Antibiotics For Low Back Pain?

Persica Pharmaceuticals has developed PP353, an intradiscal injection designed to treat chronic low back pain linked to bacterial infections, particularly cases associated with Modic changes (pathological alterations in vertebrae seen on MRI). PP353 combines:

• Linezolid (antibiotic) – targets bacterial infection
• Iohexol (contrast agent) – aids imaging and distribution
• Thermosensitive gel – ensures controlled release

Recent Study & Findings

• Conducted on 44 patients
• Patients received two injections four days apart
• 60% reported significant pain and disability reduction
• Study supports infectious origins in some chronic back pain cases

Potential Impact

• Could benefit the 25% of chronic low back pain cases linked to bacterial infection
• Offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery or long-term medication
• Further clinical trials required before widespread use

Cold Water Immersion and Health

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE aimed to evaluate the psychological, cognitive, and physiological effects of cold-water immersion (CWI) in healthy adults. The study synthesised data from 11 randomised controlled trials encompassing 3,177 participants who engaged in CWI through methods such as cold showers, ice baths, or plunges in water temperatures at or below 15°C for durations of at least 30 seconds. 

Key Findings:

• Inflammation: The analysis revealed that CWI might reduce inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect is particularly noted in athletic populations, where CWI is often utilised to mitigate exercise-induced muscle soreness. It is with noting that the anti-inflammatory effect may blunt the athlete’s adaption to exercise.
• Stress Reduction: While immediate reductions in stress levels were not observed post-immersion, a significant decrease in stress was reported 12 hours after CWI sessions. This delayed effect suggests that CWI may influence stress-related pathways over time, contributing to improved mental well-being. 
• Immune Function: Regular exposure to cold showers was associated with a reduction in self-reported sickness absence from work. Participants who incorporated daily cold showers into their routines reported fewer instances of illness-related absences, indicating a potential enhancement of immune resilience. 
• Quality of Life and Sleep: Short-term improvements in sleep quality and overall well-being were reported by participants following consistent CWI practices. However, these positive effects appeared to diminish after a period of 90 days, suggesting that the benefits of CWI on sleep and well-being may be transient and possibly require sustained or varied interventions to maintain.

Conclusion:

The study indicates that CWI may offer certain health benefits, particularly in stress reduction and immune function over time. However, the evidence is inconsistent, and many studies are limited by small sample sizes or a focus on athletic populations. Further comprehensive research is needed to fully understand the benefits and effects of cold-water immersion on health. 

Processed Meats Increase Risk of Dementia

A recent study published in Neurology on 11 February 2025, led by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has investigated the relationship between long-term red meat consumption and the risk of dementia and cognitive decline in U.S. adults. The study utilised data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, encompassing approximately 170,000 participants over a 43-year period. 

Key Findings:

• Processed Red Meat and Dementia Risk: Individuals with the highest intake of processed red meats—such as bacon, sausages, and hot dogs—exhibited a 13% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with lower consumption levels.
• Cognitive Decline: High consumption of processed red meats was associated with a 14% increase in subjective cognitive decline, indicating a perceived worsening of cognitive abilities over time.
• Unprocessed Red Meat: The study found that unprocessed red meats, such as beef, lamb, and pork, also contributed to cognitive risks, potentially due to harmful substances like nitrates, sodium, and saturated fats present in these meats.

Mechanisms Behind the Findings:

The detrimental effects of processed red meats on cognitive health are believed to be linked to several factors:

• Nitrates and Nitrites: Commonly used as preservatives in processed meats, these compounds can form nitrosamines, which have been implicated in neurodegenerative processes.
• High Sodium Content: Elevated sodium levels can lead to hypertension, a known risk factor for vascular dementia.
• Saturated Fats: High levels of saturated fats in processed meats are associated with cardiovascular diseases, which can indirectly affect brain health.

Dietary Recommendations:

Based on the findings, the researchers suggest several dietary modifications to mitigate dementia risk:

• Reduce Processed Red Meat Intake: Limiting the consumption of processed meats can lower the risk of cognitive decline.
• Substitute with Healthier Protein Sources: Replacing processed red meats with alternatives such as fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes has been associated with a reduced risk of dementia. For instance, substituting processed red meat with fish was linked to a 28% reduction in dementia risk.
• Adopt Brain-Healthy Diets: Diets like the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets, which are low in red meat and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, have been associated with decreased dementia risks.

Conclusion:

This extensive study underscores the importance of dietary choices in maintaining cognitive health. Limiting the intake of processed red meats and opting for healthier protein sources may significantly reduce the risk of dementia and support long-term cognitive function.

Food Choices Affect Pain

Introduction

Chronic pain is a widespread issue that significantly impacts quality of life and healthcare systems. While obesity is a well-documented risk factor for chronic pain, recent evidence suggests that other factors, such as diet quality, may also play a role. A recent study explores the relationship between diet quality and body pain in adults, regardless of their levels of adiposity (body fat).

Objective

The primary aim was to investigate whether better diet quality is linked to lower levels of body pain in adults and whether this association remains significant independent of adiposity.

Methods

The research used data from the Whyalla Intergenerational Study of Health, which includes a diverse sample of adults from Whyalla, South Australia. Participants completed detailed assessments, including:

• Diet quality evaluation: Using the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS), which measures adherence to dietary guidelines.
• Body pain measurement: Using validated self-reported questionnaires that assess the severity and frequency of pain across the body.
• Adiposity indicators: These included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body fat percentage.
  The study also controlled for confounding factors such as age, sex, physical activity, smoking status, and socio-economic status.

Key Findings

1. Diet Quality and Pain:
   • Higher ARFS scores, indicating better diet quality, were significantly associated with reduced levels of body pain.
   • The association was consistent across various demographic and lifestyle groups.
2. Independence from Adiposity:
   • While higher adiposity was associated with increased body pain, the relationship between diet quality and pain remained significant even after adjusting for adiposity measures.
   • This suggests that diet quality has an independent role in pain modulation.
3. Potential Mechanisms:
   • Nutritional components such as anti-inflammatory foods, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids might contribute to reduced systemic inflammation and pain perception.
   • Conversely, poor diet quality may exacerbate pain through increased inflammation and metabolic dysregulation.

Implications

The findings highlight the importance of a high-quality diet in managing body pain, regardless of body fat levels. This has potential implications for public health strategies and clinical interventions aimed at reducing chronic pain prevalence.

• For individuals: Encouraging adherence to dietary guidelines may help alleviate body pain alongside other health benefits.
• For policymakers and healthcare providers: Integrating dietary advice into pain management protocols could improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The study concludes that better diet quality is associated with reduced body pain in adults, and this relationship is independent of adiposity. These results underscore the importance of dietary quality as a modifiable factor in chronic pain prevention and management. Further research is needed to explore specific dietary components and their mechanisms in influencing pain pathways.

This research supports the broader understanding that nutrition plays a critical role in overall health and highlights diet quality as a key factor in pain management strategies.

Changes in Gait, Balance and Strength with Aging

The recent article “Age-related changes in gait, balance, and strength parameters: A cross-sectional study” published in PLOS One by Rezaei et al. examines the impact of aging on various physical performance measures such as gait (walking patterns), balance, and muscular strength. The study employs a cross-sectional design, meaning it analyses data collected at one specific point in time across a diverse sample of adults ranging in age, with the objective of understanding how these physical parameters change as people grow older.

Background and Motivation

The motivation behind this study stems from the known correlation between age-related declines in physical abilities and increased risk of falls, decreased independence, and overall diminished quality of life. As gait, balance, and strength are crucial to maintaining mobility and preventing falls, identifying when and how these factors decline can inform interventions that help older adults retain their independence longer. The study also aims to provide insights for clinicians and healthcare professionals to tailor preventative measures and rehabilitation strategies according to age-specific needs.

Methods

The researchers recruited a large group of participants spanning various age groups and used a range of objective measurements to assess gait, balance, and strength. For gait analysis, the study evaluated variables such as walking speed, stride length, and step time variability. Balance was measured through static and dynamic assessments, which included tests for single-leg standing time and balance stability during movement. Strength was assessed primarily through grip strength and lower limb muscle power tests, which are widely accepted indicators of general muscular strength in ageing populations.

Findings

The study found significant age-related declines across all parameters, with notable differences between age groups:

1. Gait: There was a clear trend of reduced walking speed and shorter stride length with increasing age, coupled with an increase in gait variability. These changes often started to manifest in middle-aged adults and progressively worsened in older age groups.
2. Balance: Balance deficits were observed as early as middle age, with a marked reduction in single-leg standing time and stability during dynamic movements in older adults. The results highlight that both static and dynamic balance abilities diminish with age, increasing the risk of falls.
3. Strength: Muscle strength, particularly grip strength and lower limb power, also showed a steady decline with age. This decline was particularly significant in participants over 60 years, indicating that muscle weakness becomes more prominent and impactful in later years.

Interpretation and Implications

The findings suggest that the aging process is associated with measurable declines in gait, balance, and strength, which collectively heighten the risk of falls and mobility impairments. The study highlights that these changes do not occur suddenly but rather develop gradually, implying that early interventions in middle-aged adults could be beneficial. The researchers suggest that routine assessment of gait, balance, and strength could be integrated into clinical practice to detect early declines and support proactive management strategies.

Conclusion

In summary, this cross-sectional study provides valuable insights into how age impacts physical performance parameters crucial for mobility and independence. The age-related deterioration in gait, balance, and strength underlines the importance of early assessment and targeted exercise or rehabilitation interventions aimed at mitigating these declines. By identifying the specific onset of these changes, healthcare providers can better design preventative programs tailored to the needs of ageing adults, thereby potentially enhancing quality of life and reducing the social and economic burdens associated with falls and functional impairments in the elderly population.

This study reinforces the significance of personalised health strategies and preventive measures in addressing the age-related decline in physical function, advocating for policies that encourage physical activity and strength maintenance from a younger age.

Rugby, Concussion and Neurodegenerative Disease

The article “Concussion-Related Biomarker Variations in Retired Rugby Players and Implications for Neurodegenerative Disease Risk: The UK Rugby Health Study“ delves into the long-term health impacts of concussions on retired rugby players, particularly focusing on the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The study aims to explore the relationship between repeated head injuries and variations in specific biomarkers associated with brain health, which may indicate increased susceptibility to these diseases.

Key areas of focus include:

1. Biomarker Identification:
   The study identifies several biomarkers in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that are linked to brain trauma. These biomarkers include proteins like tau and neurofilament light (NFL), both of which are known to rise following concussions and other brain injuries. The analysis of these markers in retired rugby players is crucial in detecting early signs of brain damage.
2. Concussion History and Biomarker Variations:
   A significant finding from the study is that retired players with a history of multiple concussions showed elevated levels of these biomarkers compared to those with fewer or no reported concussions. This correlation suggests that repeated head impacts may lead to lasting changes in brain structure and function, potentially increasing the risk of cognitive decline or neurodegenerative disease.
3. Implications for Neurodegenerative Disease Risk:
   The elevated levels of biomarkers such as tau and NFL in retired players may serve as early indicators of brain degeneration, which is often associated with conditions like CTE. The study draws attention to the possibility that these players are at a higher risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders compared to the general population, emphasising the importance of long-term health monitoring.
4. Preventive and Diagnostic Recommendations:
   Based on the findings, the study calls for better concussion management strategies during athletes’ active careers, particularly in high-contact sports like rugby. Regular monitoring of retired players for biomarker changes could also help in early detection and intervention, potentially mitigating the risk of serious brain diseases. This includes the use of advanced imaging techniques and blood tests to track changes over time.
5. Broader Impact on Contact Sports:
   The study contributes to the broader understanding of concussion-related brain injuries in contact sports, reinforcing concerns about the long-term health of athletes who experience repeated head trauma. It also raises ethical and medical considerations for rugby and other sports in how they manage and address player health both during and after their careers.

In conclusion, the research highlights a pressing need to reassess how concussions are treated in rugby, not just for immediate recovery, but for long-term brain health. By focusing on biomarker variations, the study offers a new avenue for detecting early signs of neurodegeneration, potentially helping to reduce the incidence of conditions like CTE among retired rugby players.

The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause

Wright el al. have recently published a review article on the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause – a complex issue that affects millions of women worldwide. 

The Role of Estrogen in Musculoskeletal Health

Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, muscle mass and tendon structure. It helps to:

• Stimulate bone formation: Estrogen promotes the activity of osteoblasts, cells responsible for building new bone tissue.
• Inhibit bone resorption: It reduces the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone tissue.
• Maintain muscle mass: Estrogen helps to regulate muscle protein synthesis and breakdown, preventing excessive muscle loss.
• Maintain tendon structure and function: It influences collagen metabolism and maintains optimal tendon stiffness.
• Maintain healthy joints: Estrogen helps decrease inflammation and maintain joint structure.

When estrogen levels decline during menopause, these processes become imbalanced, leading to bone loss, increased risk of fractures, muscle atrophy, joint pain and stiffness, and increased predisposition to tendinopathies and risk of tendon ruptures.

Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause

Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing musculoskeletal issues during or after menopause:

• Genetics: A family history of osteoporosis or other bone disorders can increase susceptibility.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to bone loss and muscle weakness.
• Nutrition: Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can impair bone health.
• Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or thyroid disorders, can affect bone metabolism.

Treatment and Prevention Strategies

While there is no cure for the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, effective management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): When used appropriately, HRT can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, especially weight-bearing activities, can help strengthen bones and muscles. A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein is also crucial.
• Medications: In some cases, medications like bisphosphonates or selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) may be prescribed to treat osteoporosis.
• Supplements: Calcium and vitamin D supplements can be beneficial for maintaining bone health.

By understanding the causes, risks, and treatment options for the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, women can take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being during this important life stage.

Inflammatory Gene Found

Researchers have identified a previously overlooked genetic region linked to chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis.

Surprisingly, this DNA segment, often termed a “gene desert” due to its lack of protein-coding genes, has been shown to play a pivotal role in driving inflammation. The study, published in Nature, reveals that this region influences the activity of a gene called ETS2.

ETS2 acts as a master regulator, controlling the inflammatory response within macrophages – immune cells crucial in fighting infection. When overactivated, ETS2 triggers a cascade of inflammatory processes, contributing to the development of chronic inflammatory conditions.

The discovery that this “gene desert” can significantly impact human health is a major breakthrough. By understanding how ETS2 functions, scientists hope to develop new therapeutic strategies to target and reduce inflammation in these diseases. This research opens up new avenues for exploring the complex interplay between genetics and immune function.

Essentially, the study challenges the traditional view of gene deserts as inactive DNA segments and highlights the importance of non-coding regions in human health and disease.

Can Turmeric Cause Liver Disease?

Dina Halegoua-DeMarzio et al. have analysed data from the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN). It suggests a growing risk of liver damage associated with turmeric consumption in the US. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:

• Increase in cases: The study identified 10 cases of turmeric-induced liver injury, all reported since 2011. Notably, there’s been a sharper rise since 2017, potentially reflecting increased turmeric use or its combination with black pepper.
• Patient demographics: The majority of cases (8 out of 10) involved women, with a median age of 56 (ranging from 35 to 71 years old). Most patients identified as white.
• Type of liver injury: The most common type of injury was hepatocellular (affecting liver cells). One case involved mixed injury.
• Severity: Five patients required hospitalization, and tragically, one person died due to acute liver failure.
• Genetic link: Genetic analysis revealed that 7 out of 10 patients carried the HLA-B*35:01 genetic marker. This marker showed a significantly higher frequency in the study group compared to the general population, suggesting a potential link to increased risk.
• Turmeric and black pepper: Chemical analysis confirmed the presence of turmeric in all tested supplements. Interestingly, 3 out of 7 products also contained piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper, which may enhance curcumin (active component of turmeric) absorption. This raises a question about the potential role of black pepper in these cases.

Overall, the study highlights a potential link between turmeric consumption and severe liver injury, particularly for those with the HLA-B*35:01 marker. It also suggests a need for further investigation into the impact of combining turmeric with black pepper. What is not clear, is whether the researchers looked into the possibility of hepatotoxic contaminants within some of the supplements? For example, aflatoxins linked to mold on the rhizomes? Given the increased popularity of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties, more research should be conducted into the presence of hepatotoxic contaminants, safe dosage and the effects of long-term use on different population groups.

Do Ketogenic Diets Trigger Aging?

A new study published in Science Advances has investigated the potential downsides of ketogenic diets. While keto diets are popular for weight loss and some health conditions, this research suggests they may also trigger cellular aging in vital organs.

Key findings of the study:

• Cellular senescence in organs: Mice fed a ketogenic diet showed signs of cellular senescence in multiple organs, including the heart and kidneys. Cellular senescence is basically when cells stop dividing and can contribute to age-related decline.
• Mechanism behind the effect: The study identifies a potential mechanism for this cellular aging. It involves a signalling pathway triggered by AMPK (an enzyme) and caspase-2 (a protein), ultimately leading to increased p53 and p21 proteins, which are linked to cellular senescence.
• Potential implications: The build-up of senescent cells in organs like the heart and kidneys could contribute to inflammation and organ damage. This suggests potential long-term health risks associated with long-term ketogenic diets.
• Possible solutions: The study also offered some hope. They found that interrupting the keto diet with periods of regular eating (intermittent keto) could prevent this cellular senescence. Additionally, there are drugs being developed that target and eliminate senescent cells, which could be a future avenue for mitigating the potential downsides of keto.

Overall, the study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the effects of ketogenic diets. While they may offer benefits, there could also be downsides, particularly with long-term use. As the study was conducted on mice, more research is needed to confirm these findings in humans and explore potential strategies to mitigate any risks.