Common sugar substitute could reduce cancer immunotherapy effectiveness

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September 8, 2025

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A common artificial sweetener could make cancer treatments less effective, a new study has found.

Sucralose, a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes, could interfere with immunotherapy in cancer patients, according to research from the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

The study included 132 patients with melanoma (a deadly form of skin cancer) and nonsmall cell lung cancer (the most common type of lung cancer).

YOUR DAILY DIET SODA COULD BE AGING YOUR BRAIN FASTER THAN YOU THINK, STUDY FINDS

All patients were taking anti-PD1 (a type of immunotherapy), either alone or in combination with chemotherapy.

They all completed dietary questionnaires that indicated the volume of artificial sweeteners they consumed.

Sucralose consumption could interfere with immunotherapy in cancer patients. (iStock)

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts, according to a press release.

“We found that sucralose impeded the effectiveness of immunotherapies across a range of cancer types, stages and treatment modalities,” said senior author Diwakar Davar, associate professor of medicine at Pitt and a medical oncologist and hematologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release.

SUGAR SUBSTITUTES CAN CAUSE BRAIN CHANGES THAT INCREASE APPETITE, STUDY SAYS

“These observations raise the possibility of designing prebiotics, such as targeted nutrient supplementation for patients who consume high levels of sucralose.”

The findings were published in Cancer Discovery, a journal by the American Association for Cancer Research.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough.”

On a positive note, the researchers also found that taking supplements to increase levels of the amino acid arginine counteracted those effects and boosted the effectiveness of immunotherapy, as seen in a study of mice.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Stop drinking diet soda,’ but when patients are being treated for cancer, they are already dealing with enough, so asking them to drastically alter their diet may not be realistic,” said lead author Abby Overacre, assistant professor in the Department of Immunology at Pitt and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, in the release.

Sucralose is a sweetener found in many diet sodas, low-calorie snacks and powdered sugar substitutes. (iStock)

“We need to meet patients where they are. That’s why it’s so exciting that arginine supplementation could be a simple approach to counteract the negative effects of sucralose on immunotherapy.”

In the mouse study, the sucralose was shown to alter the gut microbiome in a way that reduced levels of arginine. This amino acid is essential for T-cell function, which is a key component of immunotherapy drugs.

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“When arginine levels were depleted due to sucralose-driven shifts in the microbiome, T cells couldn’t function properly,” said Overacre. “As a result, immunotherapy wasn’t as effective in mice that were fed sucralose.”

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team.”

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to launch a clinical trial investigating arginine supplementation in human cancer patients. They will also explore the potential impact of other sugar substitutes on immunotherapy effectiveness.

The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and Gateway for Cancer Research.

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The Calorie Control Council provided the below statement to Fox News Digital.

“For people undergoing cancer treatment, all guidance should come from their healthcare team,” said Carla Saunders, president of the council.

The researchers found that the patients who consumed high levels of sucralose had a “worse response” to immunotherapy and “poorer survival” than those who consumed low amounts. (iStock)

“This study has several limitations, relying on animal research that cannot be directly applied to humans, and [is] a small observational study in humans using self-reported dietary data, which is often subject to misreporting, underreporting and bias. While continued research is critical, scientific regulatory authorities worldwide, including the FDA, have repeatedly confirmed sucralose’s safety for decades.”

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Fox News Digital reached out to manufacturers of sucralose-containing products requesting comment.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

10 essential Wi-Fi tips to boost speed and secure your router from hackers

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September 8, 2025

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We all know the frustration of slow or unreliable Wi-Fi. Whether it’s buffering during a favorite show or lagging video calls, it feels like you spend more time trying to fix the problem than actually enjoying the internet. But with a few easy settings changes, your Wi-Fi can work harder and give you the smooth connection you deserve. These tips don’t require any special apps or subscriptions, just tweak some settings and let your Wi-Fi do the heavy lifting.

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DON’T USE YOUR HOME WI-FI BEFORE FIXING CERTAIN SECURITY RISKS

1) Place your router in the right spot for better coverage

Positioning your router in a central, open location ensures the best signal distribution.

Why it helps: Placing your router in a central area and off the floor prevents walls or furniture from blocking the signal. This gives your entire home a better connection.

Get the most out of your internet service by learning the settings that keep your Wi-Fi strong and secure. (Sina Schuldt/picture alliance via Getty Images)

2) Restart your router regularly to refresh the signal

Sometimes, the quickest fix is simply restarting your router.

Why it helps: Turning your router off for 30 seconds and back on helps clear out temporary issues and refreshes the connection. It’s a simple fix that can solve slow Wi-Fi or connectivity problems.

3) Keep your router updated for optimal performance

Updating your router’s software ensures you get the latest speed and security improvements.

Why it helps: Router manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs and improve performance. Make sure your router’s firmware is always up-to-date to get the most reliable connection.

5 PHONE SETTINGS TO CHANGE RIGHT NOW FOR A SAFER SMARTPHONE

4) Limit the number of devices on your network

Fewer devices connected to your Wi-Fi means more bandwidth for the devices that matter most.

Why it helps: Each device connected to your network uses bandwidth. If multiple devices are hogging the connection (like smart TVs or game consoles), it can slow things down. Disconnect any unused devices to keep your Wi-Fi fast.

From placing your router in the right spot to upgrading your hardware, these proven fixes can keep your internet running smoothly. (Wolf von Dewitz/picture alliance via Getty Images)

5) Change your Wi-Fi channel or band

If your neighbors are on the same Wi-Fi channel, switching to a less crowded one can help.

Why it helps: Choosing a clearer channel or using the 5 GHz band instead of 2.4 GHz reduces interference and boosts your connection.

IS YOUR HOME WI-FI REALLY SAFE? THINK AGAIN

6) Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system

Dead zones in your home can make even fast internet feel slow.

Why it helps: A Wi-Fi extender or mesh network expands your coverage so every corner of your home gets a strong signal.

See my top mesh networking winners at Cyberguy.com (search “Mesh Networking” or “extender”)

Slow Wi-Fi doesn’t have to be a reality. Learn how simple setting changes can dramatically improve your connection. (Photo by Future Publishing via Getty Images)

7) Secure your network

Protecting your network keeps others from slowing it down.

Why it helps: Using strong passwords and WPA3 or WPA2 encryption prevents freeloaders from connecting and using your bandwidth. Consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates complex passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

8) Reduce interference from electronics

Some electronics can weaken your Wi-Fi signal.

Why it helps: Keeping your router away from microwaves, cordless phones and Bluetooth hubs prevents interference that can slow your connection.

9) Turn off background apps and updates

Your devices may run apps or updates in the background that eat up bandwidth.

Why it helps: Streaming updates, cloud backups or large downloads can slow your Wi-Fi for everyone. Pausing them during peak times frees up bandwidth for the things you actually want to do.

10) Upgrade your router for faster speeds

Old routers can slow you down. Upgrading to a newer model can provide a significant speed boost.

Why it helps: Newer routers support faster speeds and more devices, which is essential if your home has multiple users streaming, working or gaming at the same time. The FBI recently alerted that hackers are actively targeting outdated routers, so make sure yours is updated and secure.

For my best router picks, check out Cyberguy.com.

6 ways to protect your Wi-Fi router from hackers

Keeping your home network secure is essential to prevent unauthorized access and potential data breaches. Follow these steps to safeguard your Wi-Fi router:

1) Change default passwords

Most routers come with default passwords that hackers can easily find online. To secure your router, change both the admin password (used to access settings) and the Wi-Fi network password. Use a strong password with at least 12 characters, combining uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid simple options like “password123” or personal details such as your name or birth date.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

2) Rename your network (SSID)

The default network name, or SSID, often includes the router’s brand or model, making it easier for hackers to identify vulnerabilities. Rename your network to something unique that doesn’t reveal personal information. Avoid using names, addresses or other identifiers. Instead, opt for a neutral or creative name that’s easy for you to recognize but hard for others to associate with you.

3) Keep your router’s firmware updated

Router manufacturers release firmware updates to patch security flaws and enhance performance. Check your router’s admin panel regularly for updates or enable automatic updates, if supported. Keeping your firmware up to date ensures you’re protected against the latest threats. If your router is too old to receive updates, it might be time to upgrade to a newer, more secure model.

4) Monitor network activity regularly

Unauthorized devices on your network can slow it down and expose you to risks. Log into your router’s admin settings to view all connected devices. If you see anything suspicious, disconnect it and immediately change your Wi-Fi password. You can also enable MAC address filtering to control which devices can access your network or disable features like WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) that may leave you vulnerable.

5) Enable network encryption

Use the strongest encryption protocol available for your router, preferably WPA3 or at least WPA2. Encryption scrambles the data transmitted over your network, making it much harder for hackers to intercept and decipher your information.

6) Regularly reboot your router

Schedule routine reboots to clear the system memory and refresh all connections, which may disrupt potential malware.

7) Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data. This protection works anywhere, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop or on public Wi-Fi. Choose a reputable VPN provider with a no-logs policy and strong encryption standards to keep your information private.

For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

Pro tip: Use strong antivirus software

To further protect your devices from malware and other threats, consider using reputable antivirus software. Antivirus programs can detect and remove malicious software, provide real-time protection and alert you to potential threats. Keeping your devices secure helps ensure your entire network remains safe from cyberattacks.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at CyberGuy.com.

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right – and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

With just a few small tweaks, you can turn your Wi-Fi from frustrating to fast. Start with the easiest changes, then work your way to bigger upgrades. Every adjustment adds up, making your internet smoother and more reliable. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll spend more time enjoying your connection and less time fixing it.

Got a tip you’d like to share, or what other everyday tech challenges would you like help solving? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Barefoot passenger on plane sparks outrage in viral Reddit post discussion

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September 8, 2025

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While in flight at 30,000 feet, passengers may exhibit certain behaviors that would be deemed inappropriate on land.

In the “r/Delta” forum on Reddit, a user titled a post “Crimes against humanity,” along with a photo of a man lying back with his bare feet up on the seat in front of him.

Redditors took to the comment section to share their reactions, along with their own flying experiences.

AIRLINE PASSENGERS COULD BE REMOVED FROM FLIGHTS FOR GOING BAREFOOT: ETIQUETTE EXPERT WEIGHS IN

“This strikes me as the same type of person who would clip their nails in public,” commented one user.

Another person wrote, “This is not your mom’s basement, sir.” Yet another Redditor said, “Living room syndrome strikes again.”

A Reddit post showing a passenger with bare feet on an airplane seat (not pictured) sparked outrage. (iStock)

Someone else commented, “This is why I travel with Clorox wipes on planes.”

“Did you say anything?” asked one person. The user who posted the photo responded, “Sure did, he at least put his socks back on.”

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Jacqueline Whitmore, a Florida-based etiquette expert and former flight attendant, said it is best to keep your feet covered in some capacity while on a plane.

“From an etiquette standpoint, it is rude to walk about barefoot in a public place, as many germs can be transmitted from your feet,” a former flight attendant said. (iStock)

“From an etiquette standpoint, it is rude to walk about barefoot in a public place, as many germs can be transmitted from your feet,” Whitmore told Fox News Digital.

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“If you plan to take off your shoes on a longer flight, it’s best not to walk around without slippers for your own health and safety,” she said.

“The floor of the plane is extremely dirty, especially in the lavatory. The water on the floor is most likely not water at all.”

Interior of a crowded airplane with blue seats showing passengers sat, pictured from behind

“For fellow passengers, seeing someone walk around barefoot (not pictured) can be considered unpleasant or unhygienic, which could negatively impact their flying experience,” an etiquette expert said. (Getty Images)

Whitmore also said that being barefoot can impact those around you.

“For fellow passengers, seeing someone walk around barefoot can be considered unpleasant or unhygienic, which could negatively impact their flying experience.”

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To stay comfortable while remaining hygienic, Whitmore suggests putting on a clean pair of socks, using slippers or wearing more comfortable shoes.

Ashley J. DiMella is a Lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

LSD study shows 100mg dose significantly reduces anxiety in majority of patients

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September 8, 2025

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A new study suggests that lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), also known as acid, could reduce anxiety.

This marks the first-ever trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MM120 (a pharmaceutical formulation of LSD) as a monotherapy for patients with moderate to severe generalized anxiety disorder, according to lead author Daniel Karlin, M.D., chief medical officer of MindMed, a biopharmaceutical company in New York.

The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

THE KEY TO LIVING LONGER COULD BE TIED TO A SURPRISING SUBSTANCE, STUDY SUGGESTS

Nearly 200 adults between the ages of 18 and 74 received either a single oral dose of LSD at various does, or a placebo “dummy pill,” for a three-month period, according to a press release.

The dosing sessions were individually conducted in private rooms with two trained monitors who observed the participants for at least 12 hours. No psychotherapy was provided.

A new study suggests that lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), also known as acid, could reduce anxiety. (iStock)

Researchers tracked changes in participants’ anxiety scores at weeks 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12, with week 4 serving as the main point of evaluation.

After the four weeks, patients receiving the highest doses had significantly lower anxiety scores than the others.

At 12 weeks, 65% of patients taking 100 milligrams showed benefits, with nearly 50% in remission from anxiety.

PSYCHEDELICS AS POTENTIAL MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT ARE EXPLORED BY TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

Researchers also tested LSD’s impact on depression, finding that the highest doses were linked to significant improvements.

Karlin shared that the effects of LSD were almost immediate. Side effects of the psychedelic included hallucinations, nausea and headaches.

LSD was shown to reduce symptoms in adults with generalized anxiety disorder, with 100-microgram doses proving most effective in a clinical trial. (iStock)

The effects were dose-dependent, with 100 milligrams being the optimal dose. The 200-milligram dose also significantly outperformed the placebo. The 25-milligram and 50-milligram doses did not show significant benefits.

One possible study complication was “functional unbinding,” in which trial participants could correctly guess whether they had received the active medication versus a placebo, according to Karlin.

SINGLE DOSE OF ‘MAGIC MUSHROOMS’ PROVIDES 5 YEARS OF DEPRESSION RELIEF, RESEARCHERS FIND

The drugmaker plans to conduct two large, late-stage trials to track patients over a longer period of time.

If the study is deemed successful, MindMed will submit the drug to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for approval.

Risks and legalities

LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug, which means it’s considered to have high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, according to the Drug Enforcement Agency.

Schedule I drugs are not legally allowed to be prescribed, dispensed or used in medical treatment, except for approved research.

If the study is deemed successful, Mindmed will submit the experimental drug to the FDA for approval. (iStock)

The FDA has designated LSD, psilocybin and MDMA as “potential breakthrough therapies,” Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital.

MILEY CYRUS REVEALS THE ‘POWERFUL’ THERAPY THAT HELPED HER CONQUER STAGE FRIGHT

“The key is careful oversight and meticulous research, which monitors both side effects and effectiveness,” said Siegel.

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While this new study shows a “very positive result in around 200 patients,” Siegel confirmed that LSD can cause hallucinations.

Additional documented side effects may include paranoia, mood swings, increased heart rate and long-term psychosis, according to multiple sources.

“The key is careful oversight and meticulous research, which monitors both side effects and effectiveness.”

Hadas Alterman, a psychedelic medicine attorney in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital that “LSD’s return is not just cultural or scientific, it’s regulatory.”

The expert says psychedelics were “sidelined” due to the “sweeping expansion of FDA authority under the 1962 Kefauver–Harris Amendments.”

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This legislation, also called the Drug Efficacy Amendments, required drug manufacturers to provide substantial evidence of efficacy through well-controlled clinical trials before approval.

“LSD and other psychedelics have long shown clinical promise, but the excess recreational use in the 1960s pushed researchers away from continuing to study it,” Siegel added.

“LSD and other psychedelics have long shown clinical promise, but the excess recreational use in the 1960s pushed researchers away from continuing to study it,” a doctor said. (iStock)

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins have conveyed interest in exploring psychedelic therapy.

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“This line of therapeutics has tremendous advantage if given in a clinical setting, and we are working very hard to make sure that happens within 12 months,” RFK recently told members of Congress, per AP.

Psychedelics advocate Alterman noted that while the support “doesn’t replace science,” it encourages institutions like FDA to “take this seriously.”

Ashley J. DiMella is a Lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Mysterious wreck discovered by Florida fisherman may be a rum-runner

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September 8, 2025

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A Florida man recently stumbled across a wrecked vessel while fishing with his grandson – and he believes it could be as much as 150 years old.

Thomas Peterson, a self-described “Florida redneck,” told FOX 13 Tampa Bay that he recently found what may be a 19th-century rum-runner.

He discovered the ship remains in Aripeka, a small community roughly 50 miles north of Tampa. The wreckage was found at low tide.

RESEARCHERS ACCIDENTALLY DISCOVER CIVIL WAR-ERA SHIPWRECK WHILE EXPLORING MURKY MIDWEST RIVER

“I look down and I see this boat has this green stuff going on…it’s like shag carpet,” Peterson recalled.

“My boys, they say it’s a dock,” he added. “I say no, it’s not a dock, it’s a boat. That’s pretty cool that I found history.”

Thomas Peterson, pictured at right, said he stumbled on ship remains while fishing with his grandson in Aripeka, Florida. (Thomas Peterson; FOX 13 Tampa Bay)

Pictures show wooden beams and planks faintly visible in Aripeka’s mud flats. The shallow water also revealed long, parallel timbers that suggest the presence of a boat or ship.

“I’ve been fishing out there for 10 years with my grandson,” Peterson told the outlet. “He caught his first big redfish there.”

WORKERS DISCOVER 18TH-CENTURY VESSEL WHILE INSTALLING PIPELINE IN MEDIEVAL ‘GAME OF THRONES’ CITY

The Hernando County resident believes the wreck could be a rum-runner, or a ship used to smuggle illegal liquor.

He found a purplish piece of glass at the site – possibly a remnant of a liquor bottle.

Peterson described the find as “pretty cool,” saying he believes he uncovered history in Florida waters. (Thomas Peterson via FOX 13 Tampa Bay)

Peterson also believes it predates the Prohibition era, when rum-running flourished – making the ship’s origin a mystery for now.

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Local archaeologists are taking a look at the ship to verify its origin, FOX 13 reported – and then it will be handled by the state of Florida.

A purplish glass fragment was found at the site, possibly linked to old liquor bottles. (Thomas Peterson via FOX 13 Tampa Bay)

Under Florida Statute 267.14, archaeological sites are protected for “public benefit” and can only be excavated by qualified archaeologists, anthropologists and historians.

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Shipwrecks are exciting but relatively common discoveries, especially in coastal cities.

Faintly visible wooden ship remains beneath shallow water

“My boys, they say it’s a dock. I say no, it’s not a dock, it’s a boat,” said Peterson. (Thomas Peterson via FOX 13 Tampa Bay)

Earlier this year, archaeologists discovered four 18th-century shipwrecks at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson, in North Carolina’s Cape Fear region.

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In April, a centuries-old shipwreck was found beneath a former fish market in Spain.

Scientists create new Ozempic replacement targeting 30% weight loss

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September 8, 2025

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GLP-1 weight loss pill in development

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel discusses advancements in weight loss drugs, safety concerns surrounding nicotine patches and his interview with FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary on vaccine protocol.

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Researchers believe they may have the next, better version of Ozempic in the works.

At Tufts University, scientists have developed a new drug that aims to boost weight loss while also reducing the nausea, muscle loss and weight regain associated with popular GLP-1 medications.

The goal is for the “quadruple-action” medication to achieve long-lasting weight loss of up to 30% — matching the effectiveness of bariatric surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach, according to a study press release.

COULD GLP-1 WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS LIKE OZEMPIC BECOME THE ‘EVERYTHING DRUG’?

How the drug is different

Semaglutide medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy, mimic the natural hormone GLP‑1 (glucagon‑like peptide‑1), while tirzepatides (such as Mounjaro and Zepbound) target both GLP-1 receptors and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors.

Scientists have developed a new drug that aims to boost weight loss while also reducing the nausea, muscle loss and weight regain associated with popular GLP-1 medications. (iStock)

The new medication from Tufts targets a combination of four hormones — GLP-1, GIP, glucagon (the counterpart to insulin), and peptide YY, which reduces hunger, slows stomach emptying and may promote fat-burning.

“We built a single experimental peptide that works like four hormones at once, so we’re not pushing one button too hard,” lead author Tristan Dinsmore, PhD, a researcher at Tufts University, told Fox News Digital.

5 PROTEIN-PACKED CARBS THAT CAN HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT AND BUILD MUSCLE, DIETITIAN SAYS

“Instead, we’re nudging four ‘dimmer switches’ together to manage appetite, blood sugar and energy use.”

Because GLP‑1 and PYY can contribute to nausea at higher doses, the researchers relied on GIP, which is known to ease nausea, to “balance things out,” Dinsmore said.

“We built a single experimental peptide that works like four hormones at once, so we’re not pushing one button too hard.”

“Beyond helping with fullness and glucose control, GIP signaling has anti‑nausea effects — it can even block nausea in preclinical models, which is why we prioritize it in the mix,” he went on.

“By adding PYY to the GLP‑1/GIP/glucagon trio, we hope to rely less on GLP‑1 and glucagon to drive weight loss, potentially lowering the chance of nausea (from GLP‑1/PYY) and high blood sugar risk (from glucagon) while keeping the benefits.”

woman injecting weight loss drug in stomach

Because GLP‑1 and PYY can contribute to nausea at higher doses, the researchers relied on GIP, which is known to ease nausea, to “balance things out,” one of the researchers said. (iStock)

The medication is still in the experimental/preclinical stage and has not yet been tested in human trials.

The drug’s development was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Doctors react

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, is a strong advocate for GLP-1 medications.

“There are plenty of highly effective GLP-1 agonists right in front of us.”

“Single-agent GLP-1s like Ozempic work for most people,” Osborn, who was not involved in the Tufts study, told Fox News Digital. “Side effects are manageable when an experienced physician supervises you.”

“We don’t need more medications to treat the same chronic problem that has increasingly burdened the world,” he added. “There are plenty of highly effective GLP-1 agonists right in front of us.”

Obesity is estimated to affect over 40% of American adults and has been linked to dozens of diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and several types of cancer. (iStock)

The biggest risks with GLP-1s is muscle loss and malnutrition from undereating, he said. To prevent this, the doctor emphasizes the need for adequate daily protein and consistent strength training.

To treat the “chronic” disease of obesity, Osborn recommends microdosing or intermittent dosing of GLP-1s, paired with nutrition, progressive resistance training, hydration and sleep.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET PAIRED WITH OTHER LIFESTYLE CHANGES SLASHES DIABETES RISK

“Essentially, use the medicine that works and combine it with disciplined habits,” he advised. “I’ve used this approach for years, as have many of my patients, with excellent long-term tolerance.”

Sue Decotiis, M.D., a medical weight loss doctor in New York City, noted that controlling appetite, enhancing metabolism and increasing fat burning — while also balancing the interactions of blood sugar and insulin — is a “complex function.”

“Even with new mechanisms added to weight-loss medications, individual patients will have varied responses in the amount of fat they lose,” one expert said. (iStock)

“The additional mechanisms offered by new drugs may help some, but not necessarily most weight-loss patients,” Decotiis, who was also not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

“Even with new mechanisms added to weight-loss medications, individual patients will have varied responses in the amount of fat they lose.”

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She noted that her patients who take GLP-1s do not typically experience muscle and bone loss.

“Good care in medical weight loss should include following patients with a body composition scale and monitoring protein, fiber and excellent hydration,” she said.

Limitations and future research

There were some limitations of the new drug, the researchers acknowledged.

“The additional mechanisms offered by new drugs may help some, but not necessarily most weight-loss patients.”

“This is design research that showcases the potential for the next generation and perhaps even tailored drugs,” Dinsmore told Fox News Digital. “Our data come from cell‑based assays, not animals or humans (yet).”

“Choosing the safest, most effective balance of the four pathways will require in‑vivo (living) studies and clinical trials.”

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People using GLP‑1‑based drugs should stick with their clinician’s guidance, Dinsmore advised.

“This is not a medicine you can get today,” he said of the new medication. “Our work is a next‑generation concept that aims to improve results and reduce nausea by spreading the work across four hormones rather than overloading one.”

Obesity is estimated to affect over 40% of American adults and has been linked to dozens of diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and several types of cancer.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

“What drives us is the idea that we can design a single drug to treat obesity and simultaneously mitigate the risk of developing a long list of health problems plaguing society,” said co-study author Krishna Kumar, Robinson Professor of Chemistry at Tufts.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

Common virus may trigger Parkinson’s disease, Northwestern study suggests

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September 8, 2025

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A virus long thought to be harmless may actually play a role in Parkinson’s disease, a condition that affects more than one million Americans.

Northwestern Medicine scientists discovered Human Pegivirus (HPgV) in the brains and spinal fluid of people with Parkinson’s, but not in those without the disease. The results challenge decades of assumptions about the virus.

“HPgV is a common, symptomless infection previously not known to frequently infect the brain,” Dr. Igor Koralnik, chief of neuroinfectious diseases at Northwestern, said in a press release.

“We were surprised to find it in the brains of Parkinson’s patients at such high frequency and not in the controls.”

TRAINED DOGS CAN SMELL PARKINSON’S DISEASE BEFORE SYMPTOMS SHOW UP, STUDY FINDS

Researchers examined post-mortem brain tissue from 10 Parkinson’s patients and 14 people who died of other causes. (iStock)

The findings were published in the journal JCI Insight.

Researchers examined post-mortem brain tissue from 10 Parkinson’s patients and 14 people who died of other causes. The virus appeared in five of the 10 Parkinson’s brains and none of the 14 controls.

NEW WEEKLY INJECTION FOR PARKINSON’S COULD REPLACE DAILY PILL FOR MILLIONS, STUDY SUGGESTS

It also turned up in spinal fluid samples, suggesting the virus could be active in the nervous system. Patients carrying HPgV showed more advanced brain changes tied to Parkinson’s, including protein buildup and altered brain chemistry.

The team didn’t stop at brain tissue. Using blood samples from more than 1,000 participants in a project led by The Michael J. Fox Foundation, researchers saw the same immune system changes linked to the virus.

Senior man holding hands due to Parkinson's

Researchers also examined blood samples of 1,000 people with Parkinson’s, in an effort to track the virus. (iStock)

Even more striking: patients with a Parkinson’s-related mutation in the LRRK2 gene responded differently to HPgV than those without the mutation.

“This suggests it could be an environmental factor that interacts with the body in ways we didn’t realize before,” Koralnik said.

“It may influence how Parkinson’s develops, especially in people with certain genetic backgrounds.”

STANFORD SCIENTISTS ‘TOTALLY SURPRISED’ BY POTENTIAL PARKINSON’S TREATMENT DISCOVERY

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common brain disorder after Alzheimer’s, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. While a small percentage of cases are inherited, most patients don’t have a family history, and the cause has remained unknown.

Older man staring off into the distance, someone's hands on his shoulder

“It’s far too early to say the virus causes the disease,” says Dr. Joel Salinas, a behavioral neurologist. (iStock)

If HPgV truly plays a role, it could help explain why some people develop Parkinson’s while others do not. It could also open the door to new treatments targeting viruses or the immune system.

“The study detected traces of HPgV more often in brains of people with Parkinson’s disease than in controls. This raises the possibility of a link between viral exposure and Parkinson’s, but it’s far too early to say the virus causes the disease,” Dr. Joel Salinas, a behavioral neurologist and associate professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.

LIVING NEAR A GOLF COURSE IS LINKED TO PARKINSON’S RISK IN NEW STUDY AS SOME CITE LIMITATIONS

Salinas, who was not involved in the study, also said that much larger and longer-term studies will be needed to determine whether this association has real clinical significance.

“For now, people should know this is early research and not a reason to worry—there’s no overwhelming evidence yet that this virus causes Parkinson’s, similar to how work on herpesviruses in Alzheimer’s has suggested a possible link but remains to be fully established.”

Woman hugging older woman, may have Parkinson's disease

The Northwestern team plans to expand their study to see how often HPgV is found in people with Parkinson’s. (iStock)

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly 90,000 Americans are diagnosed every year. That number is expected to reach 1.2 million by 2030.

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The Northwestern team plans to expand their study to see how often HPgV is found in people with Parkinson’s versus healthy controls, and whether other viruses may be involved.

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“For a virus that was thought to be harmless, these findings suggest it may have important effects in the context of Parkinson’s disease,” Koralnik said.

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“We also aim to understand how viruses and genes interact; insights that could reveal how Parkinson’s begins and could help guide future therapies.”

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.

Underwater Roman bathhouse near Naples may have belonged to orator Cicero

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September 8, 2025

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Italian archaeologists recently discovered an ancient Roman bathhouse submerged underwater – and it may have belonged to Rome’s greatest orator.

The Campi Flegrei Archaeological Park, located in Naples, announced the discovery on Aug. 6. Though the site of the bathhouse was first identified in 2023, it was only recently documented.

In a translated Facebook post, officials said the thermal complex was found around 10 feet underwater in Portus Julius, a port famous for being the first permanent Roman naval base.

ANCIENT ROMAN APARTMENT BUILDING FOUND BENEATH PUBLIC SQUARE AMID SUBWAY CONSTRUCTION

Officials believe it may have belonged to Marcus Tullius Cicero, the legendary Roman statesman who lived from 106 B.C. to 43 B.C.

Cicero is famed for being a staunch advocate of Rome’s Republic, as well as for translating Greek philosophical texts into Latin.

Campi Flegrei Archaeological Park announced that divers excavated a submerged Roman bathhouse about 10 feet underwater at Portus Julius near Naples, Italy. (Parco Archeologico Campi Flegrei)

The bathhouse was built before the area was developed into a naval base in 37 B.C. Local officials believe it may have belonged to Cicero, based on ancient records.

ANCIENT ROMAN ‘PERFUME GARDEN’ BLOOMS AGAIN NEARLY 1,900 YEARS AFTER VESUVIUS ERUPTION

“Current research suggests that we may be looking at the baths of Cicero’s villa, known from historical sources,” the post said.

Officials said the underwater thermal complex may be linked to Marcus Tullius Cicero, the famed orator who lived from 106 B.C. to 43 B.C. (Parco Archeologico Campi Flegrei; Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The bathhouse also featured cutting-edge engineering, such as its suspensurae system, which allowed its mosaic floors to heat up.

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“This, together with the tubular structures along the walls, allowed hot air to circulate, creating a true sauna, or laconicum,” the statement added.

View of bathhouse under water near Naples

Officials said the complex lies roughly 10 feet underwater, giving archaeologists a rare opportunity to study heating systems and mosaics in situ. (Parco Archeologico Campi Flegrei)

Officials also said they recovered ceramic materials “of particular importance,” which may offer clues about how the structure was built – and how it was destroyed.

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“Work will continue throughout the autumn with the restoration of the mosaic floor, [which is] partly encrusted with mortar remains, and of the small but significant traces of wall paintings,” the post concluded.

“Current research suggests that we may be looking at the baths of Cicero’s villa, known from historical sources,” officials said. (Parco Archeologico Campi Flegrei)

Roman bathhouses – which functioned as important community spaces in antiquity – are still being discovered across Europe and Asia Minor today.

In Turkey, archaeologists recently unearthed an ancient Roman bathhouse that still preserved traces of its original engineering design.

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In Rome’s Appian Way Regional Park, excavators found a Roman bathhouse-turned-church that functioned as an ancient baptistery.

Surveillance video shows Ukrainian refugee stabbed on Charlotte train

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September 8, 2025

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A haunting new video shows the last moments of a Ukrainian refugee’s life before she was stabbed to death on a Charlotte light rail train last month.

The surveillance footage, released by the Carlotte Area Transit System (CATS), shows 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska boarding the Lynx Bline line just after 9:45 p.m. on Friday, August 22.

The footage shows Zarutska in her pizzeria uniform while scrolling on her phone. A man in a red hoodie is seen sitting behind her.

Around four minutes later, the man pulls out a knife and begins stabbing Zarutska three times, including at least once in the neck.

AMERICAN STABBED DEFENDING WOMEN ON GERMAN TRAM CRITICIZES IMMIGRATION POLICIES AFTER SUSPECT RELEASED

Surveillance footage showing the moment before a young Ukrainian woman was stabbed to death in a random attack on the Lynx Blue Line on Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. (NewsNation via Charlotte Area Transit System)

Zarutska, who had fled war-town Ukraine, grabs her neck as blood spills onto the floor. Authorities later pronounced her dead at the scene.

The video shows the suspect walk through the rail car, take off his sweatshirt, and wait by the doors as passengers look on.

The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Decarlos Brown, was arrested shortly after the stabbing and hospitalized before being arrested on a charge of first-degree murder.

Ukrainian Iryna Zarutska came to the U.S. to escape war but was stabbed to death in Charlotte on Friday. (EVGENIYA RUSH on GoFundMe)

Records obtained by The New York Post showed that Brown has a history of arrests going back more than a decade, including charges of felony larceny, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and communicating threats. Police said Brown and Zarutska did not know each other and the attack had been random.

GILGO BEACH SUSPECT REX HEUERMANN LOSES BID TO TOSS DNA EVIDENCE AT UPCOMING MURDER TRIAL

Zarutska’s death has renewed calls for action on public safety in Charlotte. Members of the Charlotte City Council expressed concern after Zarutska’s murder about violence on the city’s transit system.

split image showing Decarlos Brown mugshot and surveillance footage from light rail

L-R: A mugshot of Decarlos Brown; Surveillance footage showing Brown on the light rail trains. (Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office; CATS)

Rep. Brenden Jones, a Republican who represents the area, blamed Zarutska’s death on “the result of decades of Democrat Das and Sheriffs putting their woke agendas above public safety.”

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He wrote on X that, “Violent criminals commit crimes with impunity, while families live in fear.”

Fox News Digital’s Emma Bussey contributed to this report.

Bradford Betz is a Fox News Digital breaking reporter covering crime, political issues, and much more.

Marathon runners may face higher cancer risk, study suggests

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September 7, 2025

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Long-distance running, like marathons and ultramarathons, may not always be the health badge we thought it was. In fact, it could increase your cancer risk, according to a new study out of Virginia.

Dr. Timothy Cannon of the Inova Schar Cancer Institute began work on the study, which was presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago, after noticing ultramarathoners under 40 were showing up with advanced colon cancer.

To dig deeper, he launched a study of runners who had completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons, excluding those with family history or other known risk factors.

RISK OF COLON CANCER SLASHED BY EATING SPECIFIC TYPES OF VEGETABLES, STUDY FINDS

The study used 100 participants between the ages of 35 and 50 who had completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons. (iStock)

“The study supports the hypothesis that extreme endurance runners have an increased risk of precancerous polyps,” Cannon told Fox News Digital.

Researchers examined 100 participants between the ages of 35 and 50 who had never undergone a colonoscopy but had completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons. Individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes or inflammatory bowel disease were excluded to keep the focus on the potential impact of endurance exercise alone.

COLORECTAL CANCER MAY CAUSE THESE 4 HIDDEN WARNING SIGNS, EXPERTS SAY

Each participant had a colonoscopy done during the study. They also completed a survey about dietary habits, bowel history and long-distance running patterns.

He found that 15% had advanced adenomas, or pre-cancerous colon growths, compared to the normal 1–2% for their age group. Even more, a staggering 41% had at least one adenoma.

Long-distance running linked to increased colon cancer risk in study

Each participant had a colonoscopy done during the study. (iStock)

Any growths discovered during the procedures were reviewed by a panel of gastroenterologists, pathologists and oncologists to determine if they met the criteria for advanced adenomas.

COLORECTAL CANCER DIAGNOSES SOAR AMONG YOUNGER ADULTS FOR ONE KEY REASON

“I was surprised by just how many of the runners had polyps,” said Cannon.

“I thought they may have more adenomas and advanced adenomas than expected for that age group… but I did not imagine that 15% would have advanced adenoma.”

The average age of the participants was 42.5, well below the typical screening age of 45.

New study finds marathon runners have significantly higher rates of precancerous colon growths

Cannon says he “did not imagine” that 15% of subjects would have advanced adenoma, explaining the number was much larger than anticipated. (iStock)

Cannon and other experts theorize that intense endurance training might cause repeated “gut stress.” During prolonged runs, blood gets diverted away from the intestines, possibly triggering damage and inflammation. Over time, that might lead to mutations and polyps.

CANCER DEATHS HIT ‘ALARMING’ SURGE DUE TO COMMON HEALTH CONDITION, EXPERTS SAY

Experts caution the results aren’t definitive, noting the study lacks a control group and hasn’t yet undergone peer review. Still, the numbers might make you sit up and pay attention.

“We did not have a control group, so this raises the question as to whether or not there is some bias,” said the doctor, adding that the runners were mostly from the Washington DC area, and may have other common risk factors outside of running.

Research points to cancer and marathon running link

According to Cannon’s patients, many gastroenterologists dismiss bleeding after running as a normal event. (iStock)

He also acknowledged the research didn’t account for detailed family histories, which could have influenced the results.

‘WESTERN DIET’ BLAMED FOR GROWING RISK OF GI CANCERS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Despite the results, it’s not a sign to ditch running completely.

“Let me first say that people should continue exercising,” Cannon stressed. “We have far more problems from not exercising than from exercising too much.”

He added that exercise decreases your risk of cancer overall, despite this study supporting the idea that extreme doses of exercise, such as ultramarathons, may increase risk of cancer.

Doctor set out to find reason behind alarming percent of marathon runners with colon cancer

The research did not account for detailed family histories. (iStock)

For those running extreme distances, it’s important to monitor symptoms such as bleeding, persistent diarrhea or abdominal pain.

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Bleeding after running is not to be considered normal or benign and someone experiencing it should seek medical attention.

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“As far as I know, there is no expert body of gastroenterologists that have stated that any rectal bleeding or blood in stool is not a cause for concern,” said Cannon.

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“However, my patients are telling me that, in practice, many gastroenterologists dismiss bleeding after running as a normal event.”

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.

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