Researchers have discovered a common mechanism underlying many diseases of excitability, characterized by overactivity of cells relying on electrical currents. The mutations alter the opening of sodium channels, leading to rapid resurgent currents that trigger second electrical impulses.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that exhibits schizophrenia-like behavior, allowing for better understanding and potential treatments. The mouse's impaired short-term memory and increased movement are similar to those seen in human patients with schizophrenia, providing a valuable tool for studying the disorder.
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel RNA interference technique that can silence multiple genes in the liver, offering potential new treatments for diseases such as cancer. The breakthrough delivery method uses lipid-like molecules to improve efficacy and reduce dosage requirements.
Researchers discovered four small molecules capable of protecting cells from alpha-synuclein toxicity, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. The compounds improved protein trafficking and decreased mitochondrial damage in multiple models, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for the disease.
Researchers have discovered a way to visualize iron-sulfur clusters in living cells using a custom protein tag, enabling analysis of diseases involving these metalloclusters. This technique has high potential for helping find real treatments for diseases such as Friedreich's ataxia and myopathy.
Researchers have identified Notch signaling pathway activation in human angiomyolipomas and TSC2-deficient rat cells, suggesting that TSC proteins regulate Notch activity. This finding supports the idea that Notch dysregulation may underlie some of the distinctive clinical features of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.
A team of researchers at Penn State has discovered that certain combinations of elemental atoms can mimic the electronic signatures of other elements. By examining photoelectron spectroscopy data, they found similarities between titanium monoxide and nickel, zirconium monoxide and palladium, and tungsten carbide and platinum.
Researchers used a classic staining method to observe how semaphorin regulates the creation of synapses and their distribution in the brain involved in conscious thought. The discovery could have an impact on understanding early origins of neurological disorders like autism, schizophrenia, and epilepsy.
Two NYC high school students used DNA barcoding techniques to discover a zoo of 95 animal species in their homes, including invasive insects and fish. They also found evidence of food fraud, with 11 out of 66 food products mislabeled, posing health risks to consumers.
A study by researchers at the University of California - San Diego has found that amyloid beta reduces plasticity in dendritic spines, affecting synapse transmission and memory storage. Continuous release of Aβ is required to prevent this effect.
Researchers found that BBS proteins remove excess signaling molecules to prevent damage to cilia, suggesting a new mechanism for the protein complex's function. The study suggests that BBS patients may experience cilia dysfunction due to the buildup of disruptive proteins.
Researchers found that HdeA lets go of unfolded proteins gradually, allowing them to refold instead of clumping together. This unique mechanism allows HdeA to harness energy from the environment, making it a more efficient chaperone.
Scientists used a novel approach to determine the age of first molar emergence in apes, revealing ages similar to those of modern humans. The study's findings have implications for understanding human life history and evolution.
A sudden increase in antibiotic-resistant E. coli strains is spreading globally, posing a significant threat to public health. Researchers warn that the misuse of powerful antibiotics may lead to the development of even more resistant strains, rendering current treatments ineffective.
Researchers found that ghrelin, a hunger hormone, triggers mice to seek out pleasurable foods even when full. The study suggests that ghrelin may increase the rewarding aspects of eating, driving individuals to continue consuming high-calorie foods despite feelings of fullness.
Researchers at Oregon State University are developing a legged robot that can run stably over rough terrain using principles found in insects like cockroaches and guinea hens. The goal is to create robots that can perform difficult jobs, such as military operations or space exploration, with minimal computing power.
A recent study published in Political Research Quarterly found that genetics may contribute to an individual's political party identification, challenging the long-held assumption that it is solely shaped by socialization factors. The study used quantitative genetic models to examine the sources of party identification and intensity.
Notch signaling pathway activation has been linked to tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) tumors. Inhibition of Notch was shown to suppress tumor growth in rat cells deficient in either TSC1 or TSC2. These findings support a role for TSC proteins in regulating Notch activity.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that children exposed to tobacco smoke at home were more likely to develop early emphysema in adulthood. The study used CT scans to examine the association between childhood exposure and lung damage, with participants who lived with multiple smokers showing high...
Researchers found that chloride channels amplify signal transduction in mouse vomeronasal sensory neurons, increasing responsiveness to pheromones and odorants. The study used patch clamp recordings and whole cell recordings to demonstrate the critical role of chloride in this process.
Researchers developed a self-assembling nanofiber scaffold to regulate cell activity, delaying growth and differentiation. The innovation enhances the survival rate of implanted stem cells, allowing them to maintain their youthful state and promote neural circuit regeneration.