UF Health Podcasts

For some, exercise helps muscles age well Aug 12, 2026

What would it be like to be stronger for longer? A new study from researchers at Duke explores how regular exercise not only keeps your muscles healthy but also helps them age with grace.

As muscles get older, a gene called DEAF1 [def-one] rises to the occasion. As its levels increase, a growth pathway, called mTORC1 [em-tor-see-one], tumbles into overdrive. The delicate balance between protein production and protein removal falls to the wayside; muscle weakening is hastened. Excess activity in mTORC1 means muscles get confused, building new proteins and forgetting to remove damaged ones. Eventually, there are too many lemons, and muscles become stressed. There is a gradual loss of strength.

In a healthy individual, exercise helps to undo this imbalance by bringing back proteins that “check” DEAF1 levels at the door, lowering them back down to acceptable levels. This acts like a reset button, supporting your muscles’ ability to keep clearing out deadweight and build themselves back.

Age-related muscle loss is a common issue strength training attempts to combat. Researchers hope this study, along with further work, might prompt new ways to prevent or treat muscle health that declines over time. Now that we know DEAF1 is a vital regulator of the muscle regeneration process, researchers believe future work could be even better equipped to find new ways of shielding muscles from some of the harsher impacts of aging.

Importantly, researchers noticed some cases where older muscles did not recover as well, which would explain why certain older adults reap more reward from exercise than others. But evidence still points to benefits outweighing sitting on the couch.

Designing successful weight management plans for pets Aug 12, 2026

Globally, about 50 percent of pet cats and dogs are obese. What’s more, weight loss plans for our furry friends often fall flat. So, what can we do to help our chubby companions?

First, talk to your veterinarian about a healthy weight management plan that will center on your pet’s preferences. Then, be prepared to weigh your pet daily at home — and weigh their food, too.

Focus on nutritionally complete foods that provide low calories but high fulfillment. Feeding smaller meals more often may help, and be sure to count any low-calorie treats.

Provide stimulating activities that allow your pet to forage for food, like using puzzle feeders or creating food treasure hunts.

Finally, get ready for some high-intensity begging. Offering a toy reward when you sit down to eat may effectively distract your pet.

Drinking to relieve stress could change your brain, study suggests Aug 11, 2026

Who among us has not turned to a vice when under an onslaught of stress? Whether it’s a pint of ice cream, endless video games or a glass of wine, we all have our means of coping.

Some of them, however, might leave an impact far beyond the intended stress relief — and one that is markedly more negative. Especially in the case of alcohol.

According to a study from scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, relying on alcohol to manage stress in early adulthood might result in lasting negative impacts to the brain. And no, they do not ebb with decades of sobriety.

In a study using mouse models, researchers found that mice would return to drinking when stressed even after long periods of cessation. There was little to no difference in ability to learn between mice that drank heavily and mice that drank lightly. But other changes emerged.

An area of their brains called the locus coeruleus [sih-roo-lee-us], responsible for thinking and decision-making, remained active in mice that tended to consume alcohol instead of switching off as needed. This reduced their ability to solve problems.

Most notably, middle-aged mice who once had a heavy drinking habit demonstrated reduced mental flexibility, or the ability to act quickly in new or changing situations. And, though further research is needed before we can apply these results to humans, it’s worth second-guessing that drink if it’s your only method of relief.

Into every life a little stress must fall. It’s better to find a more sustainable means of managing it, and ideally one that leaves your body feeling better, rather than worse. But did we mention the ice cream?

**Potential household toxins that can be rapidly lethal to birds** Aug 11, 2026
Many potential toxins may be lurking in a pet bird’s home, several of which often cause immediate, life-threatening danger.

Teflon, or PTFE, lines certain nonstick pans and may also coat heating elements, ovens, irons and hair dryers. As it heats up, PTFE releases an odorless gas that’s extremely toxic to birds. Certain household cleaners — especially those containing phenol derivatives, like Lysol® or Pine-sol® — are equally hazardous to birds. Avian exposure to fumes from any of these products leads to severe respiratory distress that is often rapidly fatal.

On another sobering note, avocados are healthy for us, but they contain a chemical that can cause sudden death in our feathered friends.

Birds exposed to any of these compounds should be rushed to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic.

The lowdown on collagen supplements Aug 10, 2026

Collagen is the most prevalent protein in our bodies. It’s in our hair, skin, fingernails, bones, blood vessels and intestines, of all places.

As we age, our bodies begin to produce less collagen, leaving our skin less elastic and our bones more brittle.

For many years, collagen supplements, derived from the remains of animals, like cows, pigs, chickens or fish, have been popular with those trying to maintain a youthful look.

But more recently, these supplements have been marketed for everything from strengthening joints to boosting athletic performance.

A new study set out to pin down what collagen can do and what it cannot.

Researchers in the United Kingdom conducted the most comprehensive study of collagen to date, involving at least 8,000 supplement-taking participants from around the world.

Here is what the study found that collagen can do, if taken for a sustained period: It can make your skin look and feel more hydrated. And it can help relieve some joint stiffness from osteoarthritis.

To a lesser degree, taking extra collagen can offer modest improvements in muscle mass and muscle structure.

But if you are taking it in hopes of achieving a new personal best race time or to improve your vertical leap, the researchers say you will probably be disappointed. Collagen also will not help you bounce back faster from strenuous exercise, reduce muscle soreness or improve your tendons in any way.

They also noted that collagen won’t lower cholesterol, blood pressure or blood sugar. Nor can it rebuild tooth enamel or regrow gum tissue.

Taking collagen supplements may do you good. Just be sure to take claims about them with a big grain of salt.

The epidemic of obesity in U.S. horses Aug 09, 2026

Over half of mature light-breed horses in the U.S. are obese — an incidence that’s among the highest in the world.

For most of them, the problem is equine metabolic syndrome, which centers around abnormal insulin activity. That, in turn, is driven by people feeding their horses grain-based diets and concentrated carbohydrates. The resulting long-term insulin elevation drives fat storage, which predisposes the horse to laminitis — a painful, and sometimes fatal, breakdown of hoof structures — as well as other problems.

Now, equine veterinarians aren’t just focusing on a horse’s weight loss, they’re measuring the insulin levels that can drive obesity. As consumers and horse stewards, people can do their part by feeding better diets, including good quality hay, instead of relying heavily on tasty grains.

Canine heartworm disease continues to expand its range Aug 08, 2026

The American Heartworm Society, or AHS, recently released the results of its latest three-year survey of canine heartworm disease.

Although the Gulf Coast and southeastern U.S. still have high case numbers, the updated AHS map shows that canine heartworm disease has expanded to new areas far from these epicenters.

Several reasons are cited for these trends. Populations of infected wildlife, like coyotes, are expanding into urban areas. In addition, dogs are being adopted from heartworm-established areas and relocated to lower-risk locales. Increased storm activity is also fueling subsequent spikes in mosquito numbers. Finally, families moving into high-risk regions may be bringing unprotected pets.

Just remember, canine heartworm disease is nearly always avoidable with the right preventative.

New study maps out brain circuitry during sleep Aug 07, 2026

While you were sleeping, your muscles knit themselves back together and your metabolism whirred along. Now, researchers from California are exploring the system behind sleep and human growth hormone — two factors responsible for some of slumber’s most important benefits.

The study looked at how mouse brains reacted to light stimulation. These mammals tend to sleep only a little bit at a time, helping researchers better observe changes in their growth hormone activity through different sleep and wake cycles. Growth hormones juggle a myriad of responsibilities, including muscle and bone construction and fat burning.

Research has previously shown these levels peak during sleep. Thanks to circuity tracing techniques, the team pinpointed how, exactly, the brain coordinates this process.

It starts with a feedback loop that toes the line between wakefulness and sleep. As the growth hormone increases during the latter, it triggers the locus coeruleus [sih-roo-lee-us], an area of the brainstem that encourages alertness. When this activity reaches a breaking point — or should we say waking point — the locus coeruleus begins encouraging drowsiness instead.

In short: Sleep is the driver of growth hormone release, and this hormone, in turn, regulates wakefulness. Getting too little sleep lowers growth hormone levels, but too much of it shifts the brain toward wakefulness. A balance between the two keeps muscle growth and metabolic health in check, and the locus coeruleus’s part points to the possibility of the circuit affecting cognitive functions like attention.

Who are we to argue with another reason to hit the hay?

What is total hip replacement and when is it called for in dogs? Aug 07, 2026

For dogs with severe hip dysplasia that progresses in spite of conservative treatment, total hip replacement can restore their quality of life.

The hip joint is a classic ball-and-socket structure. The ball at the top of the thigh bone should fit smoothly into a cup-shaped part of the pelvis. In dogs with hip dysplasia, that fit is damaged. So, in a total hip replacement, both sites are removed and replaced with implants.

Postoperative pain management is critical, as is canine rehabilitation, which is a dog’s version of physical therapy. The animal’s activity must be strictly limited for at least three months, including crate confinement when the rest of the family is away.

If pet parents follow their veterinarian’s instructions to a T, their dogs will very likely regain excellent function.

ARCHIVE: Venom Decoded: Unraveling the Mysteries of Coral Snake Bites Aug 07, 2026

Restoring worn-out joint cartilage Aug 06, 2026

An achy knee or hip joint’s thin or nonexistent cartilage growing back sounds like something a person facing joint-replacement surgery might daydream about.

But researchers led by Stanford University say they have developed a new treatment that could make such a thing possible.

The treatment targets a protein linked to aging. It restored lost knee cartilage in older mice and helped prevent arthritis from developing after serious joint injuries.

In other tests, human cartilage samples taken during knee replacement surgeries showed similar signs of regeneration when given the treatment.

Here’s how it works: 15-PGDH is a “gerozyme,” [JERR-uh-zime] a type of protein that becomes more prevalent with age and contributes to weakening of tissue function throughout the body. The treatment merely blocks the protein.

In past studies, when scientists blocked the protein, older animals gained muscle mass and endurance. When it was artificially increased in young mice, their muscles became weaker and smaller.

Current treatments for osteoarthritis, which slowly breaks down joint cartilage, focus on mitigation and from there, surgery. No medicine slows or stops osteoarthritis.

The researchers say their findings could make it possible to repair damaged knees, ankles, hips and other joints with an injection or an oral medication.

And that would be great news for at least 33 million Americans who find themselves with swollen, painful joints, unable to take the stairs or to stand after sitting without a loud groan.

When it comes to damaged cartilage, most of us would likely welcome repair over replacement.

A hidden danger to dogs in a livestock feed additive Aug 06, 2026

A recently published case report from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences described two dogs that suffered toxicity after accidentally ingesting a livestock feed additive.

Ractopamine is often used as a growth promoter in cattle, pigs and poultry. As a beta-agonist, it can severely damage the heart muscle — as in dogs with access to feed or storage areas.

Both dogs presented with muscle tremors and severe ventricular arrythmias. However, standard treatments for the abnormal cardiac rhythms were ineffective — but beta-blockers did the trick.

This report alerts veterinarians to a novel cause of unexplained ventricular arrhythmias in dogs and details effective treatment. The earlier these dogs are treated, the better their chances are for survival.

Could long-lived butterflies hold secret of longevity? Aug 05, 2026

Butterflies are beautiful. The colorful patterns on their wings camouflage them and can fool predators into thinking they’re staring into the eyes of larger, more dangerous creatures.

Alas, the lives of these insects are brief, most living just a couple of weeks.

But in the weeping rainforests of Central and South America, a species called Heliconius lives. Its members are the Methuselahs of the butterfly world. Scientists hope they might hold some of the secrets of longevity.

A new study found these butterflies survive, on average, three times longer than their closest relatives, or several months. The longest known lifespan of another subgroup of the species is a whopping 348 days. Compare that to a closely related butterfly species that lives a mere 14 days.

That’s a 25-fold increase in their respective maximum lifespans.

What is more surprising is that another member of the Heliconius species doesn’t show the usual signs of wear and tear that come with aging. Their aging is slowed.

Bottle that and become the world’s next trillionaire.

Researchers believe these insects might provide insight into the biology of healthy aging. What allows them to live so much longer than other butterflies?

If scientists can figure out the mechanism of their longevity, it might provide clues about mammalian aging, including a certain wingless creature that can also fly, in a manner of speaking — humans.

Revealing those aging secrets is undoubtedly many years distant. In the meantime, if you want to live a long life, don’t smoke, eat healthy foods and exercise. And stopping to smell the flowers won’t hurt, either.

Canine pawedness may be more than a curiosity Aug 05, 2026

Just like their right-handed or left-handed parents, dogs may have a paw preference.

A newly developed test includes four tasks that help determine a dog’s laterality, or pawedness. In one test, a dog is given a KONG toy filled with food, and the technician notes which paw the dog uses to steady it. The paw used to reach for a snack under furniture is also recorded. The technician also notes the paw chosen to take the first step down a staircase, as well as the paw that’s extended when the dog steps off a curb.

Laterality isn’t just a matter of curiosity. Whether a dog is right-pawed or left-pawed may be related to their behavior, emotions and reasoning. For example, left-pawed dogs may be more pessimistic than their right-pawed brethren, while ambidextrous dogs may be more fearful or aggressive.

Some brains stave off Alzheimer’s, study suggests Aug 04, 2026

Alzheimer’s strips its sufferers of their memories and their independence; it robs families of precious time with loved ones who still know them. The disease has no cure. Unsurprisingly, many of us are keen on learning how we can prevent it.

Some brains have already figured that out. According to a new study from researchers in the Netherlands, certain brains are combatting Alzheimer’s by harnessing the protective power of their young cells, helping them survive damage from the disease.

Curiously, the brains of these individuals have all the biological hallmarks associated with Alzheimer’s, but no dementia. They demonstrate something researchers call “cognitive resilience.”

In the study, researchers looked at tissue from a brain bank, analyzing data from samples of brains with Alzheimer’s and without, as well as tissue from brains that showed physical signs of the disease but no dementia. The team focused on an area within the brain’s memory center, where “immature” neurons can still spawn.

Those whose brains demonstrated cognitive resilience — that is, possessed the pathology of Alzheimer’s but no dementia — did not have significantly higher numbers of immature neurons than those with the disease. This, researchers say, could mean that it’s more about how the cells act, rather than how many there are. The immature cells seem to trigger “programs” that help them last through damage, incurring less inflammation and preventing cell death. They might support surrounding tissue and help the brain continue functioning, too.

Further research avenues will look at how these immature neurons talk to other brain cells. For now, it’s heartening to know that some of our brains might know just what to do … even if the rest of us don’t yet.

Beware the risk of blastomycosis in dogs Aug 04, 2026

If you’re a pooch parent, blastomycosis should be on your radar — especially if your dog’s a digger.

Blastomycosis is a fungal infection that most often affects dogs along river valleys in the Midwest as well as in the Southeast. It’s not contagious. Instead, dogs can get infected when they inhale mold spores from the soil.

Signs of blastomycosis — including fever, depression, respiratory problems and weight loss — usually take weeks to months to appear. Infection can spread to other parts of the body, too, with signs referring to the site of infection.

Treatment with antifungal medications generally results in a 50 to 75 percent recovery rate — but only after a dog has been treated for months. As with any infection, the earlier treatment is started, the better.

The brain can improve even into your 80s Aug 03, 2026

A common trope reinforced by Hollywood depictions of older adults is that they start to lose their mental sharpness as they enter their golden years.

A recent study by University of Texas brain researchers, however, throws that idea on its head. While we can lose mental acuity in our later years, that doesn’t mean it’s always true.

In fact, the scientists note, the opposite can happen. Cognitive abilities can continue to improve throughout life.

Over the course of three years, the study tracked about 4,000 people ages 19 to 94. Participants were asked to complete brief training activities that required no more than 15 minutes daily.

Researchers measured individuals in areas representing clarity, emotional balance and connectedness to people and purpose.

The findings undermined the cliché of dottering older adults whose advanced years come with a diminished mind.

The investigation showed some individuals improved their brain function even into their 80s, and better performance was not tied to their age, gender or education.

Researchers say neuroplasticity is associated with self-agency. That means staying engaged in life, continuing to learn, reading and remaining socially connected.

Now this isn’t to say that keeping an active brain guarantees the organ’s long-term health. Many factors affect our health generally, and our brains especially. They include our genetics and our habits, like diet and level of physical activity.

In a sense, the brain is like a muscle. We exercise to keep the body toned. The brain also requires our own participation in its continued health.

It’s best to keep that in mind as we age.

Using nutrition to help manage feline diabetes Aug 03, 2026

Good nutrition is key to managing feline diabetes. It may even help cats achieve diabetic remission — that is, maintenance of normal glucose levels for over four months without treatment.

In a recent trial, 72 overweight, diabetic, insulin-treated cats were fed the same specialized diet, but one group received maintenance portions while the other was fed calorie-restricted meals. After three months, 50 percent of cats in the calorie-restricted group achieved diabetic remission compared to 30 percent in the maintenance group. Even in those not achieving remission, insulin doses were reduced in 36 percent of cats in the calorie-restricted group.

In overweight diabetic cats, feeding a calorie-restricted diet with low-digestible carbohydrate and an increased nutrient-to-calorie ratio is a robust treatment tool.

Ways to ease stress when you board your pet Aug 02, 2026

For some pet parents, boarding their furry friends may be the only option when they’re away from home. But don’t despair. There are ways to help ease the stress on all of you.

Beforehand — particularly if your pet is medically compromised, elderly or super anxious — ask your veterinarian if boarding is a good idea.

Then, plan ahead by touring the boarding facility to ensure it will meet your pet’s needs. High-octane dogs often thrive on outside access and planned playtime, while cats generally enjoy quieter areas where they don’t have to face each other. If a facility won’t give you a tour or is lax about vaccinations, beware. These could be red flags regarding safety.

Bringing familiar items from home can also help, provided that your pet won’t destroy them and create a safety issue.

If you leave an animal locked in a car, you could be arrested Aug 01, 2026

At least 32 states have laws that prohibit leaving an animal in a vehicle in dangerous conditions, or they provide civil immunity to folks who break in to save them.

Some laws specify that conditions must be life-threatening, including extremely hot or cold temperatures, poor ventilation or inadequate food or water. Others merely state that conditions must pose a likely threat to the animal’s health and safety.

Good Samaritans are usually required to follow several rules, including noting that forced entry is the only way to save the animal, calling 911 or local law enforcement first and remaining on the scene until they arrive.

Remember, animals are at risk in milder conditions than you might think. In 70-degree weather, it takes only 20 minutes for the inside of a vehicle to reach 100 degrees.

ARCHIVE: Lab Results Unleashed: Why Laboratory Testing Matters to Pet Health Jul 31, 2026

Although a clinical pathologist’s role is primarily behind the scenes, bloodwork and general lab testing are critical for disease diagnosis and prevention in pets. When you visit the veterinarian, chances are you’ll be asked to have samples taken from your pet’s blood, serum or plasma, and urine to assess his or her health status. On this archived episode of Animal Airwaves Live, Dr. Chris Lanier, a board-certified veterinary clinical pathologist, discusses the types of tests that typically take place in veterinary clinical pathology, and what they mean to you and your pet.

Are yo-yo dieting risks overstated? Jul 31, 2026

Dieters have long been warned against repeatedly gaining and losing weight, often called yo-yo dieting or weight cycling.

It’s bad for our bodies and potentially worse than staying overweight — or so the thinking goes.

A new study by researchers in Denmark and Germany finds, however, that the dangers of such up-and-down dieting might be overblown.

The researchers examined decades of research involving humans and animals and found no convincing evidence that weight cycling causes long-term harm in those with obesity.

For years, weight cycling has been tied to health concerns like muscle loss, slowed metabolism and higher risk of diabetes and heart disease.

The researchers pored over observational studies, clinical trials and animal studies focused on repeated weight loss and gain. They examined how weight cycling affects weight, body composition, metabolism and blood sugar.

They found no strong evidence that up-and-down dieting is responsible for gradual long-term weight gain, muscle loss or metabolism deceleration.

Regaining weight can unravel many of the benefits of weight loss, including lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar.

But that does not necessarily mean a dieter will be less healthy than they were before losing weight.

The study comes at a time when many are using obesity medications to lose weight but seeing the weight creep back when they stop taking them.

The researchers said that weight gain should not automatically be seen as harmful. Even temporary weight loss can bring important health benefits.

The bottom line? Climbing back on the horse might be better than abandoning it altogether after all.

For inflammation, turn to tomatoes Jul 29, 2026

Technically, you could call it fruit juice.

While tomato juice often shoulders the burden of brunch beverages and soup additives, it’s rarely a drink we reach for without purpose. Now, new research from scientists at Ohio State University points to tomato juice — with a hint of soy — as a potential panacea for inflammation. Specifically, the kind that occurs in overweight adults.

It’s important to note that this wasn’t any ordinary tomato juice.

Scientists were inspired by previous research that showed diets rich in soy and tomato products were linked to a lower chance of prostate cancer. They prepared the study’s beverage using added plant compounds from soy, creating a beverage that was richer in lycopene and other nutrients than a tomato juice without those enhancements. Lycopene is commonly found in red vegetables and is known for its antioxidant properties.

Participants drank six ounces of the juice twice a day for four weeks. Then, after a washout period, they repeated the behavior with a low-lycopene tomato juice. Scientists analyzed blood and urine samples after each beverage trial, finding fewer markers of inflammation after the tomato-soy juice.

Researchers said they wanted to see if they could treat inflammation with a food-based intervention. Next steps will include testing the juice in people with pancreatitis, a condition where the pancreas is inflamed. It can be acute or chronic, but causes discomfort in either iteration. Ideally, this juice would improve their quality of life.

Special or not, tomato juice isn’t for everyone. But for benefits like these? Hopefully science will eventually show it should be bottoms up.

The body’s fortune teller Jul 28, 2026

If you want to predict how many birthday candles you’ll be blowing out, consult the body’s crystal ball: the thymus.

This long-overlooked part of the immune system was thought to be less important after childhood. Now, a study from Mass General Brigham suggests it might be more important than we think.

The thymus is a small gland in your lymphatic system, located in your chest and behind your sternum. It spends its time making T cells, a kind of white blood cell that assists your immune system with fighting off bad guys like the common cold.

Using AI, researchers analyzed the CT scans of tens of thousands of adults. Good thymus health — which researchers defined in parameters of organ size, structure and composition — was associated with a lower rate of mortality from any cause. People with healthy thymuses also had a 63% lower risk of death from heart disease, and a 36% lower risk of developing lung cancer.

Scientists think thymuses in poorer shape might be associated with less T cell diversity and a weaker immune system that struggles to quickly identify threats like cancer. In a related study, people with a healthier thymus undergoing treatment for cancer responded better than those whose gland was in worse shape. They were less likely to see their cancer progress and even had a lower risk of death.

Certain lifestyle factors, like higher weight, chronic inflammation and smoking, were linked to a less healthy thymus. However, researchers caution that more research is needed before we understand if, or how, we can improve the organ’s health. Until then, maybe we’ll start paying better attention to other unsung heroes of the body.

Common chemical linked to suicides Jul 27, 2026

A meat-curing agent sold in a highly potent form online is connected to a rising number of suicides around the world.

In a new study from the United Kingdom, postmortem samples from 201 suspected suicides found that 87% involved nitrate or nitrite levels 100 times higher than normally found in the body.

Of those cases, 68% were men. Seventy-one percent were Gen Z or Millennials.

Nitrate and nitrites can be found in soil, air and water, but are often produced in labs for agricultural use and as a stabilizer in consumer products.

In a 2024 report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said at least 768 suicides from 2018 to July 2023 in the United States involved antidotes and chelating agents, including sodium nitrite.

While that number represents less than 1% of all suicides here, the CDC’s report said cases were rising.

Last year, a National Institutes of Health study suggested that sodium nitrite’s availability online, combined with guidance on how to use it for self-harm, is a global public health problem.

The type of nitrites and nitrates that concern government officials are far more potent than those used in meat preservation. Ingested in high concentrations, nitrite renders blood unable to carry oxygen, suffocating organs.

The government reports say the issue of easily procured nitrites and nitrates merits immediate attention. First responders, nurses and doctors need to be alert to possible nitrite poisoning. Parents and loved ones need to know what is being ordered online. Forensic pathologists need better testing tools.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 for help.

ARCHIVE: Facial Recognition Goes Farmyard: AI’s New Frontier in Veterinary Care Jul 24, 2026

Veterinary pain management specialists who focus on anesthesia and analgesia are always looking for new ways to detect and minimize pain in animal patients undergoing anesthesia for a medical procedure. On today’s archived episode of Animal Airwaves Live, Dr. Ludovica Chiavaccini, a specialist in anesthesia and analgesia, discusses an exciting new research project that uses deep learning modeling and video technology to analyze facial expression as a predictor of pain in domestic goats, and how such a tool could potentially benefit patient care for a variety of species in the future.

Cream for skin cancer might stop its spread Jul 24, 2026

Some moisturizers purport to address wrinkles and brighten. Others go to war with dryness, promising dewy skin without a single visible pore. But soon there might be a new contender on the shelf — one that aims to confer benefits that are far from skin deep.

Researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a topical cream that could block the growth of cutaneous squamous [skwā′məs] cell carcinoma, or skin cancer.

The cream functions by obstructing the path of LSD1, an overexpressed enzyme in skin cancer cases that promotes tumor survival. The team’s hope is that the cream could be applied directly to both cancerous and precancerous areas, thus prompting immune cells to attack tumors.

The substance helps transmit information between the immune system and skin cells to kickstart the body’s own anti-tumor mechanisms. When researchers tested low doses of LSD1 on skin cells, the cream alerted skin cells to call for assistance from the immune system, which halted tumor growth.

Despite roughly 1 million Americans being diagnosed with skin cancer each year, people are spending increased amounts of time in the sun — and cases continue to rise. Though the majority of growths can be surgically removed, more than 5% of tumors ultimately metastasize, leading lead to thousands of deaths in the U.S. each year. Topical creams like the one in question could prove a safer, less painful alternative to surgery, with no risk of scarring or infection. Scientists aim to begin clinical trials in the next two years.

But an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. With summer upon us, the most effective way to thwart skin cancer is still our trusty sunscreen.

Scientists: Here’s why so many of us are righties Jul 23, 2026

Napoleon Bonaparte, Babe Ruth and Lady Gaga were all lefties.

You might call them “southpaws,” the less-flattering “goofy-handeds” or, if you’re Australian, “mollydookers.”

And while there’s no comparable set of nicknames, throughout the world, roughly nine out of 10 of us have a strong preference for using our right hand for most tasks — whether it’s eating with chopsticks, swinging a baseball bat or texting.

Scientists have long pondered why that is.

Now, a new study from Oxford University suggests that humans overwhelmingly became right-handed thanks to two big changes that happened during our evolution: walking upright and brain growth.

The team analyzed data from 2,025 monkeys and apes representing 41 primate species, using a statistical approach that frames data analysis using probability to represent uncertainty.

They tested several theories about the origins of what is called handedness or, more scientifically, lateralization. They delved into factors like tool use, habitat, body size, social structure, diet, movement and brain size.

Their results found that humans’ early ancestors, such as Australopithecus [Aus·tra·lo·pith·e·cus], likely only had mild right-handedness, more like modern great apes. The stronger preference for using the right hand appears to grow significantly with the emergence of later primate species, species including Homo erectus and Neanderthals.

The researchers still have questions. For one: Why does left-handedness persist? Has human culture played a role?

Other animals, like parrots and kangaroos — both strong lefties — might also shed some light on these curious evolutionary patterns. Perhaps, when it comes to handedness, there is no real right way.

Push-ups might benefit cardiovascular fitness Jul 22, 2026

Many of us hated them in gym class. The push-up won’t make anyone’s list of the most enjoyable physical activities … unless you’re a Marine Corps drill instructor. Recruits, no doubt, would prefer a nice walk in the park.

Your heart, however, wants you to drop to the deck and give it 40.

Harvard researchers recently published a study showing that men who could complete at least 40 push-ups had a 96% lower risk of adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart failure, over a decade of follow-up.

The study tracked 1,100 male firefighters in Indiana. So, researchers caution that they cannot say with certainty that the benefit applies to women, older adults or those who are sedentary.

Exercises resembling the modern push-up have been around for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman warriors used them to strengthen themselves for battle. Jack LaLanne, founder of the modern fitness movement, set a world record in 1956 with 1,033 push-ups finished in 23 minutes. He lived to age 96. And even then, it was pneumonia that ended his life, not his ticker.

The average age of the Indiana firefighters was 40.

The more push-ups they did, the better their hearts fared over the next 10 years. Those who could complete just 21 to 30 push-ups, for example, still had a 75% lower risk of cardiovascular events.

Scientists believe the push-up does more than build thick biceps. It also reflects whole-body health and the cardiovascular system’s ability to sustain effort.

The study does not show cause and effect. This is an association, so keep that in mind if you get the urge to show off to friends at a party. And take it easy.

You’re likely no Jack LaLanne.

What makes you crave protein? Jul 21, 2026

The virtual meeting ends and you stretch, shuffling over to the snack cabinet. You see fruit snacks, cookies and raisins. The kitchen counter has a bowl of fruit. But you? You’re in the mood for something savory. Something with protein.

A new study published in Science suggests your body notices when you’re low on amino acids — and lets you know when you need protein. You can thank your gut-brain axis for that.

Like most animals, we can’t make our own amino acids in-house. These compounds act as building blocks throughout the body, making them essential for functions like tissue repair and hormone production. When we’re low on protein, our gut calls on two communication pathways: one through the nervous system, and the second through hormones. The first method is rapid, prompting us to seek protein quickly, while the second lasts longer, sustaining the protein-seeking behavior.

Researchers studied this in fruit flies and in mice. Notably, the behavior did not make flies and mice simply eat more — it decreased interest in sugars, like carbohydrates, while increasing attraction to protein-related nutrients. In fruit flies with unbalanced gut microbiomes, the behavior was stronger, meaning the microbiome itself might be responsible for guiding feeding behavior and nutrient availability.

In short, lacking certain nutrients does not result in a blanket feeling of hunger. Rather, animals are drawn toward foods that contain what their bodies need — and might even prioritize them.

That being said, if you find yourself craving ice cream … you probably just want ice cream.

Mini brains, spinal cords show regeneration Jul 20, 2026

Certain kinds of nerve damage have long been considered irreversible. Now, a study from researchers at the University of Cambridge might point toward a way to repair the irreparable.

As we get older, our brains and bodies take longer to heal from injury. This is especially the case with our central nervous system, the lightning rod between the spinal cord and the brain. Axons, the nerve fibers our neurons zip up and down on to carry messages and control muscle, are less likely to be able to recover from damage.

It means an injury to the brain — or spinal cord — has a greater chance of resulting in permanent paralysis.

In the study, researchers grew tiny brains the size of peas from stem cells. Then, they added on to the models, creating miniature versions of the brain-spinal system. Because the parts are separate in the body, scientists kept them apart in the lab, too.

The result? Axons grew from the brain cells to the spinal cord, bridging the gap. It created a working neural circuit that prompted microscopic groups of muscle cells to contract.

The organoids were maintained in the lab for more than 365 days. After the 150th day, however, researchers noticed a difference: the axons were less capable of regrowing. This points to a “biological switch” that flips once neurons begin maturing and creating synapses. When researchers blocked it, the axons went back to regenerating.

Although further research is necessary, scientists note this is a successful instance in which stem cell organoids mimicked real human systems. They may have been miniature, but potential impacts could be larger than life.

ARCHIVE: Beat the Heat: Protecting Pets from Heat Stroke Jul 17, 2026

As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat stroke in our beloved pets. Dr. Ronald Gonçalves, an emergency medicine and critical care specialist at UF, discusses the potentially life-threatening condition. Heat stroke is a serious and often underestimated danger for animals, capable of causing severe organ damage or even death if not promptly addressed. Unlike humans, pets can’t easily regulate their body temperature or tell us when they’re overheating. On this archived episode of Animal Airwaves Live, Dr. Gonçalves explains why certain animals are more susceptible to heat stroke, how to recognize the early warning signs and, most importantly, what steps pet owners can take to prevent this emergency situation.

Spray might slow cognitive decline, researchers say Jul 17, 2026

Put down the crossword puzzle and pick up the nasal spray.

While those of us interested in preserving our rapier wits and steel-trap memories have doubtlessly dabbled in puzzles, conversation and regular exercise, it is unlikely a nasal spray ever crossed our minds — or our noses — for that express purpose.

And yet, scientists from Texas have created a nasal spray they say soothes the persistent, low-grade brain inflammation associated with aging. This kind of inflammation, referred to as neuroinflammaging, is also considered a key driver of some neurodegenerative conditions.

Soothing this inflammation via a nasal spray could restore memory and help brains work better.

The treatment uses tiny transport molecules called extracellular vesicles. They typically ferry genetic information between cells; here, they were loaded up with microRNAs, which are responsible for the regulation of different signals throughout the brain. They helped target certain immune cells, the culprits behind the inflammation, and strengthened the mitochondria damaged by it. Improving how the powerhouses of the cell worked seemed to prompt brain cells to improve how they received information and stored it. Researchers called it “giving neurons their spark back.”

The effects lasted for months after just two doses. A caveat: thus far, this has only been tested in mice. It will be some time before the treatment makes it to noses without whiskers.

Why a nasal spray, you might ask? It’s simple. Your nose is a shortcut to the brain and its tissue — and it makes the treatment delivery much less invasive.

It’s nothing to sneeze at.

Better vision might be in sight Jul 16, 2026

At first glance, directing lasers into your eyes does not seem appealing or particularly helpful. Yet LASIK eye surgeries have been successful — and even prolific — for a number of years. They work by “carving” tissue away from the cornea, thus reshaping the eye and correcting vision. Sometimes there are complications like dry eyes, halos and weakened eye structure.

Still, there are those among us who would prefer to see better without such drastic measures. Researchers from Occidental College and the University of California, Irvine are testing out a means of vision modification that would be less invasive and could avoid many of LASIK’s potential side effects.

The method? Electromechanical reshaping, or EMR. Light, electrical pulses.

The technique was discovered by accident. While one scientist was tinkering with living tissue as a potentially moldable material, he discovered a means of chemical modification. The cornea is rich in collagen, held together by charged molecules, and rich in water. Applying a small electrical current can result in a change to pH levels, loosening the structure of the collagen and changing the shape of the eye. When the pH returns to normal, the “new” shape remains.

Importantly, this method does not result in any true surgery, or removal of tissue. This means it would allow the cornea to maintain its structural integrity.

Like most cures of tomorrow, this one has some ways to go before being tested in people. Glasses, traditional contact lenses and LASIK surgery are still going to be your quickest options for better vision.

But we’re excited to see what happens.

French fries are driving potatoes’ bad reputation Jul 15, 2026

French fries rarely get any good news.

The crispy, salty snack earns the ire of cardiologists and nutritionists alike. Now, though the fry’s greasy reputation has extended to the humble potato itself, new research suggests the tuberous vegetable’s villainous reputation might be unwarranted.

A study published in The British Medical Journal used data from 205,000 people across almost four decades, finding that consuming three servings of fries per week was associated with a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Eating the hardworking potato in its other forms, however — like being boiled, baked or mashed, did not result in any significant risk.

But no potato is perfect.

Though participants did not have diabetes or heart disease at the start of the study, 22,999 of them developed Type 2 diabetes over the 40-ish years of follow-up. Even after taking lifestyle and dietary factors into account, the team found that three servings of potatoes per week were associated with a 5% increase in the rate of Type 2 diabetes. French fries remained the worst offender, though, and were linked to a 20% increase in Type 2 diabetes.

When study participants switched out potatoes for whole grains, they lowered their diabetes risk by about 19%. White rice, by contrast, increased it.

Now, it’s important to note researchers emphasize that the takeaway should not be, “French fries cause diabetes directly.” Rather, people should still prioritize whole grains — and note that when it comes to the potato, it’s its preparation that counts. Skip the fryer, keep an eye on the butter and sprinkle a little salt.

Perhaps there’s hope after all.

Alcohol, edibles and driving are a dangerous mix Jul 14, 2026

Drinking before driving is not recommended. Neither is using cannabis. Now, to the surprise of hopefully very few, research confirms what we already suspected: For drivers, using both is worse than either alone.

A new study from the Johns Hopkins Medicine University School of Medicine found that not only do cannabis edibles combined with alcohol greatly impair driving, but the impairment is also more difficult to detect by standard field sobriety tests.

Because adding cannabis into the mix adds to the impairment from alcohol, researchers worry the legal intoxication limit of .08% breath alcohol level might not suffice when the second drug is involved. It’s not just an additive effect, they emphasize — it’s “synergistic.”

Researchers recruited adults between the ages of 21 and 55 for the study. During outpatient study sessions, they were given a brownie: one with THC, and one without. They also received an alcoholic drink or a placebo drink, and alcohol doses were adjusted per individual to produce a BAC of .05% or .08%.

Notably, participants had previous experience using both substances together in the past year, and had also reported binge drinking in the previous 90 days. Driving was tested via a simulator. Participants each underwent seven sessions, consuming cannabis alone, alcohol alone and both together. There were also placebo versions.

Combining the edibles with alcohol produced effects that were more severe … and lasted longer. People also felt more intoxicated when they consumed both substances together. Researchers hope the study spurs further research and attention from policymakers and public health officials.

And as usual, the best way to drive is sober.

The brain, center of human consciousness, sways Jul 14, 2026

The brain does many things. It is the most complex machine known to us. Its billions of cells are the control center for thought, memory and body movement. It helps regulate breathing, heart rate and temperature.

And yet, it still retains mystery. How does this clump of matter between our ears create consciousness? If you come up with an answer, you’ll soon have an appointment with the Nobel Prize board.

Oh, one other thing: It sways.

A recent study by Penn State scientists used mice and brain simulations to demonstrate that the organ moves within the skull during exercise. Your first reaction might be understandable — namely, that such a delicate instrument moving can’t be a good thing.

Researchers, however, say this sway is beneficial.

The study notes the brain is more mechanically connected to the rest of the body than previous generations of scientists realized. Investigators now believe that during exercise, abdominal contractions compress blood vessels supplying the spinal cord and brain.

It’s like a hydraulic system. This applies pressure that creates movement. Pretty simple.

This, in turn, causes the brain’s cerebrospinal fluid to slosh around, though perhaps not as notably as water in a bathtub when you bathe your dog. But the movement helps the clear fluid to wash over the brain.

That helps the fluid remove waste, which in turn reduces the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. The study’s authors suggest this is an important reason why exercise benefits cognitive function.

Scientists say it’s a gentle movement. Less of an energetic Charleston than a crawling waltz.

These findings, ultimately, are brought to you by, yes, the human brain.

Diet change might decrease biological age Jul 13, 2026

Most of us who reach adulthood would not mind shaving a few years from how our bodies feel.

What if it were as easy as changing your diet for a month?

A new study from Australian researchers found that a four-week diet change was enough to make some older adults appear biologically younger.

A group of just over 100 generally healthy adults ranging in age from 65 to 75 participated in the study.

They were separated into four groups and randomly assigned one of four diets.

Of the diets, two were omnivorous, meaning they included plant and animal proteins. The others were semi-vegetarian, with 70% of the protein coming from plants.

Within each category, participants were assigned either a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet or a low-fat, high-carb diet.

So, participants either ate an omnivorous, high-fat diet, an omnivorous high-carb diet, a semi-vegetarian, high-fat diet or a semi-vegetarian, high-carb diet.

Got all that? And of course, all we want to know is which diet will make us look and feel youngest. So, which was it?

Three of the diets resulted in positive changes. But the biggest changes came from the omnivorous, high-carb and low-fat diet. It included 14% protein, 28 to 29% fat and 53% carbohydrates.

The diet that resulted in the least change was the omnivorous, high-fat diet, because, as researchers noted, it was closest to what participants usually ate.

The researchers used biomarkers, things like lowered cholesterol or insulin levels, to calculate participants’ biological age.

And while it took just a month for most participants to see positive changes, sadly, the researchers said they have no idea how long the changes might last.

ARCHIVE: Helping Florida’s Marine Mammals: It Takes a Village Jul 10, 2026

When Florida’s marine mammals and sea turtles become sick, injured or die, a quick response is essential to understand the issues at play and, if needed, provide a means for care and treatment. At the University of Florida, the Marine Animal Rescue Program plays that role, working closely with other stranding networks within the state of Florida and nationally when needed. On this archived episode, Dr. Mike Walsh, a clinical associate professor and MAR program director, discusses some of the program’s accomplishments since its inception, including the recovery of a deceased dolphin and the collaborations that led to a diagnosis of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.

Icing an injury might prolong the pain, study says Jul 10, 2026

It’s a standard response to injury. Twist an ankle? Break out an ice pack, or for that matter, any frozen bag of vegetables from the fridge. Even the Greek physician and philosopher Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, advised using cold to relieve pain more than 2,400 years ago.

More recently, however, many medical researchers have backtracked on the practice. In fact, scientists might have figured out why it could be a bad idea to apply cold to an injury.

In a recent study, researchers at McGill University in Montreal documented how icing an injury can provide an immediate respite from pain. This method provides short-term relief. But doing so, they found, can more than double healing time.

Yes, really.

The scientists believe cold blocks the body’s normal healing process, prolonging the pain. After an injury, white blood cells called neutrophils rush in within hours. They clear away dead cells, fight infection and assist in tissue repair. They also shut down pain.

This initial inflammatory immune reaction contributes to pain. It also helps prevent chronic pain.

Researchers suggest other alternatives after an injury. Those include acetaminophen, a common pain reliever found in many medications, nerve stimulation therapies or contrast therapy.

Contrast therapy involves rapidly alternating between hot and cold water.

Nobody, of course, enjoys the inflammation from an injury. The research, however, highlights that it is part of the body’s natural healing process. Getting in its way can have consequences.

So next time you twist an ankle, skip the frozen peas.

Camel’s milk offers surprising health benefits Jul 08, 2026

Step aside, cows. There’s a new hooved hero in town.

New research published in Food Science and Nutrition points to the surprising benefits of camel’s milk in remedying a variety of ailments, particularly those related to gut health and blood sugar control.

Widely revered for their transportation assistance abilities, camels’ nutrient-rich milk was also historically believed to heal tuberculosis and other skin conditions. In the present-day clinical trial, however, researchers found that Type 2 diabetes patients who drank about two cups of camel milk per day for three months showed a lower fasting blood glucose reading.

And the benefits don’t stop there.

Other investigations highlighted how children with asthma displayed positive outcomes from drinking less than a cup of camel’s milk a day, reducing their use of rescue inhalers and corticosteroids compared with their peers in a placebo group. Because camel’s milk is believed to contain lower levels of allergenic protein, researchers believe it might act as a more hypoallergenic substitute for traditional dairy milk. That being said, there are benefits to most milks. A cup of soy milk, for example, has roughly the same amount of protein as a cup of cow’s milk — but might be easier to digest for those whose stomachs do not tolerate lactose. And, when it comes to coffee, oat milk has solidified its status as a non-dairy darling.

It could be a while before you see camel’s milk on the shelves at your local grocery store. Until then, should you still, somehow, have access to camels, researchers emphasize the importance of pasteurization before consumption to safeguard against diseases like salmonella.

ARCHIVE: Managing Common Diseases of Wild and Farmed Deer Jul 03, 2026

Making a berry smoothie? Consider skipping the banana Jul 03, 2026

As long as smoothies have existed — roughly 45 years — people have put bananas in them. The “potato of fruits” is a relied-upon source of sweetness and starch, pairing well with the blended beverage’s more acidic players, like raspberries. Now, history might be encouraged to stop repeating itself.

New research from the University of California-Davis suggests that adding a banana to a berry smoothie can negatively impact how your body absorbs the oh-so prized flavanols in the latter.

Known for their presence in other delicious vittles like dark chocolate and green tea, flavanols are anti-everything that you’d want them to be. They contain properties that are anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antioxidative. Whether they come from berries or somewhere else, you want them to be able to do their job.

Bananas, by contrast, have high levels of an enzyme that can dramatically reduce how many flavanols your body can absorb.

To test how this molecule might impact nutrient absorption, researchers asked participants to drink a banana-based smoothie and a mixed-berry smoothie. There was a flavanol-capsule control group, too.

Researchers analyzed blood and urine samples and found that folks who drank the banana smoothie had 84% lower flavanol levels than the control group. The mixed berry group, however, demonstrated levels close to those of the capsule control group.

Now, this doesn’t mean that bananas are bad for you, or that you should never eat them. Think of it as trying to maximize the nutritional benefits, at least when it comes to your smoothie stance. If you end up missing the yellow fruit, you can always add it back in. In the meantime, bananas will be waiting in the wings.

Deficiencies in B12, folate linked to fatigue Jul 02, 2026

Perhaps you’ve tried getting more sleep or less screentime. Maybe you’re making a concerted effort to cut down on sugar, salt and other pleasant pantry amenities. If you’re feeling exhausted — and nothing is making a dent — it might be time to check your vitamin levels. Specifically, B12. Folate too.

A new study from Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan suggests low levels of these essential nutrients could be contributing to people’s long-lasting fatigue.

Folate, its own type of B vitamin, and B12, regulate the levels of homocysteine [homo-siss-teen] in your blood. High levels of this amino acid can negatively impact your arteries, creating blockages that incite issues like strokes. The right amount, though, results in less inflammation and better communication between cells.

The study looked at 600 adults in Japan, measuring levels of folate, B12, and homocysteine. Then, they analyzed their feelings of fatigue and motivation.

Male participants who had higher homocysteine levels — and proportionately lower vitamin levels — reported more physical fatigue. Elevated levels of homocysteine in female participants were linked to lower motivation.

Researchers said this could be the first report of its kind.

For those seeking to beef up their B12 levels, foods high in the vitamin include salmon, eggs, clams, Swiss cheese and chicken breast. Folate can be found in beans, asparagus, beets and Brussels sprouts. As always, it never hurts to eat a little bit of everything — it just might contain something your body needs.

And remember: Although we’re all tired, persistent fatigue that resists lifestyle changes for remedying is usually worth a call to your doctor.

Arts and culture impact aging, study suggests Jul 01, 2026

If you believe the myth, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León discovered Florida in 1513 during a failed search for the Fountain of Youth.

Scientists, however, might finally have found those mythical waters.

A recent study by British researchers found that people who participate in cultural and artistic activities show signs of slower biological aging. Those activities include dancing, going to concerts, strolling through a museum and making art.

A greater variety and more frequent involvement in these activities produced a greater benefit.

The study controlled for factors that might accelerate aging, such as smoking, higher body weight and various lifestyle factors. What is particularly surprising is that the impact is about the same as the benefit seen from exercise.

Scientists suggest we have two ages. One is our chronological age — the number derived from our date of birth. It’s immutable. This number only gets larger, no matter how much you buff those muscles or eat your broccoli.

Biological age is different. Think of a car. If you’re an aggressive driver, your vehicle will show more wear and tear. The odometer says 15,000 miles. The dents and bald tires make it look like it just passed 100,000.

The human body is the same. Researchers can estimate biological aging through blood tests that track chemical changes in DNA. In this case, study investigators used data from the United Kingdom’s large Household Longitudinal Study. They analyzed information from 3,557 adults.

Culture and the arts, the study notes, promote social connections, stimulate the brain and relieve stress, which are known to benefit health.

The Fountain of Youth isn’t a place. It’s a state of mind.

Study: Voting might lead to longer life Jun 30, 2026

Voting makes for a healthy democracy. It also might lead to a longer life.

A recent study published in the Journals of Gerontology: Series B followed about 7,700 people who were in their mid-60s at the time of the 2008 election. They compared those who voted with those who did not, tracking who had died at five, 10- and 15-year intervals.

The study found that voters experienced a lower risk of dying at each of those three timeframes, compared with non-voters. Individuals who voted had a 45% lower risk of dying after five years.

They also had a 37% lower risk of death after 10 years, and a 29% lower risk at 15 years. Scientists adjusted for a number of factors, including a person’s socioeconomic status, civic engagement, health and demographics.

The longevity benefit persisted regardless of whether someone voted in person or by mail. A person’s political party also appeared to play no role in the association.

Researchers report that people struggling with their health boasted a particularly strong association with survival at the 15-year mark.

The study doesn’t say with certainty why voters might live longer. But researchers have a few ideas.

Studies have shown that civic engagement, social connections and a sense of purpose in life all play a role in healthy aging. Engaging in activities beyond one’s own self-interest keeps the heart beating. Voting checks that box.

The study is observational, which means that scientists can’t prove cause and effect. The association, however, is eye-opening.

So, on Election Day, you’re not just casting a ballot for a candidate. You’re also voting for your own good health.

Treating Parkinson’s with tango Jun 29, 2026

Five, six, seven, eight.

A new type of Parkinson’s treatment is making strides in Argentina: the tango. Each week, one hospital in Buenos Aires welcomes 100-plus people to participate in a group dance workshop aimed at introducing movements patients can employ in their everyday lives.

While beloved for its social and cultural significance, the country’s national dance form is also celebrated in medical contexts for its unique ability to treat mobility, coordination and balance impairments commonly experienced by Parkinson’s patients.

In a recent article, a neurologist unpacked the specific strengths of tango, explaining how the dance uses the very movements Parkinson’s patients often struggle to execute. When patients tango, they simultaneously handle motor, visual and auditory stimuli, which translates to improved everyday functioning.

A sidestep movement might enable a patient to open a refrigerator door, for example, while a torso rotation could help them pivot while washing dishes. The act of shifting weight between feet could allow them to step onto curbs or through doorways with greater ease.

The dance could also improve gait issues through its inherent pausing and short step pattern. Walking backward is particularly difficult for Parkinson’s patients as they tend to fall backward upon losing their balance. Regularly practicing this motion in tango, however, can enhance their agility.

Initiatives like these reveal the importance of integrating the arts with healthcare. Engaging in creative acts like these might contribute to enhanced emotional, social and physical well-being … even for those of us who don’t like dancing.

Finally! A peek inside the secret lives of T cells Jun 26, 2026

Health scientists have understood the role T cells play in the body for more than 60 years.

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes [Sigh-toe-toxic T lymph-oh-sites] are part of the immune system. You can think of them as the body’s most specialized fighters, like the Army’s Delta Force.

Now, Swiss researchers have found a way to see the mechanisms in three dimensions and much better detail.

T cells are key to health. They kill cells infected with viruses and bacteria, and they can flat-out destroy a tumor cell. They also serve as the immune’s system memory, recalling pathogens long after exposure so the body can rapidly fight them off.

Pretty handy, right?

Swiss researchers knew that scientists often face trouble trying to examine T cells because traditional imaging methods can distort delicate cell components. They often had to choose between high resolution, a large field of view or keeping cell structures intact.

The Swiss team chose an advanced method called cryo-expansion microscopy: In short, they froze the samples so fast that no crystals formed. Then they used a hydrogel to expand the samples, making it possible to see cells’ internal structure.

Putting frozen T cells and tumor cells together, they discovered that a membrane quickly forms between the two, creating a dome where the hero cells take action. The team also examined cytotoxic granules — T cells’ ammo, if you will — with better clarity than ever before.

While it may mean little to a layman, for immunologists, understanding what makes immune attacks on cancer successful or not is big. And that could mean everything to future patients.

ARCHIVE: Weighty Matters: Your Pet’s Path to Better Health Jun 26, 2026

On this archived episode of Animal Airwaves Live, Dr. Richard Hill, a professor of small animal medicine and nutrition expert at UF’s Small Animal Hospital discusses the alarming rise of pet obesity. Dr. Hill explains what’s driving the trend and why excess weight threatens your pet’s health with conditions like diabetes and joint disease. He’ll also share practical strategies for weight management. Listeners will learn how proper nutrition, appropriate exercise and veterinary guidance can help your furry companion maintain optimal health and extend their quality of life.

Secrets of SuperAgers Jun 24, 2026

Picture a woman in her 80s. She tells you a story about the time her family adopted a dog from the local animal shelter. It was an unseasonably cold day; she wore a blue sweater. Though this was 30 years ago, she remembers it like it was yesterday.

And, according to a group of researchers at Northwestern University, she really might.

While not quite superheroes, “SuperAgers” are people 80 years and older who maintain a mental acuity on par with peers who are several decades their junior. A team from Northwestern has been studying this population for the past 25 years in hopes they might better understand how these cohort’s habits and genetics confer such acuity and mental lucidity.

Though SuperAgers tend to have some common personality traits, like being socially outgoing, their brains boast a “distinct” neurobiological profile. Their brains act younger, but also reflect it structurally — there is little-to-no thinning of the brain’s outer layer.

SuperAger brains also demonstrate a resistance and a resilience to the plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer’s. This means that not only did some folks not develop the buildup of plaque to begin with, but those who did were not impacted by it. Researchers hope the findings from studying this group could help us learn more about what impacts cognitive aging and how to combat diseases like dementia.

Aside from it being just plain cool, the SuperAgers challenge an assumption that with age comes decline. Maintaining active relationships, and finding ways to keep your brain engaged, continue to be best practices. After all, while it’s possible many of us will age without a superlative, there are plenty of ways to do so gracefully.

New treatment for cholesterol circumvents statins Jun 22, 2026

For those of us with high cholesterol, there are two options: changing your diet, or opting for a statin. Some of us might need to do both. Though medications have come a long way, there are those among us who would prefer to be able to eat as much sharp cheddar as they can without suffering any cardiac consequences or dealing with some of the side effects of statins.

A new therapy might be able to help with the latter.

Researchers from the University of Barcelona and the University of Oregon are focusing on a specific protein responsible for regulating how your body processes “bad” cholesterol. When production of this protein is quelled, your cells can absorb more of the lipids bobbing along your bloodstream, which decreases the amount circulating in your arteries that typically leads to fatty plaque buildup.

Thus far, researchers have tested this mechanism — introducing a kind of DNA molecule called a polypurine hairpin to shut down production of this protein — in lab-grown liver cells and in mice, finding it more cost-effective to synthesize. This might also avoid the muscle pain common to statins.

As of 2025, just under 94 million 20 years or older have what is considered borderline high cholesterol. While it might seem like something that can wait, prolonged high cholesterol severely increases your chance of heart attacks and strokes. Early testing, like getting a lipid panel, is key to knowing whether you might need to make some lifestyle changes such as tweaking your diet or pursuing medication.

In the meantime, we’ll keep hoping for a medication that lets us eat as much cheese as we like.

Why your productivity fluctuates, according to scientists Jun 19, 2026

Some days, you wake up on the right side of the bed.

A new study from researchers in Canada indicates that simply feeling sharp can snowball into a day of efficiency, reaping a tidy extra 40 minutes of productivity.

In the study, researchers tracked participants for 12 weeks. Their goal? To better understand an evergreen tenant of humanity: trouble following through with plans.

Surprisingly, or perhaps unsurprisingly, on days when people felt mentally alert, they were not only more likely to make a list of tasks to accomplish but also to complete them.

The study participants were college students who completed daily tests that measured how quickly and accurately they could think. Questions included their sleep, goals and general workload.

On days when students woke up feeling sharp, they completed more of their to-do list. When they felt hazier, it became harder to finish routine tasks, putting the productivity “gap” between their best and worst days to around 80 minutes of work.

Thankfully, researchers emphasized that how mentally sharp you feel varies from day-to-day, meaning that you’ll have the opportunity to get more sleep than usual — which was associated with better performance earlier in the day.

By contrast, putting your nose to the grindstone only works sparingly. Your productivity can increase for a single day of extra hours, then levels off if it’s extended. This, researchers believe, lowers mental acuity and makes it harder to keep working.

For those looking to improve their mental sharpness, the study offered a couple tips: Get enough sleep and avoid burnout as best as you can.

ARCHIVE: Venom & Vets: An Update on Snake Bites in Pets Jun 19, 2026

Quick bites, fast action. Snake bites are one of the most common occurrences in veterinary hospital emergency rooms through the summer months, and prompt medical attention can make the difference between life, death and/or a lengthy and expensive hospitalization. On this archived episode of Animal Airwaves Live, Dr. Michael Schaer, UF CVM professor emeritus of emergency medicine, talks all things snake bites, discusses an update on recent lessons learned from several severe cases of pit viper envenomation, and shares an update on a promising new clinical trial drug used to treat coral snake envenomation.

Exposure to pesticides associated with increase in cancer Jun 18, 2026

For farmers, gardeners and agricultural enterprises, pesticides present a solution to the problem of a centuries-old conflict between insects and crops. World populations continue to grow, and the climate in which we produce food is becoming increasingly tricky to navigate.

Now, new research from scientists in France and Peru suggests living in environments with a heavy use of pesticides might quietly wreak havoc on cells years before any signs of cancer appear.

Scientists chose to study populations in Peru due to the country’s heavy emphasis on agriculture across its different climates and ecosystems. Pesticide concentrations in certain rural communities run high, and cancer is a public health concern. They tracked 31 common pesticides, none of which are classified as known carcinogens by the World Health Organization.

After comparing distribution patterns to data from more than 150,000 cancer patients, scientists noticed a pattern: Areas with higher environmental pesticides use showed elevated rates of certain cancers, increasing an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease by 150%.

Historically, understanding how people are impacted by pesticides in everyday situations has been difficult due to a couple factors: the way these chemicals are “layered,” and the way in which we encounter them.

Although previous research has tested the individual safety of certain chemicals on people, the reality of how you might encounter them in the world is more difficult to approximate — challenging the established ways in which we evaluate what we consider to be chemically safe.

Obesity impacts men, women differently Jun 17, 2026

While we won’t trot out the tired adage detailing how women are from Venus and men are from Mars, there is no denying differences between the two sexes. And, beyond stereotypical quirks distinct to both populations, there are often very real variations in the way health conditions play out over time — like in the case of obesity.

According to new research from the European Association for the Study of Obesity, women display higher levels of inflammation and cholesterol, while men tend to develop risky abdominal fat and signs of liver stress.

In the case of women, widespread inflammation can increase their chances of developing heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. For men, the belly fat is considered a kind of visceral fat — one known for enveloping organs and increasing the risk of metabolic conditions and heart problems. Researchers suggest these differences are impacted by hormones, fat distribution and immune system activity.

In short: Obesity’s impacts are good for neither. Understanding these differences, though, might pave the way for researchers to look toward therapies that are targeted and differentiated by sex, testing their findings in larger populations and how it all comes back to clinical risk.

It’s an evergreen issue, after all; in 2023, an estimated 1.5 billion adults across the world were contending with some kind of metabolic syndrome, which is a term for a family of conditions that raise the risk of a person experiencing a stroke, heart problems and diabetes.

In some ways, it’s reassuring to know that many of us are dealing with our weight, regardless of which planet we’re from … but good health is a universal boon.

Using magnesium for better sleep? Here’s what you should know. Jun 16, 2026

Getting regular, quality sleep can be a challenge. For better or worse, there’s a thriving market of supplements to help.

One of the most popular sleep supplements is magnesium, an essential mineral used for more than 300 different processes in our body. It supports the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, while also regulating blood sugar, digestion and more.

Several small studies explored magnesium’s impact on sleep, finding that participants had less insomnia while falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.

Should you find yourself toying with the idea of trying the supplement, always pay attention to the recommended amount. Adults ought to get anywhere from 310 milligrams to 420 milligrams of magnesium each day. Although pills exist, your diet can suffice — especially by way of dark, leafy greens, beans, nuts and whole grains like shredded wheat and fruits.

When shopping for this supplement, it’s important to consider the compounds. Magnesium glycinate, for example, is most often used for sleep. This is because glycine is the amino acid involved in sleep mechanisms — plus, it’s gentle on your stomach. By contrast, magnesium citrate can cause the inverse … and send you straight to the bathroom.

Experts say there is generally little harm in trying magnesium supplements for many people. However, it’s recommended to speak with your doctor before starting magnesium if you have kidney, cardiovascular or gastrointestinal disease, or low bone density.

You should not consume more than 350 milligrams of supplementary magnesium, as this can lead to toxicity and symptoms such as low blood pressure, vomiting and even difficulty breathing.

Everything in moderation … except good sleep.

Lung cancer risk might be tied to produce, study suggests Jun 15, 2026

Eating your fruits and vegetables is one of the easiest ways to care for your health. But new research suggests we might need to pay a little more attention to how these nutritional staples are grown.

Scientists from the University of Southern California presented research at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research that showed young adults who eat healthier than the general population might be at a higher risk of developing non-smoking lung cancer. But before you triumphantly purge your fridge of leafy greens, keep listening.

Researchers believe this link is due to the pesticides that commercially grown vegetables are treated with, a theory supported by the high rates of cancer that occur among agricultural employees who are frequently exposed to pesticides.

The team found that young women who did not smoke were diagnosed with lung cancer more often than men in the same group. The women also consumed more fruits and vegetables, eating about one extra serving of leafy greens and legumes a day than the average adult in America.

Though rates of smoking across the country have declined since the ’60s, nonsmokers under the age of 50, often women, are increasingly diagnosed with lung cancer. The subtype of this nonsmoking lung cancer is biologically different from the kind of lung cancer you get from smoking.

Moving forward, researchers plan to measure pesticide levels in participant urine to get a better idea of which ones are associated with lung cancer. And, though it’s still a good idea to eat your vegetables, organic options might be worth exploring until we know more.

Bear experts put products to the test Jun 14, 2026

When it comes to testing bear-resistant camping equipment, the bears have the last word.

To be labeled “bear-resistant,” products have to pass bear-assisted tests, and the grizzlies at Washington State University’s Bear Research, Education, and Conservation Center are happy to oblige — and have been since 2022.

To warrant a bear-resistant rating, a product must weather 60 minutes of bears’ active efforts to breach it. Bears are wily, and each has its preferences when it comes to breaking and entering.

The testing process has benefits all around. Bear-resistant products reduce bears’ habituation to humans, and testing provides enrichment and physical activity for resident bears. And if a product can survive all this and still work for humans, it’s likely market-ready.

When it comes to platypuses, it’s one mystery after another Jun 13, 2026

The oddest of odd animals on earth has to be the platypus. It’s a duck-billed mammal with flippers and a beaver-like tail and is one of only five species of mammals that lay eggs. The females make milk but have no nipples, and the males have venomous spurs on their hind legs. They’re exquisitely sensitive to electrical fields and use special sensory organs in their bills to detect prey in mud and murky water. They also glow under ultraviolet light.

Now, researchers have found that platypuses have pigment-producing intracellular structures more like those in birds than mammals. These help give birds their bright iridescent colors, but the reason for their presence in platypuses — a first in mammals — remains unknown.

It’s just one more mystery to solve in the perplexing platypus.

Loneliness might not result in decline, study suggests Jun 12, 2026

Despite being touted as a surefire means of adding to one’s risk of dementia, loneliness might not actually be the driver of cognitive decline we believe it to be.

A robust study from the Taylor and Francis group surveyed 10,000 people over the course of seven years and found that folks who reported feelings of loneliness had a slightly poorer memory than those who didn’t — but their memory didn’t worsen any faster than those who said they felt socially connected.

The data was sourced from a long-running study called the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. Participant ages ranged from 65 to 94 years old and included people from 12 different European countries like Germany, Spain and Slovenia. Researchers did not include those who already had a history of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, or those who struggled with completing daily tasks at the beginning of the survey.

To test people’s memory, the team asked participants to recall information both immediately and after a pause; in one instance, they tried to remember as many words as they could from a list of 10 in 60 seconds. The highest levels of loneliness were from respondents in Southern European countries, who were typically older, female and in poor health. Still, their cognitive functioning did not decline any faster than those who reported feeling low amounts of loneliness.

In some ways, this finding offers a possible reprieve for those of us struggling to find connection. And, encouragingly, researchers noted that although loneliness was defined as a fixed trait in the study, reality tends to be much different; that is, feelings of loneliness can shift over time.

ARCHIVE: Diagnosis and Treatment of “Down Dogs” Jun 12, 2026

If your dog is suddenly unable to rise, or can’t move its legs, it becomes a scary situation for any pet owner. However, causes for “down dog” signs can vary greatly, ranging from trauma – such as being hit by a car – to affliction with tick-borne or other diseases, just to name a few. Getting to the root of the cause of your pet’s problem may require assistance from a veterinary neurologist. Dr. Gabriel Garcia, a board-certified veterinary neurologist at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, describes how veterinarians work toward a diagnosis, and why pet owners faced with this problem should not panic but rather seek immediate veterinary care for the best possible outcome.

Study: Surviving cardiac arrest less likely at night Jun 11, 2026

The odds of surviving cardiac arrest drop like the setting sun as day turns to night.

Cardiac arrest is always a medical emergency, regardless of the time of day. Mere seconds count. A new study, however, shows that the odds of surviving one fall during the night. And researchers aren’t exactly sure why.

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, leading to death within minutes without immediate treatment. It is often caused by an electrical disturbance in the organ.

American researchers analyzed a national registry of 874,000 people who experienced cardiac arrest from 2013 to 2024. They examined arrests that occurred outside a hospital.

The team found that a cardiac arrest between 11 p.m. and 6:59 a.m. led to a 16% drop in the adjusted odds of surviving with good brain function. That’s compared with people whose hearts stopped during the other hours of the day.

The odds of death actually started increasing at 8 p.m., with the worst outcomes between 1 and 6 a.m.

What especially surprised researchers is that the odds haven’t really improved over the years, even as emergency medicine has gotten better.

Study authors thought slower ambulance response times at night might be to blame. In fact, response times are only a minute longer at night. While every minute counts, the study notes that this alone can’t fully explain the phenomenon.

Indeed, even when the arrest occurs with 911 responders already present, the nighttime penalty persists.

One way to reduce the risk of any heart trouble is to watch your diet and stay physically fit. It will also help you sleep soundly, whatever the hour.

The stealthy dangers of heavy metal toxicity Jun 11, 2026

While pet-proofing our homes, potential exposure to heavy metals often escapes our notice — but it can make our pets really sick.

Zinc intoxication usually results from swallowing pennies minted after 1982 when they became copper-coated zinc disks. Pets may also chew galvanized wire in their crates or lick zinc-containing diaper creams or sunscreens.

Lead poisoning often occurs when pets ingest paint chips in homes built before 1978, when lead paint was banned. Toys, fishing lures and ammunition may also contain lead.

Copper toxicity is generally due to inadvertent feeding of high-copper diets. Specific dog breeds may also have genetic problems metabolizing copper.

If you think your pet has ingested or encountered potentially toxic heavy metals, contact your veterinarian right away.

Weight-loss drugs offer surprising benefits beyond the waistline Jun 10, 2026

A class of weight-loss medications known as GLP-1s has revolutionized the ongoing battle against the waistline.

GLP-1s are drugs that mimic a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which your body releases after you eat. The drugs boost insulin, slow stomach emptying and reduce appetite, helping control blood sugar and, usually, weight.

They’re often prescribed for people with diabetes.

A recent large study by European and Australian scientists shows that these medications are also effective at something else: improving mental health.

Diabetes and mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse disorder, have always been intertwined, complicating the treatment of both.

The study used a massive Swedish database that tracks the health of the nation’s residents. They followed 100,000 people, including 20,000 taking GLP-1 medications, from 2009 to 2022.

The researchers found that people taking the weight-loss drug suffered fewer psychiatric-related hospitalizations and sick leave. This was especially true for the GLP-1 semaglutide.

Depression risk for those prescribed semaglutide decreased by 44%, and anxiety disorder risk fell by 38%. In the meantime, suicidal behavior fell for those taking GLP-1s generally.

Researchers say the study didn’t reveal why these effects are seen or whether biological factors are at work. But they say improved body image can be beneficial to mental health. And people with diabetes might experience less stress from managing their blood sugar.

GLP-1 medications are becoming an essential tool in the battle against obesity. Perhaps this will include mental health, too.

Pet-friendly perks for employees working away from home Jun 10, 2026

Creative benefit packages are becoming more common in today’s workplace. Some companies are offering back-up care, which refers to temporary support for family members when regular care plans fall through. Along with children and seniors, some plans now include family pets, too.

In a recent survey of over 1,000 full-time employees with pets, about 75 percent had missed at least one day of work in the previous year to cover pet care, and over 25 percent had missed six days or more for the same reason.

Some companies that source back-up care say that around 50 percent of their corporate clients now cover the cost of pet walkers, sitters and emergency pet boarding for their employees. It’s a welcome perk for pet parents who can’t be home.

Protecting horses and livestock from tetanus Jun 09, 2026

Tetanus is caused by bacteria that live in soil and manure, lying in wait to infect wounds, surgical sites and umbilical stumps in horses and livestock. So, it’s important to clean wounds well and monitor healing — but small wounds can easily go unnoticed.

Signs of tetanus include muscle spasms that may progress to a classic sawhorse stance. Affected animals can have trouble breathing and swallowing and are sensitive to sound and touch. Prolonged intensive treatment may save some, but about half don’t survive.

Fortunately, tetanus is easily preventable with vaccination. Horses should get an annual tetanus vaccination, while cattle and small ruminants are protected by the CD&T vaccine. If your animal gets hurt or has surgery, ask your veterinarian if a tetanus booster is recommended.

Spring colic and how to prevent it Jun 08, 2026

Colic — or abdominal pain resulting from gastrointestinal conditions — is one of the most common equine emergencies. While it can occur any time of year, there are specific causes of so-called “winter colic” and “spring colic.”

Winter colic most often involves impactions from horses eating drier diets, like hay. In freezing temperatures, horses also drink less water and exercise less, which results in dehydration and decreased gut motility.

In contrast, spring colic usually involves gas accumulation in the colon due to consumption of high-sugar, rapidly fermentable spring grass. Sudden shifts from hay to grass diets also lead to rapid changes in the gut’s microbial population.

That’s why it’s important to gradually introduce grass pasture. Ask your equine veterinarian for other tips to fend off spring colic.

Increasing threats to freshwater fish migrations Jun 07, 2026

Did you know that some of the longest animal migrations in the world are the river journeys of freshwater fish? You’ve likely heard of salmon or eel migrations, but billions of fish make epic treks, some as long as seven thousand miles across continents.

But now, these migrations are under threat by overfishing, pollution flowing into rivers and lakes, and dams blocking crucial waterways. Looming over it all is the ever-present threat of climate change causing water temperatures to rise.

Migratory freshwater fish that feed millions of people are some of the most vulnerable wildlife species on the planet. In fact, global freshwater fish populations have plummeted by 81 percent since 1970. Now is the time for nations to work across borders to solve the problem — before it’s too late.

Live near a highway? An air purifier could be your new best friend. Jun 05, 2026

For those who live near highways and are nearing the big 4-0, listen up.

A new study from the University of Connecticut and Tufts University has found that adults over 40 who live near highways completed a cognitive task-switching test 12% faster after one month of using a quality air purifier.

The research study found that tiny pollution particles that drift indoors from nearby highways may affect more than just our breathing. They may alter our thinking, too.

The results support growing evidence that air pollution takes more of a toll on our bodies than we knew.

The researchers recruited Massachusetts residents living within 650 feet of highways — close enough that traffic pollutants regularly seeped inside.

Participants were healthy nonsmokers, ages 30 and older.

Each household received two air purifiers, one for the living room and another for the bedroom. Participants spent one month using real HEPA [HEP-uh] machines and another month with fake ones. They were not told about the difference.

Before and after each monitoring period, a researcher tested participants. The first section asked test-takers to connect numbered dots in order as fast as possible, testing visual memory and hand speed. The second part was harder, alternating between numbers and letters in sequence.

In a surprise turn, the average time for those 40 and older to complete the harder part of the test was 54 seconds after using the HEPA filters, compared with 61.4 seconds after using the fake ones.

There was no significant speed difference for those under 40.

Researchers say the finding raises many questions. In the meantime, an air filter might improve more than just air quality.

ARCHIVE: “Why is My Old Horse So Hairy?” A Discussion About Pituitary Disease in the Geriatric Horse Jun 05, 2026

Preventing dogs from opening doors Jun 05, 2026

Many dogs don’t miss a trick, especially when it comes to behavior repeated right in front of them. That’s how we inadvertently teach them the very dangerous habit of opening doors.

Lever-style and bar handle mechanisms make it easiest for dogs, since opening the door requires them to only hook their paw or mouth and press in a single direction to open the door. In contrast, round knobs require a turn and pull with an opposable thumb, which is an exclusively human ability.

If replacing hardware isn’t an option, child-proof mechanisms can prevent dogs from using lever-type handles. Child-proof locks also work to keep dogs out of cabinets and refrigerators.

Instead of frustrating your dog once he’s perfected the habit, try to dog-proof doors ahead of time.

Shutting off the brain’s ‘pain switch’ Jun 04, 2026

Chronic pain is a costly condition in the United States.

Affecting one in four adults, its annual tab is estimated to be more than $722 billon paid in a combination of medical bills and lost work time.

A new study, however, might hold hope for a future with a little less chronic pain, which is generally defined as pain lasting longer than three to six months.

University of Colorado scientists found that a sugar-cube-sized region of the brain holds a small command center that tells the body to keep pain signals alive well after an injury has healed. The region is tucked inside the insula [in-suh-luh], a part of the brain that helps us process sensations.

In laboratory studies, shutting down that brain circuit not only prevented chronic pain, but also turned it off after the pain began.

For the new research, scientists used fluorescent proteins to track which nerve cells activated in rats after a sciatic nerve injury. Then, they used advanced neuroscience tools to flip genes on or off.

The results showed that the region of the brain responsible for chronic pain is likely key to pain that lingers over time.

When the scientists turned off this pathway shortly after injury, pain was brief. Once chronic pain developed, disabling the circuit caused pain to let up.

Researchers don’t know why the brain sometimes sends bogus pain signals. But they envision a future of targeted injections or infusions that stop the false alarms. Perhaps a wearable device. Or an implant.

Now that technology allows scientists to target specific parts of the brain, they say new treatments are likely to come much faster.

Narcan can quickly reverse opioid overdose in animals Jun 04, 2026

Both animals and people can overdose on opioids, like fentanyl or heroine. Dogs — especially those on police K9 units — are the animals most at risk, since they explore their environment by sniffing and licking.

Affected dogs become lethargic and weak, then collapse and develop rapid, shallow breathing. At high doses, respiratory depression can quickly become fatal.

Once a dog has collapsed, administration of naloxone can reverse the effects of opioids within minutes. Narcan, the spray formulation, can be applied inside a dog’s nostrils. It’s harmless — even in the absence of an overdose — and can be accessed without a prescription at many retail pharmacies.

Narcan may have to be given more than once. And remember — any animal exposed to opioids should see a veterinarian immediately.

Millions are swapping doctor visits with health advice from AI Jun 03, 2026

A chatbot a day keeps the doctor away — or so it seems for millions of Americans, according to a new survey from the West Health-Gallup Center.

The survey polled 5,500 American adults and found that one in four used AI for health information. While 95% reported using it as a tool before a visit to the doctor, 14% claimed that the advice was enough to skip the trip altogether.

When applied to a larger population, that would mean approximately 14 million Americans are relying solely on AI.

Still, many approach with caution. Only 4% claimed to strongly trust chatbots for their accuracy, while one-third openly distrusted them.

So why are people turning to AI despite these doubts? For many, AI offers answers that traditional healthcare cannot: immediate answers, convenience and lack of judgment. Even when users question its accuracy, the ease of getting a response can outweigh hesitation.

Conversations with AI ranged from interpreting doctor’s notes to a focus on nutrition, medication or diagnosis. And while being more informed is usually a good thing, there are deeper implications.

Reliance on AI often reflects who can and cannot afford healthcare. Of those surveyed, 27% said they turned to AI because they could not afford a doctor’s visit. While wealthier patients may use AI as a supplement before seeing a physician, lower-income patients may be forced to use it in place of one, widening an already existing healthcare gap.

Regardless of how you feel, AI is likely here to stay. So next time you’re under the weather, Dr. Chatbot can be a helpful first step — just maybe not the final diagnosis.

Adapting a diagnostic tool for dogs with seizures Jun 03, 2026

Canine epilepsy, which results in chronic intermittent seizure activity, is the most common neurologic condition in dogs. While most dogs with seizures fall down, shake and foam at the mouth, about one-third of them have much more subtle signs that are tougher to identify.

Electroencephalography, or EEG, uses small sensors placed on the head to examine brainwaves and is the diagnostic test of choice in people with seizures. While the variety of head shapes across canine breeds has limited its use in dogs, study of 3-D dog skull models has helped determine the optimal placement of EEG sensors. This information — along with use of wireless EEG equipment housed in a doggie backpack — allows veterinary neurologists to gather diagnostic information from active dogs at home — even between seizures.

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