We all know how important it is to stay healthy and avoid getting sick. But have you ever wondered about the science behind vaccines? In this video clip, we learn about the key academic concept of how the immune system works to fight off infections and how scientists are working to develop a universal flu vaccine that could protect us against every strain of the flu, even ones that don't exist yet. Learning about this exciting field of research not only expands our knowledge of how vaccines work, but also helps us understand the importance of public health initiatives.

Did you know that spending just a few weeks in space can lead to a 20% loss of muscle mass? That's because in microgravity, astronauts don't need to use their muscles as much to stay upright or move around. This lack of exercise leads to a breakdown in muscle tissue and a loss of strength. But it's not just astronauts who are affected by muscle degradation. People on bed rest, those with certain medical conditions, and even the elderly can experience a loss of muscle mass and function. So what's happening on a cellular level? When muscles aren't used, they begin to break down proteins for energy. This process, called protein degradation, can lead to the loss of muscle mass and function. But don't worry, researchers are working hard to find ways to combat muscle degradation in space and on Earth. One approach is to use exercise machines that simulate gravity, which have been shown to maintain muscle mass in astronauts. Other research has focused on using drugs to block the protein degradation process and promote muscle growth. Leading academics in the field of muscle degradation include Dr. Robert Fitts, a professor of biology at Marquette University, who has researched the effects of microgravity on muscle mass and function. Dr. Lori Ploutz-Snyder, a professor at the University of Michigan, has also studied muscle atrophy and is working on developing exercise programs to prevent it. Overall, muscle degradation is a serious concern for both astronauts and people on Earth. By learning more about the causes and potential solutions, we can work towards maintaining healthy muscles and preventing muscle loss.

Get ready to revolutionize the way we treat cancer and age-related diseases! A new company, GlioQuell, co-founded by Dr. Kambiz Alavian from the Department of Brain Sciences, is developing a cutting-edge approach to target the powerhouses of cancer cells - the mitochondria. By reducing the efficiency of these structures, GlioQuell aims to turn off the cancer cells' energy supply and treat one of the most aggressive forms of cancer - glioblastoma.

Discover how human evolution has led to unique diseases like knee osteoarthritis, affecting millions worldwide. Professor Terence D. Capellini shares genetic research on the link between bipedalism and knee osteoarthritis, and how identifying high-risk patients at an early age can inform future therapies. Explore the Developmental and Evolutionary Genetics Lab's work and hypotheses published in his 2020 paper "Evolutionary Selection and Constraint on Human Knee Chondrocyte Regulation Impacts Osteoarthritis Risk." Join the Harvard Museums of Science & Culture's ongoing series to learn more.

Did you know that adults catch more than 150 colds throughout their lives, and that a single family of viruses causes 30 to 50% of all colds? Understanding the complex relationship between viruses and our immune systems is not only fascinating, but also highly relevant to our daily lives. By reading about pleconaril, rhinovirus, and CRISPR, you'll learn about the science behind vaccines and antiviral drugs, and how they could help us tackle the common cold. But beyond that, exploring this topic will help you appreciate the incredible complexity and resilience of our immune systems, and the importance of maintaining our health. So grab a cup of tea and your favorite notebook, and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of viruses and immune systems!

Weight loss surgery decreases bile acids linked to higher appetite, but lifestyle changes could mimic the effect. Researchers from King's, the University of Nottingham, and Amsterdam University Medical Centre found that gut microbes play a key role in regulating bile acids and metabolism. The study's results have important implications for targeted interventions for metabolic disorders focused on the gut microbiome. Co-author Professor Tim Spector, the co-founder of personalised nutrition company ZOE, highlights the promise of gut microbiome testing in supporting metabolic health.

Are you fascinated by the human heart and its complex workings? Do you want to be at the forefront of medical research and innovation? Then studying cardiology could be the perfect fit for you! Cardiology is the study of the heart and its functions, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of related diseases. It's a field that combines biology, physics, and medicine to understand the intricate mechanisms of the heart and how they affect our overall health. One of the most exciting aspects of cardiology is the potential for innovation and discovery. Researchers in this field are constantly developing new treatments and technologies to improve patient outcomes. For example, recent breakthroughs in stem cell research have opened up new possibilities for repairing damaged heart tissue. Some of the most well-known figures in cardiology include Dr. Robert Califf, former Commissioner of the FDA and a leading expert in cardiovascular disease, and Dr. Valentin Fuster, a world-renowned cardiologist who has made significant contributions to the study of atherosclerosis. As an undergraduate student of cardiology, you'll typically take courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and epidemiology, among others. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, or cardiac imaging. After completing your degree, you'll be well-prepared for a range of careers in the healthcare industry. You could work as a cardiologist in a hospital or clinic, or pursue a career in medical research or medical device development. Some of the most popular employers in this field include the American Heart Association, Mayo Clinic, and the National Institutes of Health. To succeed in cardiology, you'll need to have a strong background in science and math, as well as excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A passion for helping others and a desire to make a difference in people's lives are also key attributes for success in this field. So if you're ready to take on the challenge of studying the heart and its functions, consider a career in cardiology. Your work could help save lives and improve the health of people around the world!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a heart doctor? Well, look no further because we've got the inside scoop on the exciting and rewarding field of cardiology! As a cardiologist, you'll be responsible for diagnosing and treating heart conditions, helping patients live longer, healthier lives. From heart attacks to arrhythmias, you'll have the knowledge and skills to provide life-saving care to those in need. But being a cardiologist isn't just about saving lives, it's also about preventing heart disease. You'll work with patients to develop healthy habits and manage risk factors, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. And the best part? The field of cardiology is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies being developed all the time. You'll have the opportunity to stay at the forefront of medical advancements and make a real difference in the lives of your patients. Typical duties of a cardiologist include performing diagnostic tests, like electrocardiograms and echocardiograms, prescribing medication and lifestyle changes, and performing procedures like angioplasty and stenting. There are also many areas of specialisation within the field, such as electrophysiology and interventional cardiology. To become a cardiologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology or chemistry, followed by medical school and a residency in internal medicine. After that, you'll complete a fellowship in cardiology, where you'll gain specialised knowledge and skills. Helpful personal attributes for a career in cardiology include strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others. You'll also need to be able to work well under pressure and make quick decisions in life-or-death situations. Job prospects for cardiologists are excellent, with a growing demand for heart specialists around the world. Some notable potential employers include the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Hospital, among many others. So, if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a cardiologist. Your heart (and your patients' hearts) will thank you!

New research has identified gold-based compounds that could treat multidrug-resistant "superbugs", with some effectiveness against several bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat, and the development of new antibiotics has stalled. Gold metalloantibiotics, compounds with a gold ion at their core, could be a promising new approach. Dr. Sara M. Soto Gonzalez and colleagues studied the activity of 19 gold complexes against a range of multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from patients. The gold compounds were effective against at least one bacterial species studied, with some displaying potent activity against several multidrug-resistant bacteria.

An interdisciplinary UCLA research team has developed a tiny implantable device called SymphNode, which has been shown to be able to drive tumours into remission, eliminate metastasis, and prevent the growth of new tumours, resulting in longer survival in mice. This groundbreaking technology may decrease the risk of cancer returning, making it a potential addition to chemotherapy or other first-step treatments for a variety of cancers.

Stanford University researchers, in collaboration with other institutions, have developed a molecule that prevents the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from twisting and infecting cells, including those with new variants. This new type of antiviral therapeutic, called the longHR2\_42 inhibitor, may be delivered via inhaler to treat early infections and prevent severe illness. The team's detailed understanding of the twisted structure of the virus's spike protein allowed them to create a longer molecule that is more effective than previous attempts to block the virus. Their groundbreaking research may lead to a promising solution to combat COVID-19.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the healthcare industry in ways we never imagined. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. With the help of AI, medical professionals can now analyze large amounts of data in seconds, making the process of diagnosing and treating patients much more efficient. Leading academics such as Dr. Eric Topol, a cardiologist and digital health pioneer, have been working on incorporating AI into healthcare for years. For example, Dr. Topol has been working on developing AI algorithms that can help diagnose diseases from scans and images, reducing the need for invasive procedures. He has also been studying the use of AI in personalized medicine, where AI can help predict the best treatment for a patient based on their specific genetic makeup. Statistics show that AI is already having a positive impact on healthcare. In 2019, researchers used AI to diagnose skin cancer with accuracy comparable to human dermatologists. Another study found that AI could help detect breast cancer up to five years before a traditional mammogram. These are just a few examples of how AI is changing the face of healthcare. AI is also helping healthcare professionals work more efficiently. For example, AI algorithms can quickly analyze medical records and help doctors identify patients who need immediate attention. This saves time and reduces the risk of missing critical information.

Are you curious about the tiny viruses that inhabit your body? MIT Technology Review's biotech newsletter, The Checkup, explores the world of bacteriophages, or "phages" for short. These microscopic viruses have the potential to treat bacterial infections, but they've been largely abandoned in favor of antibiotics. With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, interest in phage therapy is making a comeback. Learn about the diversity and specificity of phages, and how they could be engineered to target specific bacteria. Discover the potential of phage therapy and the challenges that need to be overcome in this fascinating article.

Are you interested in science and making a difference in people's lives? A career in pharmaceutical research might be just what you're looking for! Pharmaceutical research is an exciting field that involves discovering and developing new drugs and therapies to treat and cure diseases. As a pharmaceutical researcher, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects that could change the lives of millions of people. For example, did you know that the development of the COVID-19 vaccines is a result of years of pharmaceutical research? You could be part of the next breakthrough in medicine! In this field, your typical duties will include conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, developing new drugs, and testing their safety and effectiveness. You may also specialize in a particular area, such as drug design, pharmacology, or clinical research. To become a pharmaceutical researcher, you will need to pursue a degree in a relevant field, such as chemistry, biology, or pharmacology. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Medicinal Chemistry. A graduate degree in pharmaceutical research is also highly desirable and may be required for some positions. Helpful personal attributes for this field include strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. A passion for science and a desire to make a difference in the world are also important. The job prospects for pharmaceutical researchers are promising. With the aging population and increasing demand for new drugs and therapies, the demand for skilled researchers is expected to grow. Notable and attractive potential employers in this field include pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Merck, and Novartis, as well as government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Can blood rejuvenation really extend human lifespan by 10 healthy years? Silicon Valley entrepreneurs invest millions into life extension projects. But is it ethical? Read on to explore the scientific and ethical debates surrounding lifespan extension technologies.

Revolutionize cancer treatment with a new approach - turning cancer cells into cancer-killing vaccines! Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard-affiliate are developing a cell therapy that eliminates tumours and trains the immune system to prevent future cancer outbreaks.

Discover the secret behind Gram-negative bacteria's armor-like outer membrane! A new study led by Professor Colin Kleanthous at the University of Oxford sheds light on how bacteria like E. coli construct their outer membrane to resemble body armor, with implications for developing antibiotics.

The Alzheimer's Solution is a groundbreaking book that offers a comprehensive program for preventing Alzheimer's disease and improving cognitive function. Based on the largest clinical and observational study to date, this revolutionary book reveals how the brain is a living universe, directly influenced by nutrition, exercise, stress, sleep, and engagement. The authors, neurologists and codirectors of the Brain Health and Alzheimer's Prevention Program at Loma Linda University Medical Center, present a personalized assessment for evaluating risk, a five-part program for prevention and symptom-reversal, and day-by-day guides for optimizing cognitive function. Don't let Alzheimer's disease affect you or your loved ones; take control of your brain's future with The Alzheimer's Solution. Recommended for anyone interested in brain health, aging, and disease prevention, The Alzheimer's Solution offers a comprehensive program for preventing Alzheimer's disease and improving cognitive function. This book is particularly relevant to individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those who are interested in taking proactive measures to reduce their risk of cognitive decline. It is also useful for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers who are interested in the latest findings in the field of Alzheimer's disease prevention and treatment. Additionally, this book can be of interest to anyone looking to optimize their brain health through lifestyle interventions such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and engagement.

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body. The drugs are delivered through pills and injections and are toxic to all cells in the body, including healthy ones. However, cancer cells are more susceptible to the effects of chemotherapy because they multiply rapidly. Chemotherapy drugs can damage hair follicles, cells of the mouth, gastrointestinal lining, reproductive system, and bone marrow, which can cause side effects such as hair loss, fatigue, infertility, nausea, and vomiting. Despite these side effects, chemotherapy has greatly improved the outlook for many cancer patients. Advances in treatment have led to up to 95% survival rates for testicular cancer and 60% remission rates for acute myeloid leukemia. Researchers are still developing more precise interventions to target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Learning about chemotherapy can help high school students understand the science behind cancer treatment and the importance of ongoing research to improve outcomes for patients.

Researchers have identified lipid differences in patients with alcohol-related liver disease that could lead to earlier detection and new treatments. Sphingomyelins were found to be significantly reduced in scarred liver tissue, potentially serving as a biomarker for ALD. Learn more about this breakthrough research and its implications for the diagnosis and treatment of ALD.