Recent strides in cancer research have underscored the critical involvement of the immune system, particularly in the remarkable achievements of cancer immunotherapy. A groundbreaking investigation spearheaded by scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, in collaboration with the University of Helsinki and Massachusetts General Hospital, has shed illuminating insights … Read more
Problems with our sleep and internal body clock can trigger or worsen a range of psychiatric disorders, according to a new review of recent research evidence. The review, published today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests gaining a better understanding of the relationship between sleep, circadian rhythms and mental health could unlock … Read more
The study of genetics is a fascinating exploration into the inheritance of traits from one generation to the next. At the heart of this intricate web of heredity lies the distinction between dominant and recessive genes, two crucial concepts that shape the genetic landscape. Genes are segments of DNA that encode instructions for building and … Read more
Hormones are regulatory messengers within the human body, orchestrating and coordinating various physiological processes to maintain homeostasis. These chemical substances are produced by endocrine glands and travel through the bloodstream to target organs, where they elicit specific responses. The endocrine system, comprising glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and pancreas, plays a pivotal role … Read more
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a prevalent cardiovascular condition characterized by the accumulation of plaque in the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart muscle. The primary cause of CAD is atherosclerosis, a process where fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances form arterial plaques, leading to vessel narrowing. As these plaques build up, they … Read more
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition characterized by the thinning and bulging of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. This structural change alters the cornea’s normal shape, causing it to assume a cone-like form. As a result, vision becomes distorted, and individuals with keratoconus often experience increasing astigmatism and nearsightedness. Understanding … Read more
The retina, a delicate and intricate layer at the back of the eye, serves as the gateway to our visual world. Comprising specialized cells that convert light into neural signals, the retina plays a fundamental role in the complex process of vision. However, this vital ocular component is susceptible to an array of diseases that … Read more
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for good vision. This damage is often caused by an abnormally high pressure in the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and … Read more
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reveals that smoking is likely associated with a reduction in brain size. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science, highlights that while quitting smoking can prevent further loss of brain tissue, it doesn’t restore the brain to its original size. Smoking appears to … Read more
Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is characterized by distorted thoughts, perceptions, and emotions, leading to significant impairment in daily functioning. Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and potential preventive measures for schizophrenia is essential for addressing this complex and often challenging condition. … Read more
The Australian National University (ANU) has unveiled groundbreaking research indicating that a protein within the immune system, originally programmed to safeguard against fungal infections, paradoxically exacerbates the severity of specific autoimmune diseases such as irritable bowel disease (IBS), type 1 diabetes, and eczema. This discovery not only holds the potential to usher in new and … Read more
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in joints. This can result in sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness, commonly affecting the big toe. Dietary factors and genetics can contribute to its development. If you suspect gout, … Read more
While the vast majority of our genetic code, roughly 99.9%, remains consistent among all humans, the remaining 0.1% contains crucial variations that contribute to the rich tapestry of human diversity and even influence the risk of certain diseases. Polygenic scores, which estimate an individual’s genetic predisposition for specific traits or diseases, rely on these small … Read more
A recently published study in The Lancet has shed new light on the prevalence and characteristics of autoimmune disorders. The research, conducted by a consortium of experts from various renowned institutions, analyzed electronic health records from a staggering 22 million individuals in the United Kingdom. By examining 19 of the most common autoimmune diseases, the … Read more