A new £800,000 research programme aims to unlock the secrets of motor neuron disease by studying human motor neurons and support cells from donors. The programme will investigate whether support cells are injurious or protective to motor neurons, and may lead to promising new treatment strategies.
Researchers found that global warming led to a 30% decline in biodiversity among small mammals, with populations experiencing significant losses while the deer mouse thrived due to its adaptability. This change had ripple effects on ecosystems, affecting soil aeration, seed dispersal, and predator-prey relationships.
Scientists found that M. tuberculosis antigens remain unchanged and homogenous, unlike many viruses and parasites, allowing the bacteria to be transmitted from person to person.
A new study has found that pregnancy doubles the risk of HIV transmission to men, with their risk increasing by double if their partner is both HIV-infected and pregnant. Researchers have also tested a vaginal microbicide in pregnant women, finding that it shows promise for preventing HIV transmission.
Scientists have developed a new method for synthesizing complex carbohydrates, enabling researchers to study their function in cellular processes and diseases. The method, reported in Nature Chemistry, allows for rapid and controlled synthesis of oligosaccharides, paving the way for the creation of libraries of carbohydrate molecules.
Researchers tested a vaginal microbicide gel containing an integrase inhibitor and found it provided significant protection against infection with a virus similar to HIV. The study showed promise for further evaluation of integrase inhibitors as a potential method for preventing HIV transmission in uninfected individuals.
The study reveals that global child under-5 deaths have declined by 60% since 1970, with neonatal mortality dropping by 57%. Many poorer countries are making accelerated progress, while high-income countries like the UK and US are lagging behind. Only 31 developing countries are on track to meet MDG4.
Researchers have identified intrinsic properties of DNA that influence mutation rate, including the impact of CpG content. The study suggests that the co-variation of CpG content and non-CpG mutation rate is a property of the DNA sequence itself.
Researchers found that bacteria in oxygen-free environments can use insoluble organic compounds to accelerate mineral respiration, a new pathway for electrical charges to move around in the environment. This discovery has implications for understanding soil chemistry and environmental contamination.
Nine new species of handfish have been described by CSIRO, bringing the total to 14 known species. The discovery deepens concerns about declining populations and environmental vulnerability.