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Vascular endothelial senescence is a pivotal driver of age-related pathologies. Metabolism plays a critical regulatory role in endothelial cell senescence. Our previous studies have shown that deficiency of DHCR24, a gene involved in lipid metabolism, promotes endothelial cell senescence. However, how DHCR24 participates in endothelial cell senescence through lipid metabolism remains unclear. Using endothelial-specific DHCR24 knockout mice and replicative senescent human umbilical vein...

Aging is frequently perceived negatively due to its association with declines in brain and motor function yet not all aspects of brain function are equally affected. The cerebellum, a brain region closely linked to motor control, undergoes clear structural changes with age, but the impact of this degeneration on cerebellar function remains debated. The present study thoroughly investigates the impact of age on cerebellar function by measuring cerebellar motor and cognitive performance across the...

Science chats with illustrator Ulli Lust, whose work is countering ice age gender myths

Could math help explain why some relationships survive life’s inevitable stresses while others slowly fall apart? Researchers have spent decades developing mathematical models that treat romantic feelings as changing systems, revealing patterns in attraction, emotional reactions, conflict, and recovery.

A large study of nearly 74,000 men suggests that long-term use of tadalafil, best known as Cialis, may be linked to a higher risk of glaucoma and other eye pressure problems. Men prescribed the drug for urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate were 22% more likely to develop glaucoma, 32% more likely to develop ocular hypertension, and 33% more likely to be diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma or start glaucoma treatment over five years.

Scientists have found evidence that some gut bacterial populations can spread rapidly between people and across continents, suggesting the microbiome may be more transmissible than previously thought. The research also revealed hidden bacterial groups associated with aging, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Cancer is becoming an even larger global health threat, with nearly 21 million people diagnosed and 9.8 million dying from the disease in 2024. New estimates suggest about 1 in 5 people worldwide will develop cancer during their lifetime, while cases could climb by 67% to 34 million by 2050 simply because populations are growing and aging.

MIT engineers have developed injectable “mini livers” designed to help support people whose failing livers can no longer perform essential jobs. Instead of replacing the damaged organ, the approach injects liver cells together with tiny hydrogel spheres and supportive cells, creating a pocket of functioning tissue that can connect to the bloodstream.

A large study involving more than 270,000 people has linked higher blood levels of the amino acid tyrosine to a shorter lifespan in men. Using both observational data and genetic analysis, researchers found that elevated tyrosine could potentially reduce male life expectancy by nearly a year, while no significant effect appeared in women. Tyrosine is found naturally in protein-rich foods and is also sold as a supplement for boosting focus and mental performance, making the finding especially intriguing.

Researchers have mapped breast tumors in striking detail and uncovered hidden pockets of dormant cancer cells that may help explain why cancer can return after treatment. Unlike rapidly dividing cells, these quiet cells can essentially hibernate, allowing them to evade chemotherapy and reactivate later. The team found that they are often surrounded by immune cells and connective tissue cells that may act like a protective shield.

Older adults at risk of dementia improved their memory and thinking after following lifestyle programs combining exercise, healthy eating, cognitive training, and social engagement. Those who received regular coaching and structured support improved substantially more than participants given general health advice.