Cancer cells become super-charged when exposed to methylmalonic acid, a chemical that builds up in older people’s bodies. Many forms of cancer become more common and deadlier as we get older. There are several reasons behind this, including a weakening immune system and an accumulation of potentially dangerous mutations in our genes. Now a new […]
metabolism
Bacteria from lean mice prevents obesity in peers
But microbes are only part of the story — the effect also depends on a healthy diet. Gut bacteria from lean mice can invade the guts of obesity-prone cage-mates and help their new hosts to fight weight gain. Researchers led by Jeffrey Gordon, a biologist at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, set out to […]
Heavy sleepers
A growing body of evidence shows that getting a good night’s sleep plays an important role in regulating the body’s metabolism. Burning the midnight oil can leave you tired and grumpy the next day, dulling your mind and slowing your reaction times. But lack of sleep has consequences beyond the brain as well, with long-term […]