The Paradox of Glucocorticoids and IBD

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This is something that the researchers are trying to figure out. And what maybe seems to be the case but sort of TBC I guess is that it's about timing. So when someone's treated with glucocorticoids that's quite a short lived treatment and in a short time it seems like these molecules might have an anti-inflammatory effect. When it comes to things like stress and this kind of chronic levels of stress that are sometimes associated with IBD this longer time frame seems to flip things on its head and turn this into a pro-inflammatory situation. But as he says this is currently in mice and there's lots to understand.

In this episode:

00:46 An AI that predicts gene interactions

Mapping the network of genes that control cellular processes can be difficult to do when gene-expression data is sparse, such as in rare diseases or those affecting tissues that are hard to clinically sample. To overcome this, a team has developed an artificial intelligence system trained on a large, general dataset, and used it to make predictions about gene interactions in data-limited situations. As a test-case they look at the heart condition cardiomyopathy, and show that the system can identify potential interactions that could represent new therapeutic targets.

Research article: Theodoris et al.

09:08 Research Highlights

Microbes that can break down persistent ‘forever chemicals’, and why intermolecular distances are the key to keeping gummy sweets chewy.

Research Highlight: Microbes take the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’

Research Highlight: Better gummy sweets are within reach, thanks to physics

12:06 Briefing Chat

We discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, how chronic stress can inflame the gut, and understanding how rocket launches might impact wildlife.

Nature News: Chronic stress can inflame the gut — now scientists know why

Nature News: Does the roar of rocket launches harm wildlife? These scientists seek answers

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