Friends with benefits
Human relationships rely on endorphin rewards for motivation, unlike rodents which focus on oxytocin and vasopressin. The study suggests that endorphins enable complex relationship networks to endure and persist.
Search results for “Primates”
1,000+ results for "Primates"
Monkey mothers found to be key to sons' reproductive success
A study found that northern muriqui monkey mothers play a key role in their sons' reproductive success, with no evidence of inbreeding. The research suggests that this egalitarian society may be the reason for the species' critical endangered status.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2011
New therapy shows promise for treating cardiovascular disease
Researchers have discovered a new therapy that increases good cholesterol and lowers triglycerides, showing promise in combating cardiovascular disease. The treatment, which targets microRNA-33, has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol and lower triglyceride levels in non-human primates.
First Ebola-like virus native to Europe discovered
Researchers have discovered a new Ebola-like virus, Lloviu, in bats from northern Spain, which is the first filovirus native to Europe. The study reveals that Lloviu may be a cause for concern as it was detected in deceased bats with signs of an immune response, but not in healthy bats.
Meerkats recognize each other from their calls
Researchers found that meerkats can distinguish between individual calls in their species, contrary to previous assumptions. Meerkat colonies are highly organized and divide work into three roles, with this vocal recognition ability linked to auditory cues.
Researchers discover oldest evidence of nails in modern primates
A new study has recovered and analyzed the oldest fossil evidence of fingernails in modern primates, confirming that small body size led to nail development. The discovery provides direct evidence for the evolution of nails in primates and sheds light on the origins of human-like characteristics.
Researchers identify components of speech recognition pathway in humans
Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have defined three distinct processing stages for human speech recognition, mirroring those found in non-human primates. These findings provide insights into the complex workings of the human auditory brain and its role in processing language.
Undernourishment in pregnant, lactating females found key to next generation's disease
Research in baboon primates shows that even moderate nutrient deficiencies during critical periods of development can damage the pancreas and predispose to type 2 diabetes. The study found that young baboons whose mothers were undernourished were more likely to develop prediabetes before adolescence.
Competition between females leads to infanticide in some primates
In a study of moustached tamarins, researchers found that 75% of infants survive with male help, but only 41.7% without. Female infanticide occurs when mothers kill their own offspring due to social competition and high levels of prenatal stress.
Fetal exposure to BPA changes development of uterus in primates
A new study found that fetal exposure to BPA changes the development of the uterus in female primates. The research suggests that oral and subcutaneous forms of BPA can alter gene expression and affect uterine cell development.
Early hominin landscape use
Researchers found that females preferred to disperse from their natal groups, similar to chimpanzees and human groups. The study suggests early hominins' social structure was not like that of gorillas.
Anthropologist discovers new fossil primate species in West Texas
A previously unknown fossil primate, Mescalerolemur horneri, has been discovered in West Texas, dating back to the Eocene Epoch. The species is closely related to Eurasian and African adapiforms, challenging current understanding of North American primates.
Non-human primate studies reveal promising vaccine approach for HIV
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a vaccine candidate that programs the immune system to respond swiftly to HIV, with over half of monkeys showing control over virus replication. The vaccine candidate has been shown to maintain control for over a year, outperforming antiretroviral therapy in clearing the ...
Monkey recall memory mirrors that of humans
A study demonstrates that monkeys can recall and reproduce simple shapes from memory, mirroring the performance of humans using a standard recall test. This finding suggests that recollection might be an adaptive ability in primates long before humans evolved.
A new evolutionary history of primates
A new evolutionary history of primates reveals complex patterns of species divergence and gene sequence evolution. The analysis provides a validated framework for understanding human adaptation and disease, and sheds light on zoonoses and primate conservation.
Study finds primates age gracefully
A new multi-species comparison of primate aging patterns reveals that chimps, gorillas, and other primates grow old gracefully like humans. The study confirms a mortality gap between males and females, with males dying sooner than females in most species.
Aging rates, gender gap in mortality similar across all primates
Researchers compared aging patterns of seven species of wild primates with humans, finding that human aging rates fall within the primate continuum. The study also confirms the mortality gap between males and females is narrowest for the least aggressive species.
Age affects us all
A new study of primate aging patterns reveals that humans are not unique in their aging process. By analyzing data from seven species of wild primates, researchers found that human mortality rates increase with age at a similar rate to other primates. The study also confirms the long-held pattern that males die sooner than females as t...
U. Iowa team investigates function of 'junk DNA' in human genes
A new study reveals that Alu elements inserted into existing genes can alter protein production rates, contributing to evolutionary differences between humans and other primates. The research uses high-throughput RNA sequencing data to quantify the frequency and location of Alu-derived exons in human genes.
SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2011
Gaze following abilities in wolves
Researchers found that hand-raised wolves can follow a gaze around an obstacle, indicating a more cognitively advanced task than previously observed. The wolves' ability to detour an obstacle suggests that gaze following is not exclusive to primates and corvids.
Scientists discover gene regulation mechanism unique to primates
Researchers have identified a new way genes are regulated that is unique to primates, involving Alu elements and long noncoding RNAs. This mechanism could prove to be a valuable treatment target as researchers seek to manipulate gene expression to improve human health.
Scientists determine what makes an orangutan an orangutan
A team of scientists has mapped the genome of orangutans, providing a new tool for conservation efforts and shedding light on the evolution of primates. The study reveals unique features of the orangutan genome, including fast-evolving genes related to visual perception and metabolic processes.
LSU's Mark Batzer decodes orangutan genome
A groundbreaking study led by LSU's Mark Batzer has decoded the orangutan genome, revealing unexpected insights into its evolution and genetic diversity. The research found that two distinct orangutan species exist, with one species having limited genetic diversity due to a condensed habitat.
Why humans are more sensitive to certain viruses: Primate immune system differences identified
A study found that primate immune system differences explain why humans are more susceptible to certain viral infections, such as HIV and hepatitis B. Genomic comparisons revealed unique gene expression patterns in humans compared to chimpanzees and rhesus macaques.
The double-edged sword of dominance
Research finds that dominant animals in primate societies have higher parasite loads due to suppressed immune systems. Frequent aggression and contact with other animals may contribute to the risk of infection.
Orangutans count on stats for survival
A Queensland University of Technology (QUT) statistician has found that villagers who live alongside orangutans are unaware of the laws protecting them, and many admit to killing the primates. The study suggests education campaigns tailored to specific areas and cultural groups can effectively target orangutan hunting.
Analysis of teeth suggests modern humans mature more slowly than Neanderthals did
A study of Neanderthal and early human teeth reveals that modern humans' slow development and long childhood are recent traits. This may have given early humans an evolutionary edge over Neanderthals, facilitating additional learning and complex cognition.
Research uncovers extensive natural recovery after spinal cord injury
Researchers discovered that connections in the spinal cord regrew spontaneously and extensively after a mild spinal cord injury in primates, restoring 60% of original connections. This finding holds significant promise for developing new treatments for patients with spinal cord injuries.
Into Africa? Fossils suggest earliest anthropoids colonized Africa
A new discovery in Libya's Dur At-Talah escarpment suggests that anthropoids colonized Africa from Asia, rather than evolving there. The site yields three distinct families of anthropoid primates that lived in North Africa around 39 million years ago.
University of Florida research provides new understanding of bizarre extinct mammal
A 55-million-year-old extinct mammal, Labidolemur kayi, has been found to share a common ancestor with rodents and primates. The study reveals minute details in the skull, including bone structures smaller than one-tenth of a millimeter, which provide valuable information for understanding the origin of primates.
UF research provides new understanding of bizarre extinct mammal
Researchers have found that Labidolemur kayi shares similarities in bone features with other mammals, indicating its living relatives are rodents, rabbits, flying lemurs, tree shrews and primates. The study provides valuable information for understanding the origin of primates.
For the first time, monkeys recognize themselves in the mirror, indicating self-awareness
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have found rhesus macaques can recognize themselves in a mirror under specific conditions, contrary to previous assumptions. This discovery may refine the use of the mark test and challenge existing theories on self-awareness in primates.
Moonstruck primates: Owl monkeys need moonlight as much as a biological clock for nocturnal activity
Researchers found that environmental factors like temperature and light are equally important to the Azara's owl monkeys' natural rhythms as their internal biological clock. The study suggests that moonlight is a key adaptation for primates to exploit the nocturnal niche, with activity patterns changing in response to lunar cycles.
Mans' closest relationship under strain? New research reveals why chimpanzees attack humans
Research in Guinea reveals why chimpanzees attack humans, highlighting the importance of habitat conservation to prevent resource-based attacks. The team studied eleven attacks, finding that they occurred during periods of crop-raiding and food scarcity.
Inherited brain activity predicts childhood risk for anxiety
A new study led by Ned H. Kalin of the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health found that increased brain activity in the amygdala and anterior hippocampus can predict anxious temperament in young primates. This discovery may lead to new strategies for early detection and treatment of at-risk children.
Couch potatoes of the animal kingdom
A study of orangutans found they used remarkably low energy levels, similar to those of sloths. This adaptation may be an evolutionary response to food shortages in their native rainforests, where ripe fruit is unpredictable and scarce.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2010
Hormonal birth control alters scent communication in primates
A Duke University study found that hormonal contraceptives alter the chemical cues used by ring-tailed lemurs to determine genetic fitness and relatedness. The study also showed that males are less interested in females treated with contraceptives, suggesting potential effects on human mate choice.
Wildlife Conservation Society finds wild cat mimicking monkey calls
Researchers documented a wild cat species imitating the call of its intended victim, a small monkey known as a pied tamarin, to draw it within striking range. The behavior was confirmed through observations in the Amazonian forests of Brazil, providing insights into the psychological cunning of wild felids.
New research about human genetic diseases and human development
A team of researchers discovered a strong sex-chromosome bias in the distribution of transposable elements, which may hold clues to genetic disease mechanisms. The study suggests Alu sequences integrate mostly in the male germline, while L1s integrate in both male and female germlines or early embryogenesis.
Mummies, skulls and bones shed light on human evolution
A symposium at the American Association of Anatomists' Annual Meeting explores the evolution of human evolution through ancient mummies, skulls, and bones. Modern technology enables researchers to examine mummified remains without harming tissue, providing insights into disease evolution and death causes.
Discovery of a primate more than 11 million years old
Catalan researchers have found a new species of primate, Pliopithecus canmatensis, in the Vallès-Penedès basin. The discovery sheds light on the evolution and dispersal of this extinct family of primitive Catarrhini primates from Africa to Eurasia.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 21, 2010
Monocyte turnover predicts speed and severity of AIDS and onset of brain disease
Researchers tracked monocytes in primates infected with simian immunodeficiency virus to find that increased turnover predicts rapid AIDS development and brain disease severity. The study identifies a marker, soluble CD163, exclusive to monocytes, which correlates with disease progression.
Tree-dwelling mammals climb to the heights of longevity
Mammals that spend most of their time in trees have longer lifespans than those on the ground, according to a new study. The researchers found that arboreality reduces extrinsic mortality, leading to longer lifespans.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 24, 2010
Does evolution always lead to bigger brains?
A team of scientists found that brain size evolved differently in various primate lineages, with some species experiencing decreases in brain mass despite larger body sizes. This challenges the long-held assumption that evolution always results in bigger brains.
Is the Hobbit's brain unfeasibly small?
Researchers reconstruct primate brain evolution to clarify the Hobbit's brain size, suggesting a strong selective advantage for increased brainpower. The study supports the hypothesis that the Hobbit's small brain was adapted to local ecological conditions on Flores.
New theory on the origin of primates
A new model for primate origins suggests that major groups are correlated with Mesozoic tectonic features and evolved from a widespread ancestor in Pangea. The theory incorporates spatial patterns of primate diversity and distribution as historical evidence, avoiding previous limitations to fossil record and molecular clocks.
First molars provide insight into evolution of great apes, humans
Scientists used a novel approach to determine the age of first molar emergence in apes, revealing ages similar to those of modern humans. The study's findings have implications for understanding human life history and evolution.
SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 2009
Why King Kong failed to impress
A study by Duke University researchers discovered a commonality in the genetic codes of human sex receptors and those found in other primates. This similarity suggests that varying sensitivity to specific odors may play a role in mate selection, potentially preventing cross-species couplings.
SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2009
Why we outlive our ape ancestors
Humans uniquely susceptible to aging diseases due to genetic adaptations to inflammation and high cholesterol diets. The 'meat-adaptive gene' ApoE3 may contribute to human lifespan, while ApoE4 impairs neuronal development and shortens lifespan by four years.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2009
Treatment to improve degenerating muscle gains strength
A study demonstrates the effectiveness of a gene delivery strategy producing follistatin, which inhibits myostatin, in non-human primates, showing pronounced increases in muscle size and strength. The treatment is well-tolerated and has long-term effects, paving the way for potential clinical trials.
Researchers find brain cell transplants help repair neural damage
A study by the Cell Transplantation Center of Excellence found that autologous brain cell transplants can provide brain protection and repair neural damage in donor primates. The cells survived at an impressive 50% rate for four months post-implantation, offering a promising new approach to treating neurological disorders.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateOct 29, 2009
Global warming cycles threaten endangered primate species
Researchers analyzed global warming's impact on four New World monkey species, finding a significant drop in their populations during climate fluctuations. The team used statistical models to investigate how food resources and tree responses related to temperature and rainfall patterns.
Looking for the origins of music in the brain
Using electrophysiological recording techniques, researchers found neurons tuned to fundamental frequencies and harmonic sounds in awake monkeys. This discovery sheds light on the neural mechanisms of music processing and its potential therapeutic benefits for patients with severe neurological disorders.
Hyenas cooperate, problem-solve better than primates
A study by Christine Drea and Allisa N. Carter found that spotted hyenas cooperate successfully on tasks requiring unison effort, learning quickly with no training. They demonstrated understanding of rope timing and platform coordination, with social factors influencing performance.
New rabies vaccine may require only a single shot ... not 6
A new rabies vaccine has shown to induce a rapid and efficient immune response in mice and non-human primates, potentially reducing the six-shot post-exposure regimen to just one inoculation. The experimental vaccine lacks a key gene called the matrix (M) gene, inhibiting the virus from completing its life cycle.
Discovery of novel genes could unlock mystery of what makes us uniquely human
Researchers found novel human genes that originated from non-coding DNA in flies, yeast, and primates, with approximately 18 human-specific genes estimated to have arisen during human evolution. These genes are unlike any other human genes and may play a crucial role in human-specific traits.
Evolution of the appendix: A biological 'remnant' no more
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center propose that the appendix serves a critical function as a safe haven for good bacteria. A new study reveals the appendix is more widespread and has been around for at least 80 million years than previously thought, contradicting Darwin's theory of vestigial organs.
Key feature of immune system survived in humans, other primates for 60 million years
A new study found that a vitamin D-regulated anti-bactericidal protein has been conserved in humans and primates for 60 million years. This suggests its critical role in their survival and highlights the importance of maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D.
Imitation promotes social bonding in primates
A study found that capuchin monkeys prefer the company of researchers who imitate them, spending more time with their imitators. The monkeys also chose to engage in a task with their imitators over non-imitators, indicating a sense of affiliation.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2009
Yerkes researchers propose ambitious new strategies for AIDS vaccine research
Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center propose alternative approaches to developing an effective AIDS vaccine, including making infected individuals resistant to disease progression or reducing the number of cells the virus can infect. They draw inspiration from African nonhuman primates that adapt to HIV-like viruses i...