Protein with key role in diabetic blindness found

Researchers at University of Utah Health have identified a protein (ARF6) that when inhibited reduces diabetic retinopathy, which results when blood vessels at the back of the eye leak fluid into the eye, impairing vision. 

Studies were conducted in rodents treated to simulate the diabetic condition. “What is exciting is that we identified a compound (NAV-2729) that inhibits ARF6, which is crucial for the development of diabetic retinopathy,” said Weiquan Zhu, co-author of The Journal of Clinical Investigation study.

Daydreaming is a sign of your smartness

A new study from the Georgia Institute of Technology suggests that daydreaming at work and during meetings isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It might be a sign of your intelligence and creativity.

Scientists came this conclusion after measuring the brain patterns of more than 100 people. “People with efficient brains may have too much brain capacity to stop their minds from wandering,” said Eric Schumacher, the Georgia Tech associate psychology professor who co-authored the study.

Role of healthy diet in controlling high triglycerides

A new study from nutrition researchers at the University of Illinois shows that some individuals with variations of a “gene of interest” may be at an even higher risk of developing high triglycerides. Despite genetic predisposition, the study highlights that maintaining a healthy body weight or changing diet can help reverse the risk.

A type of fat in the blood, triglycerides are important for good health, but too many may increase risk of heart disease.