THE FAT SIGNS

Nearly 30 chemical markers in urine correlating with obesity were found in more than 2,000 British and American volunteers. Scientists at the National Phenome Centre in London reported that some were produced by gut bacteria, suggesting they could contribute to obesity. Others produced in muscles were similarly linked. Professor Paul Elliott said: “It may be possible to identify non-obese people who have such patterns in their urine profile. These people could be at risk of developing obesity and metabolic diseases and might benefit from personalised preventative interventions.”

KILLERS ON DRUGS

A world-first study indicates that some tranquilisers and painkillers raise patients’ risks of committing homicide. Among 959 homicide offenders, a 31 per cent increased risk was recorded for antidepressants and 45 per cent for benzodiazepines. The highest risk increases were 92 per cent for opiate painkillers and 206 per cent for anti-inflammatories. Many patients had taken benzodiazepines for long spells. Professor Jari Tiihonen, who led the research in Sweden and Finland, observed: “Benzodiazepines can weaken impulse control, and earlier research has found painkillers affect emotional processing.”

HAPPIER WITH HORMONES

Testosterone supplements have been found to counter depression in older males, which often accompanies ageing and the resulting depletion of the hormone. Researchers at the Medical University of Vienna showed for the first time that the number of transporters of serotonin, the ‘happy’ brain chemical, was significantly higher even after four weeks’ testosterone therapy. Professor Siegfried Kasper said the project, involving studies of hormone treatment of transsexuals, had offered “major insights into how sex hormones affect the human brain … in psychiatric illnesses”.

REJECTION STUDY

The lymphatic system, which has a vital role in immunity, is being studied to discover how it contributes to donor heart rejection. Dr Wilson Wong, a transplant immunity specialist, is using CT scanning to observe the lymphatic system in mice after heart transplants. Dr Wong, supported by British Heart Foundation funds, hopes to be able to modify the lymphatic system to combat rejection and reduce dependence on immunosuppressants.

STEM CELLS IN STORE

A method of generating stem cells from defrosted blood cells is being developed at Cambridge University. Researchers aim to grow the stem cells into heart muscle that can be grafted on to areas damaged by heart attacks or other events. Scientists hope this will lead to stores for production of stem cells when needed, whereas at present the cells must be used immediately they are made.

SOCCER VICTIMS

A five-year study is investigating why so many professional footballers develop severe osteoarthritis, often after joint injuries. Specialists are examining nearly 19,000 former players in an Arthritis Research UK project at Nottingham University, backed by the Football Association and FIFA. The charity says its project will throw “fascinating light” on training and fitness attitudes. Former Liverpool player Neil Mellor, who suffered fractures and cartilage damage, said the research could encourage training improvements and help footballers to avoid injuries. The project dovetails with Southampton University’s work aimed at reducing football injuries.