Scientists uncover brain circuit that overrides chronic pain

October 11, 2025 由 AI 报道

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have identified a group of brainstem neurons that can suppress chronic pain signals when survival needs like hunger or fear arise. These Y1 receptor neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus act as a neural switchboard, prioritizing urgent biological demands over persistent discomfort. The discovery, published in Nature, offers potential new avenues for pain treatments.

Cellular switch discovery offers hope for Parkinson's treatment

Scientists have identified a key cellular regulator called PP2A-B55alpha that balances mitochondrial health, potentially leading to new therapies for Parkinson's disease. In preclinical models, reducing its activity improved motor symptoms and mitochondrial function. The findings, published in Science Advances, could extend to other mitochondrial disorders and cancer.

Scientists discover protein that switches off hunger

October 05, 2025 由 AI 报道

Researchers have identified how a protein called MRAP2 regulates hunger by transporting the brain receptor MC4R to the cell surface, enhancing appetite-suppressing signals. This finding, from a study involving institutions in Germany, Canada, and the UK, could lead to new obesity treatments. The work was published in Nature Communications.

Higher semaglutide dose boosts weight loss in obesity trials

Two phase 3 clinical trials show that a 7.2 mg weekly dose of semaglutide leads to greater weight loss than the approved 2.4 mg dose in adults with obesity, including those with type 2 diabetes. Nearly half of participants on the higher dose lost 20% or more of their body weight over 72 weeks. The results, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, suggest improved metabolic health with a favorable safety profile.