Researchers used virtual reality to measure interpersonal distance in Italian and Japanese participants, finding that cultural background and first impressions influence personal space. The study suggests that virtual environments can be used to standardize the appearance of agents and observe social behavior with high precision.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia developed an octopus-inspired soft robotic arm with integrated tactile sensors, enabling autonomous grasp and manipulation in aquatic environments. The system combines distributed tactile sensing and decentralized control to detect contact and adapt grip autonomously.
Researchers identified two reproducible autism subtypes characterized by reduced brain connectivity (hypoconnectivity) or increased connectivity (hyperconnectivity), linked to synaptic pathways and immune-related systems, respectively. The study provides a biological foundation for precision medicine approaches.
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals that traumatic experiences during critical periods of life, particularly childhood to early adulthood, have lasting impacts on brain development and behavior. The research found that the timing of trauma, not its type, plays a key role in determining distinct behavioral outcomes.
A new study from IIT, Uppsala University, and AstraZeneca uses computational chemistry and supercomputers to better understand splicing, a key process in gene expression. The results provide precise insights into splicing dynamics and help explain previously difficult-to-interpret data.
A study reveals that identical photons in optical circuits exhibit Hopfield Network behavior, enabling associative memory mechanisms similar to the human brain. The research finds a fundamental limit to memory capacity, with quantum coherence allowing correct retrieval but transitioning to disorder as data volume increases.
Five IIT researchers receive Proof-of-Concept grants to develop innovative health technologies, including a smart microscope and edible pills. These projects aim to tackle cancer, dyslexia, and diagnostics with cutting-edge technologies like quantum computing and near-infrared photonic chips.
Researchers at IIT develop optical microscopy technique that combines polarization and dark-field microscopy to observe cells with high contrast, preserving their natural conditions. The next step involves using AI to enrich images with molecular information related to diseases.
Researchers at IIT identified a candidate molecule called Apt1 that enhances existing anticancer therapies by making tumour cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy drugs. The molecule slows DNA repair and impairs the interaction between RAD51 and BRCA2 proteins, inducing synthetic lethality in cancerous cells.
The startup aims to bring human integration and industrial usability to its robots, which will operate safely and efficiently in industrial environments. The company's mission is to create a future where humans and robots collaborate daily.
A microRNA cocktail has been developed to weaken glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain tumor. The formulation, comprising 11 different non-coding RNAs, slows the growth of cancer cells and enhances chemotherapeutic drug activity.
Avram Miller, a renowned scientist and innovator, has been appointed as the first IIT Fellow, marking a new initiative to recognize leading figures in science and innovation. The program aims to foster collaborations with prominent experts worldwide, strengthening IIT's global reputation.
The Omnia bionic leg, developed by the Italian Institute of Technology, won the Cybathlon 2024 leg prosthesis race with its semipowered knee and ankle system. Andrea Modica, a transfemoral amputee and pilot of the device, successfully completed 9 out of 10 tasks in just 2 minutes and 57 seconds.
Angelo Forli's research project aims to investigate the hippocampus, a key region for memory and learning, to understand its mechanisms and adaptability. His team will explore how neural networks regain control of regenerated organs and develop new technologies inspired by brain's 'regenerative intelligence'.
Researchers at IIT and UniBz developed a biodegradable hydrogel that retains water and supports plant growth in drought conditions, enabling minimal water usage. The material also exhibits potential for real-time monitoring of plant health and soil conditions.
Frasky, developed by IIT, combines robotics and AI to address environmental sustainability and labor shortages in agriculture. The robot can navigate autonomously, map its surroundings, and apply selective treatments to grape clusters with precision.
Researchers discovered that humans treat a robotic hand as part of their body schema when working together on tasks, particularly when the robot's gestures are synchronized with those of humans. The study paves the way for better-designed robots that can interact more intuitively with humans.
The robotic exoskeleton TWIN has been awarded the Compasso d’Oro International Award for its innovative design and ability to adapt to different user needs. Developed by Rehab Technologies IIT – INAIL and ddpstudio, TWIN provides energy assistance to individuals with limited mobility, enabling them to stand, walk, and sit down.
A researcher at IIT Genoa, Eli Slenders, has been awarded an ERC Starting Grant to build a new microscope that can track molecules inside cells and detect disease onset. The grant will enable him to establish his own research group and study the position and speed of biomolecules.
Researchers from Italy developed a conductive biopaste to accelerate coral growth and a natural healing patch to target antibiotic delivery to diseased corals, both showing promising results in laboratory tests.
A new microscopy technique allows scientists to observe active cells, even in the presence of diseases, and understand how drugs interact with living tissues. The technique has been made available to the scientific community as Open Science, enabling rapid dissemination and further innovation.
Laura Cancedda, head of IIT's Brain Development and Disease Research Unit, has been elected to EMBO for her research excellence. She joins two Italian researchers among the new 60 members from 18 countries, who will contribute to life sciences globally.
Researchers at IIT have successfully demonstrated the first flight of a humanoid robot, iRonCub3, which can lift off the floor and maintain stability. The robot's AI-powered control system enables it to handle high-speed turbulent airflows, extreme temperatures, and complex dynamics.
Antonio Bicchi has been selected for the 2025 Pioneer in Robotics and Automation Award for his groundbreaking contributions to robotics and prosthetics. He is recognized for developing innovative robotic limbs that match human hand capabilities, as well as natural prosthetic limbs.
A machine-learning algorithm named catGRANULE 2.0 ROBOT identifies molecular targets for further researches and therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. The algorithm analyzes protein-RNA interaction to predict potential harm and identify early pathological signals.
Genoa Instruments has secured €1 million funding to expand its market presence, develop new products, and democratize access to super-resolution microscopy. The company aims to enable researchers and professionals worldwide to access cutting-edge imaging technology.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Imperial College London demonstrate the connection between hand movement patterns and motoneuron control patterns, enabling natural control of bionic limbs. The study reports successful testing of a soft prosthetic hand with individuals with physical impairments.
Antonio Bicchi's IIT-led project VSoftPro aims to create a transhumeral prosthesis with user-controlled stiffness and passive adaptability. The goal is to replicate the natural appearance and functionality of a human arm, enhancing safe and natural interactions.
Researchers demonstrate the effectiveness of Ziapin2 in restoring ON, OFF, and ON-OFF responses induced by light stimuli in retinas with retinitis pigmentosa. The molecule restores light-induced behavior and visual acuteness for up to two weeks without toxic or inflammatory effects.
The AIRCARE Project will introduce AI-powered systems for real-time diagnosis and precision CO2 laser surgery, improving outcomes for UADT cancer patients. The project aims to reduce positive margins, enhance surgical precision and ease of use, transforming quality of life.
A research team from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia has identified a key brain mechanism that modulates how animals react to others' emotions. This finding provides new insights into psychiatric conditions such as PTSD, autism, and schizophrenia.
Marco Celotto and Simone Russo were awarded the Lagomarsino Prize for their groundbreaking research in neuroscience, which combined excellent scientific results with outstanding methods for data analysis, data management, and Open Science. Their work has led to pioneering discoveries on brain stimulation and its potential applications ...
A review paper explores how robots can aid in understanding the human sense of self, including simulating mind and brain processes and testing social capacities. Researchers aim to transfer some features of human self-awareness to robots, which could provide insights into its development and potential applications.
IIT's Omnia prosthetic won the 'Leg Prosthesis' category at Cybathlon 2024, showcasing a novel lower limb prosthetic prototype designed for individuals with transfemoral amputations. The system features a knee and ankle that exchange information to adjust parameters for optimal performance.
A research team at IIT has identified a molecular signature in triple-negative breast cancer cells that can predict the formation of metastases and chemotherapy resistance. The study used single-cell sequencing to track the evolution of cancer cells over time, revealing key epigenetic features involved in tumor development.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia in Milan created an edible transistor using a toothpaste pigment, enabling the development of smart pills and potential healthcare applications. The device is made from ethylcellulose substrate with gold particles and operates at low voltage.
A study published in Current Biology found that bouncing is the primary movement facilitating synchronization in dance, occurring independently of music and partner movements. Researchers identified two modes of synchrony: music-driven and partner-driven, with bouncing acting as a supramodal rhythm regulator.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and EMBL unveiled how to modulate gene expression using small molecules. The study aims to develop new drugs specific to genetic mutations or alterations responsible for the onset of tumors or genetic diseases.
Researchers found that humans feel jointly a sense of agency with humanoid robots when they perceive them as intentional and social agents. This teamwork is more likely to occur when the robot displays human-like behavior and emotions.
Researchers at IIT have identified a brain network that enables the recognition of others' emotions, which could lead to more effective treatments for neurodevelopmental conditions. The discovery provides insight into how the brain processes social functions and may help develop targeted therapies.
The IV-Lab project aims to develop a miniaturized, implantable multi-sensors device to monitor blood vessel health. The device will integrate multiple sensors measuring blood pressure, vessel deformation, and cardiovascular biomarkers, enabling timely and personalized treatment for patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers at IIT developed HybriBot, a biohybrid robot that uses a flour-based capsule and oat fruit appendages to disperse seeds, promoting reforestation. The device has been tested with tomato, chicory, and willow herb seeds in various soils, showing promising results.
Researchers at IIT develop fully immersive iCub3 avatar system for real-world testing, enabling remote control of robots up to 300km away. The system addresses challenges posed by real-world variability and has evolved into a new robot, ergoCub, designed for work environments.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia receive 5 million euros in funding to bridge gap between basic research and real-world applications. The projects aim to address key issues such as tumors, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and new quantum technologies.
A new method has been developed to produce green hydrogen more efficiently and cheaply, using ruthenium particles and a solar-powered electrolytic system. The technology could reduce the costs of green hydrogen production on an industrial scale.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia developed an ultra-thin electronic tattoo that can generate localized tactile sensations. The device uses electro-thermo-pneumatic actuation to produce a force on the skin, allowing users to perceive touch.
The Acer i-Seed is an eco-friendly artificial seed that uses drones to monitor soil temperature. Made from biocompatible and compostable materials, it replicates the aerodynamics of natural Acer seeds and becomes luminescent in response to temperature changes.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed the world's first rechargeable edible battery, utilizing food-grade materials like almonds and capers. The battery can power small electronic devices for a limited time and has potential applications in health monitoring, food storage, and children's toys.
Micro4PAP, a fast-scan Brillouin Microscope, allows for non-destructive, label- and contact-free imaging of biological samples. The device enables sub-millisecond acquisition time, suitable for in-vivo measurements in living cells, promoting early disease detection and diagnosis.
The 3D-BRICKS project aims to develop a new family of 3D nanotransistors using DNA technologies, reducing production costs and increasing computing power. By leveraging carbon nanotubes and self-assembling materials, researchers hope to create compact and efficient nano-transistors.