Recent research conducted by scientists at the Duke-National University of Singapore (NUS) Medical School has shed light on the potential role of a protein called interleukin 11 (IL-11) in the aging process. The study involved genetically engineering mice to block the effects of IL-11, resulting in a significant extension of their lifespans by up to
Health
Mindfulness has gained immense popularity in recent years as a way to combat stress and improve mental health. This Buddhist-based form of meditation focuses on being aware of one’s thoughts, sensations, and feelings in the present moment. While it may seem like a harmless practice, the reality is that there are hidden dangers associated with
Plastics have become a ubiquitous presence in our daily lives, with tiny fragments now being found in major organs such as the placenta. This raises significant concerns about the impact of microplastics on our health. Researchers have conducted various studies to investigate the effects of microplastics on organ replicas and mice. However, the concentrations of
The emergence of long COVID-19 since 2020 has undeniably been a significant global health concern that has affected millions of individuals worldwide. This condition, characterized by persistent health effects following infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has garnered extensive scientific attention, with over 24,000 scientific publications dedicated to its study. From respiratory symptoms to debilitating fatigue
Sleep is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. We all crave a good night’s sleep, but sometimes achieving it can be a challenge. Many of us are aware of the benefits of regular exercise on sleep quality. However, the timing and intensity of exercise in relation to bedtime have been points of contention. While
In the annals of human history, few diseases have struck fear into the hearts of populations like the bubonic plague. Originating in Europe, this deadly disease caused havoc during three major pandemics over the past 1,500 years. The first outbreak occurred from the fifth to the seventh century, claiming the lives of approximately 15 million
The search for alcohol hangover cures has been ongoing for centuries, with various remedies and methods being touted as effective solutions. One such recent claim involves taking a shot of olive oil before consuming alcohol to prevent hangovers. This idea has gained popularity, especially after being discussed by figures like music producer Benny Blanco on
The idea that consuming fewer calories can lead to a longer and healthier life has been a topic of research for over a century. However, a recent study has shed light on a new perspective regarding this phenomenon. Researchers from the US and UK conducted a study on mice and found that an imbalance between
Our natural eyelashes serve a crucial purpose in protecting our eyes from external elements. They act as a barrier, diverting air away from the eyeball and preventing airborne particles from entering the eye. In addition, natural eyelashes help keep the eye lubricated and play a role in ensuring we blink regularly to maintain eye health.
In a groundbreaking medical development, a 60-year-old German man has potentially become the seventh person in the world to be cured of HIV after undergoing a stem cell transplant. This risky and painful procedure is typically reserved for individuals who have both HIV and aggressive leukaemia, making it a treatment option for only a small
Recent research has found that shorter sleep and later bedtimes in children are linked to harmful functional changes in parts of the brain crucial for coping with stress and controlling negative emotions. Furthermore, children from families with low economic resources are particularly vulnerable to these negative effects. As neuroscientists committed to reducing socioeconomic disparities in
Recent research coming out of China has shed light on a concerning trend – a rapid decline in sperm quality across the globe. Epidemiologist Yingxin Li and his team at Sun Yat-sen University conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 50 previous studies, covering a total of 71,337 men. Their findings suggest a strong link
The main treatment for Parkinson’s disease, L-DOPA, is effective in replacing the dopamine deficit in the brains of patients. However, prolonged use of this medication can lead to the development of dyskinesia, a condition characterized by uncontrollable movements such as twitching, swaying, and head bobbing. This side effect can significantly limit the long-term benefits of
Research has previously suggested connections between irregular bowel movements and various health conditions, such as infections and neurodegenerative diseases. However, these links were often observed in individuals who were already sick, raising questions about whether the irregularity was a cause or a result of their underlying conditions. Senior author Sean Gibbons from the Institute for
Exercise is often touted as a key component in weight loss, yet the effectiveness of exercise in shedding pounds varies from person to person. A recent study shed light on the role of a specific protein, PGC-1α, in metabolism, and how its variants can impact the outcomes of exercise and weight loss. Researchers from Japan