A new study by UTHealth and BCM researchers identified a common genetic variant associated with an increased risk of thoracic aortic aneurysms and acute aortic dissections. The variant, located on chromosome 15q21.1, involves the FBN1 gene, which is also linked to Marfan syndrome.
Researchers created a simulator of a collapsed building to test portable sensors that use human metabolites, detecting carbon dioxide, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds. The study's findings hold promise for improving detection systems in disaster scenarios.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison report 99% protein similarity between two types of do-it-all stem cells, shedding light on their potential applications in cell replacement therapies. The study measured over 6,000 proteins using mass spectrometry and provides insights into their biological role.
Human gliomas implanted in mice were found to release excess levels of glutamate, overstimulating neurons and triggering seizures. Sulfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug, was shown to reduce seizures by inhibiting glutamate release from the tumor.
An international study identifies 28 new gene regions associated with blood pressure, including a previously unknown physiologic pathway involved in blood pressure control. The findings suggest potential targets for new hypertension drugs and may lead to improved treatment options for cardiovascular complications.
USC scientists have created the world's first high-resolution images of the α7 receptor, a molecule responsible for transmitting signals between neurons. This breakthrough promises to revolutionize drug design by allowing pharmaceutical companies to target specific receptors instead of using trial-and-error approaches.
Researchers identified 29 DNA sequence variations linked to blood pressure, suggesting a complex genetic regulatory mechanism. The study pooled data from over 200,000 people worldwide and found common genetic variants in individuals of Asian and African ancestry.
A new coral dating method developed by WHOI researcher William G. Thompson provides accurate age estimates for fossil coral reef skeletons in the Bahamas, revealing that sea levels were less stable than previously believed. The study suggests that a similar scenario to the Last Interglacial could occur if current warming trends continue.
Optofluidics, the study of microfluidics combined with optics, is poised to revolutionize energy production. By directing light and concentrating its use, optofluidics can increase efficiency in existing systems like biofuel reactors and solar cells, as well as innovate new forms of energy production.
The report emphasizes the importance of self-sustaining supply-demand systems in improving health and wellbeing for marginalized women and children globally. The authors highlight democratising technologies like mobile phones as a key opportunity for local demand to be understood, appreciated, and locally solved.
Researchers create cats with intrinsic immunity to feline AIDS by inserting protective protein genes. The technique, called gamete-targeted lentiviral transgenesis, also makes the offspring glow green for tracking purposes.
A new international study reveals that 'white' light bulbs emit shorter wavelengths that suppress melatonin production, causing behavior disruptions and health problems. The researchers recommend limiting the use of 'white' light, adjusting lampposts to reduce light pollution, and using energy-efficient lighting.
Researchers from Max Planck Society and Leibniz University Hannover have successfully applied the 'squeezed light' method to improve the sensitivity of the GEO600 gravitational wave detector. This new technology reduces shot noise by a factor of two, allowing for more accurate measurements of tiny changes in space-time.
Researchers identified 16 new gene regions associated with blood pressure and confirmed 12 previously discovered ones, providing insights into the genetic mechanisms of hypertension. The study's findings could lead to new therapeutic drug development and improved treatment options for individuals with high blood pressure.