Latest news with #NatureMicrobiology
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Researchers develop oral capsule to control gut bacteria via mobile app
New Delhi: Researchers have developed an orally ingestible capsule that can be used to control gut bacteria via a smartphone app, showcasing a potential for digitally monitoring health and a remotely-controllable intervention, they said. The team from Tianjin University and other institutes in China trialled the capsule in pigs with colon inflammation. In a paper published in the journal Nature Microbiology, the researchers have described how it can help control and allow for a two-way communication with gut bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), are known to impact health. E. coli can be modified to deliver drugs to a specific site inside animals, the team explained. However, once inside, the bacteria cannot be controlled, nor can it be communicated with, they said. For the study, the authors engineered E. coli to communicate with a "smart" capsule using light. The capsule, featuring a circuit board and powered by batteries, was developed as an oral ingestible. Three pigs, that were induced with colitis -- an inflammation of the colon, were colonised with the engineered gut bacteria that emitted light upon detecting nitrate, a biomarker that indicates colitis. The pigs ingested the smart capsule, which detected the light emitted by the engineered gut bacteria and relayed it to a smartphone app that connects to the capsule via bluetooth, the researchers said. Through the app, the team directed the capsule to emit light by flashing an LED (light-emitting diode), which then turned on a light-sensitive genetic circuit in the engineered E. coli. The genetic circuit triggered the production of anti-inflammatory antibodies that alleviated colitis, the authors said. By improving control over how an engineered bacteria behaves inside a living organism, the technology could boost the precision of diagnoses and therapies that make use of microbes, the team said. They added that further refinement to support multiple rounds of communication and clinical testing could one day allow for its application in treating human diseases. The authors wrote, "As a proof of concept, we engineered E. coli Nissle 1917 to detect infammation-associated nitric oxide in the pig gut and generate a bioluminescent signal for diagnosis of colitis." "This approach highlights the potential for integrating synthetic biology and optoelectronics for digital health monitoring and controllable intervention," they wrote.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Cancer-fighting gut bacteria that can absorb forever chemicals in the body discovered by scientists from Cambridge University
In a promising breakthrough, scientists from the University of Cambridge have discovered that certain strains of healthy gut bacteria may help rid the body of toxic 'forever chemicals,' compounds linked to cancer, infertility, and hormonal disorders. These harmful chemicals, officially known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are nearly impossible to break down and have been found to accumulate in human tissues for decades. According to a study published in Nature Microbiology, researchers identified nine strains of human gut bacteria capable of absorbing and flushing out PFAS, potentially reducing their concentration in the body by as much as 74 percent. The findings raise new hope for a microbial-based detox strategy against one of the most persistent health threats in modern environments. Cancer risk from forever chemicals in human body PFAS are man-made chemicals commonly used in nonstick cookware, fast food wrappers, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foams. Due to their durability, they do not break down naturally in the environment or the human body. Over time, these chemicals accumulate in vital organs and have been linked to serious health conditions, including liver damage, birth defects, hormone disruption, and various cancers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Anne Hegerty And Her Partner, Who You Will Easily Recognize Sport Pirate Undo The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a common PFAS, as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it has sufficient evidence of causing cancer in humans. Another PFAS, perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), is listed as a Group 2 carcinogen, indicating possible cancer risk in animals. Gut bacteria offer a possible defense To explore how the gut microbiome might influence PFAS detoxification, researchers introduced 38 strains of healthy human gut bacteria into lab mice. Within minutes of PFAS exposure, mice carrying the bacteria showed up to 74 percent more PFAS excreted in stool compared to those without the bacteria. 'We found that certain species of human gut bacteria have a remarkably high capacity to soak up PFAS from their environment at a range of concentrations,' said Dr. Kiran Patil, senior author and toxicologist at the University of Cambridge, in a statement reported by Daily Mail. 'Due to aggregation of PFAS in clumps inside their cells, the bacteria themselves seem protected from the toxic effects.' Which bacteria work best? Among the bacteria studied, Odoribacter splanchnicus showed the strongest potential to lower PFAS levels. This microbe produces butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid known to support both metabolism and immune function. Over a 24-hour period, nine strains of bacteria were observed to significantly reduce PFAS levels: PFNA levels dropped by 25 to 74 percent PFOA levels decreased by 23 to 58 percent The research suggests that PFAS latch onto bacterial cells during digestion and are expelled through stool, an elimination route often overlooked in toxicology. Next step: Probiotic supplements The Cambridge team is now developing probiotic supplements aimed at increasing levels of these PFAS-binding bacteria in the human gut. 'The reality is that PFAS are already in the environment and in our bodies, and we need to try and mitigate their impact on our health now,' said Dr. Indra Roux, co-author from the University of Cambridge's MRC Toxicology Unit. 'We haven't found a way to destroy PFAS, but our findings open the possibility of developing ways to get them out of our bodies where they do the most harm.' Gut health as a weapon against toxic chemicals Unlike traditional methods that focus on filtering PFAS from water or limiting exposure, this study introduces the possibility of a biological detox method. It also builds on prior research showing that fiber-rich diets can help reduce PFAS levels by promoting the excretion of bile acids, another substance PFAS tends to bind with in the digestive tract. This study is among the first to show that PFAS can be actively removed from the body by natural means, rather than passively accumulating over time. A new approach to an old problem Though the study was conducted on mice, researchers plan to move toward human trials and commercial probiotic solutions. If successful, this approach could transform how we manage toxic chemical exposure, especially for vulnerable populations. This discovery marks an exciting step forward in the battle against environmental contaminants, with gut bacteria offering a powerful new ally in protecting human health.
News18
08-07-2025
- Health
- News18
Why You Crave Junk Food When You're Stressed: Science Explains
Last Updated: Craving junk food during stress isn't just a lack of discipline; it is a natural response driven by biology, psychology, and your environment. We've all been there—stressed, overwhelmed, and suddenly reaching for a bag of chips or a box of cookies. It's almost automatic. But ever wonder why stress makes us crave junk food in the first place? The reasons go deeper than just bad habits. Genetics, gender, culture, and even your gut health all play a role too. From hormones and brain chemistry to learned behaviours and social cues, a lot is going on behind the scenes. It's not just willpower. Let's break it down. When stress hits, your body jumps into 'survival mode" by activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This triggers a chain reaction that releases cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. While cortisol helps you stay alert and handle the pressure, it also has a less helpful side effect; it makes you hungry. A 2017 study in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews explains that cortisol not only revs up your energy but also boosts your appetite, especially for high-calorie, fatty, and sugary foods—aka comfort food. Why Those Specific Foods? Because they activate your brain's reward system, triggering a rush of dopamine, the 'feel-good" chemical. As noted in a 2014 Frontiers in Psychology study, this dopamine hit creates a sense of emotional relief—brief, but powerful. It's your brain's way of trying to self-soothe. But there's more. Stress also messes with your hunger hormones. This hormonal imbalance nudges you toward energy-dense foods—those that are fast, fatty, and often found in vending machines. Newer research is diving into the role of your gut too. A 2023 study in Nature Microbiology suggests that your gut microbiota (the bacteria living in your intestines) may influence cravings through the gut-brain axis—a two-way communication system linking your digestive system with your brain. The Brain's Reward System: Why Junk Food Feels So Good Here's the thing: your brain is hardwired to love rewards. And junk food delivers one in spades. That's because high-fat, high-sugar foods stimulate the mesolimbic dopamine system, also called the brain's pleasure centre. According to a 2013 review in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care, these foods are hyper-palatable—scientifically engineered to taste irresistible. When you're stressed, this craving for instant gratification becomes even stronger. Why? Because your prefrontal cortex—the part of your brain that helps with decision-making and self-control—takes a hit under stress. A 2018 study in The Journal of Neuroscience found that stress reduces your brain's ability to weigh long-term consequences, making it harder to resist those cookies and easier to give in. And stress-eating may not affect everyone the same way. Psychosomatic Medicine (2021) reports that women tend to have stronger stress-eating responses than men. Genetics matter too—people with certain variations of the FTO gene may be more prone to emotional eating. Emotional Eating: When Food Becomes a Coping Tool Beyond hormones and brain chemicals, there's a deeply emotional side to stress eating. Many of us have learned to turn to food for comfort, especially when emotions run high. A 2020 study in Appetite found that people often reach for junk food during stressful times because they associate it with emotional relief—a habit often formed in childhood or through social experiences. Think ice cream after a breakup or chips during a movie night. These positive associations can make junk food feel like a 'safe" emotional refuge. But this response can become automatic. A 2016 article in Health Psychology found that repeated pairing of stress and junk food creates strong neural pathways in the brain. Over time, just feeling stressed can trigger a craving—even if you're not actually hungry. Environment And Social Triggers Even your surroundings can play a major role in your cravings. Junk food is everywhere—cheap, convenient, and aggressively marketed. A 2015 report from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health details how food companies use calculated combinations of sugar, salt, and fat to make products addictive and irresistible. When you're stressed and your willpower is low, these ready-to-eat temptations become especially hard to ignore. Social cues matter too. A 2017 study in Social Science & Medicine found that people are more likely to eat unhealthy food in group settings—especially when others around them are doing the same. If your friends or coworkers stress-eat, chances are you'll do it too, even if you weren't planning to. Understanding why you crave junk food under stress is the first step to regaining control. Here are some proven, science-backed strategies that can help: Mindful Eating Train your brain to recognize real hunger vs emotional hunger. A 2018 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that mindfulness—like eating slowly and noticing your body's cues—can significantly reduce emotional eating. Stress Management It's not just about food—it's about managing the stress itself. Practices like meditation, yoga, or even a brisk walk can lower cortisol levels. A 2019 study in Psychoneuroendocrinology showed that regular physical activity helps regulate hunger hormones, making you less likely to binge. Smarter Snacking Keep healthy but satisfying snacks within reach. The Mayo Clinic suggests options like nuts, yoghurt, or fruit, which offer nutrition and comfort—without the sugar crash. Better Sleep, Better Choices Lack of sleep makes everything worse, including your ability to resist junk food. A 2013 study in Sleep found that poor sleep increases stress and boosts cravings. Maintaining a solid sleep routine can help keep your hunger hormones in check. So the next time stress creeps in, pause. Take a deep breath. Maybe stretch or snack on something nourishing. Your brain and your body will thank you. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : junk food stress eating Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 08, 2025, 09:25 IST News lifestyle Why You Crave Junk Food When You're Stressed: Science Explains
Jordan News
07-07-2025
- Health
- Jordan News
Study: Eating Broccoli Can Protect Against Diabetes - Jordan News
Study: Eating Broccoli Can Protect Against Diabetes Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for both preventing and effectively managing diabetes, especially among those already at risk. While medications and lifestyle modifications are key, research now shows that adding a specific vegetable to your diet may naturally improve blood sugar regulation—even in those with prediabetes. اضافة اعلان According to a new study published in Nature Microbiology and conducted by researchers at the University of Gothenburg, consuming broccoli has been linked to improved blood sugar levels in individuals with prediabetes—a condition that precedes type 2 diabetes. Broccoli and Blood Sugar Control The key compound responsible for this benefit is sulforaphane, a naturally occurring substance found in broccoli. Previous research in 2017 had already suggested that high doses of sulforaphane extracted from broccoli sprouts led to significant blood sugar reductions in diabetic patients. This new study aimed to evaluate sulforaphane's effect on people with prediabetes, a condition caused by a gradual rise in blood sugar due to impaired insulin production. Study Details Participants: 89 individuals aged between 35 and 75 with elevated fasting blood glucose levels. Profile: All participants were either overweight or obese. Design: Participants were randomly assigned to receive either sulforaphane supplements or a placebo for 12 weeks. Notable Findings Participants who consumed sulforaphane showed a significantly greater reduction in fasting blood sugar compared to those in the placebo group. Those who experienced the most improvement tended to have: Early signs of age-related mild diabetes A lower BMI Lower insulin resistance Fewer signs of fatty liver disease Reduced insulin secretion A Step Toward Personalized Treatment Prediabetes affects millions globally, yet often goes undiagnosed, leading to missed opportunities for early intervention. The researchers emphasized the importance of early, individualized intervention to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although no definitive treatment exists for prediabetes, this study suggests that sulforaphane—especially when derived from broccoli—could serve as a functional food in a more precision-targeted approach to prevention. Still, lifestyle factors remain the cornerstone of prevention and management, including: Regular physical activity Healthy diet choices Sustained weight loss Researchers also noted that the interaction between gut microbiota and individual physiology may influence how well a person responds to sulforaphane, opening doors to more personalized nutrition-based therapies. Source: Times of India
Scientific American
04-07-2025
- Health
- Scientific American
Human Gut Bacteria Can Gather Up PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals'
Lurking in our nonstick pans, our rain jackets and even our drinking water are toxic compounds known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also called 'forever chemicals.' They can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment and are increasingly being detected in human blood and bodily tissues—where, research suggests, they can lead to several cancers and reproductive disorders, as well as thyroid disease and a weakened immune system. Scientists have been scrambling for ways to remove PFAS from our surroundings before they reach human bodies. But one team may now have found a way to tackle them afterward. Bacteria commonly found in the human gut could potentially be used to gather up PFAS and carry them out as waste, researchers suggest in a study published this week in Nature Microbiology. 'I think this research provides us a little glimmer of hope that it's not all doom and gloom' when it comes to the PFAS problem, says study co-author Kiran Patil, a molecular biologist at the University of Cambridge. 'Maybe our bacteria—that have been our companions for thousands of years—may already be helping us do something about it.' On supporting science journalism subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today. The team first tested how PFAS and other pollutants interacted with dozens of bacterial strains from the human gut and noticed that nine of them accumulated certain PFAS chemicals very effectively. When grown in laboratory conditions, these bacteria sopped up anywhere from 25 to 74 percent of the PFAS chemicals they were exposed to within 24 hours. The researchers suggest those particular strains could potentially bind to PFAS in the body and carry them out of the system. Previous work had shown that bacteria from contaminated soils can bind to PFAS. But those bacteria were exposed to much higher levels of the chemicals and had a relatively low capacity to sequester them—'so we had no reason to believe that gut bacteria would be anything special,' Patil says. Many researchers had assumed that PFAS molecules would cling to a bacterium's outer membrane rather than getting inside it, Patil says. Because the bacteria in the study were gathering more PFAS than could feasibly fit on their membrane, however, the team thought the chemicals must have actually entered the organisms. To confirm this, Patil and his colleagues used an imaging technique in which they rapidly froze the bacteria, then fired tiny beams of charged particles at them and analyzed what flew out. The researchers detected fluorine molecules—a telltale sign of PFAS—emerging from the bacteria. To find out whether bacteria would still collect PFAS chemicals inside a larger organism, the team used mice raised to lack a microbiome of their own and colonized the animals' gut with several human microbiome bacteria that were shown to absorb PFAS. After exposing the mice to various levels of a PFAS chemical, the researchers measured the amount of PFAS in the animals' feces and found that mice with PFAS-collecting bacteria excreted more of the toxic chemicals than those without the microorganisms did. This study shows just how deeply PFAS penetrate a body and its systems, says environmental epidemiologist Jesse Goodrich, who was not involved in the work. 'It is another piece in the puzzle that shows how PFAS can impact human health.' Applying the latest findings to humans would require more research. The team is now planning a clinical trial to test whether probiotics containing such bacteria could potentially supplement the human microbiome and decrease PFAS in our own species' gut. But the researchers note that such a trial would have far more variable factors than a highly controlled study in mice with lab-designed microbiomes. 'There's a huge variation in how the composition of the microbiome is set up within humans,' says the new study's lead author Anna Lindell, a toxicologist at the University of Cambridge. Further research could also observe the naturally occurring levels of these bacterial strains in people within the same community and measure the amount of PFAS in their bodies, Patil says. Such a study would help to clarify whether these bacteria lead to less PFAS in the human gut—or even in other parts of the body. Supplementing the body's natural bacteria to manage PFAS absorption is 'interesting and has potential,' Goodrich says. 'But ultimately, the best way to protect health is to prevent exposure in the first place.'
