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Scientists have uncovered a key brain signal that helps us break old habits and adapt when circumstances suddenly change. By watching mice navigate a virtual maze, researchers found that disappointment—when an expected reward failed to appear—triggered a surge of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, making the animals more likely to try a new strategy. When acetylcholine was blocked, the mice became less flexible and were more likely to stick with outdated choices.

The automated tool could be used to help journals vet submissions

A critical developmental process affecting aging and age-associated disease, cell senescence is characterized by persistent growth arrest and adaptive gene expression patterns. A common RNA modification, N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A), regulates gene expression profiles but its impact on senescence has not been studied globally. Here, we elucidated the m⁶A landscape in proliferating and senescent human fibroblasts using epitranscriptomic microarray and m⁶A-crosslinking and immunoprecipitation followed...

A major long-term study of more than 54,000 adults found that where nitrate comes from may matter far more than how much you consume. People who got more nitrate from vegetables—roughly the amount in a cup of baby spinach a day—had a lower risk of developing dementia, while higher nitrate and nitrite intake from red meat, processed meat, and even drinking water was linked to a greater risk.

A trio of major studies found that finerenone may protect the kidneys and heart in far more people than previously thought. The drug significantly slowed kidney disease progression and reduced the risks of kidney failure, heart failure, cardiovascular death, and overall mortality. Researchers saw benefits not only in patients with diabetes but also in those with non-diabetic kidney disease, a group with limited treatment options.

Lysosomal defects are closely linked to Parkinson's disease (PD). Mutations in the GBA1 gene, encoding the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase), are major genetic risk factors for PD. GBA1 deficiency causes lysosomal dysfunction, leading to α-synuclein (α-syn) accumulation and PD progression. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we identified a novel GBA1-KAT8 regulatory pathway that controls lysosomal activity. GBA1 overexpression enhances lysosomal enzyme...

Graphic depiction of the narrative creation and student attitude changes.

A traditional Chinese medicinal root used for over a thousand years is attracting new scientific attention for its potential to combat hair loss. Studies suggest Polygonum multiflorum can block harmful hormones, activate hair-growth signals, protect follicles, and boost blood flow to the scalp. Researchers say the herb’s effects align remarkably well with both ancient descriptions and modern hair biology.

A large study found that women taking GLP-1 drugs, the medication class behind Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, were about 30% less likely to develop breast cancer. Researchers say the findings are promising but not yet proof, and clinical trials are now being planned to test whether these drugs could help prevent breast cancer.

Supplements are often marketed as shortcuts to better health, but for many older adults, the real issue is whether they have a specific deficiency. Vitamins like B12 and D can play an important role when levels are low, while protein may be one of the most overlooked nutrients for maintaining strength and independence. More isn’t always better, though—some supplements can cause harm or interact with medications.