Mice sleep 6 hours less via brain cell tweak, feel alert next day

Normally, staying awake for extended time periods leads to the need for extra sleep. But researchers have just found that activating astrocyte cells in mice caused the rodents to stay awake for six hours longer than usual, with no noticeable sleep debt… Continue reading Mice sleep 6 hours less via brain cell tweak, feel alert next day

Licorice found to fight pancreatic cancer in lab studies

Typically thought of as a bendy black confection, the root form of licorice has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a range of conditions. Now, a new study shows that a compound from the root is highly effective at fighting pancreat… Continue reading Licorice found to fight pancreatic cancer in lab studies

Mallotus furetianus! Tropical plant found in China fights fat in tests

Researchers have discovered the fat-busting properties of a plant native to Hainan Island in China during studies with mice. The findings might shine light on a path to combating obesity and fatty liver disease in humans.Continue ReadingCategory: Medic… Continue reading Mallotus furetianus! Tropical plant found in China fights fat in tests

Kombucha beverage slashes diabetics’ blood sugar levels in new study

Kombucha, a sour drink made by fermenting sweetened tea, has shown some promise as a health-promoting beverage. Now, its powers may extend to helping those suffering from type 2 diabetes keep their blood glucose levels in check, according to a new smal… Continue reading Kombucha beverage slashes diabetics’ blood sugar levels in new study

Peptoids pop some viruses like the disease-causing balloons they are

In the neverending human-vs-virus battle, scientists often focus on disrupting the protein coating on the bugs. New research shows a different way forward: using certain compounds to act as molecular “pins” that pop the membranes holding viruses togeth… Continue reading Peptoids pop some viruses like the disease-causing balloons they are

Virgin birth at Cambridge thanks to genetically modified fruit flies

By decoding a genetic process responsible for asexual reproduction, researchers induced virgin births for the first time in a normally sexual fruit fly species. It was then discovered that the remarkable trait was passed down to all of the flies’ daugh… Continue reading Virgin birth at Cambridge thanks to genetically modified fruit flies

Belly fat could protect – rather than cause – diabetes in some, says study

Traditionally, doctors have linked fat around the waist to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. New research says that our waist size is only part of the equation though, and that some of the same genes that make us store belly fat may also protect us… Continue reading Belly fat could protect – rather than cause – diabetes in some, says study

Red ginseng may counter some of alcohol’s brain-blasting effects

According to a study conducted last year, just four alcoholic drinks per week can contribute to cognitive decline. Now, based on tests on mice, researchers may have found a way to fight booze’s brain-hampering effects with the potent red ginseng root.C… Continue reading Red ginseng may counter some of alcohol’s brain-blasting effects

Space movie to deliver the “Overview Effect” in giant domed theaters

The unique perspective just a few astronauts have ever seen of Earth from outer space, and the way in which it impacts them, is known as the Overview Effect. Now, specially built theaters and a new film will bring the same experience to the masses.Cont… Continue reading Space movie to deliver the “Overview Effect” in giant domed theaters

Metal found spontaneously healing itself like human skin

It’s long been assumed that when a metal structure like a bridge or an engine develops a crack, it will only get worse over time. But that might not be the case, based on what researchers have just observed happening in a tiny piece of platinum.Continu… Continue reading Metal found spontaneously healing itself like human skin