Thursday, November 03, 2011

ScienceDaily: Biotechnology News

ScienceDaily: Biotechnology News

Nicotine as a gateway drug: Biological mechanism in mice identified

Posted: 02 Nov 2011 01:12 PM PDT

A landmark study in mice identifies a biological mechanism that could help explain how tobacco products could act as gateway drugs, increasing a person's future likelihood of abusing cocaine and perhaps other drugs as well, according to researchers. The study is the first to show that nicotine might prime the brain to enhance the behavioral effects of cocaine.

Fruit fly intestine may hold secret to fountain of youth: Long-lived fruit flies offer clues to slowing human aging and fighting disease

Posted: 02 Nov 2011 01:11 PM PDT

One of the few reliable ways to extend an organism's lifespan, be it a fruit fly or a mouse, is to restrict calorie intake. Now, a new study in fruit flies is helping to explain why such minimal diets are linked to longevity and offering clues to the effects of aging on stem cell behavior.

Tactic to delay age-related disorders

Posted: 02 Nov 2011 01:10 PM PDT

Researchers have shown that eliminating cells that accumulate with age could prevent or delay the onset of age-related disorders and disabilities. The study, performed in mouse models, provides the first evidence that these "deadbeat" cells could contribute to aging and suggests a way to help people stay healthier as they age.

Newborn period may be crucial time to prevent later diabetes, animal study suggests

Posted: 02 Nov 2011 09:55 AM PDT

Pediatric researchers who tested newborn animals with an existing human drug used in adults with diabetes report that this drug, when given very early in life, prevents diabetes from developing in adult animals. If this finding can be repeated in humans, it may become a way to prevent at-risk infants from developing Type 2 diabetes.
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