Rise in certain molecules may be responsible for bone aging

The aging body produces certain molecule – microRNA-141-3P – that inhibits bone cells from absorbing and incorporating vitamin C, touching off a degenerative cascade the weakens bones.

Work at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University has unmasked the culprit responsible for aging bones: the molecule microRNA-141-3P. According to exciting new research published in the Journals of Gerontology, this molecule controls the process of bone deterioration that occurs with age. Clinical trials have found that the molecule actively prevents bone cells from using vitamin C. It starves them of a vital nutrient needed to maintain strong, healthy bones. Without sufficient vitamin C, bone cells degrade and cease to multiply and repair bone tissue. The entire human skeleton suffers from the lack of vitamin C. Over time, diseases like osteoporosis develop.

To counter this negative process, scientists have administered an experimental microRNA-141-3P inhibitor in rodent subjects. Their findings are encouraging. The mouse and rat test subjects showed fewer signs of bone weakness and disease and maintained healthy skeletons far longer than their control group counterparts. The trials point to microRNA-141-3P inhibitors as effective anti-aging therapies.

While the commercial development and availability of this drug lies far in the future, researchers are optimistic. If successful, this newly developed therapy will ease the passage of time, allowing bodies to remain youthful and resilient.

Melanoma Decrease with Sunscreen

According to The American Cancer Society, the average time of diagnosis of individuals with melanoma is 63. However, melanoma isn’t that rare even among younger individuals. Truth be told, it’s not uncommon even in young adults (particularly young ladies).
A recent study conducted by the University of Sydney evaluated individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 who are regular users of sunscreen in their childhood. They found that their risk of reducing melanoma decreased by 40% when compared to individuals who rarely used sunscreen. This Research indicates that the regular use of sunscreen during childhood decreases the incidence of melanoma when these people mature.

Caroline G. Watts, Martin Drummond, Chris Goumas, Helen Schmid, Bruce K. Armstrong, Joanne F. Aitken, Mark A. Jenkins, Graham G. Giles, John L. Hopper, Graham J. Mann, Anne E. Cust. Sunscreen Use and Melanoma Risk Among Young Australian AdultsJAMA Dermatology, 2018; DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2018.1774

Raw Fruits and Vegetables for a Healthy Outlook

Eating raw fruits and vegetables may provide a mental boost. According to University of Otago researchers, cooking your fruits and vegetables may diminish some of  the nutrient content available for you to metabolize. The nutrients in some of the foods in their raw form were shown to have a positive effect on factors such as sleep patterns and the feeling of wellbeing.

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00487/full

Dr Cummings at Illinois State Medical Society

Dr A.J. Cummings has been attending the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS), House of Delegates meeting for many years. This years meeting was this past weekend in Oak Brook. Here is where members meet to discuss Illinois State health policy and public health issues. A recurrent theme is assuring patients have good access to care and to help make the public aware of health issues. It is also a time for the physicians to interact and socialize. The various County Medical Societies make us the ISMS. The Peoria Medical Society, in which Dr Cummings has been president of twice, was established in 1848.

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