Sight and Smell of Food Kickstarts Liver Activity
Updated: 2024-04-25 21:00:31
Sight and Smell of Food Kickstarts Liver Activity Featured Neuroscience April 25, 2024 Summary : Merely seeing and smelling food can activate adaptations in liver mitochondria in mice within minutes . This response is driven by the activation of POMC neurons in the brain , signaling the liver to prepare for nutrient processing by modifying mitochondrial protein through . phosphorylation These changes enhance the liver’s insulin sensitivity , suggesting potential new treatment pathways for type 2 diabetes . The rapidity and nature of these adaptations underline the complex interplay between sensory input and metabolic . processes Key : Facts Rapid Mitochondrial Adaptation Exposure to food cues leads to immediate changes in the liver’s mitochondria , preparing it for increased sugar .
These mice were also better able to resist tumour growth but not when the mice were placed on a vitamin D-deficient diet . Credit : Neuroscience News Vitamin D Boosts Gut Bacteria for Cancer Immunity Brain Cancer Featured Neuroscience April 25, 2024 Summary : Vitamin D enhances a type of gut bacteria in mice , improving their immunity to cancer . The study shows that mice with higher levels of vitamin D resist tumor growth better and respond more effectively to . immunotherapy This effect seems linked to the increase of Bacteroides fragilis in the gut , which somehow enhances the mice’s immune response to cancer . Further research is needed to see if this applies to humans , as earlier studies suggest a potential link between vitamin D levels and cancer . risk Key : Facts Vitamin D Role
, Exercising in Nature Reduces Depression , Improves Health Featured Neuroscience Psychology April 25, 2024 Summary : Engaging in physical activity in natural settings like parks and beaches could prevent around 13,000 cases of non-communicable diseases annually in England , saving over £100 million in healthcare costs . This study underlines the critical role of natural environments in promoting health by reducing the prevalence of conditions such as heart disease , diabetes , and . cancer Utilizing population-representative data and robust epidemiological models , the findings advocate for the accessibility and maintenance of natural spaces as a public health strategy . The study emphasizes the underestimated value of outdoor activities in disease prevention and calls for increased
AI Predicts Brain Age from EEG Data Featured Neuroscience April 25, 2024 Summary : Researchers developed an AI-based method using EEG scans to estimate brain age , which could lead to early detection of neurological diseases . This technology allows for a less expensive and less invasive assessment compared to traditional MRI-based . methods The AI evaluates EEGs to identify potential premature aging , offering a proactive approach to managing risks associated with age-related disorders like dementia and . Parkinson’s Key : Facts Innovative Use of : EEG The AI technique uses EEG , a more accessible and less costly method than MRIs , to estimate the age of an individual’s . brain Early Detection and : Management By detecting premature aging , the technology can help in the early
Creatine’s Cognitive Boost for Sleep-Deprived People Featured Neuroscience April 25, 2024 Summary : A high dose of creatine can temporarily boost cognitive abilities impaired by sleep deprivation . Conducted with 15 participants who stayed awake overnight , the study showed significant improvements in processing capacity and short-term memory three hours post-supplementation . The effects peaked at four hours and persisted for up to nine hours . However , the researchers caution against regular high intake due to potential health . risks Key : Facts Enhanced Cognitive : Abilities A single high dose of creatine significantly improved cognitive functions such as processing capacity and short-term memory during sleep . deprivation Peak and Duration of : Effect The cognitive enhancement peaked
Spinal Injuries Trigger Metabolic Disorders Featured Neurology Neuroscience April 24, 2024 Summary : A new study demonstrates how spinal cord injuries can lead to significant metabolic disruptions , including the onset of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease . The study found that abnormal neuronal activities post-injury lead to excessive breakdown of triglycerides in fat tissue , releasing harmful compounds into organs like the . liver By administering gabapentin , a nerve pain medication , researchers successfully prevented these metabolic effects in animal models . This discovery could pave the way for new treatments that mitigate the secondary health issues caused by spinal . injuries Key : Facts The study identifies a link between spinal cord injuries and metabolic