Researchers at Vanderbilt University discovered that humans become aware of fearful faces more quickly than neutral or happy faces. The brain's amygdala area is believed to be responsible for this rapid detection, with the eyes of a fearful face playing a key role.
The team created a three-dimensional metamaterial constructed entirely from semiconductors, enabling negative refraction of light. This property holds promise for the development of superior lenses and compact mid-infrared optics.
A new method called Microarray-based Genomic Selection (MGS) allows researchers to extract and enrich specific large-sized DNA regions for resequencing. This technology enables the detection of subtle genetic variations that may have serious consequences for health and disease.
Research suggests that computerized working memory training can improve executive functioning and symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. This innovative approach offers a promising therapeutic strategy for alleviating the condition's impact on daily functioning.
Researchers found that individuals with genetically lower dopamine D2 receptors are more motivated to eat and consume more calories. This study provides insights into the genetic contribution to eating behavior and obesity, highlighting potential targets for tailored treatment programs.
Two new genes, Jmjd1a and Jmjd2c, play a crucial role in regulating self-renewal of embryonic stem cells. Their depletion promotes differentiation at the expense of self-renewal.
The endocannabinoid system has been found to be involved in various physiological processes, including neuroprotection, anxiety, depression, cancer development, vasodilatation, and bone formation. Research suggests that endocannabinoids may have therapeutic potential for diseases such as hepatic encephalopathy.
Researchers have developed a new technique that combines gene chip technology with fast-sequencing machines to enable rapid and accurate sequencing of specific genomic sequences. This technology has the potential to replace traditional methods such as PCR for many purposes, allowing for faster and more efficient genome sequencing.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a blood test that can identify changes in proteins in blood plasma, indicating an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The test showed 90% accuracy in matching clinical diagnoses and predicting the onset of the disease two to six years in advance.
A molecular pathway that plays a critical role in blood vessel growth has been identified by researchers. The finding suggests a potential target for inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that fuel cancers, diabetic eye complications, and atherosclerosis. The study used zebrafish as a model organism to discover the pathway.
New research from Norwich BioScience Institutes and Medical University of Vienna found that only animal food proteins less than 54% identical to human equivalent can become allergenic. The study identified three protein families, including tropomyosins, EF-hand proteins, and caseins, which are responsible for most animal food allergies.
Scientists at UCSF have identified naturally occurring processes that allow multiple genes to slow aging and protect against cancer in the C. elegans roundworm. The study suggests that cellular changes leading to longevity antagonize tumor cell growth and highlights a deep evolutionary connection between lifespan and cancer.
A new microarray technology enables fast and accurate enrichment of thousands of targeted genomic regions for high-throughput sequencing. This method replaces PCR-based approaches, allowing for the resequencing of entire genomes or specific genes in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
The opioid system controls pain, reward and addictive behaviors through mu, delta, and kappa receptors. Mice lacking these receptors exhibit altered emotional responses and sensitivity to pain.