Reality Bites
Scientists pinpoint exact spot where snake venom latches onto receptor, paving way for synthetic antidote. The new treatment could be more effective and faster-acting than current method, eliminating risk of allergy.
Scientists pinpoint exact spot where snake venom latches onto receptor, paving way for synthetic antidote. The new treatment could be more effective and faster-acting than current method, eliminating risk of allergy.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute achieve record-purity gallium arsenide crystal, allowing electrons to travel at 14.4 million centimeters per second. This breakthrough enables the creation of faster and more efficient electronic devices, such as semiconductor transistors.
A non-invasive method for distinguishing between different types of tumors has been developed by Prof. Hadassa Degani at the Weizmann Institute. The approach, known as the Three Time Point method, uses MRI to monitor the uptake and clearance of a contrast-enhancing dye-like material in tumor tissue.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have developed a new material that outperforms existing lubricants in industrial conditions. The material, made of tungsten disulfide fullerene-like molecules, reduces friction between moving metal parts by less than half and wear by up to six times.
A recent study by Drs. Kaufman, Bar-Matthews, and Ayalon analyzed stalactite samples to reconstruct ancient climatic changes. The research found that the region experienced dry and cool conditions from 20,000 to 58,000 years ago, with significant rainfall fluctuations occurring after 6,000 years ago.
Researchers have synthesized two protein fragments that effectively immunize mice against lupus. These findings may lead to more focused treatments with fewer side effects.
A new study by Prof. Mordechai Milgrom proposes a radical alternative to the existence of invisible dark matter, instead suggesting that modifications to Newton's laws are needed for giant galactic systems. The theory, known as MOdified Nonrelativistic Dynamics, could revolutionize our understanding of the universe.
A group of genes has been discovered that makes wild tomatoes resistant to wilt disease, allowing breeders to speed up the development of new disease-resistant varieties. The findings also enable the design of genetically engineered crops with optimal resistance properties.
Researchers have identified a molecule that allows bacteria to resist an unusually wide range of drugs, including those with different chemical properties. This discovery highlights the dormant potential of some bacteria to survive complex antibiotic treatments.
The Weizmann Institute is launching an international bioinformatics network to bridge the gap in technology and training between Western countries and developing regions. The network, coordinated by the institute, will provide access to comprehensive bioinformatics data banks and facilitate collaboration among scientists.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute demonstrate that water is formed in interstellar clouds through a reaction involving hydronium. The experiment, conducted at an ion storage ring, shows a permanent ratio between water and hydronium molecules.
Scientists created a 3D computer model of a glutamate receptor, which can be used to develop new drugs for Alzheimer's disease and other disorders. The model accurately represents the receptor's structure and behavior.
A series of Weizmann Institute studies discovered that more flexible polymer chains in a mixture settle at the surface. The rate of thickening is controlled by van der Waals forces, leading to extremely slow growth in accordance with a mathematical formula involving approximately the power of 4.
A new method for isotope separation has been developed by Dr. Ilya Averbukh, combining the advantages of mechanical separation with laser techniques. The technique uses wavepackets to distinguish between different isotopes, allowing for fast and effective separation in industries such as chemical and pharmaceutical research.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a key gene called NIK that plays a crucial role in triggering the immune response. By removing the 'brake' on the NF-kappaB protein, NIK activation sets off an immune response that could be harnessed to develop new medications for autoimmune diseases and HIV.
Copolymer-1 has been approved by the FDA for treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, demonstrating its ability to reduce attack frequency and minimize negative side effects. The drug works by blocking the immune system's attack on myelin coatings and triggering immune suppressor cells.
A new Weizmann Institute of Science study finds that high levels of leptin disrupt insulin's activities, leading to raised blood sugar levels. Researchers discovered that excessive leptin suppresses insulin's ability to slow down gluconeogenesis, a process that can cause diabetes-related symptoms.
The Weizmann Institute groundwater sampler, MLS, tracks microscopic particles to assess pollution spread and identify contaminated layers. It has been used to study the saltiness of the Sea of Galilee and help pinpoint areas where bacteria can clean up pollutants.
Researchers have found a way to identify ancient ash using chemical transformations, providing new insights into prehistoric lifestyles. The discovery could help explain how early humans used fire for cooking, warmth, and protection.
The FDA is expected to grant approval for COPAXONE, a protein-like molecule that reduces multiple sclerosis attacks and produces minimal side effects. The drug was developed by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and shows promise in treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
A study by Prof. Michal Schwartz explains why mammals can't regenerate damaged central nervous system tissue, offering hope for treatment development. Researchers found that macrophages play a crucial role in wound-healing, and 'educating' them may help overcome this obstacle.
Weizmann Institute physicists create a new 3D imaging technique that speeds up and simplifies the process of reconstructing 3D images. The system uses a transparent fluorescent screen to capture light particles emitted by flashes, allowing for precise distance measurements between the screen and object points.
A biological 'switch' has been discovered in plants that controls their leaf movements, opening them at dawn and closing them at dusk. This discovery could lead to new applications such as preventing crop wilting during drought or altering the time of flowering.
A groundbreaking study reveals that brain cells belong to multiple groups and change their affiliation according to the task, coordinating processes involved in vision, hearing, and movement control. This finding has implications for neurology and computer science.
The new test developed by Prof. Roald Nezlin of the Weizmann Institute solves a problem with standard tests by measuring the quantity of DNA in harmful complexes, indicating effective treatment. This approach could also be used to measure antibody complexes involved in other autoimmune diseases.
Researchers discovered a correlation between El Nino events and increased rainfall in central Israel over the past 20 years. The study used tree rings, satellite cloud images, and rainwater analysis to identify a link between El Niáo and Israeli rainfall.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute have discovered an enzyme called MACH that triggers cellular self-destruction in autoimmune disorders like juvenile diabetes and multiple sclerosis. This finding may lead to treatments that selectively block abnormal cell death signals while allowing normal cell suicide processes to continue.
A recent study reveals how Huperzine A, a natural substance derived from a moss used in Chinese folk medicine, inhibits the brain enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) involved in Alzheimer's disease. This specific binding could lead to the development of potent and safe Alzheimer drugs.