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Scientists discover a hidden immune signal that helps spinal cords regrow

4 days 2 hours ago
A surprising immune system signal may help explain why zebrafish can regenerate damaged spinal cords so effectively. Researchers found that certain neutrophils release Il-4, which calms harmful inflammation and allows injured nerve fibers to grow again. Without these cells, healing stalled, but adding Il-4 restored regeneration. Scientists now want to know whether the same mechanism could someday be harnessed to improve spinal cord repair in humans.

Common dry-cleaning chemical linked to triple the risk of liver scarring

4 days 3 hours ago
A chemical commonly used in dry cleaning and found in some household products may be an overlooked threat to liver health. Researchers found that people with detectable levels of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) in their blood were three times more likely to have significant liver fibrosis, a dangerous buildup of scar tissue that can eventually lead to liver failure or cancer. The risk climbed sharply as PCE levels increased, even after accounting for factors such as age, sex, race, education, alcohol use, and metabolic conditions.