Author: ShannonRodriques

Studies conducted at Tohoku University; Japan expound on the impressive ability of lactate to aid in the development of neuronal stem cells. Researchers studied the key role of lactate in the process of neuronal differentiation from stem cells to specialized neurons and the various milieu of signaling processes that occur. Lactate is an organic acid produced in the body resulting from the daily process of metabolism and exercise. It is produced during the process of anaerobic respiration during periods of increased stress. Lactate serves as a source of energy, aids in creating glucose during the process of gluconeogenesis, and is…

Researchers from the University of Illinois, Chicago identify a novel compound present in fruit flies that could pave the way for the development of new antibiotics. The study published in the scientific journal Nature Chemical Biology identifies the compound drosocin. The compound terminates bacteria by halting the process of translation. NEED FOR NEW ANTIBIOTICS Many bacteria have developed antibiotic resistance, causing deaths in the millions. As these bacteria develop such resistance the antibiotics developed are unable to hinder their growth and kill them. These antibiotic-resistance bacteria are termed as “superbugs”. The main reason for the development of such resistance is…

Recent advancements and studies regarding multiple sclerosis promise better treatment and management options for multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is a long-term autoimmune disease that affects the nerves of the central nervous system resulting in physical and cognitive impairments. BENEFITS OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS A study conducted by Dr. Alvaro Cobo-Calvo at the Multiple Sclerosis Center of Catalonia and the Autonomous University of Barcelona Spain, informed that earlier diagnosis and treatment are capable of lowering the risk of long-term disability associated with MS. In the study, the researchers studied 580 patients who underwent a first demyelinating event (a neurological symptom that can…

Gastrulation is a vital event that occurs during early embryogenesis, wherein a single-layered ball of cells named the blastula transforms to generate the three primordial layers. The three primary layers are the ectoderm, the mesoderm, and the endoderm. The ectoderm is the outermost layer that gives rise to the skin, nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and other external structures like hair and nails. The mesoderm forms the muscles, bones, circulatory system, and reproductive organs. The endoderm generates the lining of various internal organs, such as the digestive tract, respiratory system, and liver. The study of processes such as these…