Category: News

  • What Are Peptides? A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Buzz

    What Are Peptides? A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Buzz

    If you have been looking through wellness content these days, you have probably seen mentions of peptides come up more than once. Maybe it was a content creator or a celebrity who swears by them for better skin, faster muscle recovery, anti-aging support or weight loss.

    Peptides are not new, even if they seem like the latest wellness trend. Your body naturally makes thousands of peptides every day, and some peptide-based medications have been used in medicine for years. But many newer injectable peptides being marketed lately have limited research, unclear safety information or often exaggerated claims.

    Before you start wondering if you are missing out on something, let’s answer the question lots of people are asking: What are peptides? And more importantly, are they a safe option for you?

    What are peptides?

    Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are small molecules often called the building blocks of protein.

    Proteins help your body:

    • Grow and repair tissues
    • Fight infection
    • Carry out important functions like digestion and muscle movement

    Peptides are similar to proteins but are much smaller, which allows them to act quickly in the body.

    Peptides are a fundamental part of how your body runs, found in many tissues, organs and cells, with a wide range of jobs. Some peptides work like messengers, telling your cells what to do, while others help control or direct certain processes in your body.

    Recently, scientists have learned how to create synthetic versions of these peptides in a lab, and that is where the wellness world has taken notice. Some of these synthetic peptides mimic the ones your body produces naturally, while others are designed to trigger specific responses, like signaling your body to produce more growth hormone or to reduce your appetite.

    What are peptides used for?

    Peptides are used in several areas of medicine, health and wellness. Their purpose depends on the specific type of peptide. You may see peptides marketed for the following uses:

    • Weight loss
    • Blood sugar management
    • Muscle recovery and growth
    • Anti-aging support
    • Skin and hair health
    • Sleep and energy support
    • Sexual wellness
    • Gut health
    • Hormone balance
    • Reducing inflammation

    It’s important to understand that not all these uses have strong scientific evidence behind them. Some peptide treatments are well studied and approved for medical use, while others are experimental or still lacking in long-term safety data.

    What are the different types of peptides?

    There are different types of peptides, and they vary in how they work and how much research supports them.

    Collagen peptides

    Collagen peptides are oral supplements commonly found in powders, drinks and supplements marketed for skin, hair, nails and joint support. Collagen is a protein naturally found in your skin, bones and connective tissues. These peptides are broken into smaller pieces that are easier for the body to absorb. Some studies suggest collagen supplements may help improve skin elasticity and hydration, joint health and bone density, though results can differ from person to person.

    GLP-1 peptides

    GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, are prescription peptides used for blood sugar management and weight loss. These medications work by mimicking a natural hormone that helps regulate your appetite, slowing stomach emptying and improving blood sugar control. These are FDA-approved, heavily studied and manufactured under strict quality control. Because GLP-1s affect important body systems, they should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.

    Injectable peptides

    This category is generating quite a bit of interest right now. These are synthetic peptides, often marketed and sold by online compounding pharmacies or wellness clinics, promoted for a variety of health-related goals like:

    • Muscle growth
    • Fat loss
    • Better sleep
    • Faster injury recovery
    • Anti-aging

    Unlike GLP-1 medications, research on many of these injectable peptides is limited without clear information about quality, purity or long-term safety.

    What is the difference between peptides and GLP-1s?

    One reason peptides can feel confusing is that GLP-1 medications are peptides too. GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, which is a hormone your body naturally releases after eating. It helps regulate blood sugar, slows digestion and helps you feel full longer. Medications that mimic this hormone are commonly prescribed for Type 2 diabetes and weight management.

    GLP-1s are one type of peptide within a much larger category of peptides that all work differently in the body. Because GLP-1s for weight loss have become more widely discussed, some people assume all peptides work the same way or offer similar benefits for weight loss. That is not always the case.

    GLP-1 medications have been studied extensively in large clinical trials and have strong evidence supporting their use for certain people. Other injectable peptides marketed online for weight loss may not have the same level of research, regulation or safety oversight. Some products can make broad claims without strong scientific evidence behind them.

    Weight management is also highly personal. A peptide treatment that may help you may not be appropriate for someone else. Your health history, medications, lifestyle and weight loss goals all play a role in deciding whether a peptide-based treatment makes sense for you.

    Are peptides safe?

    The answer to this important question depends on the peptide, how it is sourced, how it is administered and your individual health picture.

    One challenge is that the word “peptide” can make very different products sound similar. A collagen powder, a prescription GLP-1 medication and an injectable peptide sold through a wellness website may all fall under the peptide category, even though they carry very different levels of evidence and oversight.

    Collagen peptides taken orally are considered safe for most people. GLP-1 medications have some known side effects, like nausea and digestive changes, but they have been thoroughly studied and their risk profiles are well understood.

    The injectable peptides marketed through wellness channels can be a different conversation. Even when a product is promoted as “natural” or “wellness-focused,” that does not automatically mean it is safe for everyone. Several factors make these peptides harder to evaluate from a safety standpoint:

    • Purity and potency: Without regulatory oversight, there is no guarantee that what is on the label matches what is in the vial.
    • Limited long-term data: Most human studies on these peptides are small, short-term or focused on specific populations like athletes or people with injuries. Long-term effects are still largely unknown.
    • Self-administration risks: Injecting anything without medical supervision carries risks ranging from infection to dosing errors.
    • Interactions with other medications or conditions: Since many of these newer peptides have not been studied broadly, how they interact with your specific health history is not yet fully understood.

    This doesn’t mean every wellness peptide is harmful. Some do have preliminary research suggesting potential benefits for gut health and injury recovery. But “preliminary” is the key word here.

    Questions to ask before trying peptides

    When wellness trends move quickly online, it can be hard to separate marketing from science. Some peptide products are promoted with dramatic before-and-after photos or broad promises about reversing aging, melting fat or boosting performance.

    It can also help to remember that more expensive does not always mean more effective. Some peptide products marketed through wellness spaces can cost hundreds of dollars per month without strong evidence to support their use.

    Before trying any peptide product, pause and ask yourself the following questions. They can help you sort through hype versus evidence.

    • Has this peptide been studied in humans?
    • Is it approved for medical use?
    • Who is selling it?
    • Are the claims realistic?
    • Is there medical supervision involved?
    • Could it interact with medications or health conditions you already have?

    Talk to your healthcare provider about peptides

    If you are curious about peptides and seriously considering trying them, a conversation with your doctor is always a smart first step. This is especially true if any of the following apply to you:

    • You are managing a chronic condition or taking prescription medications.
    • You are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive.
    • You have a history of hormone-sensitive conditions.
    • You are considering injecting anything without the guidance of a licensed provider.
    • You are unsure whether what you are buying is legitimate, pharmaceutical-grade or compounded appropriately.

    Your doctor can help you separate what has real evidence behind it from what is marketing and guide you toward options that are appropriate for where you are in your health and wellness journey right now.

    Are peptides the right choice for you?

    Peptides are not a trend, and as interest in peptides continues to grow, staying curious and informed can help you make decisions that fit your health goals and comfort level. Some peptides, like GLP-1 medications and collagen supplements, have solid evidence and clear regulatory standing. Others, like many of the injectable peptides circulating in wellness communities, are still being studied and marketed ahead of the science and findings.

    Before trying a new peptide product, take the time to ask the right questions, understand what the evidence really says and talk to your doctor

  • Moving Toward Better Tests and Treatments for Lyme Disease

    Moving Toward Better Tests and Treatments for Lyme Disease

    Lyme disease can be easiest to treat in its earliest stages, but current tests often miss infections during that critical window and cannot tell whether bacteria are still present or were cleared years ago. New research led by Tufts University School of Medicine suggests that a group of immune molecules called anti-lipid antibodies may address these shortcomings. 

    The findings, published in the American Society for Microbiology journal Infection and Immunity, could lead to improved tests that identify Lyme disease earlier, when antibiotics can best prevent more debilitating disease. They also may help clinicians better identify patients who continue to experience symptoms of infection after treatment—and potentially find new drug targets to help them. 

    Nearly half a million Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year. Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and spread through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks), the disease can lead to arthritis, neurological problems, and heart complications if untreated. While most patients recover after treatment, an estimated 10% to 20% continue to experience symptoms such as fatigue, pain, or cognitive difficulties, a condition known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome. 

    Current Lyme disease tests look for antibodies produced by the immune system in response to Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. “The problem is that these antibodies don’t have the right characteristics to be clinically useful,” said Peter Gwynne, the study’s senior author and a research assistant professor at Tufts University School of Medicine. “That’s because those antibodies can take weeks to appear and often remain detectable years after the bacteria are gone.” 

    Previous work by Gwynne, who is part of Tufts University Lyme Disease Initiative, and collaborators showed that Lyme disease bacteria trigger antibodies against certain lipids, or fats, that the bacteria borrow from their human hosts. Unlike antibodies used in current Lyme disease tests, these anti-lipid antibodies appear early in infection and decline after successful treatment. 

    Building on those earlier findings, the researchers analyzed blood samples from 199 people diagnosed with Lyme disease, including some whose symptoms persisted for months to years after treatment. They tracked anti-lipid antibody levels over time and compared them with samples from healthy volunteers and people with conditions that can resemble post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, including lupus, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, long COVID, and chronic fatigue syndrome. 

    Multiple analyses identified three anti-lipid antibodies that were present at higher levels during Lyme disease infection. Two of these antibodies—anti-phosphatidic acid (αPA) and anti-phosphatidylserine (αPS)—were elevated at diagnosis, even in some patients who had not yet tested positive on standard Lyme disease tests, suggesting they could help identify infections earlier. Patients with persistent symptoms after treatment were also more likely to have elevated αPS levels months later. 

    According to the researchers, the data suggest that a temporary elevation in these anti-lipid antibodies may indicate a new Lyme disease infection, while persistent elevation of αPS is associated with ongoing symptoms in some patients. 

    The new study also showed that elevated αPS levels were common among many patients with persistent Lyme disease symptoms but largely absent in people with other autoimmune and chronic illnesses that can resemble post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome. 

    The researchers emphasize that the findings do not yet support a new clinical test. Larger studies are needed to determine how accurately the markers identify infection and predict long-term symptoms.  

    To help answer those questions, Gwynne and co-author Linden Hu, the Paul and Elaine Chervinsky Professor of Immunology at Tufts University School of Medicine, are turning to a large multi-institution study led by Tufts that follows patients for up to 15 months after a Lyme disease diagnosis. Using samples gathered from this trial, the team plans to evaluate whether anti-lipid antibodies can reliably identify early infections and distinguish patients who go on to develop prolonged symptoms. 

    Although the comparison groups were relatively small for the newly published research, Gwynne said the findings suggest that a different kind of immune system dysfunction may be driving persistent symptoms in Lyme disease. “If confirmed by further studies like the clinical trial, those differences could point researchers toward new therapies for people experiencing long-lasting symptoms despite being treated for Lyme disease,” he said. 

    Citation: Muskan Shrestha, a PhD student in molecular microbiology at Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, is first author on the study. Research reported in this article was supported by the U.S. Department of Defense under award number HT9425-23-1-0526, the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases under award numbers R01AI178725 and P01AI181934, and the Bay Area Lyme Foundation. Complete information on authors, funders, methodology, limitations, and conflicts of interest is available in the published paper. 

    Disclaimer: The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of their funders.

  • Fat and Fiction

    Fat and Fiction

    Fat. Viewed over the years as both hero and villain, fat has been the subject of dietary debate since physiologist Ancel Keys presented a hypothesis linking saturated fats and heart disease at a 1955 meeting of the World Health Organization.

    Revised Dietary Guidelines for Americans issued late last year by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture and updated Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health published by the American Heart Association (AHA) in March 2026 have only added sizzle to the discussion.

    The facts around fat can seem bewildering—but Tufts experts are helping make sense of them. Diane McKay, assistant professor at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, helps sort out six common assertions.

    First, what are fats and how do they work?

    Fats (technically called lipids), along with proteins and carbohydrates, constitute one of three macronutrients required for our bodies’ most basic functions, like energy, growth and tissue repair. Fats yield more than twice as many calories per gram as carbs or protein, so fatty foods are favorites with human and non-human animals, who instinctively seek energy-rich foods.

    Ninety-five percent of the fats in our bodies and in our food are triglycerides, so-called because they’re composed of a molecule called glycerol attached to three fatty acids—basically chains of carbon atoms bonded to one another and to varying numbers of hydrogen atoms as well. The structure of the fatty acids determines if the fat is categorized as saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated.

    If a fatty acid’s carbon atoms are fully bonded with hydrogen, it’s considered saturated. Saturated fatty acid chains are straight. As a result, they readily align to form rigid structures that, for example, contribute to healthy cell membranes. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature—think of butter or the marbling in a steak.

    If one or more carbon atoms in a chain are not fully bonded with hydrogen, that fatty acid is considered monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Unsaturated fatty acid chains are kinked, making them more fluid than their saturated counterparts. Liquid oils at room temperature, unsaturated fats are found in fish and seafood and plants like nuts, avocados and seeds.

    Most fats actually contain a combination of different fatty acids, with one predominating, and good health requires a balance of fatty acids.

    Common belief #1: Saturated fat is always an unhealthy nutrient, for everyone.

    Not exactly, said McKay. Everyone’s body includes some saturated fat, and saturated fats play an important role in cell membrane structure and hormone production. However, our bodies can synthesize such fats so we don’t have to get them from food. The two essential fats that we must consume through diet because our bodies can’t produce them are the polyunsaturated fats alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid.

    But problems arise when we consume more saturated fat than our body needs. Excess saturated fat reduces the body’s ability to remove low density lipids (LDL) from the blood, which can lead to atherosclerosis (clogged arteries). In contrast, when substituted for saturated fatty acids in the diet, both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats have similar effects on lowering total and LDL cholesterol in our blood.

    And, although dietary fat doesn’t appear to initiate cancers, said McKay, it can promote development once cancer has started; prostate cancer, for example, appears to be correlated with dietary fat intake, particularly from animal-based foods. Some research also links excess saturated fat with increased inflammation, which can be an early step in cardiovascular disease processes.

    At the same time, evidence is emerging that saturated fat from certain dairy and fermented foods—such as aged cheeses, yogurt, and kefir—may be neutral or even beneficial when it comes to health, possibly due to beneficial compounds created during fermentation and aging.

    The latest AHA dietary guidelines note that there is some evidence that certain saturated fats may reduce cardiovascular disease mortality, but concludes that evidence for benefits of saturated fats is still limited across the board.

    “Most qualified experts and research scientists would agree that consuming a higher proportion of unsaturated fats from varied sources, including plants, oils, and seafood, is more compatible with positive health outcomes when compared with excessive consumption of saturated fats,” said McKay.

    A good guideline is limiting saturated fats to 6 to 10% of your daily calories and total fats to 20 to 35%.

    Belief #2: Full-fat dairy can be good, particularly for kids.

    Yes. Although it’s difficult for children under a year old to digest protein in cow’s milk, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends full-fat (whole) dairy for children between one and two years of age. “That’s the critical stage when kids need lots of energy for rapid growth and neurological development,” said McKay.

    In addition to calories, full-fat dairy products are a good source of nutrients that are particularly important during this growth period, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin, and vitamins A, D, and B12. McKay noted that although there are a lot of high-fat foods available, not many are also a significant source of the nutrients essential to building healthy bones and supporting the development of other vital organs and systems.

    After age two, children can transition to reduced or non-fat dairy depending on their energy needs and family history of obesity or heart disease. While removal of fat from dairy decreases its fat-soluble vitamins, in the U.S. vitamins A and D are typically added back to milk during processing. The comparative benefits of full-fat, reduced-fat, low-fat and fat-free dairy for older children and adults continue to be studied—and debated.

    Belief #3: Red meat can have a place in a healthy diet.

    Yes, in moderation. While red meat is higher in saturated fat than poultry or fish, McKay pointed out that red meat is also a great source of readily bioavailable iron and zinc. “Nothing says you have to eliminate every single bit of saturated fat from your diet,” she said. But those who choose to eat red meat should limit portion size and frequency—no more than three portions per week (each 4 to 6 ounces when cooked)—and choose lean cuts of meat.

    Belief #4: “Natural foods”—including red meat and butter—are always better than “ultra-processed” foods.

    Just because it’s natural doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for you, said McKay. Poisonous mushrooms, for example, are natural but they’re not preferable to canned. There’s not yet a standardized definition of “ultra-processed.” Minimal processing such as canning, pasteurizing, freezing, or cooking can make food safer and fresh for longer, but consumers should moderate their intake of meats, including seafood, that have been smoked, cured, or salted, or that contain ingredients added to enhance flavor or appearance. When it comes to butter, McKay suggested substituting olive oil or another unsaturated vegetable oil for cooking and adding butter (if you choose) via a small pat either in the pan or on the food itself.

    Belief #5: No more than 10 percent of our daily calories should come from saturated fat.

    The 10 percent guideline for saturated fat is a well-established number, said McKay. It continues to be the recommendation of the most recent national dietary guidelines as well those of the AHA. Overall, fats should make up no more than 35 percent of our calories. More research is needed before revising these numbers.

    Belief #6: Animal fats can be just as healthy as plant fats.

    It all depends on the animals and the plants, said McKay. The fatty acid profile of fish—containing less saturated fat than beef and rich in polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids—is healthier than the oils from tropical plants such as coconuts and palms, which are very high in saturated fats. Plus, fats aren’t the only factor in the healthfulness of a food. Case in point: along with healthy fats, plants usually provide more fiber than animal foods; examples include avocados, nuts, and whole olives.

    McKay added that we’re moving into an age of precision and personalized nutrition that explores varied individual responses to different foods and nutrients. “We’ve already seen these variations in response to carbohydrate-rich foods and that may turn out to be true of fats as well,” she said.

    Meanwhile, moderation—neither overindulging in one nutrient or food group, nor trying to cut one out entirely—continues to be the foundation of a sensible approach to fats and overall dietary health.

  • Affron® Saffron to Help Improve Mood, Self-Esteem in Adult Women

    Affron® Saffron to Help Improve Mood, Self-Esteem in Adult Women

    Results of a new clinical study indicate that Affron®, the natural saffron extract developed by nutraceutical leaders Pharmactive Biotech Products, SLU, demonstrated positive effects on mood, sleep, and self-esteem in menopausal and post-menopausal women. Several previous clinical trials illustrated Affron® saffron’s positive impact on mood and sleep quality. However, this is the first study to observe a combined positive effect on these often-intertwined burdens that are prevalent in women who are going through or have recently gone through menopause.

    Key Takeaways

    • New clinical trial demonstrates Affron® supports mood, sleep quality, and self-esteem in menopausal and post-menopausal women.
    • Nearly half of the women taking Affron® met the study’s responder criteria for improvements in scores on the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale – Depression Subscale (DASS-D), almost double the proportion observed with placebo.
    • Affron® is a clinically backed, clean-label saffron extract supported by 12 human studies.

    Published in the June 2026 issue of Frontiers in Nutrition, this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial led by Adrian Lopresti, PhD enrolled 86 women aged 50–70 years experiencing low mood and poor sleep. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 28 mg of Affron® saffron daily or an identical looking placebo. They completed a series of validated self-report questionnaires before, during, and after the program to evaluate changes in mood, sleep, self-esteem, and physical appearance.

    Nearly twice as many women responded to Affron® compared with placebo

    Following 12 weeks of supplementation, nearly half of the women taking Affron® met the study’s responder criteria for improvements in scores on the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale – Depression Subscale (DASS-D). This was almost double the proportion of responders observed in the placebo group (25.6%), with improvements beginning to appear after only four weeks. The Affron® group also experienced a 50.7% reduction in low mood scores overall, compared with 31.9% in the placebo group.

    Beyond mood

    Beyond the primary mood outcomes, the study also explored whether Affron® supplementation could influence areas closely connected to emotional well-being, including self-esteem, sleep, and perceived appearance. Self-esteem was assessed using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, with women taking Affron® showing a 10% improvement compared with 4.8% in the placebo group. As an exploratory outcome, this finding offers an interesting new perspective on the potential broader impact of Affron® supplementation on how women feel about themselves.

    This improvement appeared to be more closely aligned with changes in mood and daily well-being than with changes in physical appearance. Sleep-related outcomes were also assessed using the PROMIS Sleep Disturbance and Sleep-Related Impairment scales.

    “For this study, we focused on menopausal and post-menopausal women, as this is a period associated with increased vulnerability to mood disturbances, impaired sleep, and accelerated facial ageing,” informs Adal Mena, R&D Scientist and Product Specialist for Affron “This is the first clinical trial showing that Affron® can positively impact three closely connected aspects of well-being: mood, self-esteem, and the daily impact of poor sleep. The findings reinforce the need for holistic approaches to emotional well-being, and in addition positions Affron® at the intersection of emotional well-being, healthy aging, and beauty-from-within solutions.”

    Potential mechanisms underlying the observed effects

    Affron® is a highly concentrated saffron extract, standardized to ≥3.5% Lepticrosalides®, a unique complex of safranal and crocins that supports mood, occasional stress, sleep quality, and emotional balance at a low dose. Its positive influence on mood and sleep quality has been demonstrated in 12 clinical trials, across a broad population, including teenagers. This is the second clinical trial assessing the impact of Affron® on menopausal and post-menopausal women.

    Previous research has linked increased inflammation with lower self-esteem scores in people with obesity and metabolic syndrome. As menopause is also associated with inflammatory and metabolic changes, this could provide a relevant biological context for the self-esteem challenges experienced by some women during this life stage. In this context, the broader emotional well-being benefits observed with Affron® could be partly explained by saffron’s complementary mechanisms of action.

    It is suggested that saffron might help influence self-esteem through its documented anti-inflammatory activity, having shown abilities to reduce inflammatory markers. Saffron also has been shown to support neurotransmitter balance by helping modulate serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine activity. It increases production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a regulator of emotional adaptability, and protects brain cells from oxidative stress thanks to its potent antioxidant capabilities.

    “Low mood and poor sleep often go hand in hand, and can negatively impact self-esteem, perceived appearance, skin quality, and overall well-being while also contributing to signs of skin aging,” says Carlos Rodríguez, Communication Manager at Pharmactive Biotech Products. “The findings of this study suggest Affron® could support self-esteem through both psychological and physiological pathways. Psychologically, there is a direct link between how we feel and how we perceive ourselves. By effectively reducing low mood and enhancing emotional balance, Affron® might help women feel more confident and positive. On a physical level Affron® may balance key neurotransmitters and lower stress related cortisol levels.”

    As Pharmactive’s flagship composition, Affron® is a clean-label saffron extract that boasts rapid one-hour absorption and is well-tolerated with no reported significant adverse effects. The proprietary saffron extract has been integrated into a complete range of supplement and food formats, including gummies and chewable formats.

  • This Common Vitamin Deficiency can Mimic Normal Aging

    This Common Vitamin Deficiency can Mimic Normal Aging

    Two micrograms is an almost unimaginably small amount. It weighs less than a tiny fragment of a grain of table salt. Yet adults need only around this amount of vitamin B12 each day, depending on the guideline used, to support red blood cells, nerves and DNA production.

    In 2026, it is 100 years since George Minot and William Murphy reported that a liver-rich diet could treat pernicious anemia, then a frequently fatal disease. Their work transformed medicine and eventually led scientists to identify vitamin B12 as the substance in liver that treated the disease.

    But the route to that breakthrough began with an unexpected clue from animal experiments. The American physician and pathologist George Whipple had shown that liver helped dogs recover from anemia caused by blood loss. Blood-loss anemia happens when the body loses red blood cells through bleeding. Pernicious anemia is different: the problem is not bleeding, but poor absorption of vitamin B12. Even so, Whipple’s experiments pointed researchers towards liver as a source of a powerful blood-forming factor.

    Patients with pernicious anemia who had been close to death often improved dramatically within weeks of eating liver-rich diets. The success of liver treatment eventually led scientists to isolate the deep red compound now known as vitamin B12, or cobalamin.

    Often mistaken

    Despite decades of research, vitamin B12 deficiency remains common, particularly among older adults, vegans, vegetarians and people with conditions that affect absorption. Some people do not consume enough B12 because it is naturally found mainly in foods from animals, including meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Others struggle to absorb it properly.

    This becomes more common with age. Some older people produce less stomach acid, which is needed to release B12 from food. Others develop autoimmune gastritis, in which the immune system damages stomach cells involved in producing acid and intrinsic factor, the protein needed for vitamin B12 absorption. Weight-loss surgery and some medicines used for diabetes or acid reflux can also reduce absorption.

    The symptoms of deficiency can develop slowly and are often mistaken for normal ageing. People may feel exhausted, weak or short of breath. Some develop numbness or tingling in their hands and feet, poor balance, memory problems or what many describe as “brain fog”. These symptoms are not specific to B12 deficiency, so persistent tiredness, tingling or balance problems should be checked rather than assumed to be a simple vitamin problem.

    People at higher risk, including vegans, vegetarians, older adults and those taking medicines that affect stomach acid or diabetes treatment, may need testing or supplementation advice from a health professional.

    Doctors have traditionally linked tiredness in B12 deficiency to anemia. Without enough vitamin B12, the bone marrow cannot produce healthy red blood cells. Instead, it releases unusually large and immature cells that carry oxygen less effectively around the body.

    But anemia may not be the only reason people with low B12 feel exhausted.

    Low energy

    In humans, vitamin B12 is directly needed by only two enzymes, the proteins that help chemical reactions happen in the body. One helps the body make DNA, which cells need when they divide. The other helps mitochondria process certain fats and protein building blocks. Mitochondria are the tiny structures inside cells that help turn food into usable energy.

    This mitochondrial role has attracted growing interest from researchers studying ageing, muscle function and vitamin B12 status. A 2026 study explored what happens when cells do not have enough B12. Researchers found that low B12 could interfere with the DNA inside mitochondria and reduce energy production in laboratory models of skeletal muscle (muscle cells studied outside the human body).

    A related study in aged female mice found that B12 supplementation improved several signs of mitochondrial health in muscle, including the number and structure of mitochondria. Together, this work points to one possible reason why some people with low B12 report fatigue before obvious anemia is detected.

    These findings do not mean vitamin B12 supplements can reverse ageing or act as an energy booster for people whose B12 levels are already normal.

    Scientists have suspected a link between B12 and mitochondrial function for many years, because one of the two B12-dependent enzymes works inside mitochondria. Earlier research has also suggested that low B12 status may be linked with poorer muscle function in older adults, although much of this work is observational and cannot prove cause and effect.

    So if you’re feeling persistently tired, is it worth paying for vitamin B12 injections at a wellness clinic or medispa? For most people, no. B12 injections are an established treatment for diagnosed deficiency, particularly when absorption is impaired, and the NHS uses hydroxocobalamin injections for vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

    But there is little evidence that B12 shots boost energy, weight loss or performance in people whose B12 levels are already normal. The more useful first step is to find out what is causing the tiredness.

    The story of vitamin B12 is unusual because the body needs so little of it, yet the consequences of deficiency can be profound. Long before scientists understood its chemistry, doctors recognized that something in liver could restore strength, appetite and vitality to desperately ill patients.

    A century later, researchers are still finding that this tiny cobalt-containing molecule does more than prevent anemia. It may also help explain how cells maintain energy and function as the body ages.The Conversation

    Story Source: The Conversation.

  • Scientists discover what triggers belly fat as we age

    Scientists discover what triggers belly fat as we age

    Many people notice a familiar change as they get older: the waistline gradually expands, even when overall body weight does not change dramatically. This increase in abdominal fat is more than a cosmetic concern. Excess belly fat has been linked to slower metabolism, accelerated aging, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health problems.

    Scientists have long known that body composition changes with age, but exactly why fat tends to accumulate around the midsection has remained unclear.

    Now, researchers at City of Hope have identified what may be a key biological driver of age-related belly fat. Their findings, published in the journal Science, point to a newly identified type of stem cell that appears during aging and may help fuel the production of new fat cells. The discovery could eventually lead to new strategies for reducing abdominal fat and promoting healthier aging.

    “People often lose muscle and gain body fat as they age — even when their body weight remains the same,” said Qiong (Annabel) Wang, Ph.D., the study’s co-corresponding author and an associate professor of molecular and cellular endocrinology at City of Hope’s Arthur Riggs Diabetes & Metabolism Research Institute, a leading center for diabetes research. “We discovered aging triggers the arrival of a new type of adult stem cell and enhances the body’s massive production of new fat cells, especially around the belly.”

    Looking Beyond Enlarged Fat Cells

    The research team worked with scientists at UCLA and conducted a series of experiments in mice that were later supported by studies of human cells.

    Their investigation focused on white adipose tissue (WAT), the body’s primary fat-storage tissue. White adipose tissue is responsible for storing excess energy and is a major contributor to weight gain and belly fat accumulation.

    Scientists have long known that existing fat cells can become larger as people age. However, the researchers suspected that another process might also be contributing to expanding waistlines: the creation of entirely new fat cells.

    If true, that would mean aging fat tissue could continue growing not just by enlarging existing cells, but by constantly adding new ones.

    To test this idea, the team studied adipocyte progenitor cells (APCs), a type of stem cell found within fat tissue. These cells serve as precursors that can mature into fully developed fat cells.

    Older Stem Cells Produced Far More Fat

    The researchers transplanted APCs from both young and older mice into a separate group of young mice.

    The results were striking. APCs taken from older animals generated large numbers of new fat cells.

    The opposite experiment produced a very different outcome. When APCs from young mice were transplanted into older mice, they generated relatively few new fat cells.

    This suggested that the ability to aggressively produce fat was built into the older APCs themselves and did not depend on the age of the animal receiving them.

    To understand what was happening at a molecular level, the researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing, a technique that allows scientists to examine gene activity in individual cells.

    The analysis revealed that APCs were relatively quiet in young mice. In middle-aged mice, however, these cells became highly active and began producing large numbers of new fat cells.

    “While most adult stem cells’ capacity to grow wanes with age, the opposite holds true with APCs — aging unlocks these cells’ power to evolve and spread,” said Adolfo Garcia-Ocana, Ph.D., the Ruth B. & Robert K. Lanman Endowed Chair in Gene Regulation & Drug Discovery Research and chair of the Department of Molecular & Cellular Endocrinology at City of Hope. “This is the first evidence that our bellies expand with age due to the APCs’ high output of new fat cells.”

    Discovery of a New Age-Related Stem Cell

    The scientists found that aging did more than simply activate APCs.

    As mice reached middle age, some APCs transformed into a newly identified stem cell population called committed preadipocytes, age-specific (CP-As).

    These cells appeared specifically during aging and proved especially effective at producing new fat cells. Their emergence may help explain why older mice gained more fat as they aged.

    The researchers then searched for the biological signals controlling this process.

    They identified an important signaling pathway known as leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR). Signaling pathways are communication systems that allow cells to receive instructions and coordinate their behavior. In this case, LIFR appeared to play a major role in helping CP-A cells multiply and develop into fat cells.

    “We discovered that the body’s fat-making process is driven by LIFR. While young mice don’t require this signal to make fat, older mice do,” explained Wang. “Our research indicates that LIFR plays a crucial role in triggering CP-As to create new fat cells and expand belly fat in older mice.”

    Similar Fat-Producing Cells Found in Humans

    To determine whether the findings might apply beyond mice, the team analyzed human tissue samples from people of different ages using the same single-cell RNA sequencing approach.

    The researchers identified cells that closely resembled the newly discovered CP-As. These cells were found in greater numbers in tissue from middle-aged individuals.

    The human CP-As also showed a strong ability to generate new fat cells, suggesting that a similar biological process may occur in people.

    “Our findings highlight the importance of controlling new fat-cell formation to address age-related obesity,” said Wang. “Understanding the role of CP-As in metabolic disorders and how these cells emerge during aging could lead to new medical solutions for reducing belly fat and improving health and longevity.”

    A Potential New Target for Age-Related Obesity

    Although more research is needed, the discovery provides scientists with a promising new target for future therapies.

    Researchers now plan to track CP-A cells in animal studies, investigate how these cells behave in humans, and explore ways to block or eliminate them. If successful, such approaches could potentially help prevent the accumulation of belly fat that commonly accompanies aging.

    The study’s first authors were City of Hope researcher Guan Wang, Ph.D., and UCLA researcher Gaoyan Li, Ph.D.

    Story Source: City of Hope.

  • Nitric oxide nanosensor offers autism diagnostic hope

    Nitric oxide nanosensor offers autism diagnostic hope

    A study published in NeuroMarkers showed that a nanosensor can measure nitric oxide (NO) from patient-derived stem cells to distinguish autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from intellectual disability (ID), even when both conditions share the exact same genetic mutation.

    The researchers, from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ohio University, used a carbon-fiber nanosensor, originally developed to study cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s disease to measure real-time NO production in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The method bypasses the blood-brain barrier, which often makes blood-based biomarkers unreliable for brain conditions.

    “ASD patient cells produced about 6 nM of NO, ID patient cells produced 11 nM, and healthy control cells produced 65 nM, a clear, quantifiable difference,” shares co-author Howard D. Dewald. “This is significant because ASD and ID often have overlapping symptoms and shared genetic causes, making early differential diagnosis difficult.”

    “Despite overlapping etiologies and symptomatic similarities between autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, real-time bio-electrochemical analysis of newly generated nitric oxide can still serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of autism,” adds co-author Abdullah Asif Khan.

    The duo chose iPSCs because they reflect the earliest developmental stage, eliminating confounding factors like age, nutrition, or drug treatments. “Surprisingly, the method did not require differentiating cells into neurons—measurements were made on undifferentiated iPSCs, simplifying the workflow,” notes Dewald.

    Currently, ASD diagnosis relies on behavioral evaluations, which often delay identification. “This nanosensor-based approach could enable diagnosis in the first few months after birth using somatic cells,” says Khan.

    While the study is limited by sample availability, it opens a new path for precision diagnostics in neurodevelopmental disorders.

    ###

    Contact the author: Howard D. Dewald, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA, [email protected]

  • New Proof-of-Concept Study Explores Acute Cognitive Benefits of Cognizin®

    New Proof-of-Concept Study Explores Acute Cognitive Benefits of Cognizin®

    Kyowa Hakko USA, a global leader in health ingredients innovation, will present new proof-of-concept research on Cognizin® Citicoline at the upcoming International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) Annual Conference. The study, which explored the acute, single-dose effects of Cognizin on brain wave activity and cognitive performance in healthy adults, adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the branded ingredient’s role in cognitive health formulations.

    Cognizin is among the most clinically validated ingredients in the cognitive health space, with decades of research demonstrating its ability to support focus, mental energy, attention, and memory. While its benefits following extended supplementation are well established, this new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study investigated whether meaningful changes in cognitive function and neuroelectric activity could be observed following just a single dose.

    The study assessed the effects of a 500 mg dose of Cognizin versus placebo in healthy male adults, measuring outcomes across electroencephalogram (EEG) brain wave analysis, validated cognitive performance tasks, and subjective mood and affect assessments. Participants were evaluated at 60 and 240 minutes post-ingestion, providing insight into both the onset and duration of potential cognitive effects.

    “This study is an exciting step forward for the Cognizin research portfolio,” said Katie Emerson, PhD(c), RD, CISSN, senior manager of scientific affairs, Kyowa Hakko USA. “By exploring the acute effects of a single dose, we’re gaining new insight into how quickly Cognizin® may begin to support brain function — which has meaningful implications for product development across cognitive health, sports nutrition, and functional food and beverage applications.”

    Complete study findings, including a deep dive into the study methodology, neurophysiological findings, and what the data means for the future of cognitive health ingredient science, will be revealed at the 2026 ISSN Annual Conference in a 30-minute oral presentation titled “Fueling Focus: Acute Cognizin® Effects on Brain Activity and Cognitive Performance.” The session will be presented by Emerson and Tim N. Ziegenfuss, PhD, CSCS, FISSN, CEO of The Center for Applied Health Sciences and Past President of ISSN.

    For formulators and brand owners evaluating ingredient options in the cognitive health category, this research underscores Kyowa Hakko’s continued investment in rigorous clinical science — an important differentiator in an increasingly crowded cognitive health market. More information about Cognizin is available at Cognizin.com and Kyowa-USA.com.

    About Kyowa Hakko USA (Kyowa)
    Kyowa Hakko USA serves as the North and South American headquarters for Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., a global pioneer in specialty ingredients within Kirin Holdings’ Health Science group. Building on over 75 years of fermentation innovation and Kirin’s 100+ year legacy of fermentation excellence, Kyowa delivers premium, science-backed branded ingredients to the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, functional food, beverage, and wellness industries. The portfolio features branded solutions like Cognizin® Citicoline, Setria® Glutathione, Pantesin® Pantethine, and EYEMUSE® Lacticaseibacillus paracasei KW3110. Committed to quality, sustainability, and creating shared value, Kyowa empowers partners to create transformative health solutions, advancing Kirin’s vision of improving health and well-being. For more information, visit Kyowa-USA.com.

    About Cognizin® Citicoline
    Cognizin® Citicoline, developed by Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., is a clinically patented form of citicoline with over 35 years of research, development, and application experience. Backed by Kyowa’s 75-year legacy of biotech innovation and Kirin Holdings’ century-long fermentation expertise, Cognizin® is produced through state-of-the-art fermentation technology, ensuring superior purity and quality. Clinically tested to support mental energy, focus, attention, and memory, this premium functional ingredient is GRAS, pure, allergen-free, and highly stable. Trusted by global partners in the nutraceutical and wellness sectors, Cognizin® advances Kirin’s Health Science mission to enhance quality of life through cognitive health solutions. For more information, visit Cognizin.com.

    SOURCE Kyowa Hakko U.S.A

  • Can Probiotics Help Treat Depression?

    Can Probiotics Help Treat Depression?

    In a pilot clinical trial published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society that included older adults with depression receiving standard care, adding probiotic therapy produced modest but meaningful reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with adding a placebo. However, both groups demonstrated substantial overall improvements during follow-up.

    For the trial, 58 participants in India aged ≥60 years with moderate depression were randomized 1:1 to receive daily probiotics or a placebo for 12 weeks, alongside standard antidepressant care. They were followed up for another 12 weeks.

    Based on validated psychological scores, biomarker (serum brain-derived neurotropic factor level), and fecal microbiota profiling, investigators found that probiotics helped improve patients’ symptoms but did not confer clear additional gains in quality of life compared with placebo.  The findings support probiotics as a safe, biologically plausible adjunct to standard care, but larger trials are needed.

    “The results of our study are novel, and we are now planning a follow-up, larger-scale clinical trial due to the encouraging findings,” said co-corresponding author Dr. Saibal Das, MBBS, MD, DM, PhD, of the Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections, Kolkata. “My vision is to develop affordable healthcare solutions and make them available to the larger population for meaningful public health impact,” added co–corresponding author Abhinaba Ghosh, MBBS, MSc, PhD, a physician-neuroscientist from Tata Medical Center, Kolkata.

    URL upon publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jgs.70530

     

    Additional Information
    NOTE:     The information contained in this release is protected by copyright. Please include journal attribution in all coverage. For more information or to obtain a PDF of any study, please contact: Sara Henning-Stout, [email protected].

    About the Journal
    Journal of the American Geriatrics Society is the go-to journal for clinical aging research. We provide a diverse, interprofessional community of healthcare professionals with the latest insights on geriatrics education, clinical practice, and public policy — all supporting the high-quality, person-centered care essential to our well-being as we age.

  • Cannabis Compound Relieves Pain Without the High

    Cannabis Compound Relieves Pain Without the High

    Researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences have identified compounds from the Cannabis sativa plant that may offer a new way to treat fibromyalgia and post-surgical pain. The findings, published in Pharmacological Reports, add to growing evidence that certain cannabis-derived molecules could help relieve chronic pain without causing the psychoactive effects associated with THC.

    The study builds on earlier work from the lab of John Streicher, PhD, a member of the Comprehensive Center for Pain & Addiction, which found that terpenes could reduce pain in models of inflammation and chemotherapy-related nerve damage.

    “Our research is showing that terpenes are not a good option for reducing acute pain resulting from an injury, such as stubbing your toe or touching a hot stove; however, we are seeing significant reductions in pain when terpenes are used for chronic or pathological pain,” said Streicher, who is a professor in the U of A College of Medicine — Tucson’s Department of Pharmacology. “This study was the first to investigate the impact of terpenes in preclinical models of fibromyalgia and post-operative pain and expand the scope of potential pain-relieving treatments using terpenes.”

    Cannabis Terpenes Show Strong Pain Relief

    Terpenes are natural compounds responsible for the scent and flavor of many plants. In cannabis, they contribute to the plant’s distinctive aroma and may also have medicinal properties.

    Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, terpenes do not produce the unwanted psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis. That makes them an appealing area of research for scientists searching for new pain treatments.

    For this study, researchers examined four terpenes commonly found in Cannabis sativa: geraniol, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha-humulene.

    In mouse models of fibromyalgia and post-operative pain, all four compounds produced substantial pain-relieving effects. Geraniol delivered the strongest results, followed by linalool, beta-caryophyllene, and alpha-humulene.

    New Hope for Fibromyalgia Treatment

    Fibromyalgia remains one of the most challenging chronic pain conditions to treat. The disorder affects muscles and soft tissues throughout the body and is estimated to impact up to 5% of the global population, according to research published in Healthcare (Basel) in 2023.

    In the United States alone, about 4 million adults have fibromyalgia, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health. Women are affected more often than men.

    “With fibromyalgia, there isn’t much understanding of what the pain state is, and there are not a lot of great options for treating it,” Streicher said. “Our findings show that terpenes may be a viable treatment option for fibromyalgia pain, which could potentially have a large impact and make a difference for an under-treated population.”

    Potential Alternative for Post-Surgical Pain

    The researchers also explored whether terpenes could help with pain following surgery.

    Post-surgical pain occupies a unique middle ground between acute and chronic pain. Although it is typically temporary, surgery triggers biological changes including inflammation and increased sensitivity within the body’s pain pathways, which can intensify discomfort.

    “Opioids do a good job controlling post-surgical pain, but they can cause constipation that can increase the chances of post-surgical complications such as adhesions,” Streicher said. “We are always looking for better options, and this study suggests that terpenes could be a novel therapeutic for post-operative pain.”

    According to research published in the International Journal of Surgery in 2020, roughly 310 million major surgical procedures are performed worldwide each year, highlighting the need for safer and more effective pain-management options.

    Natural Compounds Continue to Surprise Scientists

    Todd Vanderah, PhD, director of the Comprehensive Center for Pain & Addiction at U of A Health Sciences and professor and head of the Department of Pharmacology at the U of A College of Medicine — Tucson, said the findings underscore the value of exploring chemicals produced by nature.

    “The research that is being done by Dr. Streicher’s lab on terpenes and their potential to help those who suffer from chronic pain demonstrates the importance of basic research. There are hundreds of unique chemicals that plants make, including the Cannabis plant, that are undiscovered,” Vanderah said.

    “Nature is incredible at making unique chemical structures, and many of these chemicals are unknowns when it comes to their abilities to aid in human health, diseases and disorders. A great current example is medication semaglutide, sold under the brand name Ozempic, which has a chemical structure that was isolated not from a plant, but from an animal that is prevalent in the Southwest, the Gila monster. These discoveries from natural products through research such as Dr. Streicher’s can result in very useful medications.”

    How the Terpenes May Work

    The team also found that the compounds appeared to act through the same biological pathway identified in previous terpene studies.

    Specifically, the pain-relieving effects were linked to the adenosine A2a receptor — a receptor that caffeine targets and blocks — suggesting that terpenes may also have sedative properties. Researchers say that possibility warrants further investigation.

    The study’s co-authors included Caleb Seekins, a former undergraduate biochemistry student in Streicher’s lab who is now pursuing a medical degree at the College of Medicine — Tucson; Alyssa Welborn, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2024; and Abigail Schwarz, who completed her doctorate in Streicher’s lab in 2024.

    Source: University of Arizona, Office of Research and Partnerships.