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Aarhus University


Pain researchers get a common language to describe pain

A new classification system for orofacial pain has been developed by international researchers, providing a common language for medical doctors and dentists to diagnose patients accurately. The system is expected to improve treatment outcomes for individuals suffering from chronic pain in the mouth, jaws, and face.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCephalalgia·DateMar 10, 2020

How to keep the nucleus clean

A new study reveals that nuclear RNAs are sorted using a two-layered targeting mechanism, where NEXT and PAXT complexes work together to degrade non-functional transcripts. This process prevents deleterious accumulation of non-functional RNAs in cells.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 20, 2020

Your gums reveal your diet

A new study suggests that a diet rich in sugar increases the risk of both dental cavities and gum inflammation. Healthy eating habits should be prioritized to avoid expensive treatments.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Oral Microbiology·DateJan 30, 2020

Sugar changes the chemistry of your brain

Researchers found that sugar intake alters the brain's dopamine and opioid systems, activating the reward system after just 12 days. This suggests that sugar can be an addictive substance, pushing natural stimuli like social interaction or learning into the background.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 14, 2020

Air pollution in childhood linked to schizophrenia

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that children exposed to high levels of air pollution during childhood are at a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. The study showed an increased risk of approximately 20% for every 10 μg/m3 increase in daily average air pollution.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 7, 2020

Cultural evolution caused broad-scale historical declines of large mammals across China

A study by Aarhus University and Nanjing University found that cultural evolution, not climate change, was the main driver of historical broad-scale biodiversity dynamics. The researchers identified the spread of agricultural land and Han culture as the cause of the extirpation of five megafauna species from much of China.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2019

Researchers create synthetic nanopores made from DNA

Scientists successfully created a large synthetic nanopore made from DNA with a functional gating system for sensing and bio-sensing applications. The pore can translocate large protein-sized macromolecules between compartments separated by a lipid bilayer, enabling label-free real-time biosensing of trigger molecules.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2019

Oxygen shaped the evolution of the eye

Researchers discovered a pattern of mechanisms improving retinal oxygen supply that evolved with enhanced vision in all bony vertebrates. The findings add to our understanding of the evolution of the eye, highlighting its dynamic morphology and relationship with retinal oxygen supply.

Anti-hepatitis medicine surprises

A new study found that an existing antiviral treatment is effective against both the hepatitis C virus and potentially fatal complications such as reduced liver functioning and cirrhosis. The treatment also improves cognitive function, with patients experiencing improved reaction times.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Viral Hepatitis·DateDec 5, 2019

Autism and ADHD share genes

Researchers from iPSYCH discovered that autism and ADHD share changes in the same genes, particularly the MAP1A gene involved in nerve cell formation. The study found a significantly increased risk of developing autism and/or ADHD for those carrying mutations in this gene.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 26, 2019

Significantly fewer pregnant women take antidepressants

A comprehensive register-based study from Aarhus University in Denmark found that the use of antidepressants by pregnant women decreased significantly by 33% between 2011 and 2023. This decline was mainly driven by a decrease in prescribing serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and citalopram, which is commonly used in Denmark.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBrain and Behavior·DateOct 29, 2019

Mutated ferns shed light on ancient mass extinction

Researchers found that increased mercury levels in the environment contributed to the mass extinction of three out of four species on Earth 201 million years ago. The study suggests a cocktail effect of CO2, global warming, and toxic substances like mercury, challenging the traditional theory of greenhouse gas-induced climate change.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 28, 2019

Ants fight plant diseases

Aarhus University researchers have found that ants inhibit at least 14 different plant diseases through the secretion of antibiotics and pheromones. The discovery has sparked hope for new biological control agents in agriculture, which could be used to combat resistant plant diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalOikos·DateOct 17, 2019

Empty spaces, how do they make a protein unstable?

Researchers used NMR spectroscopy and hydrostatic pressure to study the impact of internal cavities on protein stability. They found that filling these cavities with water destabilizes the protein, which has significant implications for industrial enzymes and biological drugs.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 14, 2019

Parkinson's disease is also present in the blood

Researchers from Aarhus University discovered that Parkinson's patients have an immune imbalance in their blood, affecting the regulation of immune cells and anti-inflammatory molecules. This finding advocates for immune modulation as a potential alternative treatment for the disease.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMovement Disorders·DateOct 3, 2019

Rethinking how cholesterol is integrated into cells

The study reveals how cholesterol is incorporated into cells through a previously unknown pathway, providing new understanding of cellular function. The discovery has significant implications for the regulation of cholesterol uptake and potential applications in treating diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell·DateSep 20, 2019