Acute inflammation triggers activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, but whether it could also impede the adrenocortical response to adrenocorticotropic hormone remains controversial. A new study using preclinical models of acute inflammation demonstrates dysregulation of energy metabolism in adrenocortical cells, resulting in oxidative stress that induces disruption of steroidogenesis.

In a new study, an ambulatory microdialysis system combined with ultrasensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry enabled the building of a 24-h high-resolution profile of adrenal steroids in the tissue by sampling interstitial fluid in 214 healthy volunteers. Daily and ultradian variations of eight free steroids, including cortisol and aldosterone, have been demonstrated, which opens new diagnostic perspectives for endocrine diseases.

Regaining weight after successful weight loss is a common problem for people with obesity. This Review discusses the potential physiological mechanisms underlying weight regain after weight loss and possible strategies to counter weight regain.

This Review discusses the key principles and uses of engineered neurobiological tools, such as optogenetics and chemogenetics. The authors discuss examples of their use in the metabolism field and highlight important points to consider when choosing an experimental technique.