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Kyoto University


Spicing it up

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a prodrug form of curcumin called TBP1901, which has shown anti-tumor effects without causing harm. The study found that TBP1901's conversion to active curcumin is dependent on the enzyme GUSB, suggesting its potential therapeutic targets.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Just part of a larger picture

Researchers found a moderate increase in anxiety and depression among the general population during the first two months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact on mental health varied significantly by population after that period.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 18, 2022

Diego bows to ancestral sabretoothed mammal

A new fossil specimen discovered in California reveals that the first saber-like canines evolved in an early nimravid around 40 million years ago. This finding highlights the quick diversification of carnivorous mammals after the middle Eocene climatic optimum.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBiology Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 13, 2022

Computers calling time on isolation

A new simulation models the potential risks and benefits of ending early isolation for Covid-19 patients using antigen tests. The study finds that shortening isolation periods can reduce unnecessary disruption in people's lives while minimizing the risk of infecting others.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2022

Focusing on complex waves

A team from Kyoto University has demonstrated that deep-water wave groups can propagate independently, regardless of interference. This finding challenges existing understanding of ocean waves and has implications for fields like offshore engineering and plasma physics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022

Same same but different

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to detect intraspecies genomic diversity, or microdiversity, of uncultivated bacteria. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of microbial ecology and evolution, as previously overlooked variations are now being studied.

SourceKyoto University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Gamers can have their cake and eat it too

A study by Kyoto University and BonBon Inc found that complex games like Potion can measure distinct cognitive skills such as stealth behavior and abstract thinking in young players. However, older players did not exhibit the same level of engagement, challenging existing beliefs about gaming's impact on cognition.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2022

Regulation is the name of the game

A new study by Kyoto University found that Regnase-1 gene expression is low in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), mirroring the pathology of humans. The protein's mRNA degradation leads to PAH inhibition, offering a potential new treatment for heart failure and premature death.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022

Breaking DNA Goldilocks-style

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a phosphorylation pathway that regulates meiotic double-strand break activity, ensuring genome stability. Enzymes ATR kinase and PP4 phosphatase work together to maintain a balance of DNA breaks, allowing for successful meiosis.

SourceKyoto University·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2022

Nanodisks should not be taken lightly

A novel light-manipulating technology using nanodisk periodic structures has been developed by an international team, including Kyoto University. By controlling bound states in the continuum, researchers can systematically control light distribution states and manipulate near-infrared light within a nanodisk.

SourceKyoto University·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2022

Cameras candidly capture bushmeat mammals to avert crisis

A team of researchers from Kyoto University and Cameroon used camera trap surveys to predict the total biomass of large rodents and duikers in southeast Cameroon. They developed six candidate indicators, including the ratio of red duikers to blue duikers, which showed positive linear correlations with total bushmeat biomass.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2022

Boosting performance with a dash of rock salt

Scientists have found a novel structure in bismuth oxychloride, featuring a sextuple Bi-O layer composed of rock-salt and fluorite units, which enhances photocatalytic activity. This discovery could lead to improved hydrogen production material designs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2022

Reading RNA modifications more precisely

Scientists at Kyoto University developed two methods to identify RNA modifications impacting gene regulation and disease. Their approach uses probability algorithms with high-throughput sequencing technology, distinguishing pseudouridine substitutions from other base changes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenomics·DateAug 23, 2022

Simplified voice box enriches human speech

Researchers found that human larynx evolution led to stable voices and controlled pitch without adding new structures. This simplification allowed for the development of complex vocal information, enabling humans to communicate effectively.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2022

A smashing solution for cancer therapy

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a cancer therapy model that utilizes a protein degrading system to transiently degrade and reduce the PD-1 protein, which blocks immune function. This approach has shown high therapeutic efficacy in inhibiting cancer cell growth in mice.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNAR Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2022

Clearing the mist hiding the genome

A new mathematical method, RECODE, eliminates noise in single-cell RNA sequencing data, enabling precise understanding of cell activity. The method outperforms other analysis methods and is simpler to use, with potential implications for basic science, clinical applications, and drug discovery research.

SourceKyoto University·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2022

Three strikes and acid is out

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new protocol for synthesizing dialkyl ethers using three catalysts that hydroxylate alkenes quickly and cheaply. This method enables the precise control of electrons and protons to convert unactivated alkenes into reactive carbocation equivalents under mild reaction conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

New egg recipe to boost fertility research

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology have developed a new method to culture human fetal immature germ cells into oocytes. The study found that essential controlling mechanisms are similar across mouse, monkey, and human species, while certain genes are expressed only in humans and monkeys.

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

Nanodiamonds are a cell's best friend

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed the smallest nanodiamonds capable of detecting temperatures on the nanoscale inside cells and organelles. These nanodiamonds utilize silicon-vacancy color centers to gauge luminescence, enabling precise temperature sensing with sub-kelvin accuracy.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2022

To tax or not to tax, is that even a question?

A team at Kyoto University has developed a formula to express the marginal cost of public funds, measuring the impact of taxation on social welfare. The framework focuses on imperfect competition and provides insights into the behavioral constraints imposed by taxation on producers and consumers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Public Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 25, 2022

Using holograms to illuminate de Sitter space

Scientists at Kyoto University propose a novel approach using holograms to approximate the universe's expansion in de Sitter space. The model uses conformal field theory and a positive integer for the cosmological constant, enabling the identification of the first example of two-dimensional CFT.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 19, 2022

The yin and yang of empathy

A team of researchers at Kyoto University found that social ties can have a bipolar effect on relationships, with positive interactions strengthened by negative ones. Cognitive flexibility may help mitigate the dark side of social ties, such as empathic distress and stigma-related anxiety.

SourceKyoto University·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 24, 2022

Females itch less than males

Research at Kyoto University found that estradiol suppresses severe skin inflammation in females compared to males, revealing its therapeutic potential. The hormone regulates immune cells and reduces IL-17A and IL-1β cytokines production.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022

Biological clocks set for skin immunity

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered the skin's natural protection from nighttime bacterial invasion in mice, which may provide a basis for developing a drug treatment. The team found that epidermal CXCL14 is produced in a circadian rhythm-dependent manner, providing antimicrobial function against Staphylococcus aureus.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

More than one way to skin a tumor

Researchers at Kyoto University identified the mechanism behind active inflammation and immunosuppression in tumor microenvironments. EP2/EP4 inhibitors suppress tumor growth by allowing regulatory T cells to infiltrate and activate within tumors, benefiting patients with certain cancers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2022

Mapping the foundation for new life

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi) have gained new insights into how totipotency is programmed in germline cells. They found that DNA methyl groups are removed and DNA strands are unwound to create a 'clean slate' for embryo development, while also building insulation to prevent earl...

SourceKyoto University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

Never too odd to learn how to swim

Researchers have developed a new formula for swimming based on their study of odd elasticity, allowing microswimmers to exhibit autonomously directional and deterministic motion. The team used Purcell's swimmer model to demonstrate that any odd elastic micromaterial can spontaneously generate locomotion in a fluid.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review E·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2022

Kyoto scientists discover ‘crack team’ of kidney cells that are key to disease recovery

Researchers at Kyoto University identify a distinct subpopulation of fibroblasts responsible for producing the hormone erythropoietin (Epo), which stimulates red blood cell production. This discovery provides insight into renal anemia and may lead to novel treatment methods for patients with chronic kidney disease.

SourceKyoto University·JournalKidney International·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2022

Some monkeys might pull a poker face

Researchers developed a tool to analyze facial movements in common marmosets, finding they have more facial expressions than previously thought. The study suggests that facial expressions may be more ancient and prevalent among social animals.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 25, 2022

Species thrive through social connections

A Kyoto University study shows that even though biodiversity increases with more interactions, mean interaction strength decreases. The interaction capacity hypothesis proposes that this weakening of interspecific interactions may be due to increased community diversity.

SourceKyoto University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2022

New process revolutionizes microfluidic fabrication

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences developed a novel photolithography technique to create self-enclosed, porous channels in microfluidic devices. This process enables the creation of high-resolution channels capable of carrying aqueous solutions and separating small biomolecules.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2022

Chimps, dreams, and videotape

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered chimpanzees experiencing nocturnal erections, a phenomenon previously only observed in humans. Eight out of twelve male chimps demonstrated this behavior, with half also masturbating and consuming ejaculate, suggesting potential health benefits.

SourceKyoto University·JournalBehaviour·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2022

Pumping calcium for bigger bones

A Kyoto University study has discovered that c-type natriuretic peptide facilitates intracellular calcium signaling in chondrocytes to stimulate long bone growth. This finding may lead to the development of new bone growth-stimulating agents for treating developmental disorders.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Learning from endangered zebra stem cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have produced induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from the endangered Grévy's zebra, showcasing similarities with human and mouse stem cells. The study's findings provide insight into evolutionary conservation between mammals and may help advance research on endangered species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateApr 25, 2022

Safely storing dangerous gasses in pores

Scientists developed a new porous coordination polymer that can store and release acetylene, a highly flammable industrial gas, without using solvents. The material allows for the storage of large quantities of acetylene at pressures below 2 bar.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 21, 2022

Volcanoes at fault if the Earth slips

A study by KyotoU scientists has discovered a significant relationship between volcanic activity and seismic faults. The research team found that the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes were triggered by the eruption of Mount Aso, which caused a shift in the fault's movement pattern.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGeochemistry Geophysics Geosystems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 21, 2022

When neurons behave like a double-edged sword

A new study found that microglia regulate neuronal subtypes differently in response to bacteria, affecting intrinsic excitability. Pyramidal cells exhibited lower excitability, while Purkinje cells showed higher excitability when modulated by microglia.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCurrent Research in Neurobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2022

Mommy says easy does it

A study by Kyoto University researchers reveals that human fetuses develop slower shoulder growth before birth, alleviating complications during delivery. This adaptation allows for a safer passage through the birth canal, reconciling the incompatibility between wide shoulders and narrow pelvis.

The ethics of research on conscious artificial brains

A team of researchers from Kobe and Kyoto universities proposes an ethical framework for conducting research on conscious brain organoids. The framework assumes that brain organoids already possess consciousness and recommends guidelines similar to those for animal experiments. Key considerations include minimizing the number of organo...

SourceKyoto University·JournalNeuroethics·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 12, 2022

Higher solar yield, less power effort

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new type of organic solar cell that generates electricity efficiently even with a relatively low offset of 0.1 eV. This breakthrough offers a promising solution for the production of more efficient and flexible solar panels, potentially reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him...

Researchers at Kyoto University found that chimpanzees exhibit a preference for faces and skulls of their own species, similar to previous studies with African elephants. This suggests the presence of a face module in chimpanzee brains that detects and processes facial cues.

SourceKyoto University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

Shedding new light on controlling material properties

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a scaling law that determines high-order harmonic generation in the perovskite material Ca2RuO4. The phenomenon, which was first observed in atomic gas systems, has been found to be highly dependent on temperature and gap energy.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022

Baby white wallaby harboring hopping DNA

Researchers at Kyoto University have identified a genetic mutation causing albinism in wallabies, tracing it to an inserted retrovirus gene. The study found that the mutation was caused by a copy of the HIV-like virus inserted into the host's genome.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenome·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022