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Cannabis smoking changes your DNA, leaving epigenetic scars
Long-term, persistent weekly or more frequent cannabis smoking leaves a distinct and partially reversible epigenetic footprint on blood DNA. These methylation changes strongly overlap with those from tobacco and may serve as biomarkers of smoke exposure.
Can a global vault save the world’s threatened microbiomes?
Researchers warn that accelerating human-driven loss of microbial diversity threatens both planetary and human health. The Microbiota Vault Initiative offers a global, equitable framework to safeguard critical microbiomes for future generations.
Oleic acid from olive oil reduces infection-related bone loss with age
A mouse study shows that dietary oleic acid, a key Mediterranean diet component, protects against age-related bone and microbiome damage triggered by periodontal infection. In contrast, a Western-style palmitic acid diet worsens bone loss and destabilizes the gut microbiome.
Shingles and RSV vaccines with AS01 adjuvant reduce dementia risk
Researchers found that older adults who received AS01-adjuvanted shingles or RSV vaccines had a significantly lower risk of developing dementia within 18 months compared to flu vaccine recipients. The protective effect is likely linked to the AS01 adjuvant itself, highlighting new avenues for dementia prevention.
Study finds no link between omega 6 and increased inflammation
A new study published in Nutrients offers new insight into omega-6 and whether it is truly the proinflammatory fatty acid many claim it to be.
Genetic bottlenecks limit the rise of pandemic cholera strains
A new study by the Genomics and Microbial Evolution Group at the Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH) together with the Department of Host-Microbe Interactions at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, USA, sheds light on one of the great enigmas of microbiology: why only certain strains of common bacteria become pandemic pathogens.
Gut microbiota and metabolic changes linked to pregnancy risks in women with PCOS
A new study presented today at the 41st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) reveals that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have distinct gut microbiota and metabolic signatures linked to premature endometrial aging and a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
FAU researchers secure key grants to target new gene in the fight against glioblastoma
Florida Atlantic University researchers have secured two key grants to investigate targeting a gene for the first time as a new approach to treat glioblastoma, a very aggressive and fast-growing type of brain cancer.
GATE complex discovery sheds light on CMV's evasion of immune defenses
New research from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and La Jolla Institute for Immunology, published today in Nature Microbiology, reveals an opportunity for developing a therapy against cytomegalovirus (CMV), the leading infectious cause of birth defects in the United States.
Economic downturns increase childhood malnutrition risks
Even small drops in national income can significantly increase the risk of various forms of childhood malnutrition- not only undernutrition but also overweight and obesity, shows a study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), an institution supported by "la Caixa" Foundation.
Ancient DNA sheds light on the origins of leprosy in the Americas
Hansen's Disease, more commonly known as leprosy, is a chronic disease that can lead to physical impairment. Today it exists in over 100 countries, and while the infection is treatable, access to treatment varies widely with socioeconomic conditions.
Long periods of parental leave after childbirth associated with higher risk of unhealthy behavior
A new study by the University of Vienna shows that particularly long periods of parental leave around the birth of a child are associated with a higher risk of unhealthy behavior - specifically smoking - in the long term.
Study provides insights into the immune response following pig-to-human kidney xenotransplants
A pioneering study has provided unprecedented insights into the immune response following pig-to-human kidney xenotransplantation.
New trial offers hope for effective treatment of spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries are currently incurable with devastating effects on people's lives, but now a trial at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland offers hope for an effective treatment.
New AI tool helps clinicians identify brain activity patterns linked to nine types of dementia
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool that helps clinicians identify brain activity patterns linked to nine types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, using a single, widely available scan - a transformative advance in early, accurate diagnosis.
N2 deep sleep powers your next aha moment, study reveals
A new study in PLOS Biology shows that deep N2 sleep, rather than light N1 sleep, dramatically boosts the likelihood of “aha” moments in a challenging perceptual task. The researchers also reveal that aperiodic brain activity during sleep best predicts who will gain insight after a nap.
Comprehensive study maps genetic mutations in SLC13A5 linked to epilepsy
Citrate is essential for the metabolism and development of neurons. A membrane transport protein called SLC13A5 plays a central role in this process and has previously been linked to a particularly severe form of epileptic encephalopathy.
Vegetables and dairy may lower endometriosis risk
A major umbrella review shows that higher intake of vegetables and dairy products is linked to a lower risk of endometriosis, while butter and high caffeine intake appear to increase risk. However, the evidence remains weak due to limitations in existing observational studies.
VIRMA protein regulates brain development by controlling ribosome biogenesis
Ribosomes are tiny molecular machines inside all living cells that build proteins, and ribosome biogenesis is the complex, multi-step process by which they are made.
Gene therapy shows promise for reducing stroke risk in patients with sickle cell disease
Gene therapy for sickle cell disease may help improve a major contributing factor to stroke risk in patients, reports a new study from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.