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INRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment


Eating jetlag and the risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study suggests that eating jetlag, which disrupts the body's biological rhythm, may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in men. The study found that each additional hour of eating jetlag was associated with a 14% increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a 21% increased risk of coronary heart disease.

A newly discovered role for tension wood: the “muscle” trees use to correct their posture

Plants use proprioception to control their posture and maintain a straight shape, utilizing tension wood as a muscle-like structure that can bend and straighten. This complex biological process is regulated at the cellular level and unfolds through several stages, governed by the plant's proprioception.

Caesarean birth: sex-specific effects on the microbiota

A study reveals that caesarean delivery alters microbial colonisation in the first days of life, with distinct effects on male and female mice. Males born by caesarean section develop increased susceptibility to colitis in adulthood, while females do not. This difference is linked to changes in gut microbiota and barrier function.

African swine fever: a novel model for assessing transmission between domestic pigs and wild boar

Researchers developed an innovative multi-host epidemiological model to study African swine fever (ASF) transmission between domestic pigs and wild boars. The model found that inter-farm transmission was the primary driver sustaining outbreaks, while nearby infected wild boar populations played a significant role in ASF spread.

An international team uncovers the comprehensive repertoire of genes and agricultural traits of eggplant

Researchers sequenced the genome of over 3,400 cultivated eggplant varieties and identified key agronomic traits associated with genes. The study revealed over 3,000 associations between traits and genes, providing a foundation for breeding tailor-made eggplant varieties adapted to local conditions.

Sophie Nicklaus appointed Scientific Director of Food & Health at INRAE

Sophie Nicklaus has been appointed Scientific Director of Food & Health at INRAE to focus on improving understanding of dietary behavior, food sovereignty, and innovations to reduce losses and environmental impacts. Her work aims to address climate change, geopolitical crises, and economic tensions through a One Health approach.

Largest database on Mediterranean trees available through open access

A large dataset on Mediterranean tree species has been compiled, revealing significant variations in endemic species across different botanical territories. The study highlights the need for stronger collaboration to support national and regional conservation policies for forest genetic resources.

A probiotic bacterial strain proven more effective for treating a common intestinal infection

Researchers have discovered a new probiotic bacterial strain that is 15% more effective in treating giardiasis than the existing strain. The strain, Lactobacillus johnsonii CNCM I-4884, has significant anti-Giardia activity and can transform conjugated bile salts into toxic compounds for the parasite.

Maritime pine seeds remember temperature conditions

Researchers found that maritime pine seeds retain memories of temperature conditions experienced during embryonic development, influencing gene expression and potentially affecting tree growth. The study suggests epigenetic mechanisms could play a crucial role in helping trees adapt to environmental stressors and climate change.

Reprogramming wood-degrading mushroom enzymes for the biorecycling of plastic

Researchers successfully designed and engineered novel enzyme systems that can degrade various types of plastics. By replacing the binding module with different modules, they created chimera LPMOs capable of recognizing and breaking down different types of plastics, including biosourced polyhydroxyalkanoate.

Food security: discovery of a gene for immunity against a disease that ravages rice and wheat crops

Researchers have identified a new type of resistance gene in plants called Ptr, which makes rice immune to certain strains of the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. This finding invalidates previous studies on another gene named Pi-ta and opens up new avenues for understanding natural resistance to disease.

The consumption of certain food additive emulsifiers could be associated with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

A large French study found a link between chronic exposure to certain emulsifiers and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers analyzed data from over 104,000 adults and observed an association with several emulsifiers.