Researchers have found evidence of bacterial life in the Antarctic ice core, suggesting that microbes can thrive in extreme environments. The discovery provides insight into potential extraterrestrial habitats and could aid in designing samplers for future missions to Europa.
Researchers identified a molecule that triggers the formation of deadly protein snarls in Alzheimer's disease. High levels of a shortened, malfunctioning version of the protein p35 in brains lead to hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, causing neurofibrillary tangles.
A new study reveals El Niño dramatically reduced carbon dioxide normally released by the equatorial Pacific Ocean, while also causing extreme biological effects. The research uses data from buoys, ships, and space instruments to monitor ocean productivity and CO2 levels.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins have discovered striking differences in the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) between men and women, which may explain well-known trends such as more men exceling in math and physics. The study found that men have a larger IPL overall and on their left side, while women have a larger right IPL.
Researchers have mapped the functional organization of the hippocampus, a critical area for short-term memory, using microelectrodes to record electrical impulses from individual neurons. The study shows that different portions of the hippocampus are active at different times depending on the type of memory function required.
A team led by MSU biologist John Priscu has discovered bacteria in an ice core from Lake Vostok, a subglacial body of water under the East Antarctic ice cap. The finding suggests that microorganisms can thrive in extreme environments, even under millions of years of isolation.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a new vaccine approach to block molecules that prevent nerve regeneration in spinal cord injuries. The technique showed significant regrowth of nerve fibers, outperforming previous methods.
A new UCSF study reveals that gay men are more likely to smoke than the general male population, with 48% of participants in the research survey smoking compared to 27% of U.S. men. The study also found correlations between smoking and HIV status, heavy drinking, and frequenting gay bars.
Researchers used global transposon mutagenesis to find the minimal set of genes required for Mycoplasma genitalium survival. The study reveals roughly a third of genes are unnecessary, and further work will explain the functions of these remaining genes.
A new study using NASA's Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-View Sensor (SeaWiFS) reveals that El Niño dramatically reduced the amount of carbon dioxide normally released into the atmosphere by the equatorial Pacific Ocean. Chlorophyll levels also plummeted during this time, followed by a massive bloom of microscopic algae.
Harvard Medical School scientists identify protein p25 as a possible trigger for Alzheimer's disease by turning brain enzyme cdk5 into a menace. The study supports one of two major hypotheses explaining the complex condition, offering a new handle on underlying molecular pathways.
Scientists have produced the first three-dimensional images of the protein complex that initiates DNA transcription, revealing critical components and their interactions. The research provides insights into how transcriptional factors work together to regulate gene expression.
Researchers found a gene, gata5, that can reprogram embryonic cells to become beating heart cells. The discovery suggests using this technique to cultivate and transplant genetically modified heart cells into people with failing hearts.