Is the Worm the New Mouse?
For decades, the mouse has been the gold standard in preclinical research. But as science, industry, and society evolve, so do the tools we use to understand human biology. At NemaLife, we believe a new contender is emerging – one that is tiny, transparent, and often overlooked: 𝘊𝘢𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴, a nematode. As we push toward more ethical, scalable, and cost-effective alternatives, 𝘊. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴 might just be the future of preclinical screening. With decades of research supporting its relevance to human biology, the explosive growth of AI in data processing, and increasing momentum from regulatory agencies and animal welfare groups, the time is ripe for this disruption. Read More
Effects of probiotics on Happiness and Mental Well-Being: Insights from a Randomized Controlled Trial
A recent study by Fontera investigated the potential mental well-being benefits of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 (HN001) in adults experiencing mild to high stress. In this 28-day double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 120 participants, those who took HN001 showed greater improvements in happiness and stress levels compared to the placebo group. While the results weren't statistically significant, 39% of participants on HN001 moved from not happy to happy, versus 29% in the placebo group, and post-hoc analysis revealed significant interactions for happiness and stress over time. Read More
Unlocking Host-Microbiome Interactions with C. elegans: A Model for New Discoveries
The Human Microbiome Project revealed key links between microbial species and health but lacked effective model systems to study host-microbiome interactions. Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism for over 70 years, is now being recognized for its potential in this area. Recent studies have uncovered a diverse, defined gut microbiome in wild nematodes, making C. elegans ideal for exploring how host genetics, age, and stressors affect microbiome composition. By investigating molecular interactions between single microbial species and the gut, C. elegans offers a promising platform for testing microbiome-altering health interventions and generating insights applicable to human health. Read More
Probiotic Power: Reducing Inflammation and Supporting Healthy Aging in Older Adults
A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, funded by Probi AB, investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9 (LpHEAL9) in older adults with chronic low-grade inflammation (LGI). Sixty-six volunteers over the age of 70 participated in the four-week trial, receiving either LpHEAL9, LpHEAL9 combined with berries, or a placebo. While LpHEAL9 alone showed a trend toward reduced serum CRP, it significantly lowered fecal calprotectin levels compared to placebo, indicating a reduction in gut inflammation. The LpHEAL9 + Berries group did not show additional effects on inflammation, but both probiotic groups exhibited a trend toward improved cognitive function. These findings suggest that LpHEAL9 may have a modest impact on inflammation in healthy older adults. Read More
Natural Antioxidants from Polygonatum sibiricum Show Anti-Aging Potential
Recent research using Caenorhabditis elegans has demonstrated the promising anti-aging effects of saponins from Polygonatum sibiricum (PKS). This study found that PKS significantly reduced oxidative stress and aging-related processes in the nematode model. By activating the SKN-1 signaling pathway, PKS increased antioxidant gene expression and reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which are key contributors to aging. The findings highlight the potential of PKS as a natural therapeutic for combating aging, offering new insights into the biological mechanisms of anti-aging interventions. Read More
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