Salk scientists explore long-standing mystery of why iron that builds up in neuronal cells becomes harmful over time in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, finding a new cellular process, named chronoferroptosis, wherein chronic iron dysregulation in neurons makes them more vulnerable to stressors. The study complements other ongoing research at Salk to design compounds that inhibit this pathway, and could be a promising future avenue for creating therapies that boost resilience in aging brains.

A team of UCLA researchers led by Lili Yang has received a $7.49 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to develop a universal CAR-NKT cell immunotherapy for multiple sclerosis. 

A global team led by Flinders University is warning a parasite infecting about one‑third of the world’s population is an overlooked cause of preventable vision loss. The paper calls for toxoplasmosis — spread via undercooked meat, contaminated food or water, and cat faeces — to be recognised by the WHO as a neglected tropical disease. It can cause permanent retinal damage and serious complications in pregnancy, yet remains underfunded and misunderstood. Experts say better food safety, clean water and antenatal care could significantly reduce harm.

The retina of the human eye contains six to seven million cone cells. These cells contain light-sensitive proteins known as cone opsins. They enable us to perceive our surroundings in detail in daylight. In a new study, researchers led by Polina Isaikina from the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI have now, for the first time, determined the three-dimensional molecular structure of human cone opsins in their dark state, that is, before they are activated by light.

In a perspective published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, Colorado State University researchers describe a management approach to prevent the uptake of toxic metals in rice grains to protect human health.

When wounds fail to heal — a common problem in patients with diabetes — the result can be infection, tissue damage and long-term complications. Now, researchers at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) are developing an approach that could improve healing by increasing blood flow directly at the wound site.

The research focuses on delivering hydrogen sulfide, a gas naturally produced in the body, through a device similar to a bandage that applies the gas directly to injured tissue. The device is being developed in collaboration with Exhalix, a company focused on developing diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for vascular health and wound healing. By targeting the wound itself rather than the entire body, the approach aims to improve circulation where it is needed most — a key factor in whether a wound is able to heal.

A new  study, covering 40 years of data and more than 1,000 families reveals that the family-based behavioral treatment developed at UB for children and parents who are overweight or obese can prevent children from developing metabolic disease when they grow up.