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Science News Archive April 2026 - Page 3


Page 3 of 55

Stem cell memory CAR T cells achieve complete remissions at low doses without chemotherapy preconditioning

Researchers developed a highly homogeneous population of stem cell memory T cells that exhibit superior expansion and persistence, enabling complete responses at low doses. The study showed a favorable tolerability profile and demonstrated the separation between beneficial effects and toxic consequences.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Immunotherapy·JournalCell·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2026

Innovation and ecological collapse gave rise to the tropics’ most important decomposers

Termites became the backbone of tropical ecosystems after two diversification pulses following global extinctions. The traits that define modern termites, such as soil-eating and fungus agriculture, emerged in distinct pulses about 30 million years apart, according to a new study published in Current Biology.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 30, 2026

Silencing stress signals could pave the way to a longer life, study reveals

Researchers found that suppressing the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) pathway in fruit flies extended their lifespan. The study contradicts previous theories suggesting mild stress might increase longevity. By understanding how ISR affects aging, scientists may develop pharmacological treatments to slow down the aging process.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2026

Blood tests taken years earlier linked to pregnancy risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that small abnormalities in blood sugar, lipids, and inflammation years before pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and pre-eclampsia. The findings may contribute to earlier risk assessment and preventive measures.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2026

Atomic lattice-matched hexagonal WO3/TiO2 S-heterojunction enables high-efficiency selective glycerol-to-DHA photoelectrocatalysis

Researchers developed a lattice-matching strategy to address charge transfer efficiency and selectivity issues in traditional photoelectrocatalytic systems. The resulting composite photoanodes achieve high DHA selectivity and glycerol conversion rates, demonstrating strong potential for industrial application.

Defect-engineered Pt/Nb2O5 for efficient radical-mediated benzimidazole synthesis and H2 evolution

A new photocatalytic system with enhanced activity for benzimidazole synthesis and H2 production has been developed. The defect-engineered Pt/Nb2O5-VO photocatalyst promotes dehydrogenation of ethanol to form radicals, which then facilitate the selective synthesis of desired products.

Researchers discover a new link between brain sugar levels and myelin development

Researchers at CUNY ASRC have uncovered a metabolic switch that influences the formation of myelinating cells, helping shape brain development. The study reveals that glucose levels act as a signal directing behavior during development and can be harnessed to protect myelin in the developing brain and promote repair in disease states.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

Predicting genetic risk for Type 1 diabetes just got more accurate thanks to UC San Diego study

The study demonstrates that the T1GRS tool can identify children and adults at high risk for Type 1 diabetes earlier than current methods, enabling preventive measures before the disease develops. The researchers grouped individuals into four sub-types based on genetic features, each with unique clinical profiles and outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026

Universal model provides design standards for efficient and durable perovskite solar cells

A new universal model explains and guides energy level alignment in perovskite solar cell interfaces using hole-collecting monolayers, enabling optimized interfacial energy levels and reduced development time. The study provides practical guidance for designing materials with improved performance for emerging solar technologies.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 30, 2026

Carbene bridging Ag-Cu sites for enhanced *CO pooling and C-C coupling in CO2 reduction

A new catalyst developed by Soochow University researchers exhibits a remarkable C2+ Faradaic efficiency of 80.3%, outperforming other Cu-based catalysts. The introduction of carbene species enhances the tandem synergy, increasing surface coverage of CO intermediates and facilitating C-C coupling reactions.

Study identifies a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS

A team of researchers has identified a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS, revealing that chaperone-mediated autophagy is significantly reduced in patients. This finding suggests that this cellular system may be a potential therapeutic target to slow disease progression.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

Study assesses impacts of drones on whale sharks

A new study published in Ecosphere found that drones do not disturb whale sharks when flown directly above them. Researchers attached motion-sensing tags to 13 whale sharks and compared their behavior with periods where no drone was flying overhead, revealing no evidence of disturbance.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalEcosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2026

Embryos can tolerate disruption of cell division at certain stages of development

Embryos can tolerate disruption of cell division at certain stages of development, particularly during the gastrula phase where a mechanism called the spindle assembly checkpoint helps them withstand misaligned chromosomes. Disruptions during other stages, such as the pre-gastrula period, are more deadly and lead to defects.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2026

Electrically switchable continuous phase liquid crystal Fresnel zone plate

Researchers have developed an electrically switchable continuous phase liquid crystal Fresnel zone plate, enabling efficient focus control for augmented reality headsets, compact cameras, and adaptive optical instruments. The device achieves a 80% increase in focal intensity compared to traditional binary Fresnel lenses.

Climate change a global threat to brain health, stroke experts say

Climate change is linked to an increased risk of strokes and mortality, particularly from extreme heat. The World Stroke Organization emphasizes the need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate this threat. Experts recommend promoting clean energy, plant-rich diets, and active transport to reduce stroke risk.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInternational Journal of Stroke·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 29, 2026

A USC team is targeting the spinal cord to solve paralysis’ most overlooked problem

A USC team has created a neuroprosthetic device that can restore coordinated bladder control in small animal models, proof of concept for a future treatment that could transform lives after spinal cord injuries. The device targets the dorsolateral funiculus region of the spinal cord to mimic the natural signals that trigger the need to...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateApr 29, 2026

Research gaps and regional disparities revealed in global Lassa virus research landscape

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 55 years of Lassa virus research has uncovered significant disparities in scientific output between high-income and endemic countries. The study highlights a persistent shortage of studies addressing environmental factors influencing viral spread, underscoring the need for a strategic shift towa...

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalScience in One Health·TypeNews article·DateApr 29, 2026

An app that improves decision-making: Duke-NUS study shows myKIDNEY helps patients make better informed choices

A Duke-NUS study shows that pairing a web-based decision-aid with counselling significantly shifts patients' decisions towards conservative management, which focuses on symptom relief and quality of life. The myKIDNEY app reduced patients' decisional conflict and raised awareness of conservative management as an accepted alternative to...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalKidney International Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 29, 2026

Study confirms effectiveness of medicinal plant against SARS-CoV-2 virus

A study published in Scientific Reports confirms the anti-viral properties of galloylquinic acids extracted from Copaifera lucens leaves, inhibiting viral entry and replication. The substance's multi-target mechanism reduces the likelihood of resistance developing, making it a promising therapeutic candidate against COVID-19.

New study reveals how next-generation biochar can transform pollution cleanup and circular sustainability

Emerging microwave-based techniques significantly enhance biochar's ability to remove contaminants from water and soil while improving energy efficiency. Biochar has gained attention as a sustainable solution for managing agricultural residues, food waste, and other organic by-products.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 29, 2026