HEALTH NOTES

BRAIN DRUG COULD BE USED TO TACKLE ALZHEIMER’S

A NEW wonder drug which repairs damage to the brain and spinal cord could also treat conditions such as epilepsy and Alzheimer’s.

In tests, CPTX restored lost connections between nerves in mice and lab-grown cells – helping to Alzheimer’s improve memory, patients could co-ordination and benefit from motor skills. the new drug

It works by mimicking the body’s natural proteins, and acts as a bridge between neurons.

Now scientists hope it could be used for treating spinal injuries and even reversing paralysis, as well as improving neurological conditions.

BEE STINGS TO COMBAT CANCER?

HONEY bees could help beat cancer, claims a new study.

In tests, the venom from their stings rapidly killed two types of breast cancer cells that are particularly difficult to treat. And the natural toxin left healthy cells unharmed.

Scientists have discovered the venom’s active component, melittin, is toxic to a wide range of tumours, including melanoma, lung, ovarian, and pancreatic, Medical News Today reports.

Could bees aid cancer treatment?

FEARS OF PANDEMIC SUICIDE SPIKE

THE coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the economy could lead to more suicide attempts, researchers warn.

Studies show people with money worries might be 20 times more likely to try to take their own lives than financially secure ones.

Prof Eric Elbogen, of Duke University School of Medicine in North Carolina, said: “We could well be seeing a dramatic increase in suicide rates moving forward.”

FIZZY DRINKS AND BAD DIETS

FIZZY drink fans are more likely to eat a bad diet and be overweight, according to a survey of 9,000

British households.

Researchers found families who buy a lot of sugary drinks – “full-fat” Are you on or diet – also tend the fizz? to buy lots of high-calorie foods such as chocolate, sweets and biscuits.

But those who bought more wine were the least likely to be overweight or obese.