Fact Check: Are Root Canals Silent Killers?

An Instagram reel claims that root canals are silent
killers. The claim by the user is false.

Claim

In an Instagram
reel it is claimed that root canals are silent killers. The reel by the user
camillevegan is captioned as “Yes
they are. I’m a dentist and I have seen thousands of “failed” root canals – the
abscess/infection overtakes the root canal treated tooth. Eventually ALL root
canal treated teeth rot and fail. These teeth are the hardest to remove because
they crumble – like brown sugar – and I have to surgically cut them out.


No. I’m not trying to give any personal advice
on whether anyone should get a root canal. I simply want people to think; How
can leaving anything dead in your mouth NOT cause problems? Each tooth is an
organ w/ its own individual nerve(s). Dentistry is the ONLY profession in
medicine that leaves dead organs in the body. The ONLY.

FYI ….All root canal treated teeth will not
exhibit abscesses; localized, encapsulated infection that is evident on an
x-Ray, yet that does not mean residual/ongoing infection is not present.
As a dentist, I’m merely treating the results of
a far more endemic problem in our society – people are literally digging their
graves with their teeth. Go vegan.“

The user in the
reel says, “What happens when your dentist tells you, you know what? We need to
save your tooth or for some other reasons, sometimes even cosmetic reasons,
when you do a root canal and they drill into your tooth and they rip out the
nerve from the tooth with many of these corresponding blood vessels, then they
seal that tooth, shut, what does this do? It creates an abscess in there where
blood cannot reach. And what starts to form in there is rotting flesh,
anaerobic bacteria.

Now if you ask any
medical practitioner, any medical expert, is it okay to put rotting flesh into
your body? They’ll tell you, of course not. It’s crazy, you’re going to die.
It’s gangrene basically. Well, this is common practice in dentistry right now
on a daily level. And there’s a lot of research about”

The reel can be
accessed here.

Fact Check

The claim that root canals are a “silent
killer” is false and unsupported by scientific evidence.
Root canal treatments are a standard dental procedure used to save teeth and
eliminate infection. Root canals are safe, routine procedures—not “silent killers”—and there’s no scientific evidence linking them to systemic diseases.

What
is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that aims at
removing infected or inflamed pulp from within a tooth. After the pulp is
removed, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned, disinfected, and then
sealed. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection and will continue to function like any other tooth. This process helps to get rid of harmful bacteria, stop further
infection, and preserve the tooth’s natural structure. 

Are Root Canals Silent Killers?

Root canal treatment is safe, effective, and supported by extensive scientific evidence. There is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal therapy to systemic health problems or chronic illness. Root canal procedures are part of advanced modern dentistry, and today’s techniques make the treatment highly predictable, successful, and safe.

An article published in Clinical Oral Investigations concluded that endodontically treated teeth demonstrate high long-term survival and success rates. The study suggested that the strong long-term prognosis of these teeth supports choosing root canal treatment over extraction and implant placement for managing teeth with pulpal or periapical disease.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, root canal treatment does not cause illness or systemic disease. Claims suggesting such a link are false and based on outdated, discredited research.

A review article published in International Endodontic Journal concludes that there have been no publications to suggest that root canal treatment has any adverse systemic effects.

Dr Srishti Shrivastava, Senior Lecturer in Department of Orthodontics at People’s College of Dental Sciences, Bhopal, said that “Root canal treatments are safe and effective, and there is no credible scientific evidence linking them to any systemic diseases. The myth that they are a ‘silent killer’ comes from old, debunked studies. Modern root canals are performed with strict infection control and benefit your long-term health.’

Dr Akansha Tilokani, Senior Lecturer in Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics commented, “Root canals are often misunderstood, but the facts speak for themselves: they are safe, effective, and backed by decades of research. Myths like “root canals cause cancer” or “all root canals fail” have been debunked, modern studies show a 97% success rate when properly performed and maintained. While root canal-treated teeth are no longer vital, they are thoroughly cleaned, sealed, and preserved, functioning just like natural teeth. Don’t let outdated misinformation prevent you from saving your teeth—trust science and consult experienced dental professionals.”

Medical
Dialogues Final Take

The claim that root canals are a “silent
killer” is not supported by modern science or credible dental
associations. This myth often leads to unnecessary fear and poor dental
decisions. Root canal therapy remains a safe, effective, and widely
endorsed treatment to preserve natural teeth and prevent infection.

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No Denial of AB-PMJAY Treatment: Odisha Health Minister warns Private Hospitals

Bhubaneswar: Two weeks after the launch of Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and the state-run Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) in Odisha, private hospitals empanelled under the scheme have reportedly refused to provide free treatment for certain procedures, citing low package rates and technical issues. 

On Tuesday, Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling issued a stern warning to all empanelled hospitals, saying strict action will be taken against any hospital that denies treatment to eligible patients.

The confusion comes just days after several private hospitals raised concerns over the financial viability of the newly implemented schemes. According to the All Odisha Private Medical Establishments Forum (AOPMEF), the revised treatment package rates are 15-20% lower than the earlier Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), making it difficult for hospitals to cover costs and maintain quality.

Also read- Union Health Minister JP Nadda launches Ayushman Bharat scheme in Odisha

Forum secretary Dr Indramani Jena said, “Pricing for implants, including Rs 75,000 for pacemakers and Rs 10,000 for spine implants, is unsustainable. While the packages for ortho surgeries, knee replacement and neurological procedures are down by over 15 per cent, Rs 70,300 is being offered for spinal surgery instead of the old rate of Rs 84,000. For a teflon mesh, only Rs 800 allotted for its minimum price of Rs 1,700.”

According to a latest media report by TNIE, the forum is demanding a minimum 30% hike in package rates to keep up with inflation and rising operational costs.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Mahaling reassured the public that the government is actively reviewing all issues flagged by the hospitals. “All concerns related to the scheme are being examined and will be resolved soon,” he said, adding that refusing treatment to eligible patients will invite strict legal action, reports Odishabytes. 

Mahaling clarified that individuals under five categories have been included under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. “Those covered under National Food Security Act (NFSA), the State Food Security Scheme (SFSS) and the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) can avail the benefits. Naveen and ration cards also serve as proof of eligibility,” he said.

The Minister further stated that the government is leveraging digital infrastructure to bridge any gaps. He clarified that the technical bottlenecks in the current system flagged by the hospitals, especially Aadhaar-based OTP authentication related to PAN-India card integration and OTP verification, are being reviewed for active resolution.

On the demands to increase treatment package rates, the minister said, “The matter is also being looked into. The state government is examining feedback from various stakeholders, including patients and hospitals, and verifying the cost of treatment under the scheme in other states to come up with a solution that is acceptable to all.”

“e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) verification was conducted during ration card drives, and those left out will soon be linked to the health scheme,” he said.

Also read- 24 Nagpur Hospitals found denying AB-PMJAY Treatment: RTI

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AYUSH Ministry to hold National Conclave to Boost Traditional Healthcare Nationwide

New Delhi: The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, is set to organize the National Ayush Mission (NAM) Conclave 2025 on 1-2 May 2025 at Kaivalyadham, Lonavala, Maharashtra. 

This transformative 2-day event will serve as a national forum for shaping the future of Ayush-based healthcare in India. Bringing together Ayush experts, policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and innovators, the conclave aims to strengthen integration of traditional Indian medicine systems into mainstream healthcare—making wellness more accessible, affordable, and evidence-driven for the common citizen.

The conclave is scheduled to be inaugurated by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush whereas the Deputy Chief Minister, Government of Rajasthan and Health Minister of nine States/UTs of India are also expected to attend the conclave. Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, and other dignitaries will also be present during the event.

Also Read:Ayush for All: National Ayush Mission empowering communities with accessible, affordable healthcare

Officials from State/UT Ayush departments including Mission Directors, senior government officials, and renowned academicians are also set to participate in the conclave. The event is planned to include plenary sessions, policy roundtables, technical deep-dives, besides showcasing best practices, state success stories, and tech-led innovations in the Ayush sector.

Speaking about the upcoming event, the Ayush Minister mentioned, “The National Ayush Mission Conclave is a significant step towards fostering a collaborative ecosystem to strengthen the wellness and healthcare infrastructure across the country. We aim to take forward the vision of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji of holistic health for all through a robust and integrative Ayush framework.”

The National Ayush Mission conclave is set to serve as a vibrant platform to discuss the latest developments, research innovations, and sectoral collaborations across Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy in various states and UTs of India. It will also focus on strengthening the implementation of flagship initiatives, promoting evidence-based practices, and enhancing international outreach. The Conclave aims for Minister level discussions to chalk out future expansion of the NAM Scheme.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, stated, “The Ministry of Ayush is organising the NAM Conclave-2025 to reflect on the achievements of the National Ayush Mission, address emerging challenges, and chart a path toward a self-reliant and robust Ayush healthcare system.”

While talking about the themes of the Conclave, Ms. Kavita Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, informed, “the conclave will cover diverse themes, including financial management, monitoring and evaluation, HR strengthening, integration with modern medicine, and quality assurance. It will also showcase the best practices, IT innovations, regulatory mechanisms and investment and export opportunities with rich experience sharing from States and UTs.”

Key Highlights of the Conclave:

Document Release: Launch of Blueprint for Ayush Policy 2025 and Standard Treatment Guidelines (STG) on Metabolic Disorders in Ayush System of Medicines.

Ministerial Round Table: Featuring Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, along with Health and Ayush Ministers from various States/UTs, deliberating on strengthening the National Ayush Mission.

Expert Sessions: Presentations by DGHS, NABH, Invest India, Ayush Export Promotion Council and leading institutions on quality standards, accreditation, and investment facilitation.

Successful Case Studies: Best practices from the majority of States/UTs.

Yoga Session: Guided Yoga and Meditation Session are also planned for delegates participating in the event.

About National Ayush Mission:

The flagship program National Ayush Mission launched in 2014 and it has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional systems of medicine and their integration into the mainstream healthcare system. It aims to enhance the availability, accessibility, and quality of Ayush healthcare services across the country through Ayushman Arogya Mandir (Ayush) as part of Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat scheme.

In the last edition of NAM Conclave held in 2023, several key resolutions were adopted, including expansion of Ayush Health and Wellness Centres (now AAM-Ayush), integration of Ayush services with National Health Programs, and capacity building of Ayush practitioners. The 2025 edition aims to build upon these achievements, with renewed focus on innovation, standardisation, and international outreach.

Also Read:Out of 1000 targeted 750 Ayushman Arogya Mandir achieved NABH AYUSH entry-level certification

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Lorundrostat Significantly Lowers Blood Pressure in Resistant Hypertension: Study

USA: A recent clinical trial has shown that Lorundrostat, a novel aldosterone synthase inhibitor, significantly lowers blood pressure in patients with uncontrolled and treatment-resistant hypertension. The study, which assessed both the efficacy and safety of lorundrostat, presents encouraging prospects for individuals who have struggled to achieve blood pressure control with conventional antihypertensive treatments.

The findings from this double-blind, randomized trial were published online in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, is a prevalent condition that can lead to severe cardiovascular events if not adequately controlled. While several medications are available to manage hypertension, some patients, particularly those with treatment-resistant hypertension, remain inadequately controlled, posing a challenge for both healthcare providers and patients.

Aldosterone dysregulation contributes to hypertension by affecting sodium retention and fluid balance. Lorundrostat, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor, offers a potential solution, but its efficacy and safety in hypertensive patients remain underexplored. To fill this gap, Luke J. Laffin, Cleveland Clinic Coordinating Center for Clinical Research, Cleveland, and colleagues focused on evaluating Lorundrostat’s effectiveness and safety, particularly in those with uncontrolled or treatment-resistant hypertension.

For this purpose, the researchers conducted a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving patients on two to five antihypertensive medications with office blood pressure readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher. After a 3-week standardized treatment phase, those with a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher were randomized to receive either a placebo, a stable 50 mg daily dose of lorundrostat, or a dose-adjusted lorundrostat regimen (starting at 50 mg daily and increased to 100 mg if systolic pressure remained ≥130 mm Hg after 4 weeks).

The primary endpoint was the change in 24-hour average systolic blood pressure at 12 weeks, compared to placebo. A key secondary endpoint assessed this change at 4 weeks in the combined lorundrostat groups.

The key findings were as follows:

  • A total of 285 participants were randomized, with 94 assigned to the stable-dose group, 96 to the dose-adjustment group, and 95 to the placebo group. The average age of participants was 60 years, and 53% (150 participants) were Black.
  • After 12 weeks, the least-squares mean change in 24-hour average systolic blood pressure was −15.4 mm Hg in the stable-dose group, −13.9 mm Hg in the dose-adjustment group, and −7.4 mm Hg in the placebo group.
  • The placebo-adjusted change in blood pressure was −7.9 mm Hg for the stable-dose group and −6.5 mm Hg for the dose-adjustment group.
  • From baseline to week 4, the placebo-adjusted change in 24-hour average systolic blood pressure in the combined lorundrostat groups was −5.3 mm Hg.
  • Potassium levels above 6.0 mmol/L were reported in 5 participants (5%) in the stable-dose group, 7 participants (7%) in the dose-adjustment group, and none in the placebo group.

“Lorundrostat demonstrated significantly greater reductions in 24-hour average blood pressure compared to placebo, offering a promising treatment option for patients with uncontrolled and treatment-resistant hypertension,” the authors concluded.

Reference:

Laffin LJ, et al “Lorundrostat efficacy and safety in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.” N Engl J Med 2025; DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2501440.

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AIIMS Releases NORCET 8 Stage 2 Admit Cards

New Delhi- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has made the admit cards for Nursing Officer Recruitment Common Eligibility Test (NORCET) 8 Stage 2 exam available. Therefore, candidates who have qualified for this stage can download their admit cards from the official website of AIIMS, New Delhi.

AIIMS, New Delhi, is going to conduct the NORCET 8 Stage 2 exam tomorrow, ie.e on May 2, 2025. A total of 11,472 candidates have been shortlisted based on their performance in the Stage 1 exam held on April 12, 2025. These candidates were allowed to select their preferred exam city through the MyPage portal between April 20 and April 22, 2025, till 5 pm. However, AIIMS has said that it reserves the right to allot any exam centre regardless of the candidate’s chosen city, and advises all candidates to prepare accordingly.

Also Read: AIIMS NORCET 8 Registrations open- Check key Dates Here

STEPS TO DOWNLOAD THE NORCET 8 STAGE 2 ADMIT CARD

STEP 1- Visit the official AIIMS website.

STEP 2- Navigate to the ‘Recruitment’ section on the homepage.

STEP 3- Click on the ‘NORCET’ link and then select ‘NORCET 8’.

STEP 4- Click on ‘Login’ and enter your registered ID and password.

STEP 5- Submit the details to access your admit card.

STEP 6- Download and print the admit card for future reference.​

AIIMS NORCET 8 Stage 2 exam will consist of 160 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed in a time period of 180 minutes. However, each correct answer will carry one mark, while one-third mark will be deducted for each wrong answer.

Meanwhile, the NORCET 8 Stage 1 exam was conducted on April 12, 2025, and the results were declared on April 19, 2025. Out of 72,462 candidates who applied for the exam, 68,074 appeared. Based on the Stage 1 exam results, 11,472 candidates have been selected to proceed to the Stage 2 exam.

Also Read: 1794 vacancies available for AIIMS NORCET 8, Check complete details

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More than 30 percent of diabetes patients have silent MI which go undetected, reveals research

A new study published in the journal of Cureus showed that more than one-third of people with diabetes have silent myocardial ischemia (SMI), which frequently goes undiagnosed because of its lack of symptoms and restrictions on standard screening.

One of the main causes of elevated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes is silent myocardial ischemia (SMI), a disease that is commonly underdiagnosed. Chronic hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and low-grade inflammation further predispose diabetics to SMI, while the lack of common symptoms like angina (especially in diabetics with altered pain perception due to autonomic neuropathy) makes ischemic episodes invisible.

However, because of its lack of symptoms and the limits of routine screening, it frequently goes unnoticed despite its grave effects. This illuminates the critical need for proactive risk stratification and focused diagnostic techniques. Thus, to improve early identification through targeted risk stratification and inform customized screening strategies to lower cardiovascular events in this high-risk group, Hafiz Abdul Manan and team carried out this study to ascertain the prevalence and important risk factors linked to SMI in diabetic adults.

From May 2020 to May 2021, Jinnah Hospital in Lahore hosted this cross-sectional research. Time and budget constraints led to the convenient sampling of 162 diabetic individuals aged ≥40 years, with ≥5 years of diabetes and no history of coronary artery disease. A review of the participants’ medical histories, physical examinations, lab tests (lipid profile, HbA1c), and cardiac evaluations (resting ECG, exercise stress testing, and myocardial perfusion imaging) were all performed.

A total of 61 (37.65%) of the diabetic patients had SMI. A number of independent predictors of SMI were found using multivariate logistic regression analysis, including smoking, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, diabetes that has been present for more than 10 years, and inadequate glycemic management.

Growing older was also strongly linked to a higher risk of SMI, with a noticeable increase in prevalence seen beyond the age of 55. In order to prevent negative cardiovascular outcomes, our findings emphasize the high prevalence of silent myocardial ischemia in diabetics and the significance of identifying critical indicators to assist early identification, focused screening, and risk-based treatment techniques.

Overall, this study finds a number of important characteristics, such as poor glycemic control, long-standing diabetes, hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, smoking, and advanced age, that contribute to the alarming prevalence of SMI in diabetic patients.

Source:

Abdul Manan, H., Chishti, H. R., & Hewlett, F. D. (2025). Prevalence and predictors of silent myocardial ischemia in diabetic patients. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.82407

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Study reveals emerging role of flavonoids in treatment of type 2 diabetes by regulating enteroendocrine system

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with a rapidly increasing global prevalence. It is primarily characterized by insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and impaired glucose homeostasis. Emerging research suggests that flavonoids, a diverse group of plant-derived polyphenols, may offer therapeutic potential in managing T2DM. These compounds exert antidiabetic effects through multiple mechanisms, including improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing β-cell function, modulating the gut microbiota, inhibiting gluconeogenesis, and regulating enteroendocrine hormones. This review explores the role of flavonoids in T2DM treatment, with a particular focus on their impact on the enteroendocrine system.

Flavonoids: Classification, Absorption, and Metabolism

Flavonoids are categorized into several subclasses based on their chemical structure, including flavonols, flavanones, flavones, flavan-3-ols, isoflavones, and anthocyanins. These compounds are abundant in fruits, vegetables, tea, and medicinal plants. Upon ingestion, flavonoids undergo extensive metabolism, involving hydrolysis, microbial degradation, and biotransformation in the liver. The bioavailability of flavonoids is influenced by their glycosylation, food matrix composition, and interaction with gut microbiota. Studies indicate that specific flavonoids, such as quercetin, anthocyanins, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are efficiently absorbed and exert beneficial metabolic effects.

Mechanisms of Flavonoid Action in T2DM

Improving Insulin Sensitivity and Secretion

Flavonoids enhance insulin signaling pathways by increasing phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Certain flavonoids, such as cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, have been shown to improve glucose uptake in adipocytes and skeletal muscle cells. Additionally, flavonoids stimulate insulin secretion by promoting pancreatic β-cell function and reducing oxidative stress-induced β-cell apoptosis.

Modulating Glucose Metabolism and Gluconeogenesis

Flavonoids inhibit key enzymes involved in hepatic glucose production, such as glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK). Baicalin and epicatechin suppress gluconeogenesis via the PI3K/Akt and AMPK pathways, thereby reducing hepatic glucose output. Additionally, flavonoids regulate glucose transporter expression, facilitating glucose uptake in peripheral tissues.

Regulating Gut Microbiota

The gut microbiota plays a critical role in glucose metabolism and T2DM pathophysiology. Flavonoids promote gut microbiome diversity and enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic microbes. They influence microbial-derived metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which improve insulin sensitivity and modulate gut hormone secretion.

Flavonoids and the Enteroendocrine System

The enteroendocrine system, composed of hormone-secreting intestinal cells, regulates glucose homeostasis through various peptides, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), peptide YY (PYY), and cholecystokinin (CCK). Flavonoids have been found to influence the secretion and activity of these hormones, contributing to improved glycemic control.

GLP-1 and GIP Regulation

GLP-1 and GIP are incretin hormones that stimulate insulin secretion and inhibit glucagon release. Several flavonoids, such as quercetin and hesperidin, enhance GLP-1 secretion from L-cells, thereby prolonging incretin action. Furthermore, flavonoids inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), the enzyme responsible for incretin degradation, leading to sustained incretin activity and improved insulinotropic effects.

Influence on PYY and CCK

Flavonoids regulate satiety-related gut hormones, such as PYY and CCK, which contribute to appetite control and weight management in T2DM. Procyanidins and epicatechins have been shown to enhance PYY secretion, leading to reduced food intake and improved metabolic outcomes. Additionally, flavonoids like catechin and resveratrol modulate CCK secretion, which plays a role in slowing gastric emptying and improving postprandial glucose levels.

Therapeutic Potential and Future Directions

The therapeutic application of flavonoids in T2DM management is promising, yet challenges remain regarding their bioavailability, dosage optimization, and long-term efficacy. Future research should focus on clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of specific flavonoids in T2DM treatment. Additionally, the development of novel flavonoid-based formulations, including nanoparticles and encapsulated supplements, may enhance their stability and absorption. Investigating the synergistic effects of flavonoids with existing antidiabetic medications could further expand their clinical utility.

Conclusion

Flavonoids represent a promising class of natural compounds with potential benefits in T2DM treatment through their effects on insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, gut microbiota, and enteroendocrine hormone regulation. Their ability to modulate GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK secretion highlights their relevance in metabolic health. While further studies are needed to elucidate optimal dosages and clinical applications, flavonoids offer a promising adjunctive strategy for managing T2DM and improving overall metabolic health.

Reference:

Daifen Wen and Mingrui Li, The Emerging Role of Flavonoids in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Regulating the Enteroendocrine System, Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine, doi: 10.14218/ERHM.2024.00055

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Nasal spray shows preclinical promise for treating traumatic brain injury, reveals study

A new study led by researchers at Mass General Brigham suggests a nasal spray developed to target neuroinflammation could one day be an effective treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI). By studying the effects of the nasal anti-CD3 in a mouse model of TBI, researchers found the spray could reduce damage to the central nervous system and behavioral deficits, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for TBI and other acute forms of brain injury. The results are published in Nature Neuroscience.

“Traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability-including cognitive decline-and chronic inflammation is one of the key reasons,” said lead author Saef Izzy, MD, FNCS, FAAN, a neurologist and head of the Immunology of Brain Injury Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH), a founding member of the Mass General Brigham healthcare system. “Currently, there is no treatment to prevent the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury.”

The study examines the monoclonal antibody Foralumab, made by Tiziana, which has been tested in clinical trials for patients with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and other conditions.

“This opens up a whole new area of research and treatment in traumatic brain injury, something that’s almost impossible to treat,” said senior author Howard Weiner, MD, co-director of the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases at BWH. “It also means this could work in intracerebral hemorrhage and other stroke patients with brain injury.”

Multiple experiments were done in mouse models with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury to explore the communication between regulatory cells induced by the nasal treatment and the microglial immune cells in the brain. Over time, researchers were able to identify how they modulate immune response.

“Modulating the neuroinflammatory response correlated with improved neurological outcomes, including less anxiety, cognitive decline, and improved motor skills,” Izzy said.

In addition to assessing the effects of the treatment, the research team was able to learn about immune response over time and compare the immune responses and effects of TBI in the mice.

The next step in the research is to translate the findings from preclinical models to human patients.

“Our patients with traumatic brain injury still don’t have an effective therapeutic to improve their outcomes, so this is a very promising and exciting time to move forward with something that’s backed up with solid science and get it to patients’ bedsides,” said Izzy.

Once in the clinical setting, Weiner said the hope is this treatment could be used on a variety of traumatic brain injury patients, including football players with repetitive concussions.

“We envision giving a nasal spray right there on the sidelines,” said Weiner. “It isn’t something we can do yet, but we see the potential.”

Reference:

Izzy, S., Yahya, T., Albastaki, O. et al. Nasal anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody ameliorates traumatic brain injury, enhances microglial phagocytosis and reduces neuroinflammation via IL-10-dependent Treg–microglia crosstalk. Nat Neurosci (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-025-01877-7

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Obesity and Hypothyroxinemia Together Heighten Risk of LGA Births in Pregnant Women: Study Finds

China: A recent Chinese cohort study published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology has found that maternal obesity and isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia (IMH) in late pregnancy significantly increase the risk of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) births. IMH, defined by low free thyroxine (FT4) with normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, independently raised LGA risk by 1.3 times.

Obesity alone was linked to a nearly sixfold higher LGA risk and a sevenfold increase in IMH. Notably, women with both conditions had a 7.6-fold greater risk of delivering LGA newborns, indicating a strong synergistic effect. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring BMI and thyroid function during pregnancy.

The combined impact of isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia and other contributing factors on fetal growth outcomes has not been well established. To address this gap, Bin Zhang, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China, and colleagues aimed to investigate whether the presence of IMH in the third trimester—characterized by free thyroxine (FT4) levels below the 5th percentile and TSH levels within the normal range—along with elevated prenatal body mass index (BMI), jointly increases the risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age newborns.

For this purpose, the researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of 11,478 Chinese pregnant women, utilizing laboratory data, including thyroid hormone levels, routine biochemical tests, and hospitalization records from a specialized hospital.

The study led to the following findings:

  • The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) and isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia (IMH) among the study population was 20.1% and 4.5%, respectively.
  • Obese women had a 6.96-fold higher risk of developing IMH compared to women with normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m²).
  • The risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age (LGA) newborns was 5.88 times higher in obese women than in those with normal weight.
  • Women with IMH had a 1.32-fold increased risk of LGA births compared to euthyroid women.
  • These associations remained consistent in sensitivity analyses conducted among women under 35, first-time mothers, and those without pregnancy complications.
  • Women with both obesity and IMH had a 7.60-fold greater risk of delivering LGA newborns compared to euthyroid women with normal weight.
  • There was a statistically significant interaction between BMI categories and IMH on the risk of LGA births.
  • Subgroup analyses confirmed this interaction among younger women, those with multiple pregnancies, and those without pregnancy-related complications.

The researchers found that in the large cohort of Chinese pregnant women, both obesity and isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia (IMH) in late pregnancy were independently associated with an increased risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age newborns. Notably, the coexistence of these two conditions further amplified this risk.

“The findings emphasize the potential value of combining prenatal BMI assessment with thyroid hormone profiling to identify women at elevated risk for LGA births,” the authors stated. They further noted, “If confirmed in future studies, this approach could have significant clinical and public health implications, particularly given the growing concern surrounding LGA-related health outcomes.”

Reference:

Zhang, B., Xi, S., Zhan, Z. et al. Maternal obesity and the incidence of large-for-gestational-age newborns in isolated hypothyroxinemia pregnancies: a comparative cohort study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 23, 60 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-025-01394-z

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Early-life exposure to air and light pollution linked to increased risk of pediatric thyroid cancer: Study

 A new study led by researchers at Yale University suggests that early-life exposure to two widespread environmental pollutants-small particle air pollution and outdoor artificial light at night-could increase the risk of pediatric thyroid cancer.

The study-a collaborative effort involving multiple Yale departments and institutions across the U.S.-found a “significant association” between exposure to ambient fine particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5) and outdoor artificial light at night (O-ALAN) and increased risk of papillary thyroid cancer in children and young adults up to 19 years old. The exposures occurred during the perinatal stage of life, typically defined as the time from when pregnancy occurs up to a year after birth.

“These results are concerning, especially given how widespread both of these exposures are,” said Dr. Nicole Deziel, PhD, MHS, an environmental epidemiologist with the Yale School of Public Health (YSPH) and the study’s lead author. “Fine particulate matter is found in urban air pollution due to automobile traffic and industrial activity, and artificial light at night is common, particularly in densely populated urban areas.”

The research team analyzed data from 736 individuals diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer before age 20 and 36,800 matched control participants based on birth year. Using advanced geospatial and satellite modeling, the team assessed individual-level exposure to PM2.5 and O-ALAN based on residential location at birth. All of the study participants were from California.

The findings showed that for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in PM2.5 exposure, the odds of developing thyroid cancer rose by 7% overall. The strongest association between exposure and thyroid cancer was found among teenagers (15–19 years of age) and Hispanic children. Similarly, children born in areas with high levels of exposure to outdoor light at night were 23–25% more likely to develop thyroid cancer, according to the study.

“Thyroid cancer is among the fastest growing cancers among children and adolescents, yet we know very little about what causes it in this population,” said Deziel, an associate professor of epidemiology (environmental health sciences) and co-director of the Yale Center for Perinatal, Pediatric, and Environmental Epidemiology. “Our study is the first large-scale investigation to suggest that these exposures early in life-specifically to PM2.5 and outdoor light at night-may play a role in this concerning trend.”

In addition to Deziel, the research team included experts from Yale’s Departments of Biostatistics, Chronic Disease Epidemiology, and Pediatrics, as well as researchers from the University of Southern California, UC Berkeley, and the American Cancer Society. Deziel and several of the study’s authors are affiliated with the Yale Cancer Center. The team’s collective expertise ranged from environmental exposure modeling and biostatistics to pediatric endocrinology and cancer epidemiology.

The impact of papillary thyroid cancer on children can be extensive.

Compared to adults, children are often diagnosed with thyroid cancer at more advanced stages with larger tumor sizes. Pediatric survivors of thyroid cancer can suffer aftereffects ranging from temperature dysregulation and headaches to physical disabilities and mental fatigue. The disease can interfere with important life milestones such as education, employment, and raising a family and it can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Both PM2.5 and O-ALAN are considered environmental carcinogens that have been shown to disrupt the body’s endocrine system, including thyroid function, in animals and adults. The particles associated with PM2.5 pose a threat because they are small enough to enter the bloodstream and can interfere with hormone signaling, including those involved in regulating cancer pathways. Outdoor artificial light at night has been shown to suppress melatonin and alter circadian rhythms, which can also influence hormone-regulated cancer pathways.

The current research raises important environmental justice concerns. Communities of color and lower-income populations are often disproportionately exposed to both air pollution and light pollution-inequities that may contribute to the higher thyroid cancer burden observed in Hispanic children.

The researchers emphasized that more work is needed to replicate and expand on their findings, ideally using improved exposure metrics and longitudinal designs.

“In the meantime,” Deziel noted, “our results point to the critical importance of addressing environmental factors in childhood cancer research. Reducing exposures to air pollution and managing light pollution could be important steps in protecting children’s health.”

Reference:

 Nicole C. Deziel, Rong Wang, Joshua L. Warren, Catherine Dinauer, Perinatal Exposures to Ambient Fine Particulate Matter and Outdoor Artificial Light at Night and Risk of Pediatric Papillary Thyroid Cancer, Environmental Health Perspectives, https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP14849.

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