Health News

Ancient Earth might have had an extraterrestrial supply of vitamin B3 delivered by carbon-rich meteorites, according to a new analysis by NASA-funded researchers. The result supports a theory that the origin of life may have been assisted by a supply of key molecules created in space and brought to Earth by comet and meteor impacts. »

Many of us would love to believe that chocolate is a health food. Maybe you’ve heard or read about its potential benefits. Eating chocolate may have some health pluses, but the research is far from certain. The drawbacks, on the other hand, are clear. Think twice before you reach for that tempting treat. »

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that afflicts 6 million American adults. It's characterized by unexpected, repeated episodes of intense fear. These can be accompanied by physical symptoms including chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness or abdominal distress. Panic disorder is also a risk factor for suicidal behavior. »

Anyone who's taken a biology class knows that a gene's sequence precisely dictates the order of amino acids that must be linked together to make a protein. A new study reveals that, in the face of an invading virus or bacteria, or an irritating chemical, the cell's protein-making machinery goes off-script, inserting more of an amino acid known to help defend proteins against damage. »

Researchers have identified a key mechanism in the brain that helps explain cocaine's addictiveness. The finding may lead to new therapeutic approaches. »

Most migraine sufferers know that light can intensify headache pain. A new study of blind patients with migraine may help explain why. The finding ultimately may lead to new approaches for calming severe light-induced headaches. »