateJun 22, 2011

Animals have personalities, too

A new study found that animal personalities are reflected in their oxidative stress profiles, with timid birds experiencing higher levels of damaging oxygen toxins and weaker defenses. In contrast, curious birds had better defences against oxidative damage.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 28, 2011

Jefferson researchers provide genetic evidence that antioxidants can help treat cancer

Researchers have found that antioxidants can help prevent and treat breast cancer by targeting mitochondrial oxidative stress. The study, published in Cancer Biology & Therapy, used a genetically tractable model to show that loss of the tumor suppressor protein Caveolin-1 leads to increased oxidative stress, which fuels cancer cell gro...

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCancer Biology & Therapy·DateFeb 15, 2011

Potential drug therapy for diabetic retinopathy under study

Scientists are exploring the therapeutic potential of (+)- pentazocine in treating diabetic retinopathy. The study aims to determine if the drug can block or promote sigma receptor action and improve retinal health in patients. Researchers also want to know if the drug is effective when given later in the disease process.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 8, 2010

Olive oil protects liver

Researchers found that extra-virgin olive oil and its extracts protect against oxidative damage of hepatic tissue in rats. The study showed a significant increase in antioxidant enzyme activity and a decrease in markers of liver damage, indicating potential health benefits of olive oil consumption.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateOct 28, 2010

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that local fishermen exposed to oil clean-up efforts two years prior showed persistent airway injury, including increased prevalence rates of respiratory symptoms and biomarkers of pulmonary oxidative stress. The study suggests even short-term exposure to oil sediments may have detrimental health effects.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 23, 2010

Plant compound resveratrol shown to suppresses inflammation, free radicals in humans

A study conducted by University at Buffalo researchers found that resveratrol suppressed the generation of free radicals and reduced inflammation in human blood samples. The compound also showed promise in reducing insulin resistance and related markers, potentially benefiting conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 29, 2010

Braking news

Researchers found that car brake particles can cause cellular stress and inflammation in lung cells, particularly with heavy braking. Brake wear particles contain metals like iron and copper, which can damage cell junctions through oxidative stress.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalParticle and Fibre Toxicology·DateNov 19, 2009

Taking the stress off yeast produces better wine

Researchers have identified genes in yeast that enable it to respond to stress and are investigating ways to improve its performance by modifying its stress response mechanism. By manipulating these genes, they found a family of enzymes called sirtuins plays an important role in controlling wine yeast lifespan.