New target regulating mitochondria during stress

Like an emergency response team that is called into action to save lives, stress response proteins in the heart are activated during a heart attack to help prevent cell death. As part of this process, researchers show for the first time that one of these specialized emergency responder proteins, known as MCUB, temporarily decreases harmful levels of calcium transport into mitochondria, the energy-generating batteries of cells.

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Potential target for cardiac fibrosis treatment

A research team has identified a potential target for treating heart failure related to fibrosis. The study looked at an epigenetic 'reader' protein known as BRD4, showing that it serves a central role in regulating the activation of cardiac fibroblasts. They also found that chemical inhibitors of BRD4 potently block cardiac fibroblast activation.

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Shorter people are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes, study shows


Short stature is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, according to a new study. Tall stature is associated with a lower risk, with each 10cm difference in height associated with a 41 percent decreased risk of diabetes in men and a 33 percent decreased risk in women.

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