All posts by Kenneth Dantzler-Corbin

I am a writer, editor, adjunct professor of Religion and Philosophy, English as a Second Language, Genealogy, Educator in Ambulatory Care, and Spiritual Support Specialist, Singer, Musician, and Social Justice Advocate for Human Rights.
Culture, Ethics, government, Politics, White House

Did Donald Trump’s Statements and Actions on 9/11 Raise Questions?

Leave a comment

Introduction:
September 11, 2001’s tragic events left an indelible mark on the United States and the world. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, individuals from all walks of life responded in various ways. This blog post delves into the statements and actions of former President Donald Trump concerning September 11, spanning from the immediate aftermath of the attacks to more recent years. It sheds light on how his words and deeds have intersected with this historic event.

September 11, 2001:
In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, Donald Trump made several statements regarding the impact on the real estate landscape in Manhattan. He described how Trump Tower at 40 Wall Street briefly became the tallest building in downtown Manhattan after the World Trade Center towers collapsed. Furthermore, he later claimed $150,000 from the government for “rent loss” and “repairs” related to the attacks.

September 11, 2013:
On the 12th anniversary 9/11, Trump sent a tweet extending his best wishes, but with an unconventional tone, including a reference to “haters and losers.” This tweet was later retweeted and garnered attention.

November 2015:
During his 2015 presidential campaign, Trump made controversial comments about 9/11. He predicted the attacks in his 2000 book, “The America We Deserve.” He made an unverified assertion about Muslims cheering the Twin Towers collapse in New Jersey.

February 2016:
Trump made statements suggesting that former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush were responsible for not apprehending Osama bin Laden when they had the opportunity. He also claimed to have lost “hundreds of friends” on 9/11, a statement questioned for accuracy.

April 2016:
In April 2016, Trump claimed to have assisted in clearing rubble at Ground Zero after the attacks, a claim for which no corroborating evidence has been provided. He also mistakenly referred to the date as “7/11” during a campaign rally.

April 2017:
After becoming President, Trump boasted about the ratings of news programs covering September 11 compared to those covering his presidency.

September 2017:
On the 16th anniversary of the attacks, President Trump tweeted a message of remembrance and honor for the victims.

September 2018:
One year later, President Trump praised former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani for his response to 9/11 during a Pennsylvania memorial visit.

July 2019:
Just before signing an extension of the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, President Trump claimed to have spent significant time at Ground Zero with first responders.

September 2019:
On the 18th anniversary 9/11, President Trump made a statement suggesting he had visually witnessed the planes hitting the Twin Towers from a nearby building, despite his residence being four miles away from Ground Zero.

As of the last knowledge update in September 2021, there was no credible evidence to support Donald Trump’s claim that he assisted in clearing rubble at Ground Zero after the September 11, 2001 attacks. This assertion had faced extensive scrutiny and skepticism from various quarters, including journalists, fact-checkers, and individuals directly involved in the rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero.

Numerous reports and investigations conducted up to that point had failed to uncover any documented records or credible eyewitness accounts substantiating Trump’s assertion that he actively participated in clearing debris at the site. The absence of such evidence casts doubt on his claim’s veracity.

It is crucial to emphasize that first responders, firefighters, police officers, construction workers, and volunteers were primarily responsible for the post-9/11 rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. Many of these individuals faced significant health risks due to their exposure to hazardous materials during their heroic efforts. Trump’s claim of personal involvement in these activities remained unverified and was met with skepticism, particularly by those who had firsthand experience responding to the 9/11 attacks.

Since this information is based on knowledge up to September 2021, any subsequent developments or additional information regarding this specific claim will not be included in this response. Therefore, it is advisable to consult reputable news sources and fact-checking organizations for updates.

Conclusion:
Donald Trump’s statements and actions related to September 11, 2001, have been diverse and, at times, controversial. His commentary and interactions with this historic event have sparked discussion and debate. Understanding how public figures like Trump engage with moments of national significance can provide insight into their perspectives and priorities.

Cited Works:
What Did Donald Trump Say on 9/11? September 11 Transcripts, Quotes. https://www.newsweek.com/what-did-donald-trump-say-september-11-1826013?fbclid=IwAR1vzO63IoHcTC65PZ5gpSxnugyq6EF9kM_lSDzokL75tGVYs4IxH1VoOMY

Social Justice

SEVEN LIFESTYLE FACTORS THAT CAN HELP FIGHT DEPRESSION: A BREAKTHROUGH STUDY

Leave a comment

Depression is a global epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. While genetics has long been considered a significant factor in determining one’s susceptibility to depression, a groundbreaking study published in Nature Mental Health suggests that our lifestyle choices can profoundly impact reducing the risk of mental illness. An international team of researchers, including specialists from Fudan University in China and the University of Cambridge, conducted the study, which sheds light on seven crucial lifestyle factors that may be even more effective than genetics in preventing depression.

Seven Lifestyle Factors that Can Help Fight Depression: A Breakthrough Study
Seven Lifestyle Factors that Can Help Fight Depression: A Breakthrough Study
Behavioral Science, Culture, depression, disease, Health, mental health, Public health, Science

Seven Lifestyle Factors that Can Help Fight Depression: A Breakthrough Study

1 Comment

Introduction:
Depression is a global epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. While genetics has long been considered a significant factor in determining one’s susceptibility to depression, a groundbreaking study published in Nature Mental Health suggests that our lifestyle choices can profoundly impact reducing the risk of mental illness. An international team of researchers, including specialists from Fudan University in China and the University of Cambridge, conducted the study, which sheds light on seven crucial lifestyle factors that may be even more effective than genetics in preventing depression.

Photo by Alex Green on Pexels.com

The Power of a Healthy Lifestyle
To understand depression better, researchers turned to a vast biomedical database, the UK Biobank, which contains anonymized data on genetics, brain structure, and lifestyle factors. This study analyzed data from 290,000 individuals, with 13,000 experiencing depression during the past nine years.

Seven Lifestyle Factors for a Reduced Risk of Depression:

  1. Moderate Alcohol Consumption: The study recommends moderate alcohol consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle. While excessive alcohol intake can contribute to depression, moderate consumption was associated with a lower risk.
  2. Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet is crucial to mental health. Nutrient-rich foods can positively affect brain function and reduce the risk of depression.
  3. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise has long been recognized for its mood-boosting benefits. Incorporating regular physical activity into one’s routine can significantly reduce the risk of depression.
  4. Healthy Sleep: Perhaps the most significant finding was the impact of a good night’s sleep. Regularly getting between seven and nine hours of sleep reduced the risk of single depressive episodes and treatment-resistant depression by 22 percent.
  5. Frequent Social Connection: Building and maintaining strong social connections significantly protected against recurring depression, reducing the risk by 18 percent.
  6. No Smoking: Smoking has numerous detrimental physical and mental health effects. Quitting smoking is an essential step in reducing the risk of depression.
  7. Avoiding Sedentary Behavior: Prolonged periods of inactivity can negatively impact mental health. Staying active and avoiding excessive sedentary behavior is crucial to maintaining good mental health.

Lifestyle Trumps Genetics:
The study revealed that lifestyle factors may be more significant in determining depression risk than genetics. While genetics certainly play a part, adopting a healthy lifestyle can substantially reduce the risk of depression. Those who adhered to most of the recommended lifestyle factors were 41 percent less likely to develop depression. In comparison, those in the “favorable” lifestyle group saw a remarkable 57 percent reduction in risk.

The Role of Genetics:
Although genetics does influence depression risk, its impact is relatively minor compared to lifestyle choices. Individuals with a lower genetic risk score were only 25 percent less likely to develop depression than those with a high-risk score. This emphasizes the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle as a proactive measure.

The specific lifestyle factors that were studied in the research on depression risk reduction are:

  1. Moderate Alcohol Consumption: The study suggested that moderate alcohol consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle. It is important to note that excessive alcohol intake can harm mental health, so moderation is key.
  2. Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients was associated with a lower risk of depression. This typically involves consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  3. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise has long been known to impact mental health positively. Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or participating in sports, can help reduce the risk of depression.
  4. Healthy Sleep: Getting between seven and nine hours of sleep per night is crucial to reducing the risk of depression. Consistent, restful sleep is essential for maintaining good mental health.
  5. Frequent Social Connection: Building and maintaining strong social connections and relationships was identified as a significant protective factor against recurring depression. Regular social interaction can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
  6. No Smoking: Smoking is known to have detrimental physical and mental health effects. Quitting smoking is a vital step in reducing the risk of depression.
  7. Avoiding Sedentary Behavior: Prolonged periods of inactivity and excessive screen time were linked to a higher risk of depression. Staying physically active and reducing sedentary behavior can contribute to better mental health.

While these are the specific lifestyle factors that were studied and found to have a significant impact on depression risk, other lifestyle factors could also play a role in mental health. These could include:

  1. Stress Management: Chronic stress is a known risk factor for depression. Learning effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises, can be valuable in reducing the risk of depression.
  2. Limiting Exposure to Environmental Toxins Some environmental toxins, such as heavy metals or pollutants, have been linked to mental health issues. Minimizing exposure to these toxins through clean living practices can be beneficial.
  3. Balancing Work-Life: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for mental well-being. Overworking and excessive job-related stress can contribute to depression.
  4. Access to Mental Health Support: Seeking professional help through therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can be critical for individuals already experiencing depression. Early intervention is vital to effective treatment.
  5. Mindfulness and Positive Psychology: Mindfulness meditation and positive psychology techniques can enhance mental resilience and promote overall psychological well-being.
  6. Limiting Exposure to Negative Media: Constant exposure to negative news and social media can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Managing media consumption and focusing on positive content can be helpful.

It is crucial to remember that lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors all play a role in the complex condition of depression. While adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial, individuals should also seek support and guidance from mental health professionals when needed. Reducing the risk of depression may require a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes and access to appropriate mental health care.

Conclusion: The Shocking Truth Revealed!

Prepare to have your world turned upside down because groundbreaking research has exposed the seven lifestyle factors that could be driving you straight into the dark depths of depression. Brace yourself, as this eye-opening study suggests that your choices regarding alcohol consumption, diet, physical activity, sleep, social connections, smoking, and sedentary behavior may be setting the stage for mental health disaster. Forget about genetics for a moment, because it’s the everyday decisions you make that could be the real culprit behind your blues. With Professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge declaring, “Some of these lifestyle factors are things we have a degree of control over,” it’s time to take a deep dive into your choices and make the necessary adjustments to save yourself from the clutches of depression. Are you ready to reclaim control of your life and banish depression for good?

Cited Works:

Li, Jinxu, Lu Tang, and Yunsha Pu. “My Story of Depression: A Content Analysis of Autobiographic Videos on Douyin.” Health Communication (2023): 1–9.

Correia, Ana Salomé, Armando Cardoso, and Nuno Vale. “Oxidative stress in depression: the link with the stress response, neuroinflammation, serotonin, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity.” Antioxidants 12, no. 2 (2023): 470.

Zhao, Ying, Yiran Tao, Xiwen Bao, Qiang Ding, Changyan Han, Tingkun Luo, Weijia Zhang, Jinhua Sun, and Jiali Shi. “A study on differences about the influencing factors of depressive symptoms between medical staff and residents during the 2022 city-wide temporary static management period to fighting against COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai.” Frontiers in public health 10 (2023): 1083144.

Social Justice

Can the Ketogenetic Diet Be a Breakthrough in Halting Neuroendocrine Tumor Progression?

Leave a comment
Can the Ketogenic Diet Be a Breakthrough in Halting Neuroendocrine Tumor Progression?
Diet, disease, Health, Public health

Can the Ketogenic Diet Be a Breakthrough in Halting Neuroendocrine Tumor Progression?

1 Comment

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) have been on the rise in recent years, and among them, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) pose a significant health concern. However, a recent Cell Death and Disease study offers hope in the fight against these tumors. This groundbreaking research explores the effects of a ketogenic dietary intervention on the onset and progression of PanNETs, shedding light on a potential therapeutic approach.

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Growing Concern
PanNETs, a subtype of NETs, are rare but have become increasingly prevalent. These tumors originate from pancreatic islet cells and can be functional or non-functional. While functional PanNETs produce hormones that lead to hormone syndromes, non-functional PanNETs, which comprise most cases, do not exhibit these characteristics.

The progression of PanNETs often involves the development of liver metastases, making them challenging to treat. Traditional treatments have shown limited success in shrinking these tumors, emphasizing the need for innovative interventions.

Understanding the Role of Insulin
The study draws attention to the role of insulin in PanNET development. Both human and mouse models have revealed a connection between elevated insulin levels and increased tumor growth. Conversely, reducing insulin levels has been associated with decreased tumor development.

Enter the Ketogenic Diet
The ketogenic diet, known for its low carbohydrate and high-fat composition, has gained recognition for its potential health benefits. In the context of cancer, previous research has suggested that a ketogenic diet can lower insulin levels without adverse effects.

In this study, researchers fed a ketogenic diet to mice with non-functional PanNETs using a Pancreatic β-cell-specific Men1 deficient mouse model. The results were promising.

Ketogenic Diet: A Game Changer
The findings demonstrated that a ketogenic diet could significantly suppress the onset and progression of non-functional PanNETs in the mouse model. What is more, this dietary intervention also had a positive impact on pituitary NET development in the mice.

The Implications for Human PanNET Patients
These results open up exciting possibilities for PanNET patients. High blood glucose levels have been associated with poorer outcomes in PanNET patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy. Metformin, a blood sugar-reducing drug, has shown promise in improving chemotherapy effects for PanNET patients.

Therefore, reducing blood glucose levels through a ketogenic diet could enhance the prognosis for human PanNET patients. This treatment approach also holds promise for other cancers that rely on the insulin-regulated PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway.

In conclusion, this study offers hope in the battle against PanNETs and potentially other NETs. The ketogenic diet’s ability to suppress tumor progression in a mouse model suggests a novel therapeutic intervention that could benefit patients in the future. Further research is needed, but this study paves the way for innovative approaches to combating neuroendocrine tumors.

Using the ketogenic diet as a therapeutic intervention for PanNETs may have potential side effects. However, it is essential to note that this research is still in its early stages, and further human studies are needed to understand the risks thoroughly. Some potential side effects of the ketogenic diet may include:

  1. Keto Flu: When transitioning to a ketogenic diet, some people experience “keto flu” symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
  2. Nutritional Deficiencies: A restrictive diet may lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially if not carefully planned. Monitoring vitamin and mineral intake is crucial.
  3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and diarrhea can occur due to changes in dietary fiber and fat consumption.
  4. Liver and Kidney Function: There are concerns about how the diet may affect liver and kidney function, as they play a role in metabolizing ketone bodies.
  5. Increased Cholesterol Levels: Some individuals may experience increased cholesterol levels when on a high-fat diet, which could pose cardiovascular risks.
  6. Bone Health: The ketogenic diet may impact bone health due to its potential for calcium loss.

Regarding the use of Metformin, it is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated medication. However, like any medication, it can have side effects. Common side effects of Metformin may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. In some cases, it may also lead to vitamin B12 deficiency or, rarely, a serious condition called lactic acidosis. The risk of side effects should be weighed against the potential benefits of Metformin as part of PanNET treatment.

The following steps in research to determine the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in human PanNET patients involve conducting clinical trials. These trials would involve carefully controlled studies on human participants to assess the diet’s impact on tumor growth, blood glucose levels, and overall health. Researchers would monitor for potential side effects and evaluate the diet’s efficacy in improving patient outcomes.

Additionally, research may explore the combination of a ketogenic diet with other treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy or targeted therapies, to determine if synergistic effects could enhance the treatment of PanNETs. Ultimately, conducting well-designed clinical trials will be essential to providing more concrete evidence of the diet’s effectiveness and safety in humans.

Cited Works:

Barrea, Luigi, Sara Cacciapuoti, Matteo Megna, Ludovica Verde, Claudio Marasca, Rosa Vono, Elisabetta Camajani, et al. “The effect of the ketogenic diet on Acne: Could it be a therapeutic tool?.” Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (2023): 1–20.

Cohen, Yotam, Rafael Valdés-Mas, and Eran Elinav. “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Deciphering Diet–Disease Relationships: Case Studies.” Annual Review of Nutrition 43 (2023).

Rana, Avinash, and Monika Arora. “Ketogenic diet: Assessing YouTube video information using quality, reliability, and text analytics methods.” Nutrition and Health (2023): 02601060231193789.

Social Justice

Is Your Night Owl Lifestyle Putting You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

Leave a comment

Night owls, beware! If you feel groggy in the morning but perky in the evening, you might identify as a night owl, inclined to stay up late and sleep in.

Is Your Night Owl Lifestyle Putting You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
Is Your Night Owl Lifestyle Putting You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
Behavioral Science, Culture, disease, Education, Health, mental health, Public health

Is Your Night Owl Lifestyle Putting You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

1 Comment

Night owls, beware! If you feel groggy in the morning but perky in the evening, you might identify as a night owl, inclined to stay up late and sleep in. While this sleep pattern may seem harmless, a recent study has uncovered a concerning connection between being a night owl and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Lead author Sina Kianersi, a postdoctoral research fellow at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, explains, “When we looked at the relationship between chronotype and diabetes, we found night owls had a 72% increased risk of developing diabetes over the eight years of our study.”

Even more alarming is that night owls exhibit various unhealthy behaviors that contribute to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. They were more likely to have a poor diet, be less physically active, consume higher quantities of alcohol, maintain an unhealthy BMI (body mass index), smoke, and either sleep less or more than the recommended seven to nine hours per night.

Even when the study accounted for these unhealthy habits, night owls still faced a 19% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to early birds. This suggests that genetic factors or other unaccounted variables also play a role.

Dr. Bhanu Prakash Kolla, a sleep medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the importance of awareness for evening-oriented individuals. He suggests moderating alcohol use, quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and managing other risks as best as possible.

Our internal body clocks, or circadian rhythms, control our sleep patterns, which are subject to genetic and environmental influences. Early birds have circadian rhythms that promote early mornings, while night owls have rhythms that delay peak activity until the afternoon or evening. When these rhythms are disrupted, it can lead to a domino effect of adverse health consequences, including an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have consistently shown that early birds perform better in school, are more active throughout the day, and have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, night owls tend to develop unhealthy habits that can lead to early mortality.

The study, which followed nearly 64,000 nurses over eight years, found that the association between being a night owl and developing type 2 diabetes was more significant for those who worked during the day than for night owls who had later work hours or worked overnight shifts. This suggests that personalized work scheduling could help mitigate some of the risks of being a night owl.

While genetics may play a role in one’s chronotype, maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains crucial. Night owls can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses by adopting a healthier way of living. So, consider this a wake-up call for all the night owls to prioritize their health and well-being.

Genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors affect being a night owl or having a preference for staying up late and sleeping in. While the exact genetic factors contributing to night owl behavior are still being studied, here are some insights into the genetic aspects that may play a role:

  1. Clock Genes: Clock genes are one of the critical genetic factors in regulating our sleep-wake patterns. These genes control our circadian rhythms, the internal body clock determining when we feel alert and sleepy. The PERIOD genes (PER1, PER2, and PER3) and the CLOCK gene are examples of genes that influence circadian rhythms. Variations in these genes can lead to differences in the timing of sleep.
  2. Melatonin Receptors: Melatonin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep. The genes responsible for coding melatonin receptors, such as MTNR1A and MTNR1B, can impact how individuals respond to melatonin production, which varies throughout the day. Genetic variations in these receptors can affect an individual’s sleep-wake preferences.
  3. DEC2 Gene: Some studies have identified the DEC2 gene as a potential contributor to being a night owl. This gene is associated with short sleep patterns and is linked to people who can function well with fewer hours of sleep.
  4. PER3 Gene: The PER3 gene regulates the circadian rhythm’s sensitivity to light. Variations in this gene can affect how individuals respond to light cues and influence their sleep patterns.
  5. RORA Gene: The RORA gene regulates sleep duration and timing. Variations in this gene have been linked to differences in circadian rhythms and sleep preferences.
  6. Genetic Variability: It is essential to note that multiple genetic variations can contribute to being a night owl. These genetic factors can interact with each other and with environmental influences, making it a complex trait influenced by both nature and nurture.

While genetics plays a role, it is essential to recognize that environmental factors, such as work schedules, lifestyle choices, and exposure to light, can also significantly impact an individual’s sleep-wake patterns. Genetic predispositions do not determine behavior definitively but can make specific sleep patterns more likely.

Research in this field is ongoing, and our understanding of the genetic basis of night owl behavior continues to evolve as more studies are conducted.

Cite Works:

Okeefe, Christine. “From early birds to night owls: a review of chronobiology.” (2023).

Zhou, Ke, Marios Constantinides, Daniele Quercia, and Sanja Šćepanović. “How Circadian Rhythms Extracted From Social Media Relate to Physical Activity and Sleep.” In Proceedings of the International AAAI Conference on Web and Social Media, vol. 17, pp. 948-959. 2023.

Schilling, Ray. “Lung Cancer Screening Program.” Lung Cancer (2023).

Migliaccio, Gian Mario. The Science of Deep Sleep, Towards Success: Unleashing energies in Sports and Life thanks to quality sleep. Sport Science Lab srl, 2023.

disease, Health, Public health, Science

A New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer: Targeting the SE-Regulated RNA-Binding Protein Cascade

Leave a comment

Introduction

In a recent breakthrough study published in Nature Communications, researchers have uncovered a promising therapeutic target for one of the deadliest forms of cancer—pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This malignancy, responsible for over 90% of pancreatic cancer cases, has long presented a formidable challenge in the field of oncology. The study sheds light on a novel approach to combating this lethal disease.

The Enigma of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

Despite extensive research, the driving forces behind PDAC, including the role of the Myc master regulator and KRAS oncogene mutations, have remained elusive. Limited understanding of the super-enhancers (SEs) orchestrating sustained translation increases in this cancer type has made it more difficult to find effective treatments for PDAC.

The Study’s Quest

In this groundbreaking study, researchers embarked on a mission to map the genomic locations of SEs in 16 different human pancreatic cancer cell lines. The result was the identification of 876 SEs—a critical discovery in the battle against PDAC. To validate these findings, the researchers turned to clinical samples of PDAC and examined the expression of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) F protein, an RNA-binding protein linked to polyadenylation, alternative splicing, and messenger RNA (mRNA) stability regulation.

The Functional Role of SEs

To find out what role SEs play in increasing hnRNPF levels and tumor growth, researchers deleted certain parts of the genome in the SEs of the MIA PaCa-2 PDAC cell line. Subsequently, they injected these modified cells into the pancreases of immunodeficient mice to observe the in vivo effects on tumor growth.

A Closer Look at the Findings

The study’s findings highlighted the relevance of SE-regulated hnRNP F expression in PDAC. The researchers noted that H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac), a common SE marker, was more prominent in pancreatic cancer cell lines than normal cells. This observation underscored the significance of SE-regulated hnRNP F expression in PDAC.

Members of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) family, like JUN, FOS, and ATF, were found in large amounts in SEs according to a study of transcription factor motif analysis. This suggests that they play a role in controlling hnRNP F.

Crucially, the deletion of SE elements led to an 80% reduction in hnRNP F transcript levels and a subsequent 35% reduction in protein levels. SE deletion also impacted chromatin accessibility at the hnRNP F SE.

Functional Consequences

The consequences of SE deletion were profound. Cells lacking the hnRNP F SE displayed reduced proliferation in two-dimensional (2D) cultures and formed smaller colonies in three-dimensional (3D) in vitro assays. We were surprised that adding hnRNP F back to these cells partially restored their ability to divide, showing that hnRNP F is the main SE-driven gene that causes PDAC cells to divide.

The Role of hnRNP F in mRNA Stability

The study also found that hnRNP F helps keep mRNAs stable. One of these is PRMT1, which controls tumor growth by creating new proteins through Ubap2l.

Unveiling a Targetable Pathway

That is interesting; the researchers discovered that the Myc oncogene controlled hnRNP F, PRMT1, and Ubap2l, creating a network that was essential for protein production. This discovery unveiled a targetable pathway to hinder PDAC growth.

Conclusion

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has long presented a formidable challenge in cancer research. But a new study has found a promising way to treat the disease: the SE-regulated RNA-binding protein cascade, which is made up of hnRNP F, PRMT1, and Ubap2l. By inhibiting PRMT1, this newfound understanding opens doors to novel treatments for PDAC and potentially other cancers. Importantly, these treatments may offer a safer alternative to existing SE-targeted therapies, mitigating severe toxicities. As the fight against pancreatic cancer continues, this discovery brings renewed hope to patients and researchers alike.

Cited Works:
Class, I. P. C., and AC12Q168FI USPC. “Patent application title: TRANSLATIONAL DYSFUNCTION BASED THERAPEUTICS Inventors: Gordon A. Jamieson, Jr.(Arlington, MA, and US) Katherine LB Borden (St. Laurent, and CA) Biljana Culjkovic (Montreal, CA) Alex Kentsis (New et al.) Assignees: Translational Therapeutics, Inc.” (2014).

Pelletier, Jerry, Marie-Ève Bordeleau, Lisa Lindqvist, Robert Francis, and Junichi Tanaka. “Chemotherapeutic agents for inhibition of protein translation.” U.S. Patent 8,008,346, issued on August 30, 2011.

Science

Unveiling Alien Chemistry: James Webb Telescope Finds Carbon Molecules on Exoplanet K2-18 b

Leave a comment

Introduction

In a remarkable revelation, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has provided groundbreaking evidence of carbon-bearing molecules, specifically methane and carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere of the exoplanet K2-18 b. This discovery opens new frontiers in our understanding of distant planets that bear no resemblance to those in our solar system, hinting at the possibility of habitable worlds scattered throughout the universe.

The Unique Position of K2-18 b

K2-18 b, with a mass 8.6 times that of Earth, orbits around the cool dwarf star, K2-18, located 120 light-years away in the constellation Leo. Its intriguing characteristics place it in a “sub-Neptune” category, straddling the line between Earth and Neptune in size.

The Emergence of the Hycean Exoplanet

The data collected by the JWST suggests that K2-18 b could be classified as a Hycean exoplanet. This relatively new category describes planets with hydrogen-rich atmospheres and water-covered surfaces. Some astronomers view these Hycean worlds as promising candidates for the search for extraterrestrial life.

Expanding the Search for Alien Life

This discovery underscores the importance of considering diverse habitable environments in the quest for extraterrestrial life. Traditionally, the focus has been on smaller rocky planets, but larger Hycean worlds, like K2-18 b, provide more opportunities for atmospheric observations.

Clues in the Atmosphere

The presence of methane and carbon dioxide, coupled with the scarcity of ammonia in K2-18 b’s atmosphere, hints at the possibility of a water ocean beneath a hydrogen-rich atmosphere on the planet. Additionally, there are indications of a molecule called dimethyl sulfide (DMS), typically associated with marine phytoplankton on Earth. However, caution is advised in interpreting this finding.

The Challenge of K2-18 b’s Size

Despite being in the habitable zone and having carbon-containing molecules, K2-18 b’s enormous size suggests that its interior is primarily high-pressure ice, more like Neptune than Earth. Sub-Neptunes like K2-18 b are the most common type of planet observed in our galaxy.

Unlocking Secrets Through Atmospheric Composition

Researchers devised a clever method to study the distant atmospheres of exoplanets like K2-18 b. They examined the light from K2-18 b’s parent star as it passed through the planet’s atmosphere, yielding essential insights into its composition.

Webb’s Precision Revolution

The precision of the JWST played a crucial role in this discovery. Its extended wavelength range and unmatched sensitivity enabled the detection of spectral features with just two transits. This level of precision surpasses that of the Hubble Space Telescope and promises more revelations about habitable-zone exoplanets.

Future Exploration of K2-18 b

The research team is eagerly looking ahead, with plans to use the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) spectrograph to validate and enhance their understanding of K2-18 b. The ultimate goal remains to identify life on a habitable exoplanet, a prospect that could transform our perspective on our place in the universe.

The James Webb Space Telescope: A Game Changer

The James Webb Space Telescope represents a monumental achievement in astronomical exploration. It boasts a primary mirror nearly three times the size of Hubble’s, allowing it to collect more light and observe previously elusive galaxies. Positioned at the second Lagrange Point (L2), it offers a stable environment for unprecedented clarity in observations.

Unlike Hubble, the JWST primarily focuses on infrared observations, peering through cosmic dust clouds to witness the birth of stars and planetary systems. It also aims to unravel the mysteries of the universe’s early days, including the “Dark Ages” following the Big Bang.

The JWST’s deployable sunshield, the size of a tennis court, shields its instruments from external heat and light, ensuring precise infrared measurements.

Conclusion

In our quest to comprehend distant exoplanets and their potential for habitability, the James Webb Space Telescope’s discovery of carbon-bearing molecules on K2-18 b represents a significant turning point. As the JWST continues its mission, the possibilities of uncovering extraterrestrial life and reshaping our cosmic perspective become more tantalizing with each new revelation.

Cited Works:

Benneke, Björn, Heather A. Knutson, Joshua Lothringer, Ian JM Crossfield, Julianne I. Moses, Caroline Morley, Laura Kreidberg, et al. “A sub-Neptune exoplanet with a low-metallicity, methane-depleted atmosphere, and Mie-scattering clouds.” Nature Astronomy 3, no. 9 (2019): 813–821.

Changeat, Quentin, Billy Edwards, Ahmed F. Al-Refaie, Angelos Tsiaras, Ingo P. Waldmann, and Giovanna Tinetti. “Disentangling atmospheric compositions of K2-18 b with next generation facilities.” Experimental Astronomy (2021): 1-26.