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Science News for May 20, 2025


Rice researchers engineer personalized treatments for movement impairments

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel personalized medicine approach for addressing movement impairments. The Neuromusculoskeletal Modeling (NMSM) Pipeline software allows clinicians to work in collaboration to construct personalized computer models of individual patients, leading to more effective orthopedic surgery, p...

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·DateMay 20, 2025

Pregnant people and infants in U.S. communities prone to wildfire smoke often lack geographic access to health care

A new study reveals that pregnant individuals and their infants in high-risk wildfire areas face significant barriers to accessing healthcare due to limited resources. The researchers found that communities at high risk of smoke exposure have substantial resource constraints, making it challenging for them to receive timely treatment.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateMay 20, 2025

Study reveals impact of sewage overflows on Chicago river ecosystem

A new study reveals that untreated wastewater released into the Chicago River during extreme rain events significantly alters the freshwater ecosystem. Zooplankton populations disappeared or increased dramatically, affecting the entire food web and potentially infusing harmful chemicals into the water.

SourceShedd Aquarium·JournalKnowledge and Management of Aquatic Ecosystems·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2025

Small-scale, big impact: new insights to marine biodiversity around the Cape Verde Islands

Researchers linked comprehensive datasets with physical ocean processes to understand the exceptional marine biodiversity around the Cape Verde Archipelago. The study identified three key mechanisms driving nutrient transport and found that physical dynamics influence not only productivity but also the type of organisms present.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalProgress In Oceanography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Household action can play major role in climate change fight - study

A new study found that adopting low-carbon lifestyles can reduce global carbon footprints by 10.4 gigatons of CO2 equivalent, equivalent to 40.1% of household consumption-based emissions in 116 countries analysed. Researchers identified 21 low-carbon actions that could achieve this reduction if adopted by the top 23.7% of global emitters.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2025

New study advances cancer precision therapies by identifying patients who benefit from Bexmarilimab treatment

A new study at the University of Turku identified conditions under which Bexmarilimab activates the immune system against cancer. The drug was shown to trigger B cell-mediated immune responses in healthy tissue adjacent to tumors. This could lead to more accurate patient selection and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateMay 20, 2025

Lighting the future: high-stability bluish-green phosphors for advanced LEDs

Researchers have developed a new bluish-green emitting phosphor using silica nanoparticles, achieving a 48% increase in emission intensity compared to traditional methods. The phosphor exhibits significant thermal stability, making it suitable for high-power LEDs and paving the way for brighter, more energy-efficient LED lights.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Common diabetes drug helps chickens lay more eggs

Researchers at Penn State found that metformin increases fertile egg production, reduces body fat, and improves reproductive hormone levels in broiler breeder hens. The study suggests that metformin can extend the productive lifespan of these chickens, potentially improving animal welfare and efficiency in poultry farming.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiology of Reproduction·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

New research warns AI alone won’t fix bias in workplace recruitment

A new study by the University of South Australia found that using AI alone in hiring decisions does not necessarily lead to more diverse and inclusive outcomes. The research highlights the importance of organizations having clear diversity guidelines, qualitative goals, and human oversight to support the use of AI tools effectively.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe International Journal of Human Resource Management·TypeSurvey·DateMay 20, 2025

Why are patients with mitochondrial disease more susceptible to infections? New JAX study finds the answer

Patients with mitochondrial diseases face serious health issues, and a new study reveals that damaged mitochondria put the immune system on overdrive, leading to severe infections. The researchers identified specific molecules that could be targeted with new treatments to protect this vulnerable population.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Gene print-based cell subtypes annotation of human disease across heterogeneous datasets with gPRINT

gPRINT outperforms traditional methods in resolving ambiguous populations and identifying novel subtypes like SOX9/COL2A1-expressing chondrogenic tendon cells in tendinopathy. Gene prints reflect spatial co-localization of signature genes, and disrupting chromosomal topology reduces annotation accuracy.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalProtein & Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Congressional stock trading severely undermines public trust and compliance with the law

A study by University of California - San Diego reveals that exposure to reports of Congressional stock trades significantly reduces Americans' trust in Congress and their willingness to comply with the law. Researchers found that knowledge of politician stock trading alone can undermine legitimacy, regardless of profit involvement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

An innovation talent cultivation mechanism for robotics in the digital-intelligent era: exploration and practice at Wuhan University

The research proposes a fourfold integration of education, combining theoretical learning with practical activities, to cultivate high-quality robotics talents. The implementation achieves remarkable results, including improved innovative practice abilities and increased postgraduate enrollment rates.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Digital Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

MRI can replace painful spinal tap to diagnose MS more quickly, according to a new study

A new study published in Neurology Open Access found that an MRI scan can accurately diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS) in just 8 minutes, eliminating the need for a painful spinal tap. The study's findings support the use of a T2*-weighted MRI and a 'rule of six' to confirm a diagnosis without lumbar puncture.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNeurology Open Access·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 20, 2025

Public opinion on who should do content moderation

A survey of 3,000 US residents found that Americans prefer domain experts over non-experts or algorithms for content moderation. Small juries of independent experts were viewed as the most legitimate, while large, diverse juries with minimal qualifications were also seen as acceptable.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 20, 2025

Wild spinach offers path to breed disease resistance into cultivated varieties

Researchers at Washington State University identified several wild spinach varieties with resistance to Fusarium wilt, a persistent problem for commercial spinach seed growers. These findings can be used to breed hardier crops through marker-assisted selection, providing a tool for immediate application in breeding programs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Southeast Asia could prevent up to 36,000 ozone-related early deaths a year by 2050 with stricter air pollution controls, finds NTU Singapore study

A NTU Singapore study found that robust air pollution control measures can prevent 36,000 ozone-related premature deaths annually in Southeast Asia by 2050. Implementing stringent emission reduction measures could drop annual deaths by 22,000 under a business-as-usual scenario.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalEnvironment International·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 20, 2025

Researchers uncover mechanism behind high performance of cobaltosilicate zeolite catalyst in propane dehydrogenation

A new cobaltosilicate zeolite catalyst has been developed for propane dehydrogenation, achieving high propylene productivity and long-time stability. The catalyst's flexible framework lowers dehydrogenation barriers through entropic effects, while non-bonding adsorption of propylene enables rapid product desorption.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 20, 2025

Thinking peers drink more drives risky behavior

A recent study by UT Arlington researcher Dr. Awua found that social influences and peer pressure significantly impact substance use among young adults College students often misjudge their peers' drinking habits, leading to heavy episodic drinking and negative consequences The study suggests using protective behavioral strategies like...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·TypeNews article·DateMay 20, 2025

“For the first time, we shared a meaningful exchange”: KAIST develops an AI app for parents and minimally verbal autistic children connect​

Researchers at KAIST have developed an AI-powered app called AACessTalk that enables meaningful communication between children with autism and their parents. The app uses personalized vocabulary cards and customized prompts to foster mutual engagement in dialogue.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 20, 2025

Researchers at IOCB Prague predict a new physical phenomenon through advanced molecular modeling

A research team at IOCB Prague has discovered a previously unknown phenomenon where a liquid transitions between metallic and nonmetallic states without settling in either. The study proposes a new hypothesis: ultrafast switching between the two phases on a timescale of tens of femtoseconds.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 20, 2025

The American Ornithological Society (AOS) announces its 2025 award winners for achievements in ornithological research by early-career professionals

The American Ornithological Society recognizes outstanding contributions to ornithology and bird conservation by three early-career researchers, Teresa Pegan and Valentina Gómez-Bahamón, who will deliver plenary talks at the 2025 AOS annual meeting in St. Louis, Missouri.

Candidate drug that boosts protective brain protein in mice has potential to treat Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at UCLA Health identified a candidate small molecule, DDL-357, that increases concentrations of secreted clusterin, reducing toxic protein phospho-tau and improving mitochondrial function. The drug also improved memory in treated mice in maze-based cognitive tests.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·Journalnpj Drug Discovery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 20, 2025

Forest management can influence health benefits

Research by the University of Surrey found that specific forest characteristics, such as canopy density and tree species diversity, can affect various health outcomes. Increasing tree species diversity is a safe intervention for forest managers, offering multiple co-benefits beyond human health.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMay 20, 2025

China's banking deregulation: balancing SME growth and financial risks via balance sheet capacity

A groundbreaking study reveals how China's 2009 banking deregulation reshaped risk-taking behavior among financial institutions while expanding credit access for small businesses. Deregulation enhanced long-term credit availability in underserved regions, demonstrating financial liberalization's dual role.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalChina Finance Review International·TypeNews article·DateMay 20, 2025

Marshall University researchers identify promising treatment for fentanyl-xylazine overdoses

Researchers developed a treatment strategy to address fentanyl-xylazine overdoses, combining naloxone with atipamezole to improve recovery outcomes in animal models. The co-administration of naloxone and atipamezole restored consciousness and physiological parameters in rats exposed to fentanyl and xylazine.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Translational Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Doctors group asks National Institutes of Health to investigate Arizona State University for research misconduct

A group of doctors has filed a complaint with the National Institutes of Health's Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare, alleging that Arizona State University used mice in a study on dietary supplements and adults with Down syndrome. The experiment involved invasive procedures and was deemed scientifically unjustifiable by experts.

Agrivoltaics enjoys comparatively high acceptance

A recent study published in the journal Land Use Policy found that agrivoltaics, which involves installing solar cells on agricultural land, is viewed more favorably by the public than traditional solar parks. The research showed that almost 44% of participants would pay a premium for electricity from agrivoltaic systems.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalLand Use Policy·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Male bodybuilders face high risk of sudden cardiac death, especially those who compete professionally

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that male bodybuilders have a high risk of sudden cardiac death, with professional bodybuilders facing a more than fivefold increase in risk. The study highlights the need for greater awareness, preventive strategies and policy changes within the bodybuilding community.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2025

Scientists discover one of the world’s thinnest semiconductor junctions forming inside a quantum material

Researchers at University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering discovered one of the world's thinnest semiconductor junctions within a quantum material. The discovery could lead to ultra-miniaturized electronic components and provides insight into electron behavior in materials designed for quantum applications.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 20, 2025

‘Sharkitecture:’ A nanoscale look inside a blacktip shark’s skeleton

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and the German Electron Synchrotron mapped the internal structure of blacktip sharks in unprecedented detail, discovering a microscopic 'sharkitecture' composed of densely packed collagen and bioapatite. This intricate structure gives cartilage surprising strength while allowing flexibility.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalACS Nano·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Just 100 corporations behind a fifth of global extractive conflicts, study reveals

A recent study reveals that just 100 corporations are behind a fifth of global extractive conflicts, exacerbating environmental and social harms in the Global South. The companies, mainly from the Global North, engage in high-value resource extraction and transport, concentrating wealth while transferring harms to local populations.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Updated economic geography model incorporates heterogeneity in firm productivity and environmental pollution

A new economic geography model, incorporating firm heterogeneity and environmental pollution, can help policymakers understand the impact of industrial clusters on regional development. The model suggests that changes in firm productivity distribution and trade costs can influence industrial agglomeration and region development.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPortuguese Economic Journal·DateMay 20, 2025

New research on ALS opens up for early treatment

Researchers at Stockholm University and UK DRI have identified a common disease signature across all ALS-causing mutations in motor neurons, revealing early mitochondrial dysfunction. This discovery opens up new avenues for early treatment methods, targeting the energy factories of nerve cells before other signs of disease appear.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Radiologists share tips to prevent AI bias

The article highlights key pitfalls in evaluating AI algorithmic biases in radiology, such as the lack of representation in medical imaging datasets and inconsistent demographic definitions. To address these issues, radiologists recommend collecting and reporting more demographic variables and establishing standard notions of bias eval...

A new complexity in protein chemistry

Göttingen University researchers have discovered previously undetected chemical bonds within archived protein structures, revealing an unexpected complexity in protein chemistry. These newly identified nitrogen-oxygen-sulphur (NOS) linkages broaden our understanding of how proteins respond to oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 20, 2025

From tiny worms to giant squid: new global database reveals the hidden power of body size in the ocean

The Marine Organismal Body Size (MOBS) Database catalogs size data for over 85,000 marine animal species, offering a vital tool for understanding biodiversity and ecosystem function. The database has already found that smaller marine species are more likely to be overlooked in biodiversity assessments.

SourceUniversity of Louisiana at Lafayette·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMay 20, 2025

Does renewable energy reduce fossil fuel production in the US?

A recent study by Ryan Thombs found no association between renewable energy production and fossil fuel production in the US. Despite this, more than 96% of variation in fossil fuel production was explained by fixed factors such as fossil fuel endowments.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Study links residual inflammation in psoriasis patients to obesity and fatty liver disease

Researchers found that residual inflammation in psoriasis patients is linked to obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and increased systemic inflammation. This study suggests that despite good skin response to biologics, patients may still exhibit broader health implications, such as cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2025

A universal high-resolution micro-patterning technique for solution-processed materials

Researchers developed a photolithography-based process for patterning solution-processed materials, achieving high-resolution patterning of QD color converters for micro-LED displays. The technique preserves optical properties and can be applied to various solution-processed materials, making it highly desirable for the display industry.

A trinity teaching mode grounded in the MOA framework: insights from Wuhan University’s internet marketing course

A new trinity teaching mode was developed to address challenges in traditional teaching methods, focusing on motivation, opportunity, and ability dimensions. The innovative approach has achieved positive results, including high student satisfaction, increased employability, and excellent performance in graduate school admissions and co...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Digital Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Lupus Research Alliance spearheads groundbreaking Lupus Nexus Foundational Analyses to accelerate personalized lupus treatments and a cure

The Lupus Research Alliance has launched the Lupus Nexus Foundational Analyses, integrating molecular datasets with clinical data to accelerate personalized lupus treatments. This initiative provides a comprehensive and accessible dataset, generating new hypotheses and driving meaningful breakthroughs for people living with lupus.

Research team traces evolutionary history of bacterial circadian clock on ancient Earth

A team of scientists has studied the evolutionary history of the bacterial circadian clock, tracing its origins back to ancient cyanobacteria that emerged 3 billion years ago. They discovered that the oldest KaiC proteins lacked the necessary function for rhythmic qualities, but acquired it over time through molecular evolution.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Illinois researchers explore COVID-19 vaccine attitudes and motivations, finding common values

A new study by University of Illinois researchers highlights the need for flexible approaches to reach diverse audiences with disease prevention strategies. The findings underscore that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to public health challenges, and understanding people's value systems can help inform policy recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Medical Case Reports·TypeCase study·DateMay 20, 2025

New blood test developed at Mass General Brigham shows superior sensitivity in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers

A new liquid biopsy blood test called HPV-DeepSeek achieved 99% sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing cancer in asymptomatic patients. The test detected fragments of the viral genome and other features in the blood, outperforming current methods in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Scientists create ‘virtual sorting nanomachines’ using electron beams to manipulate graphene oxide

Researchers at Nagoya University developed an interface that creates programmable electric fields to sort graphene oxide without fixed microfluidic devices. The findings allow precise sorting of GO sheets, which can capture pollutants, solvents, and biomolecules based on their size-dependent properties.

SourceNagoya University·JournalColloids and Surfaces A Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Cell Painting identifies flavonoids that are toxic to bladder cancer cells

A team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified six flavonoids that kill bladder cancer cells, including compounds that cause DNA damage and disrupt energy supply. The study uses Cell Painting technology to analyze large-scale drug screening data sets on a standard desktop computer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPharmacological Research - Natural Products·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Forgotten property of the electron

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich have discovered a property of crystal structure called chirality that influences the orbital angular momentum of electrons. This could lead to a new class of electronic components capable of transmitting information with exceptional robustness and energy efficiency.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 20, 2025

A key chemical triggers powerful muscle movements in the esophagus and stomach: new clues to digestive reactions and allergies

Researchers discovered that platelet-activating factor (PAF) triggers strong contractions in the esophagus and upper stomach, potentially linked to food allergies and acid reflux. PAF also causes rhythmic muscle movements in the colon, which may be connected to chronic digestive diseases.

SourceToho University·JournalBiological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

On the origin (and fate) of plants that never bloom

A study by Kobe University reveals that plants reproducing solely through self-pollination likely arose from populations with extremely low genetic diversity. The research found that these species are highly successful at producing fruit and may have an evolutionary edge over outcrossing, raising questions about their long-term viability.

SourceKobe University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Leading the digital transformation of higher education through the reform of digital intelligence education: exploration and practice at Wuhan University

Wuhan University has developed a comprehensive digital transformation framework emphasizing tiered training for DI talent and integrating DI elements into discipline development. The framework aims to develop general knowledge-equipped, application-oriented, and professional talents.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Digital Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

1.5°C Paris Climate Agreement target too high for polar ice sheets and sea level rise

A new study suggests that limiting global temperature increase to 1.5°C may not be enough to save the world's ice sheets, which could lead to significant losses and extensive displacement of coastal populations. The researchers argue that a target of around 1°C would be more effective in preventing rapid sea level rise.

SourceDurham University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 20, 2025

The Lancet: Globally the health of adolescents is at a tipping point; action needed to tackle rising threats to young people’s health and wellbeing

The Lancet Commission warns that over 1 billion adolescents worldwide face preventable health problems, with inadequate progress in addressing issues like anaemia, mental health, and obesity. The commission emphasizes the need for increased investment in adolescent health and wellbeing initiatives to safeguard the future.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 20, 2025

Beyond ‘one size fits all’: Study reveals ethnic differences in breast cancer development and outcomes, demanding tailored care approaches

A new study by Queen Mary University of London found significant ethnic differences in breast cancer development and outcomes among women of African and South Asian genetic ancestry. Women from these backgrounds were diagnosed earlier and died younger than European-ancestry women, highlighting the need for tailored care approaches.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Women whose sister experienced postpartum psychosis are more than 10 times as likely to experience it themselves, according to new research

Research found that women whose sister experienced postpartum psychosis are over 10 times more likely to experience it themselves. The study highlights genetic and shared environmental influences and suggests early recognition and prevention are crucial.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

Efforts to reduce TikTok screen time often increase usage

Researchers found that digital detox interventions on TikTok led to increased usage among users who were less skeptical of advertising, viewing the platform as more authentic. In contrast, users with higher skepticism showed no significant change in behavior. The study highlights the potential backfire effects of well-intentioned effor...

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateMay 20, 2025

Making insulinomas a thing of the past

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new non-invasive diagnostic method for insulinomas, which achieved 100% diagnostic accuracy in a Phase II clinical trial. The new method using positron emission tomography (PET) probe successfully detected cases difficult to diagnose through existing methods.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 20, 2025

Prader-Willi syndrome reveals unique link between genetics and psychiatric disorders

Researchers have synthesized cutting-edge findings on Prader-Willi syndrome, revealing its unique link to autism spectrum disorder and psychotic spectrum disorders. The condition's distinct genetic subtypes correlate with specific psychiatric outcomes, offering critical insights into the interplay between genetics and psychiatric vulne...

SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 20, 2025

New study reveals how 5'LysTTT tRNA fragments protect neurons during botulinum toxin exposure

Scientists have uncovered a previously unknown mechanism explaining how neurons survive botulinum neurotoxin type A exposure. The research found that specific tRNA fragments interact with key proteins and RNA molecules involved in regulating ferroptosis, supporting neuronal survival by blocking cell death pathways.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Oxygen deprivation promotes colon cancer growth

Researchers at The University of Osaka found that localized oxygen deficiency in colon tumors can promote tumor growth by transforming normal fibroblasts into inflammatory fibroblasts. These altered cells release factors that help tumors grow, offering a potential new target for cancer therapy.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025

Researchers identify molecular brake that regulates synaptic maturation

Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven have identified a novel protein complex that regulates the formation of spine apparatus in developing synapses, essential for stabilizing mature synapses and supporting learning and memory. The study reveals that GPR158 interacts with PLCXD2 to control spine apparatus abundance, lifting the brake on synapti...

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMay 20, 2025