INRS researchers have discovered a new parvovirus strategy for reaching the cell nucleus, using a mechanical response involving an inner pentamer helix bundle. This method is distinct from previously identified enzymatic reactions and has implications for understanding how viruses enter cells.
Stéphane Lefrançois, an INRS researcher, has received a $670,000 grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to study Batten CLN3, a form of the disease caused by mutations in its namesake protein. His research aims to understand the protein's function and find therapeutic targets.
Two natural sugar polymers, exopolysaccharide and biosurfactant, contribute to multicellularity in M. xanthus. The compounds are produced in distinct areas of the swarm, promoting the formation of complex structures and ensuring community survival.
A recent study found an association between a healthy diet and reduced prostate cancer risk, as well as an increased risk with diets rich in sweets and beverages. The research team analyzed data from over 1,000 participants and identified key dietary patterns that may inform prevention strategies for prostate cancer.
Researchers have developed a new method for treating skin cancer that uses silica nanoparticles to deliver light-sensitive medication, potentially expanding its use to other types of cancer. This innovative approach could increase the effectiveness of photodynamic therapies by penetrating deeper into tissue.
Researchers at INRS have successfully tested an advanced electro-oxidation process, which uses electric current to break down non-biodegradable pollutants in treated domestic wastewater. The process generates hydroxide radicals that attack refractory molecules without requiring chemicals, reducing the cost of treatment.
An international team of researchers has demonstrated a technique to increase the intensity of lasers by compressing light pulses. This approach could enable the exploration of quantum electrodynamics phenomena at previously inaccessible intensities.
An international team of researchers used the proton radiography technique to visualize Weibel instabilities in a laser-driven plasma. They highlighted two variants of the instability and demonstrated precision imaging techniques that surpass other methods.
Researchers have developed an efficient way to create micro-combs and exploit them in highly performing and robust frequency multiplexed optical fibre networks. This breakthrough enables the record-high data transmission over 75 km of standard optical fibre using a powerful class of micro-comb called soliton crystals.
Researchers at INRS and McGill University developed a method to draw molecular patterns on the surface of quantum materials using macrocycles, changing their optical, magnetic, and electrical properties. This technique has potential applications for electronic devices and biosensing.
A team of Canadian researchers has discovered the crucial function of a protein in Batten's disease, a neurodegenerative genetic disorder that affects children. The study found that the protein plays a vital role in maintaining cellular endosomal function, which can lead to degeneration if disrupted.
Canadian researchers have created a sustainable biodiesel production method that utilizes sewage sludge and glycerol, lowering the cost of production by over 90% compared to traditional methods.
Researchers have developed an edible coating using cranberry juice and citrus extract that makes noroviruses more sensitive to gamma irradiation, reducing treatment time by half while preserving food quality. This natural antimicrobial method can prevent cell breakdown and discolouration.
A pilot study conducted by INRS researchers highlights the effect of chemotherapy on male fertility before and after puberty. The study found that all patients were at higher risk of infertility due to low sperm production, regardless of age at diagnosis.
Researchers developed a new ecological degradation process for atrazine using nanostructured materials and sunlight. The process eliminates toxic by-products, but its efficiency is limited by the presence of suspended particles and certain species in real water samples.
A research team at INRS has modeled the interaction of commonly used antidepressants with estrogen and aromatase, a key enzyme in fetal development. The study suggests that not all types of antidepressants have the same hormonal affinity, and some may be less harmful to the developing fetus.
A team led by Professor Patrick Labonté identified the role of autophagy in the replication cycle of Hepatitis D virus, which infects only people with hepatitis B. The discovery could lead to a targeted treatment, but raises concerns about long-term effects on cellular function.
Researchers found increased soil erosion 4,000 years ago coinciding with deforestation and land-use changes. Human practices accelerated global sediment accumulation, affecting ecosystems and climate.
Researchers aim to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis by studying the molecular mechanisms of transmission and placenta development. The team will investigate how Toxoplasma gondii infection affects fetal development and explore potential treatments.
A team of researchers has discovered that Leishmania parasites exploit an intracellular transport mechanism to spread their virulence factors within infected host cells. The findings provide new insights into the disease's pathogenesis and could potentially lead to the development of new treatments or therapies.
Professor Patrizio Antici's In-Air PIL technique analyzes chemical composition and crystal characteristics of artworks, reducing complexity and costs. The method has potential applications in cultural heritage conservation and material science.
A team from INRS has successfully generated high-dimensional cluster states and implemented novel quantum operations, paving the way for one-way quantum computing. This breakthrough uses photons as a data medium, leveraging their unique properties to increase information storage capacity and boost computational power.
Researchers from INRS and University of Sussex create an AI-optimized photonic chip to customize the properties of broadband light sources, also known as supercontinuum. This innovation enables new imaging technologies and fundamental research into light-matter interactions.
Federico Rosei, an INRS professor, has received the APS John Wheatley Award for his efforts in bridging the science gap between developed and developing nations. He organizes international conferences to foster scientific dialogue and supports young researchers from developing countries.
Researchers have developed the world's fastest camera capable of capturing 10 trillion frames per second. This innovation enables real-time imaging of dynamic phenomena in biology and physics, allowing for unprecedented insights into light-matter interactions.
Researchers at INRS have developed a cost-effective approach to rapidly identify molecules capable of eliminating Leishmania, a parasite responsible for the deadly tropical disease. The innovation, led by Professors Albert Descoteaux and Steven LaPlante, aims to overcome obstacles in finding effective treatments.
Scientists found that damage from chronic inflammation induces the death of white blood cells essential to eliminating the parasite, allowing it to sustain the infection. The findings may lead to possible treatment and shed light on a phenomenon shared by other chronic infections.
Researchers discovered a new molecular switch that shuts down a key cell-to-cell communication circuit, revealing a faster way to deactivate cellular processes. This finding sheds light on the role of receptor tyrosine kinases and their significance in organism development and maintenance.
Environmental pollutants interfere with hormonal signalling mechanisms in males, causing multiple pathologies including infertility. Professor Daniel Cyr's research focuses on sperm maturation and the role of a cellular barrier in the epididymis.
Researchers from INRS published a study demonstrating the potential effects of neonicotinoids on human health by disrupting hormonal systems. The study found an increase in aromatase expression and changes in its pattern similar to those observed in certain breast cancers.
A Montreal bike path network expansion has left children without equal access despite increased growth between 1991 and 2016. Researchers warn that targeting cycling infrastructure for children is crucial for understanding the benefits of bicycling once they become adults.
INRS is awarded over $1.57 million to support four promising research projects focused on ecotoxicogenomics, high-speed bio-imaging, synaptic dysfunction in motor neuron diseases, and quantum materials
A composite thin film made of two different inorganic oxide materials significantly improves the performance of solar cells by optimizing its ability to absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. The material achieves a record power conversion efficiency of up to 4.2%, making it promising for future solar technologies.
Researchers at INRS have identified a non-pathogenic marine bacterium that can effectively degrade petroleum products in soil and water. The bacteria's enzymes have been shown to break down benzene, toluene, and xylene with high efficiency, offering an eco-friendly method for decontaminating oil sites.
Research by INRS professor Tracie A. Barnett found that children living in more walkable neighborhoods have smaller waist measurements and lower BMI levels. The study suggests that infrastructure designed to encourage walking can help reduce childhood obesity.
Scientists have discovered a new way to modify phonon response in nanomaterials by harnessing zero-point energy, opening up possibilities for nanophotonics and nanoelectronics applications. The researchers created hybrid nanosystems with novel optical phonon properties.
Researchers found that thawing permafrost is increasing the concentration of organic matter in Arctic and subarctic ponds. This leads to oxygen depletion and cooler water at the bottom of the ponds, impacting microbial activity and greenhouse gas production.
Researchers have developed a new method to identify the chirality of molecules by exciting electrons into twisting motion using short laser pulses. The technique is highly sensitive, detecting right-handed and left-handed molecules with a signal 1000 times stronger than traditional methods.
Researchers at INRS develop a hydrometallurgical process to decontaminate treated wood waste, removing over 90% of contaminants. The process is environmentally friendly and cost-effective, diverting wood waste from landfills and incineration.
Researchers Albert Descoteaux and Kessen Patten will study Leishmania's mechanisms to evade the immune system and spinal muscular atrophy, respectively. Their work aims to advance understanding of these diseases and uncover therapeutic targets.
A new method has been proposed to stress test materials subjected to harsh conditions, offering a faster and more accurate alternative to existing methods. Laser-accelerated proton beams can reproduce damage equivalent to several months of full operation of facilities producing a harsh environment for materials.
Dr. Federico Rosei, a renowned professor and researcher, has been invited to join the prestigious World Academy of Ceramics as an Academician in recognition of his groundbreaking work on nanoscale functional materials. His research has led to significant advances in solar, optoelectronic, and biomedical technologies.
Researchers use ultrafast laser to study camphor molecules' photoionization, finding that mirror images emit electrons in opposite directions. This asymmetry could be key to understanding the homochiral nature of living organisms.
Researchers developed a new approach to monitoring algae blooms near lake shores, combining satellite and drone imaging for early detection. The tool offers near-daily updates, fast water quality monitoring, and better chorophyll a distribution maps.
A six-year program will provide multidisciplinary training to tackle urban and industrial runoff challenges and promote ecofriendly approaches to managing water and residual effluents. The grant supports INRS' Decontamination and Reclamation research area and ties in with NSERC's priority fields of environmental science and technology.
Research reveals that cancer survivors experience difficulty conceiving and increased embryo loss, while their children's health remains unaffected. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring across multiple generations to understand the long-term effects of chemotherapy.
Researchers found that a specific part of the spike protein, called the RBD, is crucial for infection but also targets by antibodies. The RBD has three long loops that vary between strains, allowing it to modulate its affinity with host cells and evade immunity.
INRS professor Jinyang Liang has designed an ultrafast, highly sensitive imaging microscope to study living animals. The new technology bridges the gap between biomedical, physics, and engineering fields.
INRS professors François Légaré and Federico Rosei have been elected OSA Fellows for their groundbreaking work in ultrafast molecular imaging and photonic materials development. The distinction reflects their leadership, publication record, and significant impact on optics and photonics research.
An international team of researchers has made a groundbreaking discovery about matter accretion in young stars, allowing for more accurate calculations of the accretion rate. This finding is crucial for understanding the life cycle of stars and their growth under gravity's influence.