A University of Iowa-led research team has documented in humans that physical exercise sparks an increase in brain waves called ripples connecting areas in the brain linked to learning and memory. The researchers noted that a single exercise session spawns a spike in ripples and learning-memory connections. Results published in the journal Brain Communications.

The NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK), a molecule pivotal for immune system development and function, shows significant yet complex potential as a therapeutic target. The comprehensive review, published by Professor Shao-Cong Sun’s team, systematically details the expanding understanding of NIK. This article summarizes its canonical roles, its newly discovered functions independent of NF-κB, and its pathological contributions to autoimmunity, framing both the opportunities and challenges in targeting this critical immune regulator.