Parkinson's patients carrying mutations in PINK1 and Parkin genes have increased levels of circulating interleukin 6 and mitochondrial DNA. The findings strengthen a link between genetic risk factors from Parkinson's disease and inflammation.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, enters human cells by attaching to ACE2 and utilizing TMPRSS2. Drugs that block ACE2 or inhibit the enzyme could help treat the coronavirus, but only during early infection. As the infection progresses, SARS-CoV-2 becomes engulfed in human cells, reducing the number of ACE2 receptors on a cell and leading to an increase of angiotensin II in the blood. Angiotensin II triggers an inflammatory pathway, providing a positive feedback cycle, named IL-6 amplifier, resulting in excessive immune activation and the cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19.
Interleukin-6 interacts with leptin in the lateral parabrachial nucleus to reduce food intake. Reducing IL-6 in the IPBL increases weight gain and could help explain why some are more prone to overeating and obesity.
CGRP, a protein associated with migraine pain, appears to act differently between sexes. Researchers say a female-specific mechanism of downstream CGRP receptor activation is likely to contribute to the higher prevalence of migraine in women.
According to researchers, interleukin 6 plays a critical role in how exercise helps to reduce body fat.
A new study confirms previous findings that link inflammation during pregnancy to altered brain development in children. Researchers have created a machine learning algorithm that can predict the long term neurodevelopmental impact of MIA.
A new study in Biological Psychiatry reports researchers discovered astrocytes may contribute to the cause of ASD. The findings could help to develop new treatments for autism spectrum disorders.
A new study demonstrates astrocytes play a role in certain subtypes of autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers report they have established a link between emotional stress and diabetes.
A small study supports the mounting evidence that targeted immunotherapy can help improve cognitive ability in people with schizophrenia.
Researchers report a monoclonal antibody that shows promise in the fight against cancer also appears to help reduce learning and memory problems associated with schizophrenia.
A new study reports researchers have developed a method to influence long term memory formation in the immune system.