Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive October 2018


Page 1 of 47

Reproducing pediatric kidney disease from human iPS cells

Researchers have successfully developed kidney tissue that exhibits the early stages of congenital kidney disease using iPS cells from a patient with a nephrin mutation. The study found that repairing the nephrin mutation can normalize abnormalities and may lead to the development of effective drugs for kidney disease.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 31, 2018

UMass Medical School study safely delivers RNAi-based gene therapy for ALS in animal model

A new study by UMass Medical School researchers successfully delivers RNAi-based gene therapy to silence SOD1 protein mutations linked to ALS without adverse effects. The therapy, delivered via a viral vector, achieved silencing of over 90% in some motor neurons, suggesting a safe and potentially one-time treatment for humans.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 31, 2018

Flexy, flat and functional magnets

Researchers have discovered a new class of 2D magnetic materials with promising applications in electronics. These ultra-thin layers exhibit unique properties, such as ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, and magnetism control, which can be manipulated electrically or optically.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2018

New study found deep sea chemical dispersants ineffective in Deepwater Horizon oil spill

Researchers analyzed data from the BP Gulf Science Data and found no correlation between subsea dispersants and deep plume formation, showing substantial amounts of oil continued to surface. The study suggests alternative strategies such as the 'capping stack' method and bio-surfactants may be more effective in managing blowouts.

Could bariatric surgery make men more virile?

A review of 28 studies found that bariatric surgery increased testosterone levels and improved erectile function in obese men, but had no impact on sperm parameters. However, nutritional malabsorption may counterbalance these hormonal changes.

SourceSpringer·JournalObesity Surgery·DateOct 31, 2018