- AI helps Stanford scientists discover “natural Ozempic” without the usual side effects
Stanford Medicine researchers have discovered a naturally occurring molecule that may suppress appetite and reduce body weight much like Ozempic, but without several of its common side effects. The molecule, called BRP, acts on a more targeted region of the brain involved in hunger and metabolism rather than affecting tissues throughout the body.
- Scientists discover a compound that could supercharge aging muscle repair
A sulfur-based compound called LASSS appears to protect and supercharge a key protein involved in repairing damaged muscle. The discovery could eventually lead to new ways to slow muscle loss and preserve strength as people age.
- A new antiviral could stop measles before an outbreak takes off
An experimental pill prevented a measles-like virus from spreading through the air or through close contact in ferrets. It worked when given shortly before or after exposure and also shortened illness and the period when infected animals remained contagious. Researchers say the drug could one day complement vaccination and make outbreaks easier to contain.
- The billion-dollar problem keeping Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound from patients
Ozempic, Wegovy, and similar drugs may deliver excellent health value, but covering them for millions of eligible patients could overwhelm insurance budgets. Researchers say better long-term support is needed and warn that low-cost compounded versions may carry serious safety risks.
- FDA panel backs easier access to peptides
Advisers to the Food and Drug Administration are backing popular peptide therapies. They voted to allow specialized pharmacies to make them despite agency scientists' recommendations against it.
- 15 years later, is the FDA's produce safety overhaul working?
Fifteen years ago, the FDA overhauled its safety rules for fruits and vegetables, hoping to prevent outbreaks of foodborne illness. How's that system working today?
- A doctor shares how much sleep people need to function through the day
Japan's prime minister says she gets just "zero to three hours" of sleep per night. NPR's Michel Martin asks Johns Hopkins' Dr. Sara Benjamin how much sleep most people need to get through the day.
- APOE2 may protect the brain from Alzheimer’s and aging
The longevity-linked APOE2 gene appears to protect brain cells by reducing DNA damage and helping neurons recover from stress. The finding could open a new path toward treatments that mimic APOE2’s defenses in people at higher genetic risk for Alzheimer’s.
- Ozempic and Mounjaro linked to a surprising hair loss risk
A large study suggests that GLP-1 drugs including Ozempic and Mounjaro may slightly increase the risk of hair loss in people with type 2 diabetes. Compared with two other common classes of diabetes medications, GLP-1 users had a significantly higher rate of alopecia, though the absolute risk was still low. The hair loss was mainly non-scarring, which means it may be reversible.
- Major genetic breakthrough reveals hidden causes of severe morning sickness in pregnancy
A massive genetic study has identified nine new genes linked to hyperemesis gravidarum, the most severe form of pregnancy sickness, bringing the total number of known risk genes to ten. The discoveries provide fresh insight into why some women experience debilitating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy while others do not. Several of the newly identified genes are involved in appetite, nausea, metabolism, and brain function, opening the door to more targeted treatments.