A growing body of evidence is highlighting the pivotal role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the progression of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of primary liver cancer. A new review brings together current knowledge on how these previously overlooked molecules are shaping the future of diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment in HBV-associated liver disease.

A network meta-analysis of 24 trials involving 744 participants has identified vertically resisted plyometric training as the most effective method for enhancing change-of-direction speed. The Bayesian analysis, led by Jishou University and the University of Freiburg, ranked this approach above nine other modalities, with vertically resisted sprint training second. Notably, the turning angle did not affect outcomes, suggesting that resisted training adaptations transfer across all directional changes.

Caloric restriction (CR) is an effective dietary intervention that delays aging and improves metabolic health. Previous studies have reported that lithocholic acid (LCA), a secondary bile acid, increases significantly in serum during CR. LCA has been shown to mimic the anti-aging effects of CR across multiple model organisms, including elevating muscle NAD⁺ levels, enhancing grip strength and exercise endurance in aged mice, and extending lifespan in nematodes and fruit flies.

Researchers have found a new way to trick cancer cells into consuming even more sugar than usual and, at the same time, block their backup fuel source—fat. By attacking both fuel sources at once, the experimental drug puts cancer cells under so much stress that many of them die. They demonstrated the drug’s effectiveness at treating an aggressive form of melanoma in mice.

The meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine could provide protection against more than one disease, with new research linking it to a significant reduction in the risk of gonorrhoea in young people in parts of Australia.