New research suggests that an El Nino event may have aided the establishment and spread of a novel cholera strain during an early 20th-century pandemic, supporting the idea that climate anomalies could create opportunities for the emergence of new cholera strains.
Read more …Climate anomalies may play a major role in driving cholera pandemics
Researchers have developed a way to study aged neurons in the lab without a brain biopsy, allowing them to accurately model the effects of aging in the development of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. By studying these cells, the researchers identified aspects of cells' genomes -- called retrotransposable elements, which change their activity as we age -- in the development of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest new treatment strategies targeting these factors.
Read more …Aging-related genomic culprit found in Alzheimer's disease
In a study of more than 100,000 people, researchers found that people with a less healthy lifestyle (higher BMI, greater smoking, greater alcohol consumption, less physical activity, poorer diet quality) had a greater reduction in risk of colorectal cancer associated with aspirin use, compared to participants with a healthier lifestyle. Participants with a healthier lifestyle had a lower baseline risk of colorectal cancer, and their benefit was less pronounced. The study's findings could encourage a more nuanced approach to preventive aspirin use.
Read more …Study finds regular aspirin use associated with greatest reduction in colorectal cancer among...
Geosmin is a volatile compound of microbial origin with a distinct 'earthy' to 'musty' odor that can affect the quality of water and food. A research team has now identified and characterized the human odorant receptor for geosmin for the first time.
Read more …Human odorant receptor for geosmin identified for the first time