PET scan of a human brain with Alzheimer’s disease. Using human brain cells, scientists at the Gladstone Institutes discovered the cause of—and a potential solution for—the primary genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, a gene called apoE4. Having one copy of the apoE4 gene more than doubles a person’s likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and...
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Study reveals how ‘microbial axolotl’ repairs itself
In a new study, published in Current Biology this week, a research team from Uppsala University in Sweden reports new insights into the regenerative capabilities of Stentor, a single-celled model organism for regeneration biology. The study used novel gene expression methods that allowed the researchers to identify over one thousand genes that are involved in the...
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Older adults grow just as many new brain cells as young people
Researchers show for the first time that healthy older men and women can generate just as many new brain cells as younger people. There has been controversy over whether adult humans grow new neurons, and some research has previously suggested that the adult brain was hard-wired and that adults did not grow new neurons. This...
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Researchers identify risk genes for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
The largest analysis to date of genetic data in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – the muscle-crippling neurodegenerative disease that afflicted the late astrophysicist Stephen Hawking and cut short the career of iconic Yankee baseball slugger Lou Gehrig – has identified two previously unrecognized genetic risks that are significantly associated with the disease. In the...
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The Influence of the Gut Microbiome on Cancer, Immunity, and Cancer Immunotherapy
The microbiome is receiving significant attention given its influence on a host of human diseases including cancer. Its role in response to cancer treatment is becoming increasingly apparent, with evidence suggesting that modulating the gut microbiome may affect responses to numerous forms of cancer therapy. A working knowledge of the microbiome is vital as we...
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Best way to avoid back pain? Lift heavy things
Most people think that the human spine is one of evolution’s great flaws. After all, around 80% of adults suffer from lower-back pain. What more evidence do you need? The truth is, the spine is a robust structure. We’re just using it incorrectly. Everybody “knows” that you put your back out if you lift objects...
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Five things to consider before ordering an online DNA test
You might be intrigued by what your genes could tell you about your ancestry or the health risks hidden in your DNA. If so, you’re not alone. IMAGE: DNA testing has its risks, including that you don’t know who will own your genetic data. Credit: Markus Spiske on Unsplash You might be intrigued by what your genes could tell...
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Novel hormone replacement therapy trial demonstrates improved memory function in adrenal patients
Better timing for cortisol replacement therapies, to more closely replicate the secretion patterns of people with normal levels of the hormone, has shown a significant improvement in patients’ cognitive function. This is the striking finding from a new trial led by University of Bristol scientists including Professor Stafford Lightman and published in the Proceedings of the...
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New research finds thirst is not the best indicator of hydration level
When it comes to staying hydrated, “just drink when you’re thirsty” has been a rule of thumb for years. Yet a recent study by University of Arkansas researchers may prove that thirst alone is not a reliable indicator of proper hydration levels. Stavros Kavouras, director of the Hydration Science Lab, says, “We believe that drinking...
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Common genetic variant linked to AFib risk in Latinos – genetics
Dr. Dawood Darbar. “There is a paradox at play when it comes to atrial fibrillation in the Latino population,” said Dr. Dawood Darbar. “While Latino individuals are less likely to develop atrial fibrillation than whites, despite having a higher burden of risk factors, they are more likely to suffer complications if the condition does develop,”...