The same bugs that cause food poisoning may fight cancer

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February 13, 2017 6:47 PM

Scientists modified Salmonella bacteria to trigger a powerful immune response in mice with cancer, according to Science.

Cancer cell

Every day, an estimated 6,800 new peer-reviewed academic articles are published.

That’s a whole lot of science to wade through—but don’t fret. We’ll do the legwork for you, each and every morning. Here’s your daily dose of the latest discoveries from journals, research institutions, and news outlets from around the world.

Fight Cancer

The same bugs that cause food poisoning may have a surprising benefit: fighting cancer. Scientists modified Salmonella bacteria to trigger a powerful immune response in mice with cancer, according to Science. This activated their immune system to attack the cancer, shrinking tumors and preventing the cancer cells from spreading. The researchers hope to run clinical trials on humans within the next few years.

Breathe Easier

Omega-3 fatty acids may help asthma patients breathe better, researchers from the University of Rochester found. They discovered the omega-3 fatty acids—the same compounds found in fatty fish like salmon and tuna—reduced the production of IgE, the antibodies that cause asthma symptoms. Omega-3s were most effective in people with milder cases of asthma, since corticosteroids, which are used to treat people with more severe cases, may blunt the beneficial effects.

Support Your Partner

If your partner is feeling frazzled, she may try to push you away—but don’t let her: Supporting your mate during stressful times can reduce future depression and improve her self-esteem, researchers from the University of Alberta discovered. Doing so can even boost your self-esteem, too, the study found.

Pack In Protein

You know that eating enough protein is vital for building—and maintaining—muscle and strength. But it might not matter where you’re getting it from. Researchers from the Institute for Aging Research found that greater amounts of dietary protein led to greater muscle health regardless of whether it came from animals or plants. (Here’s what and when you should eat if you want to build muscle.)

Block Your Ears

Nearly 1 in 4 adults has signs of noise-induced hearing loss, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. And 24 percent of people who say their hearing is excellent or good actually show deficits, too. Protect your ears by avoiding high volume on your earbuds and using noise-protection devices when you’re exposed to loud sounds, like at work.

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