Scientists at the University of Rhode Island have conducted an experiment on mice to investigate the potential health effects of microplastics. The results of this study have revealed alarming findings, indicating that even low doses of microplastics can lead to significant changes in behavior and immune markers. This article delves into the research, highlighting the
Health
The current treatments for kidney failure, such as dialysis and transplant, have their limitations. Dialysis requires hours of patients being hooked up to a machine, while donor transplants are scarce. However, there is hope on the horizon in the form of an artificial kidney implant. Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have
Chinese scientists have made a remarkable breakthrough in organ bioengineering by successfully growing kidneys containing human cells in pig embryos, providing a solution to the global organ donation shortage. This groundbreaking achievement, described in a study published in the journal Cell Stem Cell, holds immense promise for future medical advancements. However, the development raises ethical
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has long been associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, the exact mechanisms behind this link have remained unclear. A recent study conducted by Purdue University has utilized a groundbreaking “mini-brain” model to shed light on the emergence of Alzheimer’s risk factors immediately after a concussion. This mini-brain
Metabolism, the intricate dance of atoms and molecules within our bodies, sustains our lives by creating, distributing, and deploying the essential substances we need. In a recent study published in Science Advances, researchers have uncovered the unique fingerprints of metabolism in different species by analyzing specific carbon atoms in amino acids, the building blocks of
Over the past few decades, our relationship with pets has undergone a dramatic transformation. Nowadays, pet ownership has reached an all-time high, with a staggering 69% of Australian households having at least one furry companion. With this increase in pet ownership comes a significant investment in their well-being, amounting to approximately A$33 billion annually. While
Obesity continues to be a pressing global health concern, and finding effective treatments has proven to be challenging. However, recent research led by the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) in Korea has provided promising results. Phase 1 clinical trials of a new drug have shown significant potential for reducing weight and fat mass in obese
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the concept of “food is medicine,” particularly in relation to improving the health outcomes of individuals with diet-related illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. A new study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes has shed light on the positive impact of produce prescription
Recent research conducted by Canadian scientists suggests that high levels of white blood cells in the saliva of young, healthy individuals could serve as a potential early warning sign for cardiovascular disease. While white blood cell counts have long been used to measure oral inflammation, this study proposes that these findings could pave the way
Imagine yourself about to enjoy a sip of your favorite sauvignon blanc when a fruit fly lands in your glass. Your initial response might be disgust and concern. After all, fruit flies are known to frequent garbage bins, compost heaps, and other unsanitary places. But is it really unsafe to drink wine that a fruit
Proteins play a crucial role in various cellular processes, often transitioning between liquid and solid states within droplets called condensates. However, this fluid behavior can be disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS, where proteins aggregate and form solid structures. To shed light on this phenomenon, a team of researchers led by
News reports circulated recently about a woman who had a live worm removed from her brain. The incident, which occurred in a Canberra hospital, left many people in shock. The woman had initially been admitted to the hospital with stomach symptoms, dry cough, and night sweats. Months later, she experienced depression and forgetfulness, leading to