A recent international study has shed light on the inner workings of the adaptive immune response, revealing how killer T cells recognize viral invaders using molecular road signs. The study highlights the crucial role of chaperones in ensuring the stability and longevity of these road signs, allowing for more effective detection and d...
Researchers at Goethe University discovered a feedback loop that readies the auditory cortex for incoming acoustic signals in bats. This finding challenges previous views on information flow and highlights the significance of feedback loops in the brain.
A new biosynthesis method has been developed to produce antibiotics from natural substances with added fluorine, which can strengthen bonding and improve accessibility. This technology has huge potential for optimizing polyketides, a gigantic substance class used in various medicines.
A study of environmental students from 41 countries found that SDGs are highly accepted globally, with significant differences in pillar ratings between countries. Lower-income nations rated the SDGs as more important than higher-income nations.
A study by Goethe University Frankfurt found that antibodies against Omicron variants BA.1 and BA.2 decline rapidly, even after a second vaccination or booster shot, offering limited protection against infection.
Researchers have deciphered the exact bacterial adhesion mechanism using Bartonella henselae, revealing a key role for trimeric autotransporter adhesins and their interaction with fibronectin. Experimental blocking of these processes almost entirely prevents bacterial adhesion.
Researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt have developed a biobattery for hydrogen storage using bacteria that can bind and release hydrogen in a reversible process. The system has been shown to store and release hydrogen stably over long periods, making it a promising solution for carbon-neutral energy production.
A sociological study found that immigrants' trust in the police decreases over time as they integrate into their host country. The study, which analyzed data from almost 20,000 immigrants across 22 European countries, suggests that experiences of discrimination play a significant role in eroding trust. To maintain high levels of trust ...
Research team from Goethe University reproduces Asian monsoon conditions in experimental chamber, identifying increased aerosol particle formation. The study found that ice clouds can form under lower water vapour supersaturation than anticipated, affecting climate models' accuracy.
The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) has captured the first image of Sagittarius A*, a black hole at the center of the Milky Way, revealing a ring-like structure and shadow. The observation confirms Einstein's theory of general relativity and provides new insights into giant black holes.
A recent study led by Goethe University found no evidence that specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) play a role in inflammation resolution. Instead, the transformation of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages is thought to be the key mechanism. This discovery challenges the existing SPM conce...
Researchers from Goethe University and University of Kent found aprotinin effective against SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Delta and Omicron, by preventing virus entry into host cells. A recent phase III clinical study demonstrated the treatment reduced hospital stays by five days.
A team from Goethe University has identified the spatial structure of the mannitol-synthesizing enzyme MtlD in Acinetobacter baumannii, which is crucial for its survival. This discovery could lead to the development of customized substances to inhibit the enzyme and combat this hospital pathogen.
A digital training program improved movement behavior, physical activity, and mental well-being in participants, while also reducing anxiety levels. The study, conducted by Goethe University Frankfurt, found that the program was particularly effective when used with professional trainers and regular questionnaires.
Researchers found that Chagas trypanosomes change the bacterial community in predatory bugs' intestines, leading to a decrease in diversity and an increase in certain pathogenic bacteria. The study also identified four bacteria species crucial for bug survival, which could be used to develop defensive substances against the parasite.
A new research group aims to bridge historiographical gaps in the understanding of the Black Power movement's influence on America's democracy and values. The project will examine lesser-known groups and topics to illustrate the struggle between competing ideals of US democracy.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have grown crystals with rare-earth atoms that exhibit surprising fast magnetic properties. The team found that the strength of these reactions can be adjusted by choosing different atoms, opening up possibilities for optimizing spintronics components.
Researchers at the European XFEL facility have taken pictures of gas-phase iodopyridine molecules at atomic resolution using ultra-bright X-ray pulses. The images were reconstructed from the fragments caused by a Coulomb explosion, providing unprecedented clarity for this method and molecule size.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt recorded brain waves of bats to understand how they filter out essential signals from echolocation calls and communication signals. The study shows that rare sounds elicit stronger neuronal responses than frequent ones.
A new study examines the toxic impact of bio-based substances and innovative technologies on the environment, finding both biosurfactants and microgels as highly promising candidates for use in sustainable products. The results highlight the importance of integrating green toxicology into bioeconomy strategies.
A nationwide study in Germany found that liver cirrhosis has the highest mortality rate among chronic diseases, with 0.94% of hospital admissions affected. The study also showed a decline in mortality rates due to improvements in Hepatitis C treatment, but an increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease cases.
Researchers used a COLTRIMS reaction microscope to determine the duration of an electron's release after photon absorption. The study found that the emission time depends on the direction and velocity of the electron, revealing a complex interplay between quantum physics and molecular dynamics.
Researchers have discovered that the tumor suppressor protein pVHL degrades SMAD3, inhibiting the TGF-β signaling pathway and suppressing tumour cell growth. This finding opens up new opportunities for developing cancer therapies by regulating pVHL activity.
Researchers from Goethe University and the University of Bristol analyzed prehistoric pots and found complex distributions of plant lipids, indicating the processing of various plant species. The study reveals that leafy greens were first used in West African cuisine around 3,500 years ago.
A new study reveals that the Omicron variant is sensitive to inhibition by the interferon response, an unspecific immune reaction present in all body cells. This provides the first explanation for why COVID-19 patients infected with Omicron are less likely to experience severe disease.
Researchers at Goethe University and the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics have gained new insights into how mitochondrial complex I facilitates proton transfer through water molecules. The study's high-resolution structure data enabled computer simulations that shed light on the protein's dynamics during its catalytic cycle.
An international research team discovered that intestinal bacteria can distribute their metabolic products throughout the body via the bloodstream using membrane vesicles. The study found that these vesicles can overcome the blood-brain barrier and enter brain cells, suggesting a new method for delivering drugs or vaccines.
Theoretical physicists modelled the region around M87's supermassive black hole, confirming that gravity plays a key role in accelerating particles out to thousands of light years. The findings provide further evidence for Einstein's theory of general relativity and its application to astrophysical phenomena.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and Bonn have synthesized molecular nano spheres made of silicon atoms, known as silafulleranes, which can encapsulate chloride ions. The discovery of these new compounds may lead to improved applications in electronics, solar cells, and batteries.
A review of previous scientific studies on pollutant release from sediments during extreme flood events reveals significant risks to human and environmental health. The study highlights the need for good river management to address long-term consequences of pollutants in riverbeds.
Scientists at Goethe University have identified 15 short segments of the SARS-CoV-2 genome that are highly conserved across various coronaviruses and perform essential regulatory functions. These segments were found to be resistant to mutations, making them promising targets for developing new drugs against SARS-CoV-2.
A new multiplex technique developed at Goethe University Frankfurt allows simulating millions of genetic defect combinations and studying their effects in cell culture. This enables the identification of genes involved in cancer and other complex diseases suitable as targets for therapies.
Goethe University is involved in four collaborative research centres funded by the German Research Foundation, including TRR 326 on uniformized structures and TRR 1039 on lipid signalling in health and disease. The centres aim to explore complex geometric spaces and develop innovative ways to diagnose and treat diseases.
A global study reveals that physical activity levels dropped by 41% and mental well-being declined by 26% during pandemic-related restrictions. Exercise is known to boost immune function and reduce mortality risk, but too little exercise may contribute to premature deaths.
New research uses M87* data to test Einstein-based and string-inspired theories, constraining the validity of these models. The study suggests that current data aligns well with Einstein's theory and has limitations for string-based theories.
A global network of researchers has developed protocols for producing large quantities of SARS-CoV-2 proteins in high purity and stability. This allows laboratories to quickly and reproducibly study the virus and its mutants, facilitating research into potential treatments and vaccines.
Researchers found that GS-441524, a metabolite of remdesivir, inhibits the nsP3 protein's activity, which is important for virus replication and suppressing host cell defense. This discovery could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs effective against multiple viruses
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt discovered that Nox4, an enzyme producing H2O2, prevents cancer by keeping phosphatases out of the cell nucleus, thus allowing DNA damage to be recognized and repaired. In its absence, mutated cells multiply uncontrollably, leading to tumour formation.
Researchers at Goethe University and University of Bristol discovered beeswax residues in 3500 year-old Nok culture pottery, revealing the oldest direct evidence of honey collecting in Africa. The analysis of chemical compounds in potsherds sheds new light on the diet and daily life of prehistoric people.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt discovered that clustering of receptors, such as the Y2 receptor, can trigger cell movement similar to the neuropeptide Y signal. The study used light-sensitive matrices and laser spots to control the direction of cell movement with high precision.
Researchers from Goethe University found that aerosol particle formation by iodic acid occurs rapidly in the Arctic atmosphere, potentially leading to increased cloud cover and warming. This discovery has implications for climate models and may help improve predictions for polar regions.
Scientists observed disulphide bridge formation in ribosomal exit tunnel during protein synthesis, challenging previous assumptions. The discovery sheds new light on the causes of lens opacities and cataracts, a leading cause of vision loss worldwide.
A recent study by the PREDICT network identified bacterial infections and alcohol consumption as common triggers for acute decompensation of liver cirrhosis. The study monitored 1273 patients from 15 European countries and found that these triggers were present in over 90% of cases.
A research project led by Goethe University is investigating the role of skills and education in mobility among East Asian countries. The team will collect qualitative data on professionals from China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Vietnam, and conduct quantitative research to test a theory developed from qualitative findings.
A team of international researchers found that certain FAK inhibitors remain bound to the protein for a long time, causing a structural change that inhibits cancer cell mobility. Computer simulations predicted the kinetics of binding well, allowing for more accurate simulation of drug dissociation rates.
Elvira Mass has made a significant contribution to understanding the role of yolk sac-derived macrophages in maintaining healthy organs. Her research found that these cells can self-maintain for a lifetime, producing bioactive molecules and growth factors essential for tissue development.
Researchers at Goethe University and the University of Oklahoma have successfully filmed a quantum wave in a helium dimer. The study uses an extremely powerful laser flash to twist the bond between two helium atoms, allowing them to observe and record the atom flying away as a wave.
Researchers found that loperamide triggers autophagic cell death in glioblastoma cells by inducing ER stress, opening new avenues for treatment strategies. The mechanism may also be applicable to other diseases where ER degradation is disrupted.
Researchers developed a new teaching concept for secondary physics that focuses on intuitive understanding of voltage and its application to electric circuits. The curriculum, which uses analogies such as air pressure differences, significantly improved students' understanding compared to traditional tuition.
A recent study by an international team of researchers has discovered a novel link between tRNA fragments and the immune response following stroke. The findings suggest that tRNA fragments may replace microRNAs in monocytes, regulating homeostasis and potentially working in synergy.