Benjamin J

Tau protein is implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other tauopathies, but its physiological function is in debate. Mostly explored in the brain, tau is also expressed in the pancreas. We further explored the mechanism of tau’s involvement in the regulation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in islet β-cells, and established a potential relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and AD. We demonstrate that pancreatic tau is crucial for insulin secretion regulation and glucose homeostasis. Tau levels were found to be elevated in β-islet cells of patients with T2DM, and loss of tau enhanced insulin secretion in cell lines, drosophila, and mice. Pharmacological or genetic suppression of tau in the db/db diabetic mouse model normalized glucose levels by promoting insulin secretion and was recapitulated by pharmacological inhibition of microtubule assembly. Clinical studies further showed that serum tau protein was positively correlated with blood glucose levels in healthy controls, which was lost in AD. These findings present tau as a common therapeutic target between AD and T2DM.

Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of drought events, affecting soil functions driven by microorganisms. Here, Metze et al. develop a method to estimate microbial growth rates in dry soils, and provide insights into the response of active microbes to drought today and in potential future climate conditions (high temperatures and CO2 levels).

The Earth may become inhospitable to land mammals in about 250 Myr owing to climate warming and drying associated with the assembly of the next supercontinent, Pangaea-Ultima, according to combined tectonic, climate and mammal habitability modelling.

Hypertension is the leading preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality worldwide. However, studies have shown increased risk of mortality from heart disease and stroke even within the normal blood pressure (BP) range, starting at BPs above 110–115/70–75 mm Hg. Nutraceuticals, such as vitamins and minerals, have been studied extensively for their efficacy in lowering BP and may be of benefit to the general, normotensive population in achieving optimal BP. Our study investigated the effects of six nutraceuticals (Vitamins: C, D, E; Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium) on both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in this population. We performed a systematic review and pairwise meta-analysis for all six supplements versus placebo. Calcium and magnesium achieved significant reductions in both SBP and DBP of −1.37/−1.63 mm Hg and −2.79/−1.56 mm Hg, respectively. Vitamin E and potassium only yielded significant reductions in SBP with values of −1.76 mm Hg and −2.10 mm Hg, respectively. Vitamins C and D were not found to significantly lower either SBP or DBP. Future studies should determine optimal dosage and treatment length for these supplements in the general, normotensive population.

The current push for vouchers runs contrary to the Christian tradition of public schools as a community blessing. It’s discouraging to see faith leaders...

Combining transcriptomics, mathematical modelling and in vivo gene editing, this study shows that Sfrp2 contributes to stripe formation and hair colour in the African striped mouse.

Wastewater-based epidemiology can be used to monitor viruses and chemical spread across diverse populations. Analysis of wastewater collected over 13 years from one treatment plant and from 51 wastewater treatment plants in 2021 shows the efficacy of the technique for studying the use of performance-enhancing substances.

Here the authors develop DAESC, a statistical method for differential allele-specific expression analysis using single-cell RNA-seq data. Application of DAESC identifies dynamic regulatory effects along endoderm differentiation and differential effects between type 2 diabetes and healthy controls.

Cross-examination is the most challenging and important aspect of trial practice. There are no substitutes for preparation and knowledge, all of which combine for a rewarding and optimal experience.

Abstract Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) can remove both the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and N6, 2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am) methylation