Researchers have discovered a new gene mutation associated with late-onset Alzheimer's disease, which interacts with other Alzheimer's genes and proteins. The A2M protein plays a crucial role in breaking down toxic amyloid plaques, suggesting a potential target for drug development to prevent or treat the disease.
A rapidly spinning neutron star, SAX J1808.4-3658, is providing proof for the theory that millisecond pulsars are propelled to mind-boggling speeds by accretion of material from a companion star. This discovery fills an important niche in our understanding of star evolution.
Research at The Jackson Laboratory reveals the Lunatic fringe gene's essential role in regulating somite formation during embryonic development. Notch signaling pathway disruption leads to segmental body plan implementation challenges in mammals and other organisms.
A new international study analyzed fat samples from 642 European women, finding no protective effect of oleic acid on breast cancer risk. Higher weight and family history were strong associations with breast cancer among participants.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii report breaking ground in mammalian cloning by creating reproducible clones from adult cells, with implications for pharmaceuticals and disease research. The 'Honolulu technique' has yielded three generations of identical cloned mice, opening doors to new avenues in genetic engineering.
Scientists have gained a clearer picture of massive volcanic eruptions by analyzing lava composition, indicating that the lava originated from the lower mantle. The findings suggest that the eruptions played a role in the greatest mass extinction event in Earth's history, wiping out up to 95% of plant and animal species.
Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories and UNM develop a rapid method to self-assemble diverse materials into coatings mimicking seashell structures. The coating process creates tough, strong, optically transparent coatings suitable for automotive finishes, optical lenses, and other applications.
University of Wisconsin Medical School researchers found that two connected brain structures control the way light affects rodent sleep activity, separate from the biological clock. The structures are part of the visual system and can override normal circadian rhythms with acute lighting changes.