Hypotrichosis simplex leads to progressive hair loss starting in childhood. Geneticists have now deciphered a new gene that is responsible for this rare form of hair loss. Changes in the LSS gene lead to impairment of an important enzyme that has a crucial function in cholesterol metabolism.
Autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis more than double the risk of cardiovascular disease. A new study shows that immune cells that arise during autoimmune disease cause cholesterol to become trapped inside blood vessels.
Higher levels of lead and other heavy metals detected in the blood was associated with increased levels of lower density lipoprotein (LDL -- bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol, according to preliminary research.
A predominantly plant-based or vegan diet may be best for keeping type 2 diabetes in check, not least because of its potential impact on mood, suggests a systematic review of the available evidence.
In patients with type 2 diabetes at high risk for cardiovascular disease, targeting blood sugar to normal levels reduced the risk for macroalbuminuria, but it had no impact on more significant kidney outcomes such as serum creatinine doubling or the need for dialysis or transplantation. Targeting low blood pressures or the use of fenofibrate to lower cholesterol increased the risk for doubling of serum creatinine, although it had no impact on the need for dialysis or transplantation.
According to recent research, endurance exercise training beneficially modifies gut microbiota composition. After six weeks of training, potentially inflammation causing microbes (Proteobacteria) decreased and microbes that are linked to enhanced metabolism (Akkermansia) increased.
Using a statistical technique called network meta-analysis, researchers have combined the results of dozens of studies of dietary oils to identify those with the best effect on patients' LDL cholesterol and other blood lipids.
Boosting testosterone levels with hormone supplements may not be safe or appropriate for all men with low testosterone (low T), according to new research.
From the DNA of nearly 300,000 veterans, scientists have singled out a handful of genetic mutations that not only govern levels of cholesterol, but may also inform the development and use of drugs for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, according to researchers.
People with fluctuating weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and/or blood sugar levels are at higher risk of heart attack and stroke than those with more stable readings. Having more measures that fluctuate adds to the risk.
Researchers have developed a method for quantitatively assessing atherosclerotic plaque buildup in mice. They transplanted X-ray-irradiated low-density-lipoprotein-knockout mice with bone marrow cells expressing near-infrared fluorescent protein, which subsequently developed into fluorescent macrophages. These macrophages congregated specifically in atherosclerotic plaques that arose after feeding on a high-cholesterol diet. In vivo imaging detected the amount of aortic plaque formed and its change over time, which could help in assessing the efficacy of anti-atherosclerotic drugs.
Vitamin D supplements may promote weight loss and reduce risk factors for future heart and metabolic disease in overweight and obese children, according to new research. These findings indicate that simple vitamin D supplementation may be part of an effective strategy to tackle childhood obesity and reduce the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease, in adulthood.
Scientists find that high levels of a hormone called FGF23 are linked to changes in brain structure. They are associated with structural changes in the brain's frontal lobes.
Body organs such as the intestine and ovaries undergo structural changes in response to dietary nutrients that can have lasting impacts on metabolism, as well as cancer susceptibility.
Researchers have discovered using mice and human clinical specimens that caspase-2, a protein-cleaving enzyme, is a critical driver of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic and aggressive liver condition. By identifying caspase-2's critical role, they believe an inhibitor of this enzyme could provide an effective way to stop the pathogenic progression that leads to NASH -- and possibly even reverse early symptoms.
More time spent intensely active, to a greater extent than less time spent sedentary, correlates with a healthier metabolic profile in adolescence, according to a new study.
Using a computer model, researchers have revealed the effect of increased amounts of cholesterol on a specific ion channel involved in regulating potassium levels in the heart.
Middle-aged adults are exercising more and living longer, but new research suggests that even the fittest among them are not immune to cardiovascular disease -- and they often don't have any symptoms.
