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February 2, 2001 Research Update |
James Bogash, D.C. Mesa, AZ
info@lifecarechiro.com
www.lifecarechiro.com
Hyperinsulinemia, Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction in Obesity
This is quite an interesting article that ties in many concepts of functional medicine. Obese subjects with hyperinsulinemia had chronic stimulation of sympathetic nervous system (the fight/flight system) among other risk factors for chronic disease. Cardiac output was increased as well; leading to excess work being done by the heart. All of this ties insulin resistance with obesity and heart disease so nicely. Now if we could just get Americans to cut back on the gobs of processed sugar we eat day in and day out... Circulation -- Abstracts: Emdin et al. 103 (4): 513 http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/103/4/513
Telomerase activity and rebuilding of telomere length in cloned cattle
Telomeres are little pieces at the end of chromosomes that act as protectors that get shorter each time a cell divides. Some consider them as markers of aging and are searching for ways to elongate the telomeres of chromosomes and extend longevity. Telomerase is an enzyme that maintains the length of the telomeres (increased activity is seen in cancer cells that have an unlimited ability to divide; inhibiting telomerase is actually a hot topic in cancer research these days). This study examines the activity of telomerase in cloned cattle. It appears that during some point in development, not the actual cloning process itself, the new cells actually regain their youthful length of telomeres. A little complicated, but this research may begin to pinpoint a timeframe in which telomerase activity is highest; leading to ways to control it. PNAS -- Abstracts: Betts et al. 98 (3): 1077 http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/98/3/1077
Protein glycosylation in vivo induces autoimmune disease
The glycosylation of proteins occurs when glucose reacts with proteins to change their structure and function. Some consider this the basis of aging. While this research study uses genetic modification to induce autoimmune disease, there are some implications that glycosylation from insulin resistance may be a triggering factor in some autoimmune diseases. PNAS -- Abstracts: Chui et al. 98 (3): 1142 http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/98/3/1142
Reduced susceptibility to ischemic brain injury in COX-2-deficient mice
Selective COX-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex and Vioxx are the new rage in treatment of joint pain. There have been some additional findings in research studies, suggesting a protective effect on colon cancer. This study, although done in mice, suggests a reduction in the damage sustained during an ischemic stroke when COX-2 is not even present. Don't let this convince you to run out and start taking Celebrex; instead, consider this as yet additional evidence that inflammation is a contributing factor to most diseases and you would do well to maintain a lifestyle that reduces inflammation. PNAS -- Abstracts: Iadecola et al. 98 (3): 1294 http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/98/3/1294
Is H pylori Infection in Childhood a Risk Factor for Gastric Cancer?
This article addressed the question of eradication of H. pylori in children, since it is considered a risk factor for gastric cancer. The authors performed a literature review and determined that it is not indicated to eradicate H. pylori in children. My concerns remain in jumping to the gun that we need to destroy this bacteria. It is a risk factor for gastric cancer and gastritis, and yet protects against GERD, a potential risk factor for esophageal cancer. We need to find out exactly HOW it gets to the stomach, and what it does once it's there. Pediatrics -- Abstracts: Imrie et al. 107 (2): 373 http://www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/abstract/107/2/373
Acarbose, insulin in Type 2 diabetes w/ non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis
This study examines the use of acarbose, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor in patients whose liver does not function well. The results were good for control blood sugar levels. Whole grains also have alpha-glucosidase inhibitors present in them, which are processed out during refinement. We don't need to spend a money on a study comparing whole grains and glucose control--several studies already confirm the benefits of whole grains on glycemic control. Synergy Abstract http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/journals/processfree2.asp?contentid=dom%2E2001%2E1&filetype=abstracts&article=87078