#med sci

MSG Could Pose A Potential Risk, Causing Cognitive Dysfunction

 A recent study carried out in Kenya has demonstrated a link between the consumption of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and chronic pain.

 Glutamate is a neurotransmitter where it acts a excitotoxin (in which it is capable of damaging or killing nerve cells). It is found in many natural sources, for example soy sauce and parmesan cheese.

 The study was composed of 30 participants separated into four groups. Each group was given different amounts of MSG and water. The results found that some participants who were given more MSG experienced chronic pain for at least 3 months or more.

 Similarly to past studies conducted in the United States, participants also exhibited other symptoms such as headaches, migraines, chronic fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and sleep issues.

 Quote from Dr. Kathleen Holton, American University, “We don’t know what exposure is leading to this susceptibility to dietary glutamate, but this pilot study suggests the need for a large-scale clinical trial.”

Read more about this fascinating story at: http://www.sci-news.com/medicine/glutamate-consumption-chronic-pain-symptoms-05741.html

Or read the full study at: www.nutritionjrnl.com/article/S0899-9007(18)30040-6/fulltext

"England has recently become the first country in Europe to offer a new, faster form of immunotherapy treatment for cancer patients through the NHS.

This new method involves administering drugs like atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and nivolumab (Opdivo) via a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection, which significantly reduces treatment time from up to an hour to just 3–7 minutes.

This advancement improves patient experience and convenience, allowing them to spend less time in hospitals while receiving the same level of clinical care.

These injections are approved to treat up to 15 different types of cancer, including lung, bladder, breast, liver, kidney, oesophageal, head and neck, and skin cancers.

The medicines work by boosting the immune system’s ability to identify and attack cancer cells. They are known as checkpoint inhibitors and are already used in standard intravenous form, but this new injection method is much faster and more efficient.

The rollout is considered cost-neutral for the NHS due to negotiated pricing agreements, while also freeing up thousands of clinician hours each month.

Clinical trials, such as IMscin001, demonstrated that the subcutaneous version is equally effective and safe compared to the traditional intravenous route.

This innovation represents a significant step forward in cancer treatment accessibility and efficiency within the UK healthcare system."

"Lab Studies Show Dandelion Root Extract Destroys Cancer Cells

Dandelion root extract (DRE), a common herbal remedy, is gaining scientific attention for its potential anti-cancer properties.

Laboratory studies have shown DRE to be effective in inducing cancer cell death, slowing cell growth, and boosting the body's natural defenses against cancer in types like melanoma, leukemia, pancreatic, colon, and prostate cancers.

One 2016 study from a Canadian university reported DRE killed over 95% of colon cancer cells in a petri dish within 48 hours. More recent research has also suggested a powerful combination when DRE is used with lemongrass extract, particularly in targeting prostate cancer cells.

However, researchers caution that lab-based results don’t always translate to real-world outcomes.

Siyaram Pandey, a lead researcher, emphasized that while DRE’s effects in lab settings are promising, human trials are crucial to determine actual efficacy and safety. In animal studies, tumor size and weight decreased with DRE treatment, and early data suggests the extract may disrupt proteins that help cancer grow and spread.

Still, Pandey urges patients to consult their doctors before incorporating DRE into their treatment plans, as no herbal supplement should replace evidence-based medical care."

- Hashem Al-Ghaili

"In a groundbreaking study, scientists at Brown University have discovered that injecting gold nanoparticles into the eye can help reverse vision loss caused by retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

These ultra-thin particles target specific eye cells and are activated by a low-powered infrared laser, effectively mimicking damaged photoreceptors, without surgery or genetic modification.

Tests on mice with retinal disorders showed restored visual function, a wider field of vision, and no major toxicity. The approach could lead to wearable laser-embedded glasses, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional implants.

Though still in early stages, this technology may soon redefine how we treat blindness, merging nanotech and optics to restore sight."

This is not the same thing but also very cool laser-heated nanoparticles bust eye floaters

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking skin-like hydrogel capable of healing wounds at an astonishing speed. This advanced material can repair 90% of a wound within just four hours and achieve full healing within 24 hours. The hydrogel is designed to mimic the properties of human skin, offering flexibility, strength, and rapid self-repair. Its unique composition allows it to seamlessly bond with damaged tissue, accelerating the natural healing process.

Researchers believe this innovation could revolutionize wound care by significantly reducing recovery time and lowering the risk of infections. The hydrogel’s skin-like texture provides a protective barrier, preventing bacteria from entering the wound while promoting faster tissue regeneration. This makes it particularly effective for treating burns, surgical wounds, and traumatic injuries.

Beyond traditional wound care, the hydrogel holds potential for use in regenerative medicine. Scientists are exploring its application in tissue engineering, where it could help repair damaged organs or even be used in skin grafts. Its biocompatibility and adaptability make it an ideal candidate for various medical treatments, offering new hope for patients with chronic wounds or severe skin damage.