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Kyoto University


Taking pressure off the lungs

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered that targeting the CNP/GC-B signal pathway may provide a promising approach for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). The study reveals that CNP/GC-B signaling plays a protective role against PAH, and administration of CNP ameliorates experimental pulmonary hypertension.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 17, 2026

Not so pretty but plenty of likes

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that bees favor flowers with early visitors over color, even when the latter has an initial disadvantage. This finding indicates that social information plays a crucial role in pollinator choice, and flowers that secure early visitors may gain a lasting advantage.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2026

Bringing diabetes treatment into focus

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a PET tracer to quantify beta cell mass in type 1 diabetes patients, revealing lower uptake in those with the disease. This measurement was inversely related to hemoglobin A1c and total daily insulin dose, suggesting its potential as a noninvasive readout of residual beta cell mass.

SourceKyoto University·JournalDiabetes·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 12, 2026

Giving stem cells room to breathe

Researchers developed hybrid spheroids with biodegradable nanogels to improve stem cell function and survival in injured swallowing muscles. The approach significantly improved muscle regeneration, cell retention, and functional recovery in a rat model.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026

What drives a mysterious sodium pump?

Researchers at Kyoto University have directly captured intermediate structural states of the Na⁺-NQR enzyme using cryo-electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations. The study reveals that redox reactions drive sodium ion transport by changing the enzyme's structure, allowing ions to pass through the bacterial cell membrane.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 2026

Could ionospheric disturbances influence earthquakes?

The study suggests that ionospheric charge variations could interact with pre-existing fragile structures in the Earth's crust, influencing fracture processes. Strong solar activity could generate electrostatic pressures comparable to tidal or gravitational stresses, potentially contributing to earthquake initiation.

SourceKyoto University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 5, 2026

Born in brightness, leading to darkness

Researchers at Kyoto University observe a peculiar supernova explosion, SN 2022esa, which reveals the birth of a black hole binary. The study provides new direction for understanding massive star evolution and black hole formation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2026

Using rare sugars to address alcoholism

A new protocol models alcoholism in mice and shows that stimulating the FGF21-oxytocin-dopamine system with rare sugars can reduce alcohol consumption. The researchers believe that this system may play a role in regulating subconscious information processing, leading to effective dietary therapy for reducing over-drinking.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2026

The secret room a giant virus creates inside its host amoeba

Researchers discovered a subcellular environment within the giant virus Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus that enables efficient translation of viral mRNAs despite mismatched codon usage with its host. This specialized environment alleviates the unfavorable translation condition, allowing for optimal viral replication.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 9, 2026

Subtyping colorectal cancer

Researchers at Kyoto University identified five molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer stem cells and developed a practical prognostic indicator, the general colorectal cancer signature (GCS), to predict patient outcomes. The GCS was validated with a novel orthotopic xenograft mouse model and showed promising clinical significance.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCancer Science·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2025

Super strain-resistant superconductors

A new study from Kyoto University has identified a one-component superconducting state in strontium ruthenate, defying earlier predictions. The researchers developed a technique to apply shear strain to extremely thin crystals, finding that it had virtually no effect on the superconducting temperature.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2025

When neural spikes break time's symmetry

Researchers developed a method that characterizes collective dynamics of neural activity using principles from thermodynamics. They found that neurons dynamically reshape their interactions during behavior and that the brain's internal temporal asymmetry shifts during task engagement, shedding light on efficient computation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2025

Where the elements come from

A team of researchers at Kyoto University used X-ray spectroscopy to measure the amount of chlorine and potassium inside a supernova remnant, revealing that these elements were created in intense environments deep inside stars. The study suggests that strong mixing inside massive stars can enhance the production of these elements.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2025

Fighting two infections at once

A study found that hepatitis C treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) improves immune function in individuals co-infected with HIV and HCV, even in those with advanced liver disease. The treatment resulted in significant declines in inflammation and liver damage markers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 26, 2025

Can AI help us predict earthquakes?

Machine learning models detected subtle signals that emerge just before the onset of laboratory earthquakes. The key predictive factor is the evolution of shear stress on creeping regions of the fault.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2025

Eyes above the trees

Researchers at Kyoto University used LiDAR to measure the crown structure of 4,326 canopy trees across 23 forest census plots in Japan. The analysis revealed that canopy trees account for about 75% of total forest biomass across diverse forest types, providing a foundation for estimating total forest biomass and supporting sustainable ...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Forest Research·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2025

Coronal mass ejections at the dawn of the solar system

Researchers from Kyoto University have found multi-temperature coronal mass ejections from a young solar analogue, suggesting frequent strong CMEs could have driven life emergence on early planets. The study used simultaneous space- and ground-based observations to capture hot and cool plasma components.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2025

Life in the fast (and slow) lanes for salmon

A team of Kyoto University researchers investigated life-history variation in masu salmon to understand their ability to adapt to changing environments. They found that fast-life individuals dominated downstream reaches, while slow-life individuals were more prevalent upstream. However, within-habitat variation was found to be more imp...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 21, 2025

The persistence of diabetes stigma

A study at Kyoto University found that nearly half of Japanese medical students and residents held misconceptions about diabetes, such as a genetic cause or shorter life expectancy. The research suggests that clinical lectures may not be enough to address the stigma, highlighting the need for improved medical education curricula in Japan.

SourceKyoto University·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·TypeSurvey·DateOct 16, 2025

Addressing inequality in climate research

An international research team has proposed a more open and transparent platform for comparative climate research, allowing researchers from diverse regions to participate. This may lead to more balanced scientific basis for global climate policy, with increased consideration of developing countries' perspectives.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2025

Hotter does mean wetter

A Kyoto University study found that a 4 degree global temperature increase will intensify extreme precipitation and make it stronger by 7% per degree of warming. However, favorable conditions for extreme precipitation occur when atmospheric moisture is sufficient, not on the hottest days.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 15, 2025

The tides are changing for white dwarfs

Recent studies reveal a class of short period binary systems where white dwarfs are inflated and their surface temperatures can reach 10-30 thousand degrees Kelvin. Tidal forces can strongly influence the evolution of these stars, causing them to inflate and increase in temperature.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2025

Do elephants know when we're looking at them?

A study by researchers at Kyoto University found that Asian elephants understand the importance of visual attention for effective communication. The elephants gestured most when both the experimenter's body and face were oriented towards them, suggesting they use a combination of cues to recognize human visual attention.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateOct 2, 2025

The relaxed birder

A new framework for flexible data collection has been developed by Masumi Hisano, allowing for counts to take place in various settings, including cities and daily routines. This approach can help increase sample size and provide valuable insights into bird species assemblage datasets linked to landscape characteristics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2025

Adapting to a seasonal diet

A year-long study on Japanese macaques found that their gut microbiome composition and fermentative ability adjust seasonally to improve digestive efficiency. The study reveals that mature leaf consumption boosts the fermentative ability of the gut microbiome, helping monkeys handle chemically defended foods during harsh winters.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2025

Indra's internet

A study explores how Buddhist philosophy can enhance psychotherapy in the context of digital mental health. The findings focus on three key lenses: networked dynamics, reciprocity, and cognitive flexibility. These lenses frame experience as relational and evolving, highlighting the importance of overlooked connections and incidental en...

SourceKyoto University·TypeCase study·DateSep 16, 2025

Measuring the quantum W state

Kyoto University researchers successfully developed an entangled measurement method for the W state, enabling efficient identification of entangled states. The team used a photonic quantum circuit and demonstrated its feasibility with three-photon W states.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2025

Pathways to decarbonization

A comprehensive study assesses decarbonization's ramifications on global poverty and inequality, revealing the potential for redistributing domestic carbon revenues to alleviate poverty. However, careful policy design and international cooperation are crucial to address social development issues in developing countries.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 8, 2025

Eating for two

A study of 344 Japanese women found that a diet rich in fermented foods, soy products, mushrooms, and seaweed was associated with improved gut microbiota and reduced depressive symptoms. Traditional Japanese cuisine may hold the key to preventing postpartum depression.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2025

A new shrimp roommate

Researchers from Kyoto University discovered a new shrimp roommate, Betaeus levifrons, living in Japanese mud shrimp (Upogebia major) burrows on the Pacific coast of Hokkaido. This symbiotic relationship highlights the unique ecological and evolutionary processes underlying these interactions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2025

Making the weight in four years

Researchers from Kyoto University discovered that periodical cicadas use a four-year body weight threshold to decide when to emerge. The 16-year-old nymphs with red eyes and large body weights likely exceeded the critical threshold, indicating their decision to emerge.

SourceKyoto University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2025

Feeding massive stars

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that streamers of gas can feed young stars, potentially leading to the rapid formation of high-mass stars. The team used ALMA to observe a system with two streamers, which carried enough matter to quench feedback effects from the central star.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 20, 2025

Space mice babies

A team of researchers at Kyoto University successfully cryopreserved mouse stem cells and sent them to the International Space Station, where they returned healthy offspring after thawing. The study suggests that cryopreservation can maintain fertility for at least six months, paving the way for future human spaceflight.

SourceKyoto University·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2025

Back from the brink of extinction

A study found that the red-headed wood pigeon's unique genetic history, shaped by centuries of gradual inbreeding, enabled its population to survive and rebound dramatically. The team's analysis revealed lower levels of highly deleterious mutations in the endangered species compared to the more widespread Japanese wood pigeon.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 13, 2025

Seals on the move

The study analyzed the northbound migration of northern fur seals, revealing that they concentrate foraging activity along continental shelf-breaks and near anticyclonic eddies. The findings provide new insights into the seals' response to oceanographic conditions and highlight the importance of long-term monitoring in understanding th...

SourceKyoto University·JournalDeep Sea Research Part I Oceanographic Research Papers·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2025

A new alternative to opioids

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a novel analgesic called ADRIANA, which targets the α2B-adrenoceptor and exerts its effect without causing cardiovascular instability. The compound has shown highly promising results in non-clinical studies and early clinical trials.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 4, 2025

Black hole vibes

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has successfully developed a method to calculate the vibrations of black holes using exact WKB analysis. The approach reveals complex patterns in spiraling waves, enabling precise capture of frequency structure and bridging theoretical predictions with observational data.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review D·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 30, 2025

The eagles resistant to poisonous toads

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that crested serpent eagles possess a unique genetic mutation allowing them to resist the toxins of invasive cane toads. The eagle's toxin resistance is attributed to the same amino acid sequence as the Siamese red-necked keelback snake.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJul 30, 2025

Magnetizing quantum communication

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to strengthen the brightness of single-photon light sources using magnetism. By introducing defects into a two-dimensional semiconductor, they were able to enhance the emission intensity even under weak magnetic fields.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2025

Earthquake caught on camera

A recent study analyzed CCTV footage of the 2025 Myanmar Earthquake, capturing unprecedented details about the fault motion. The team found that the fault slipped sideways by 2.5 meters in just 1.3 seconds, with a maximum speed of 3.2 meters per second.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Seismic Record·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2025

Do dogs judge you?

A recent study by researchers at Kyoto University found that dogs across all age groups did not exhibit preferences for generous or selfish individuals, despite their ability to eavesdrop on another dog's interactions. This suggests that reputation formation may be more complex than previously thought in animals like dogs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAnimal Cognition·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2025

Your lungs in chip form

Researchers at Kyoto University have created a microphysiological system capable of simulating different regions of human lungs, including the airway and alveoli. This breakthrough enables accurate modeling of viral pathologies and holds promise for personalized treatment of respiratory diseases such as COVID-19.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 16, 2025