Common chocolate ingredient could be potent flu treatment, scientists find
The drug combination of chocolate ingredient theobromine, and the lesser-known compound arainosine, can be a potential gamechanger in treating flu, even outperforming the most widely used anti-influenza medication Tamiflu, according to the study published in the journal PNAS.
The combination therapy works by targeting a key weakness in the influenza virus, a microscopic channel the virus uses to replicate and spread.
Blocking this gate could effectively cut off the virus's ability to survive, scientists say.
Researchers found that the treatment dramatically outperformed Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) even against drug-resistant strains of the virus in both cell cultures and animal trials.
They identified this new drug combination by scanning a library of repurposed compounds originally developed for other diseases.
'We're not just offering a better flu drug, we're introducing a new way to target viruses—one that may help us prepare for future pandemics,' said study co-author Isaiah Arkin.
Influenza outbreaks challenge global public health systems every year due to unpredictable mutations undergone by the virus that counter vaccines and existing drugs.
Some strains of the virus even break out into pandemics, such as the 2009 swine flu which led to over 284,000 deaths.
Seasonal flu viruses also inflict deeper costs to poultry industries while also sparking global fears of cross-species transmission to humans.
For instance, just one recent bird flu outbreak in the US led to the loss of 40 million birds and billions in economic damage.
However, current flu treatments, like Tamiflu, are losing ground as the virus adapts.
This is because most drugs currently in use target a viral protein that mutates frequently, rendering treatments less effective over time.
Instead of this protein, the latest study targetted the flu virus' M2 ion channel, which plays a key role in its replication.
Researchers also found that the drug duo's potential for eliciting resistance from the virus is 'significantly smaller'.
'Using a combined approach, a synergistic combination of arainosine and theobromine is shown to be particularly potent against swine flu, avian flu,' scientists wrote.
'In conclusion, the outcome of this study represents a new potential treatment option for influenza alongside an approach that is sufficiently general and readily applicable to other viral targets,' they wrote.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Get the Samsung Galaxy Ring for $100 off
Smartwatches get all the attention, but smart rings are a great alternative if you're looking for a more subtle way to track your health and fitness metrics. While there are plenty to choose from, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is going to be a top choice for Android and Samsung device owners, especially since you won't need to pay any additional monthly fees to use it. And right now, you can score the ring for $100 below its retail price as Samsung, Best Buy, and Amazon all have it on sale. Ditch the bulky watch and get this instead While it's been a year since the release of the Galaxy Ring, it's still a very capable wearable. You get a simple yet pleasing design, with lots of different colors, and excellent health tracking features. The battery is also quite good, lasting a full week, and it even comes with a case that can recharge the ring when you can't plug in. Now, since the ring doesn't have a screen, you'll need to install the Samsung Health app in order to get all the details. This is where you'll be able to see the details of your day, from health rate tracking, blood oxygen levels, sleep tracking, and more. Perhaps the only area where the watch falls short is that it can only track a small number of activities. This isn't going to be a problem for most people, but if you're looking for something a bit more aggressive on the fitness side, you'll have to look elsewhere. Perhaps the best part about all of this is that you won't need any kind of membership in order to access all the data like some of the competition. Overall, it's a fantastic smart ring to own, and especially now that it's $100 less. It can do pretty much everything a smartwatch does but offers it in a much smaller package. It's easy to wear and is durable enough to handle most of the things you throw at it. Plus, this is one of the best discounts we've seen, making it a great time to buy.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Old meat, bugs on food, rotting fruit, roaches at Wichita KS restaurants, stores
Old meats and medication, bugs on food, dead and living flies, rodent feces, employees who touched customer food with their bare hands, dented cans, rotting fruits and vegetables, roaches, water problems and more are among violations Kansas Department of Agriculture inspectors discovered during recent food safety and lodging inspections in the Wichita area. Each week, The Eagle adds to its searchable database of failed inspections from Sedgwick County. Thirteen restaurants, hotels and other businesses were non-compliant with state regulations from Aug. 3-9. Inspectors found few or no violations at more than 60 other locations deemed compliant with food safety and lodging rules. Inspections are meant to protect the public from foodborne illnesses and other health risks. Locations can fail if they have too many problems, certain types of violations or issues that can't be fixed right away. Violations are common. Most of the time, businesses correct issues in front of an inspector. Examples of things that can be addressed immediately are serving food that's more than a week old, employees mishandling ingredients and dirty kitchens. Issues that take longer to correct include pest infestations, power outages and plumbing problems. It's rare, but a business may be temporarily shut down over violations. Places that fail are usually reinspected within 10 days. The list in this report was compiled on Aug. 13 using information available from the state on that date. It covers Sedgwick County only. But you can search food and lodging inspection results elsewhere in Kansas at Out-of-compliance inspections Asian Groceries, 6249 E. 21st St., Suite 100 in Wichita — Nine violations on Aug. 7 during a verification inspection. Improper backflow prevention at mop sink, no toilet tissue in restroom, raw meat stored in plastic trash bags and other bags instead of food-grade containers, bottles of soda were not labeled in English, raw chicken liver had no instructions for safe handling, multiple foods including lamb feet and cow tongue were not properly labeled, no sanitizer test strips available, dirty meat saw and grinder, no paper towels at hand-washing sink. Next inspection: Aug. 17. Asian Groceries (Kitchen), 6249 E. 21st St., Unit 123 in Wichita — Out of compliance on Aug. 7 during a disaster inspection. The walk-in cooler was too warm, with approximately 15-20 cases of raw chicken stored at unsafe temperatures. Next inspection: Aug. 17. Dillons, 2244 N. Rock Road in Wichita — Five violations on Aug. 8 during a routine inspection. Multiple dented cans for sale, 15-20 fruit flies and several flies landing on food in produce section, rotten and moldy fruits and vegetables, no paper towels at hand-washing sink, expired medication for sale. Next inspection: Aug. 18. Dillons Marketplace, 1624 N. Rock Road in Derby — One violation on Aug. 4 during a modified complaint inspection. Five large flies and four smaller winged insects seen in back deli area. Next inspection: Aug. 14. Dillons, 640 N. West St. in Wichita — Eleven violations on Aug. 6 during a verification inspection. Expired deli meats including ham and turkey in deli department, dirty knife and meat saw, flies around dirty dishes on hanging shelves, flying insects in bakery and Chinese kitchen areas, fly on packaged meat and dead flies on meat cooler shelf, cracked plastic lids covering food in Chinese food department, soda cases stored directly on floor, deli meats and bakery items weren't kept cold enough, underheated food in steam table at Chinese kitchen, dirty hand-washing sink, turkey and cheese sandwiches weren't labeled with their preparation dates, raw bacon was stored above ready-to-eat hot dogs, dirty meat packaging equipment. Next inspection: Aug. 16. Dollar General, 4520 E. 13th St. in Wichita — Two violations on Aug. 4 during a verification inspection. Toxic cleaning products stored above food items and single-use items throughout store, multiple dented food cans on retail shelves. Next inspection: Aug. 14. El Rancho Motel, 4510 S. Broadway in Wichita — Two violations on Aug. 6 during a modified complaint inspection. Multiple roaches in two guest rooms including on shower curtain and ceiling, missing light bulbs in multiple rooms. Next inspection: Aug. 16. La Tienda Del Ahorro, 1770 N. Broadway in Wichita — Two violations on Aug. 6 during a complaint inspection and nine violations on Aug. 6 during a reopening inspection. The business was operating without running water, failure to cease operations and notify health department of imminent health hazard, employee handled raw meat without hand-washing, no written plan for cleanup of bodily fluids, ineffective sanitizer solution with zero chlorine detected, employee dried her hands on her pants, no paper towels at hand-washing sink, soap and bleach stored in hand-washing sink, fly on cutting board, unlabeled food packages, missing probe thermometer. Next inspection: Aug. 16. Little Caesars Pizza, 5000 S. Broadway in Wichita — Four violations on Aug. 6 during a modified complaint inspection. Employee touched ready-to-eat pizza with bare hands, no written plan for cleanup of bodily fluids, hand-washing sink blocked by equipment, employee wasn't wearing gloves over wrist covers. Next inspection: Aug. 16. Mega BMX, 2339 E. MacArthur in Wichita — Three violations on Aug. 6 during a routine inspection. No written plan for cleanup of bodily fluids, approximately 60 rodent droppings near sink and additional droppings behind cooler and freezer, no sanitizer test strips available. Next inspection: Aug. 16. Sweetpop's, 550 N. Rock Road, Suite 60 in Wichita — Five violations on Aug. 5 during a complaint inspection. No sanitizer test strips available, cakes for sale weren't labeled in English, tea milk mix wasn't kept cold enough, no paper towels at hand-washing sink, business was using hand-washing sink to rinse dishes. Next inspection: Aug. 15. Tamales Marycano (mobile vendor/food truck), 2206 W. MacArthur, Lot 21 in Wichita — One violation on Aug. 7 during an expired license inspection. Business was operating with an expired license. The next inspection date wasn't provided on the inspection report. Tanya's Soup Kitchen, 1725 E. Douglas in Wichita — Fourteen violations on Aug. 4 during a joint inspection. Food including butter and coffee creamer weren't kept cold enough, dented cans, unlabeled chemical spray bottle, employee didn't wash hands between handling clean and dirty dishes, employee touched croutons for soup with bare hands, improper thawing of sausage, improper backflow prevention at mop sink, cracked and damaged utensils and container, mold in ice bin, water wasn't hot enough at bathroom sink, trash in storage area, expired chicken, dirty food containers in clean storage, soup wasn't kept hot enough. Next inspection: Aug. 14. Where to complain If you see problems at a food or lodging establishment, you can file a complaint. To notify the state about unsavory or questionable conditions anywhere that serves or sells food to the public, email or call 785-564-6767. You can also file a complaint at To report an illness you think was caused by a restaurant, food or event where food was served, contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment at 877-427-7317 or Complaints about conditions at hotels and motels can be submitted at For more information about foodborne illnesses, visit Note: Sometimes addresses listed — especially for mobile vendors and food trucks — are not where food is actually served to the public. Contact those establishments directly for specific service locations. The violation summaries were compiled and drafted with the help of AI tools. They were fact-checked for accuracy and edited by Wichita Eagle journalists. Cockroaches, flies on food, mouse poop, dirty kitchens at Wichita KS restaurants Cockroaches, flies landing on food, dirty meat grinder at Wichita KS restaurants, stores Hundreds of rodent droppings, flea on chicken, cockroaches at Wichita KS restaurants Flies on food, 'very sticky' floors, discolored salami at Wichita KS restaurants, stores Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Yahoo
These 10 Fruits Have the Most Vitamin C—And the Top Pick Is a Complete Surprise
Key Takeaways Vitamin C supports far more than immunity—it helps with collagen production, iron absorption, brain function, and even heart health. While citrus fruits are great sources, lesser-known options like acerola cherries, guava, and blackcurrants contain significantly more vitamin C per serving. Getting your daily vitamin C from whole fruits also adds fiber, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients, making them a smart, multitasking snack. Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a micronutrient well-known for boosting the immune system. 'It's most popular for supporting immune health and protecting the body from free radical damage,' explains registered dietitian Amy Davis, RDN. This, combined with its anti-inflammatory properties, make it the ultimate immunity nutrient. But its body-wide benefits don't end there. 'Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen, which keeps skin, blood vessels, and bones strong,' explains Eliza Whitaker, MS, RDN, dietitian and founder of Nourished Nutrition and Fitness. The role vitamin C plays in collagen production bodes well for tissue and wound healing as well. 'It also provides brain and nervous system support through its role in neurotransmitter production,' Katherine Brooking MS, RD, founder of Nutrition News Update (NNU) adds. This can translate to improved mood and focus throughout the day. This well-loved micronutrient supports energy production and nutrient absorption, too. 'Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron from foods, supporting energy levels and blood health,' Whitaker explains. These benefits can be particularly helpful for vegans, vegetarians, or those with certain types of anemia. 'Additionally, vitamin C contributes to cardiovascular health by helping manage blood pressure and lowering blood uric acid levels, potentially protecting against heart disease and gout,' shares Davis. According to the National Institutes of Health, adult women (those over the age of 19) require at least 75 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C per day, while adult men need 90 mg. There are a range of different vitamin C-rich foods to help you meet these needs—including a variety of fruits. Read on to discover 10 of the best fruits to reach for when prioritizing vitamin C. Meet Our Expert Katherine Brooking MS, RD, founder of Nutrition News Update (NNU)Amy Davis, RDN, a registered dietitian based in New Orleans, Louisiana Eliza Whitaker, MS, RDN, registered dietitian and founder of Nourished Nutrition and Fitness The Best Fruits, Ranked by Vitamin C Content When it comes to foods high in vitamin C, these 10 fruits are hard to beat. 01 of 10 Acerola Cherries Vitamin C Content: 1,650 mg per one cup For the most potent source of vitamin C that's (somewhat) commonly available, look no further than acerola cherries. One cup of these tart cherries boasts an astounding 1,650 mg of vitamin C! 'As one of the most concentrated natural sources of vitamin C, acerola cherries are also rich in flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins that may support immune and cellular health. I buy them frozen and blend them into smoothies,' shares Brooking. You can also add them to baked goods, oatmeal, juices, sauces, and jellies. 02 of 10 Guava Vitamin C Content: 376 mg per one cup Guava's loaded with vitamin C, but that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to its many health perks. 'Guava is also rich in lycopene and fiber, which may help reduce risk of cancer,' says Davis. It also contains potassium, which promotes heart health by regulating heart rate and blood pressure. This tropical fruit is perfect in smoothies or fruit salads. 'Plus, guava can also be eaten with a sprinkle of chili, lime, and salt, or used in mocktails,' Davis adds. 03 of 10 Blackcurrants Vitamin C Content: 203 mg per one cup Though less popular in many American households, blackcurrants are both delicious and nutritious. 'These little berries contain more vitamin C than oranges, and are also high in anthocyanins, supporting vascular and eye health. One of my favorite scone recipes uses blackcurrants,' Brooking explains. And beyond scones, these tart, blueberry-like fruits are absolutely delicious in smoothies, sorbet, sauces, and dressings, too. 04 of 10 Lychee Vitamin C Content: 136 mg per one cup Lychee isn't just an irresistible martini or tropical fruit salad ingredient, it's also packed with nutrition! Aside from its noteworthy vitamin C content, lychee boasts notable amounts of potassium and immune-boosting copper. While sometimes trickier to track down at the grocery store, lychee is delicious in smoothies, baked goods, salsa, mocktails, and custard—when you can find it! 05 of 10 Kiwi Vitamin C Content: 106 mg per one cup 'Kiwis are packed with vitamin C and also contain fiber that helps leave you fuller longer, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and helps lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein, the 'bad' kind) cholesterol levels,' shares Whitaker. You'll also fiber heart health-boosting potassium in this fuzzy fruit. Plus, there are so many ways to enjoy kiwi, from yogurt bowls and smoothies to chia seed pudding and fruit salads. 'I love having kiwis by themselves, in a smoothie, or in a fruit salad. Pro tip—leave the skin on your kiwi to get 50 percent more fiber. If the texture isn't your favorite, opt for a Sun Gold yellow kiwi; their skin is smoother than the green kiwis,' Whitaker adds. 06 of 10 Strawberries Vitamin C Content: 89 mg per one cup 'Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants like anthocyanins. They help with heart health, blood sugar control, skin health, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits,' explains Whitaker. Folate is another important nutrient found in these summer berries. 'I enjoy them fresh, in oatmeal and salads, and also use them in just about all of my smoothies,' says Brooking. Meanwhile, Davis loves, 'strawberries in a spinach, feta, and pecan salad, or dipped in dark chocolate for a healthy treat.' They also just so happen to be the perfect yogurt and granola bowl topping! 07 of 10 Papaya Vitamin C Content: 88 mg per one cup Papaya is not just a fantastic source of vitamin C, you'll also find meaningful amounts of potassium, folate, and vitamin A in this vibrant fruit. Folate is crucial for healthy development, while vitamin A supports eye health. 'Papaya also contains enzymes (like papain) to support digestion and gut health,' shares Davis. There's plenty of yummy ways to enjoy papaya in the kitchen, too. 'I like to add papaya to a fruit salad, or to eat it alone with a little lime juice,' says Whitaker. When the seeds are scooped out, papaya also makes for the perfect edible serving dish for yogurt or cottage cheese! 08 of 10 Grapefruit Vitamin C Content: 85 mg per one cup Grapefruit is not only beautiful with its gorgeous pink hue, it's super nutrient dense. With over 100 percent of adult women's daily vitamin C needs in just one cup, notable amounts of vitamin A, and plenty of plant compounds, this perfectly bitter fruit will be sure to give your immune system (and eye health) a boost. Grapefruit is delicious made into juices and sorbets, or added to salads, dressings, and marinades. 09 of 10 Oranges Vitamin C Content: 83 mg per one cup 'As the classic go-to, one medium orange delivers vitamin C, plus hydration and potassium,' says Brooking. Oranges are also super easy to integrate into your daily eating routine, too. If not enjoyed straight from the peel, oranges are excellent in salads, baked goods, and infused waters. 'They're a convenient snack, and a great source of hydration and on-the-go energy. Pair an orange with nuts for a balanced snack, or add [it] to smoothies with coconut milk for a creamsicle vibe,' Whitaker adds. 10 of 10 Pineapple Vitamin C Content: 79 mg per one cup Pineapple is one of my favorite tropical fruits—I always jump at the chance to enjoy it fresh, not just for its sweet, tangy flavor, but also for its impressive nutrition! 'Pineapple contains vitamin C, copper, and bromelain—an enzyme that aids in digestion. I like to add pineapple to fruit salad, smoothies, and yogurt—or have it as a side when having heavier meals to support digestion,' explains Whitaker. Read the original article on Real Simple
