Tiny RNA molecules carried by extracellular vesicles in the bloodstream can accurately predict kidney function decline and cardiovascular risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD), as reported by researchers from Science Tokyo. By analyzing blood samples from a large cohort, the team identified multiple microRNAs linked to disease progression and built a model to distinguish high-risk patients with CKD. Clinically applying this risk score model can contribute to improved patient outcomes.

Scientists with the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC found that feeding mice with high blood sugar a high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet rapidly lowered their glucose levels and improved how their muscles responded to aerobic exercise. The diet enhanced the animals’ ability to use oxygen and promoted muscle changes associated with greater endurance. The findings suggest that managing blood sugar through diet may help restore some of the health benefits of exercise.

As people age, it becomes harder to know who is on track for healthy years ahead and who may be at higher risk for serious decline. A new study suggests that part of the answer may already be circulating in the bloodstream.