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Researchers have used DNA sequencing to trace a rare soft-tissue cancer that affected identical twin sisters before birth. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that every tumour sample from both girls carried a distinctive genetic signature linked to Twin A, indicating that the cancer likely began in her and crossed the placenta to Twin B during pregnancy. By analysing healthy tissues, placental samples and tumours, scientists reconstructed the cancer’s development and uncovered evidence of blood-cell exchange between the twins. The findings also challenge traditional theories of identical-twin development, suggesting the embryo may have separated earlier than previously thought. The study offers new insights into prenatal cancer transmission and early embryonic development.

A viral sesame-based drink called “black milk” is being promoted on social media as a way to brighten skin, reduce pigmentation and boost collagen. However, dermatologists say there is currently no good clinical evidence that this specific drink delivers these benefits. Although sesame contains nutrients and antioxidant compounds, their presence alone does not prove that consuming them improves skin appearance. Laboratory findings also cannot automatically be translated into visible results in humans. For concerns such as acne, melasma and dark spots, experts recommend evidence-based skincare and appropriate dermatological advice. Sun protection, including broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, remains an important step in protecting skin health.

Scientists have identified a molecule produced by a common gut bacterium that reduced artery plaque buildup by approximately 50% in mice prone to atherosclerosis. Published in Nature, the study identified pentadecanoic acid, a fatty acid that inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the same enzyme targeted by cholesterol-lowering statins. By reducing cholesterol production and increasing LDL uptake by liver cells, the molecule helped lower blood cholesterol levels and plaque accumulation. However, these findings come primarily from animal experiments and do not establish a treatment for humans. Although preliminary human research offers some encouraging signals, larger clinical trials are needed to determine whether the molecule could safely help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Medicinal leeches have a long history in healthcare, and modern research is uncovering the bioactive molecules behind their effects. Their saliva contains compounds such as hirudin, which directly inhibits thrombin, an enzyme essential for blood clot formation. Other molecules interfere with platelet activity and inflammatory processes, offering potential leads for drug development. Today, medical leeches are used in reconstructive surgery to relieve venous congestion and help preserve tissue while new blood vessels develop. Researchers are also investigating leech-derived compounds for potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory applications, although much of this evidence remains experimental. Live leech therapy carries risks, including infection and prolonged bleeding, so it must be performed under medical supervision.

Experts at HemeNext 2.0 in Gurugram have called for wider access to genomic testing and advanced blood cancer treatments in India. Discussions focused on how next-generation sequencing, rapid genetic tests and measurable residual disease monitoring can help doctors tailor treatment to individual patients. Specialists also highlighted the cost, infrastructure and safety challenges involved in expanding access to CAR-T cell therapy and bone marrow transplantation. Childhood blood cancers were a major concern, with lymphoid leukaemia accounting for a substantial share of cancers among Indian children. Experts stressed that improving outcomes requires more than advanced treatments: early diagnosis, timely referrals, affordable care and long-term patient support are equally important.

A major study has found that several cancers are becoming more common among younger adults in England, despite improvements in some established risk factors, including smoking and diet. Excess body weight may explain part of the increase, but researchers say it does not account for the full trend. Scientists are investigating other possible contributors, including changes in the gut microbiome, early-life environmental exposures and evolving metabolic factors. Understanding why these cancers are increasing could help improve prevention, identify people at risk and guide future research. However, the findings do not point to a single cause, and further studies are needed to explain the changing patterns of cancer in younger populations.

A study of 349 mothers in the United States has revealed how diet, genetics and biological processes contribute to the composition of human breast milk. Researchers analyzed hundreds of milk metabolites and found that maternal diet was the strongest contributor among the maternal factors examined. Coffee and caffeine intake were associated with compounds linked to coffee consumption, while citrus intake correlated with proline-betaine, a metabolite associated with citrus fruits. The team also identified genetic variants linked to specific milk metabolites and connections between gene expression and metabolite levels. The findings highlight the complexity of breast milk composition, but the observational study did not establish whether these differences affect infant health.

A study involving adults in Italy suggests that healthier eating patterns may be linked to a better sense of smell. Researchers analyzed data from 6,690 participants in the CHRIS study, assessing their ability to identify 16 different odors and comparing results with dietary habits. Greater adherence to healthy diets, including those rich in fruits and vegetables, was associated with better odor identification and lower odds of hyposmia, a reduced sense of smell. In contrast, an unhealthful plant-based diet was linked to poorer olfactory function. The study was cross-sectional, meaning it cannot establish cause and effect. Further research is needed to determine whether improving diet can help preserve the sense of smell.

A review published in Nutrients by researchers at Texas Tech University explores how natural compounds found in turmeric, fenugreek, garlic, cinnamon and other foods may influence diabetes-related processes. Laboratory and early clinical studies suggest that certain compounds could help regulate blood glucose, reduce oxidative stress and influence inflammation. However, results vary depending on the ingredient, preparation and study design. Evidence for some products comes mainly from animal or cellular experiments, while human trials remain limited. The researchers also highlight safety concerns, including potential liver injury associated with guduchi and toxic metals in some shilajit products. These natural remedies should not replace prescribed diabetes medication, and further clinical research is needed to establish their benefits and risks.

Eating just one meal a day, known as One Meal a Day (OMAD), may seem like a quick route to weight loss, but experts say it is not a guaranteed solution. Meal frequency alone does not determine metabolism or weight gain. What matters most is total calorie intake, nutritional quality, physical activity, sleep and long-term consistency. Prolonged fasting may increase hunger, fatigue and the risk of overeating, while making it harder to obtain enough protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. OMAD may also pose risks for people with diabetes or those taking glucose-lowering medication. Experts recommend a balanced, sustainable eating pattern rather than restrictive shortcuts for managing weight.