MediQuest Society

Scientists finally read the hidden DNA code that shapes disease

EMBL researchers created SDR-seq, a next-generation tool that decodes both DNA and RNA from the same cell. It finally opens access to non-coding regions, where most disease-associated genetic variants lie. By revealing how these variants affect gene activity, scientists can better understand complex diseases and develop improved diagnostic tools.

For centuries, scientists have noticed that certain illnesses seem to pass from one generation to the next, a connection first noted by Hippocrates, who observed that some diseases "ran in families." Over time, researchers have steadily advanced their ability to uncover the biological roots of these inherited patterns within the human genome.

A team of EMBL researchers and collaborators has now created a tool that takes single-cell analysis to a new level. It can capture both genomic variations and RNA within the same cell, offering greater accuracy and scalability than earlier…

Scientists reveal the best exercise to ease knee arthritis pain

A sweeping review of over 200 studies finds that aerobic exercises like walking and cycling offer the best pain relief and mobility gains for knee osteoarthritis. Compared to other types of exercise, aerobic training showed the strongest evidence across short- and long-term outcomes. All forms of exercise were found to be safe, but experts recommend making aerobic activity the foundation of treatment.

People living with knee osteoarthritis may find the greatest relief from aerobic activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming, according to a new study published in The BMJ. Researchers found that these forms of exercise were the most effective for easing pain, improving movement, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Although other exercise types can provide added benefits, the researchers emphasized that aerobic activity should remain the foundation of treatment. Osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage cushioning the ends…

What happens to your body when you eat too many ultra-processed foods

Ultra-processed foods make up the bulk of U.S. diets, and new research links high intake to inflammation, a predictor of heart disease. People consuming the most UPFs were far more likely to show elevated hs-CRP levels, especially older adults, smokers, and those with obesity. Scientists warn that UPFs may contribute to cancer and other chronic illnesses, urging stronger health policies despite pushback from powerful food companies.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially altered products - like soda, snacks and processed meats - packed with additives and stripped of nutrients. Hundreds of new ingredients, previously unknown to the human body, now make up nearly 60% of the average adult's diet and almost 70% of children's diets in the United States.

These products reduce nutritional value, extend shelf life, and tend to increase how much people consume. In the U.S., UPFs…

One daily habit could save you from chronic back pain

People who walk a lot have less back pain than people who do not walk much – and the volume is what matters most, not the intensity.

A major study has investigated the relationship between walking and the risk of developing chronic lower back problems. The findings could save the healthcare system significant amounts of money while also alleviating many people's back pain - if we just follow the simple advice provided.

The results are clear: People who walk a lot have less back pain than people who do not walk much - and the volume is what matters most, not the intensity.. It is better to walk a lot than to walk fast.

"People who walk more than 100 minutes every day have a 23 per cent lower risk of lower back problems than those who walk 78 minutes…