Researchers sequenced genomes of 157 yeast strains used in brewing and found that industrial yeast came from just a few ancestral strains. Genetic patterns revealed clues on when yeast was first domesticated and how humans shaped its development.
Scientists describe a multi-step method to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies in genetically engineered mice, which can recognize multiple HIV mutations. This approach offers a starting point for developing an HIV vaccine that could prevent infection or cure the systemic illness.
A new study has identified four highly distinct groups of giraffe, each with its own genetic profile, indicating they should be recognized as four separate species. The researchers hope this discovery will lead to targeted conservation efforts for the endangered species.
Researchers found that Zika virus can infect specific regions of the eye in adult mice, resulting in inflammation and symptoms similar to those observed in human patients. The study also raised questions about whether the virus continues to replicate in the lacrimal gland after being cleared from the body.
Researchers found that rats' memories of reaching a reward play forward and backward in their hippocampus. The number of reverse replays rose with the size of the reward, while forward replays remained constant, suggesting different roles for each form of fast-motion simulation.
A new multicomponent virus, Guaico Culex, has been found to infect animals, a finding that challenges existing assumptions about viral transmission. The virus was isolated from mosquitoes and belongs to the Jingmenvirus group, which was previously thought to infect only plants and fungi.
Researchers discovered a protein that prevents delta opioid receptors from responding normally to opioids, but exposure to bradykinin restores their function. This finding could lead to the development of safer, more effective opioids for chronic pain treatment.
A new mouse model reveals Zika virus can replicate for extended periods in the vagina, leading to brain infection and growth restriction. Researchers also investigate potential blocking methods using the interferon pathway.
Researchers have developed a live-cell-imaging-based system that reveals the molecular and biomechanical mechanisms of Lyme disease bacteria's ability to spread through blood vessels. The study found that BBK32 plays a crucial role in stabilizing bacterial-vascular interactions, and bacteria use bungee-cord-like tethers to move along e...
Fascin protein plays a crucial role in deforming the cell nucleus to navigate through tight spaces. The study suggests that this ability may be exploited by cancer cells to invade tissues, making fascin a potential target for therapy.
A recent study challenges the concept of 'healthy obesity,' revealing nearly identical gene expression changes in obese individuals with varying levels of insulin sensitivity. The research suggests that vigorous health interventions may be necessary for all obese individuals, regardless of their metabolic health status.
Researchers discover Zika virus kills off neural stem cells in adult mice, raising concerns about its impact on the adult brain. The study found a 4- to 10-fold drop in adult stem cell proliferation, which could have implications for learning and memory.
Researchers explore the role of 'cognitive offloading' in managing information and retention, finding that people use physical actions to reduce mental effort when performing tasks. This strategy can have both benefits, such as increased confidence and ability, and drawbacks, including reduced memory for stored information.
Researchers are developing 3D printed tissues, including skin, bone, cartilage, and bladder models. Organs-on-a-chip systems mimic human tissue structure and function, allowing for the study of physiological differences and drug screening.
Researchers discovered that oral microbes like fusobacteria travel through the bloodstream to reach colorectal tumors, where they proliferate and accelerate cancer. The study sheds light on how these bacteria home in on tumors using a protein called Fap2.
A growing number of scientists argue that sex hormones and other variables affect how therapeutics behave, necessitating male and female inclusion in trials. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can significantly impact research, making it essential to consider these differences when testing drugs or transplant tolerance.
Researchers propose that natural selection favors strong anti-cancer protection in small, critical organs like the heart and brain. The study suggests that these organs are more resistant to tumor formation due to their smaller size and importance for human survival.
Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.
Researchers discovered that whales' ultrasonic hearing arose earlier than anticipated, with the ability to hear at high frequencies evolving about 27 million years ago. This finding suggests that traits associated with this ability predate the emergence of toothed whales.
Researchers found genetic connections between European settlers and farmers in Central Turkey, tracing back to the late Stone Age. The study suggests that farming knowledge spread from Turkey to Europe through human migration and cultural exchange.
Men spend more time engaged in peaceful physical contact after sports matches than women do, suggesting traditional gender roles influence conflict resolution. The study lends support to the warrior hypothesis, which proposes males prioritize cooperation over individual hard feelings.
A new approach using patient-derived cell lines has revealed that pancreatic tumors have diverse genetic mutations, making it challenging to target treatments. The study suggests that personalized medicine can be improved by testing drugs against each patient's specific tumor genetics.
Historical rates and patterns of tropical deforestation around the globe were used to estimate carbon emissions and species losses over time. Current emissions and extinctions are mostly tied to past actions.
Researchers found that in pristine remote coral reefs, sharks outnumber their prey at local scales due to spawning aggregations delivering fish directly to them. Conservation efforts may need to prioritize protection of these aggregations alongside shark fishing bans to maintain shark populations.
Scientists have created gels that can instruct stem cells to differentiate into specific types, such as bone and cartilage. By monitoring stem cell behavior on these gels, researchers identified key metabolites that guide the differentiation process.
Researchers have identified specific antibodies that protect against Zika infection in mice, targeting a region of the virus similar to other flaviviruses like Dengue and West Nile. These findings aim to optimize current vaccine strategies and develop new antibody-based therapeutics.
A ketone drink developed for soldiers improved endurance performance in highly trained cyclists, enabling them to cover an additional 400 meters. The supplement works by temporarily switching the primary source of cellular energy from glucose or fat to ketones, reducing lactic acid production and muscle fatigue.
Researchers studied two contemporary groups of hunter-gatherers, the Agta of Philippines and Mbendjele of Republic of Congo, revealing surprising similarities in their three-tiered social networks. This multilevel structure appears to buffer individuals against day-to-day shortfalls in foraging returns.
Researchers have identified a link between the TREM2 gene and immune cell dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. Studies found that variants of this gene can impair the brain's ability to clear amyloid-beta aggregates, a hallmark of the disease.
Researchers found that people's expected performance ratings were influenced by the performance of others, particularly in cooperative situations. The brain imaging data revealed two distinct regions involved in estimating one's own abilities and those of others.
Researchers investigate whether fiction can broaden minds, promote empathy, and improve mental well-being. Studies show that engaging with narratives can simulate social worlds, prompting understanding and empathy.
A new study found that constant artificial lighting leads to severe disruption of health parameters in mice, including pro-inflammatory activation of the immune system, muscle loss, and early signs of osteoporosis. However, the effects are reversible when the environmental light-dark cycle is restored.
Researchers argue that MDMA's molecular targets could lead to new treatments for disorders like autism and PTSD with less abuse liability. Studies have shown some promise in treating PTSD, aiding patients in forming a stronger bond with a therapist.
Scientists use iDISCO clearing method to visualize brain tissue from deceased patients with Alzheimer's disease, exposing nonrandom structures of beta amyloid plaques. This breakthrough finding may lead to new targeted drugs and a better understanding of the relationship between plaque presence and disease severity.
Two independent studies in mice show that fasting or caloric restriction mimetics during chemotherapy increases the presence of cancer-killing T cells, reducing tumor mass over time. The research provides proof of concept for two potentially safe approaches to enhance chemotherapy.
A new government study suggests that the graying of the biomedical workforce is driving younger scientists away from academia, but found no evidence of a preference for older applicants in NIH grant funding. The study's authors conclude that other factors, such as changes in academic training and payment, are more likely to be contribu...
Research suggests that certain microbes in the air can be beneficial for human health, reducing allergy rates and improving immune function. By designing buildings with ventilation systems that bring in fresh outdoor air, architects can facilitate exposure to these beneficial microbes.
Scientists analyzed genetic mutations in patient tumors and cancer cell lines to predict which drugs will best fight various cancers. The study found that certain genetic mutations can signal whether cancer cells are sensitive or resistant to different compounds, depending on the type of tissue.
Researchers created super-sniffer mice using transgenic technology to study human odor receptors, which could lead to land mine detection and novel disease sensors. The mice were able to detect a specific odor two orders of magnitude lower than non-super sniffer mice.
A study found that pea plants choose to grow more roots in a pot with variable nutrient levels when the average level is low, accepting more risk. This decision-making ability allows them to adapt and respond to their environment much like humans or other animals.
A study found that at least 351 US businesses are marketing unapproved stem cell procedures, targeting various medical conditions. The businesses are mainly concentrated in California, Florida, and Texas.
Researchers argue that ancient grains like einkorn, emmer, and spelt can be reintroduced to modern markets by creating 'farm to fork' supply chains. These varieties offer unique nutritional profiles and taste experiences, making them attractive to consumers seeking healthier ingredients.
A new study reveals that treadmill training releases a protein called cathepsin B, which improves memory recall in mice. The findings support the benefits of regular exercise on cognitive function and suggest that this protein may play a key role in maintaining brain health.
Researchers discovered a cluster of hypothalamic cells that respond only to male smells, driving intruder mice to explore their surroundings. These cells play a crucial role in regulating social behavior, similar to the human brain, and may hold the key to understanding disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Monkeys' selectivity towards social and non-social information increases with age, similar to humans. Aging monkeys show reduced social interaction but remain interested in their social world.
Researchers develop CAR T cell therapy targeting a specific glycopeptide found on cancer cells but not normal cells, showing promise in treating leukemia and pancreatic cancer in mice. The therapy demonstrates improved survival rates and potential for broad applicability to various cancers.
Researchers found that mosquito bites can facilitate viral replication and spread by triggering an inflammatory response in the skin. The study suggests new approaches for combating viruses, including using topical creams to suppress bite inflammation.
A study published in Cell Reports found that mice fed a high-fiber diet had fewer severe peanut allergies than those with an average fiber intake. The researchers discovered that gut bacteria release specific fatty acids in response to fiber intake, which impact allergic responses via changes to the immune system.
In early mammals, rods in the mammalian eye developed from color-detecting cone cells, giving them an edge in low-light conditions. This evolution allowed early mammals to take up a nocturnal lifestyle and survive as predators were dominant during the day.
A new genetic mutation in the CAPN1 gene has been identified as a cause of ataxia in humans and Parson Russell Terrier dogs. Calpain-1, an enzyme involved in brain development, is found to be neuroprotective, preventing excessive neuronal death.