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Kyoto University


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

Decoding quantum advantage

Researchers at Kyoto University have characterized quantum advantage by proving an equivalence between its existence and the security of certain cryptographic primitives. This breakthrough implies that when quantum advantage does not exist, many conventional cryptographic primitives are broken, including post-quantum ones.

SourceKyoto University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 13, 2025

It's never too late to start playing an instrument

Research from Kyoto University found that continuing to play a musical instrument into old age preserves brain function and prevents atrophy in the putamen. Long-term practice showed no decline in verbal working memory performance or gray matter volume, while short-term practice improved memory function for four months.

SourceKyoto University·JournalImaging Neuroscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 4, 2025

Bulking up for solar power

Researchers at Kyoto University have created a new artificial heterostructure device that mimics broken spatial and time-reversal symmetry, enabling new bulk photovoltaic effects. The device shows promise for next-generation solar cells with improved efficiency and multifunctionality.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2025

Hey Doc, you got something for snails?

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has identified four species of snail parasites in Japanese sea cucumbers, including two previously unknown species. The study provides insights into the geographic distribution and invasion routes of these tiny parasites, which have a significant impact on the health of their host species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalZOOLOGICAL SCIENCE·DateJun 18, 2025

Lizards of Madagascar

A study found that three lizard species in Madagascar consume fruits from over 20 plant species and expel viable seeds, indicating their potential crucial role as seed dispersers. This discovery is significant as environmental degradation affects large frugivores like lemurs, but lizards can continue to inhabit degraded environments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBiotropica·TypeObservational study·DateJun 9, 2025

The purrfect gene

A study published in PLOS One reveals that cats' purring behavior is linked to genetic variation, specifically the short-type androgen receptor gene. Cats with this gene exhibit higher owner-assessed purring scores than those with the long-type gene.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 29, 2025

Something's fishy here

A Kyoto University study reveals that seasonal timing of terrestrial invertebrate resource subsidies can mediate life-history variation in wild organisms. The researchers found that early subsidies led to the highest life-history variation, while later or no subsidies resulted in lower variation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2025

Making insulinomas a thing of the past

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new non-invasive diagnostic method for insulinomas, which achieved 100% diagnostic accuracy in a Phase II clinical trial. The new method using positron emission tomography (PET) probe successfully detected cases difficult to diagnose through existing methods.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 20, 2025

Summer in the city

Researchers at Kyoto University found that reducing urban heat release can control summertime local precipitation, with potential to mitigate extreme weather issues. By systematically decreasing sensible heat fluxes over urban areas, the team demonstrated a link between urban heat island effect reduction and less intense rainfall.

SourceKyoto University·JournalTheoretical and Applied Climatology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025

Bubble control

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has developed an experimental setup to precisely adjust the distance between microbubbles, enabling the manipulation of liquid flows. By controlling bubble vibrations, they were able to synchronize their movements and alter the surrounding flow, providing a new fluid control tool for medical an...

SourceKyoto University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2025

Therapist in your pocket

A team of researchers from Kyoto University has developed a smartphone app that teaches core techniques of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat subthreshold depression and anxiety. The app, RESiLIENT, was tested in the largest-ever individually randomized trial of its kind, showing promising results with no serious adverse effects.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 23, 2025

Woodn't that be nice

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has developed a simple but effective method for detecting early wood coating deterioration, which can extend the life of wooden structures and improve sustainability. The approach combines mid-infrared spectroscopy with machine learning to predict the extent of deterioration, allowing for early...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 17, 2025

Your cells can hear

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has found that cells can hear and respond to sound waves, leading to potential applications in medicine and healthcare. The study used acoustic pressure to induce cellular responses, revealing the suppression of fat cell formation and activation of mechanosensitive genes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2025

There must be some otter way

A study by Kyoto University researchers found that captive otters in Japan are coming from Thailand, highlighting the country's role in illegal trade. The discovery sheds light on the risks posed by otter demand and aims to protect vulnerable species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeObservational study·DateApr 11, 2025

Remember ebola?

Researchers at Kyoto University have captured the first high-resolution structure of Ebola's nucleocapsid using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy. This visualization reveals sophisticated interactions between structural components, including VP24 and NP proteins, which govern virus assembly, RNA synthesis, and transport.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2025

Relax, I'm cool

Researchers at Kyoto University develop thermomajorization theory to unify different distance measures, eliminating ambiguities in previous studies. The approach reveals the Mpemba effect is not restricted to specific temperature ranges, but can emerge across a wide spectrum of thermal conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 21, 2025

Fluorescent dope

Researchers from Kyoto University and Cambridge University developed a fluorescent dopamine sensor to monitor dopamine signals in primate brains. The study found that dopamine signals varied depending on the location in the striatum, with distinct patterns observed in the anterior putamen and caudate head.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2025

Do you see what I see?

A study published in PNAS found that young children perceive colors similarly to adults, with consistent structure across age groups and cultures. The researchers developed a touch panel interface to evaluate conscious experiences, revealing robustness in their approach.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2025

Don't let this stress you out

Researchers at Kyoto University investigated the effects of two-hit stress on mouse behavior, revealing significant changes in the cerebellum. The study found increased microglia turnover, neuronal loss, and decreased brain connectivity, correlating with anxiety-like behaviors and mental disorders.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 3, 2025

Want some salt with that?

Researchers found evidence of sodium carbonate, halite, and sodium sulfates on Ryugu, indicating liquid saline water once existed within its parent body. This discovery provides insights into the chemical history of Ryugu and sheds light on the loss of liquid water in the outer Solar System.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2025

Scratching through the negative emotions

A study on six Japanese macaques reveals that bodily responses like self-scratching predict pessimistic judgment bias, but not vice versa. This suggests an evolutionary conserved system where monkeys address immediate needs through bodily responses before engaging in cognitive information processing.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 6, 2025

Drug testing evolved

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a human iPS cell-derived kidney organoid-based proximal tubule-on-chip that mimics in vivo renal physiology. This model exhibits enhanced expression and polarity of essential renal transporters, making it a powerful tool for assessing drug transport and nephrotoxicity.

SourceKyoto University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Stacked up against the rest

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to reduce optical interference and measure the quantum coherence time of moiré excitons, which are electron-hole pairs confined in moiré interference fringes. This breakthrough enables the realization of quantum functionality in next-generation nano-semiconductors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2024

There is mathematical proof in the pudding

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a mathematical expression for the blockchain trilemma, revealing ways to improve scalability without compromising security and decentralization. The formula offers new perspectives on solving the long-standing problem of balancing these competing values.

SourceKyoto University·JournalIEEE Access·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 22, 2024

Can big cats sing parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme?

A study by Kyoto University found that snow leopards consume the plant genus Myricaria in their feces when hungry. This suggests a link between prey and plant intake in these large alpine cat carnivores. The research provides insight into improved captive environments and suitable conservation plans for snow leopards.

SourceKyoto University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2024

Check and checkmethane

A research team at Kyoto University has developed an AI method to automatically detect methane emissions globally, resolving trade-offs with existing detection methods. The system can identify small methane plumes, paving the way for systematic quantification of global warming.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 14, 2024

Double-edged effects of boundary-spanning

A recent study by Kyoto University reveals that expatriates' boundary-spanning activities can lead to role stress, emotional exhaustion, and a sense of being an outsider among local employees. The study highlights the need for careful management to mitigate these negative impacts.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 10, 2024

Don't matter if you're this or that

A research team at Kyoto University found that interactive AI programs can reduce prejudice and anxiety among historically divided ethnic groups in Afghanistan during online interactions. Participants in the AI intervention group showed more engagement and significantly less prejudice and anxiety compared to the control group.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCommunications Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2024

Built-in bionic computing

Researchers have created a method to control pneumatic artificial muscles with embedded bifurcation structures, which can generate diverse dynamics and patterns. This breakthrough enables robots to exhibit more adaptable and flexible movements, streamlining hardware and software development.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Cells putting on a face

Researchers have developed a method to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into cell populations that form patterns resembling the facial primordium. This allows for the creation of an in vitro model to study early facial development and potential treatments for craniofacial disorders.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2024

Connecting the dots to shape growth forces

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a signal protein called ERK that plays an active role in causing growing lung tissue to curve. This finding reveals a previously unknown regulatory system governing the development of intricate branching patterns in mouse lungs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2024

If you can't beat them, mock them

A team of researchers from Kyoto University has developed a microfluidic co-culture vasculature chip that mimics the microenvironment of alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), a rare cancer. The chip enables scientists to study cell-to-cell interactions and angiogenic mechanisms, which may lead to new strategies for treating ASPS patients.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024