- newHarvard gut discovery could change how we treat obesity and diabetes
Scientists found that certain molecules made by gut bacteria travel to the liver and help control how the body uses energy. These molecules change depending on diet, genetics, and shifts in the microbiome. Some even improved insulin response in liver cells when tested in the lab. The findings could open the door to new ways of preventing or managing obesity and diabetes.
- 8 hours ago 14 Dec 25, 9:53pm -
- newA grad student’s wild idea triggers a major aging breakthrough
Senescent “zombie” cells are linked to aging and multiple diseases, but spotting them in living tissue has been notoriously difficult. Researchers at Mayo Clinic have now taken an inventive leap by using aptamers—tiny, shape-shifting DNA molecules—to selectively tag these elusive cells. The project began as an offbeat conversation between two graduate students and quickly evolved into a collaborative, cross-lab effort that uncovered aptamers capable of binding to unique surface proteins…
- 9 hours ago 14 Dec 25, 8:51pm -
- newNatural compound supercharges treatment for aggressive leukemia
Forskolin, a plant-derived compound, shows surprising potential against one of the most aggressive forms of leukemia. Researchers discovered that it not only stops cancer cells from growing but also makes them far more vulnerable to chemotherapy by preventing them from pumping out the drugs meant to kill them. Experts say this dual action could help create safer, more powerful AML treatments with fewer harsh side effects.
- 10 hours ago 14 Dec 25, 8:07pm -
- newAI finds a hidden stress signal inside routine CT scans
Researchers used a deep learning AI model to uncover the first imaging-based biomarker of chronic stress by measuring adrenal gland volume on routine CT scans. This new metric, the Adrenal Volume Index, correlates strongly with cortisol levels, allostatic load, perceived stress, and even long-term cardiovascular outcomes, including heart failure risk.
- 10 hours ago 14 Dec 25, 7:57pm -
- Tea may strengthen bones in older women while heavy coffee weakens them
A decade-long study of older women found that tea drinkers had slightly stronger bones, while moderate coffee drinking caused no harm. Heavy coffee intake—over five cups a day—was linked to lower bone density, especially in women who consumed more alcohol. Tea’s benefits may stem from catechins that support bone formation. The researchers say small daily habits could make a meaningful difference over time.
- 1 day ago 13 Dec 25, 10:19pm -
- The brain switch that could rewrite how we treat mental illness
Scientists exploring how the brain responds to stress discovered molecular changes that can influence behavior long after an experience ends. They also identified natural resilience systems that help protect certain individuals from harm. These findings are opening the door to treatments that focus on building strength, not just correcting problems. The work is also fueling a broader effort to keep science open, independent, and accessible.
- 1 day ago 13 Dec 25, 8:08pm -
- Ozempic may offer a surprising bonus benefit for brain health
A new analysis suggests that people with type 2 diabetes who use GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Trulicity or Victoza may be less likely to develop epilepsy than those taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Semaglutide showed the strongest connection to lowered risk. Researchers caution that the findings show an association, not proof of cause and effect. More rigorous long-term studies are needed to understand the link.
- 1 day ago 13 Dec 25, 7:22pm -
- Kids’ anxiety and depression dropped fast after COVID school reopenings
Researchers discovered that children who went back to school during COVID experienced far fewer mental health diagnoses than those who stayed remote. Anxiety, depression, and ADHD all declined as in-person learning resumed. Healthcare spending tied to these conditions also dropped. Girls showed the largest improvements, highlighting the importance of school-based structure and support.
- 1 day ago 13 Dec 25, 6:58pm -
- AI finds a surprising monkeypox weak spot that could rewrite vaccines
Researchers used AI to pinpoint a little-known monkeypox protein that provokes strong protective antibodies. When the team tested this protein as a vaccine ingredient in mice, it produced a potent immune response. The discovery could lead to simpler, more effective mpox vaccines and therapies. It may also help guide future efforts against smallpox.
- 2 days ago 13 Dec 25, 7:39am -
- New discovery offers real hope for rare genetic disease
Scientists discovered that certain gene changes allow cells to function even when frataxin, the protein lost in Friedreich’s ataxia, is missing. Experiments in worms, human cells, and mice revealed that lowering a gene called FDX2 helps restore vital energy processes. The work points to a new, more targeted treatment strategy.
- 2 days ago 13 Dec 25, 7:27am -
- Daily multivitamins quietly lower blood pressure in some older adults
Emerging evidence hints that daily multivitamins might quietly help certain older adults keep their blood pressure in check—especially those with poorer diets and normal readings at the start. While the overall results showed no broad benefit, intriguing improvements appeared in targeted groups, suggesting that micronutrient gaps may play a subtle but meaningful role in hypertension risk.
- 2 days ago 12 Dec 25, 8:01pm -
- Scientists reveal the real benefits and hidden risks of medical cannabis
A sweeping review of more than 2,500 studies reveals that despite booming public enthusiasm, cannabis has strong scientific support for only a few medical uses, leaving most popular claims—like relief for chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia—on shaky ground. The findings spotlight a persistent gap between what people believe cannabis can do and what clinical evidence actually shows.
- 2 days ago 12 Dec 25, 6:45pm -
- Scientists find dark chocolate ingredient that slows aging
Scientists have uncovered a surprising link between dark chocolate and slower aging. A natural cocoa compound called theobromine was found in higher levels among people who appeared biologically younger than their real age.
- 2 days ago 12 Dec 25, 5:56pm -
- Nerve injuries can trigger hidden immune changes throughout the entire body
Researchers discovered that nerve injuries can alter the immune system throughout the body, and males and females react very differently. Male mice showed strong inflammatory responses, while females showed none, yet both transmitted pain-inducing signals through their blood. These findings reveal previously unknown pathways driving pain, especially in females. The work points toward new opportunities for personalized chronic pain therapies.
- 3 days ago 12 Dec 25, 10:13am -
- NAD+ supplement shows early promise for long COVID fatigue and brain fog
Long COVID still affects people worldwide with stubborn symptoms like fatigue and cognitive issues. A clinical trial tested whether boosting NAD+ using nicotinamide riboside could help. Although overall group differences were limited, many participants showed encouraging improvements after taking NR for at least 10 weeks. The findings suggest NAD+ enhancement may offer symptom relief for some individuals.
- 3 days ago 12 Dec 25, 9:12am -