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Kyoto University


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

Mutant mice shed no tears

A study led by Kyoto University researchers found that modulating hormone levels can improve meibomian gland disorder, a common cause of dry eyes. Topical administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) boosted NAD levels and rebooted 3-HSD activity in mutant mice, alleviating dryness.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Walking the walk not up to speed with the talk

A Kyoto University study reveals that four major oil corporations make unsubstantial commitments to cleaner energy. Despite increased public relations efforts, these companies persistently rely on fossil fuels and show no strong evidence of a shift towards non-fossil fuel energy.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 22, 2022

Shrimp cocktails served in Japanese rivers

A study by Kyoto University found that migratory shrimp significantly enriched streams with nutrients, outperforming aquatic insects. The research highlights the crucial role of these small crustaceans in maintaining ecosystem balance and suggests integrating landscape management to support nutrient cycling.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOecologia·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2022

Load up the hydrogen but hold the carbon

A Kyoto University-led team has created a novel hydrogen plant design that harnesses fully renewable resources to produce clean hydrogen with minimal associated CO2 emissions. The SABI-Hydrogen system uses solar heating and biomass gasification to produce hydrogen, resulting in an emission rate of only 1.04kg CO2/kg hydrogen produced.

SourceKyoto University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2022

Sleeping mice show busy brains

A new study reveals that the superior colliculus, a lesser-studied region responsible for saccades and facial recognition, dynamically changes its clustering of neurons depending on the mouse's conscious state. This finding suggests that the brain optimizes visual information processing based on its awake or anesthetized state.

SourceKyoto University·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2021

River animals just go with the flow

Researchers observed diverse aquatic biota in post-flood communities, with changes in flow dynamics and water chemistry supporting biological adaptation. The study highlights the role of floods in shaping floodplain ecosystems.

SourceKyoto University·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Hybrid strategy captures a larger picture of wild mandrills

Researchers at Kyoto University used a hybrid strategy to study wild mandrill movement patterns, combining direct tracking with camera trap data. The findings show that mandrill groups change their travel speed during the day and exhibit flexible dietary and ranging behaviors influenced by seasonality.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

A new drug target for kidney disease

A new study led by Prof. Motoko Yanagita found that the suppression of two molecules, CD153 and CD30, expressed on immune cells mitigates the progression of kidney disease in aged kidneys. This discovery identifies a promising therapeutic target for kidney treatment in the elderly.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Gene regulation of the X chromosome during monkey development

Researchers from ASHBi at Kyoto University have made a breakthrough discovery on X-chromosome dosage compensation in monkeys. In contrast to mice, both X chromosomes are inactivated in female and male monkey embryos prior to implantation, but not after. This finding provides new insights into human embryonic development and may help ex...

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

Predicting the success of kidney transplantations

A new study led by Professor Motoko Yanagita has found that advanced tertiary lymphoid tissues in kidney transplant patients are associated with progressive graft dysfunction. The presence of these tissues, which arise in chronic inflammatory conditions, can indicate a higher risk of renal failure within five years.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2021

Life is but a dream

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a new neural-optic system to manipulate memories by inhibiting key proteins. This technique can help isolate memory formation and potentially lead to treatments for mental disorders like Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021

Behavioral synchronization in complex societies of feral horses

Research at Kyoto University using drones and a multi-agent system found that feral horses synchronize their behavior not only within unit groups but also across different parts of the herd. The study's results suggest that individual horses can recognize the behavior of distant individuals, averaging a nearest distance of 39.3m.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 28, 2021

Different recipe, same sauce

Researchers at Kyoto University have successfully synthesized shagene A, a tricyclic terpenoid effective against the parasitic disease leishmaniasis. The compound kills the parasite without causing detrimental side effects and has attracted attention for its potential in drug discovery.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Molecules for building stronger antibodies

Researchers at Kyoto University have identified Tox2 as a crucial regulator of T follicular helper cells (TFH), which produce high-affinity antibodies. The study found that Tox2 promotes the long-term survival and functional maintenance of TFH cells, enabling potent and durable antibody responses in vaccines.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 8, 2021

Simple method for converting carbon dioxide into useful compounds

Scientists at Kyoto University have created a simple method to convert CO2 into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), offering a promising approach to dispose of the greenhouse gas. The new technique, which requires lower temperatures and pressures, demonstrates potential for widespread adoption and could help mitigate global warming.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 5, 2021

Cancer immunotherapy gets PIP boost

Researchers at Kyoto University designed a synthetic molecular code, EnPGC-1, that activates mitochondrial biogenesis in T cells, increasing their numbers and longevity. The approach enhances anti-tumor immunity in mice and improves survival.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateSep 13, 2021

Babies wanted: Males need not apply

Researchers at Kyoto University have made a groundbreaking discovery by creating functional sperm cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells. The breakthrough has significant implications for male fertility and reproduction, providing a new model for generating male germ cells in a test tube.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Science is based on promises, not on mere rules

The removal of the 14-day rule from international guidelines on embryo research has sparked concerns among bioethicists about the lack of consideration for potential consequences. The authors argue that countries should not automatically amend their laws without thoughtful discussions involving stakeholders and citizens.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

Icarus can fly high and save on wax too

A research team from Kyoto University assessed eight flight routes during five ground level enhancements to evaluate the risks of solar particle events. The study found that the maximum flight route dose and dose rate arising from major GLE events would need to exceed 1.0 mSv and 80 µSv/h, respectively, for countermeasures to be deemed...

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 2021

Deleting DNA to treat mitochondrial diseases

Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

How to make up your mind when the glass seems half empty?

Neuroscientists at Kyoto University have discovered brain networks that connect anxiety to pessimistic decision-making. The pregenual ACC, a middle layer of the brain, plays a key role in integrating feelings with rational thinking and is linked to avoidance and pessimistic decision-making.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

Quantum physics helps destroy cancer cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a way to enhance radiation therapy using iodine nanoparticles, which trigger cancer cell death when exposed to X-rays. The study reveals that the optimal energy level for X-ray irradiation is 33.2 keV, causing double-strand breaks in DNA and leading to programmed cell death.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 14, 2021

Setting COVID-19 drug trials up for success

A new modeling study suggests that randomization and early recruitment in COVID-19 clinical trials can help identify effective antiviral drugs. The researchers found that timing of treatment initiation also plays a crucial role, with treatments administered within the first day of symptom onset showing improved outcomes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 6, 2021

Trapping DNA damage

Researchers at Kyoto University have uncovered how XRCC1 protein disarms PARP traps, preventing DNA damage accumulation. This discovery may lead to improved cancer treatments using PARP inhibitors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 10, 2021

Bringing order to hydrogen energy devices

Scientists have developed a new approach to improve hydrogen transport in solids, enabling faster movement of negatively charged hydrogen 'anions' at lower temperatures. The breakthrough could lead to more sustainable sources of energy and practical applications in electrochemical devices.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Hi-CO unravels the complex packing of nucleosomes

The Hi-CO technology provides high-resolution genome structural analyses combined with large-scale simulations, showing the arrangements of the genome's spool-like structures affect gene expression. Nucleosome folding influences the inner workings of genes, impacting accessibility of molecules to DNA.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Protocols·DateJun 1, 2021

Where's my horse-sized rabbit?

A research team at Kyoto University investigated the fossil record and evolutionary history of lagomorphs to answer why they don't rival horse sizes. They found that larger herbivore competitors and energetic disadvantage hindered their growth, with body sizes of ungulates being a key predictor.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEvolution·DateApr 19, 2021

Society is not ready to make human brains

A new paper by Kyoto University researchers highlights the ethical implications of brain organoid research, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dementia or schizophrenia. However, transplanting brain organoids raises concerns about consciousness, morality, and potential risks to patients.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAJOB Neuroscience·DateApr 7, 2021

New drug to regenerate lost teeth

A new study by Kyoto University scientists has shown an antibody for USAG-1 to stimulate tooth growth in mice with congenital tooth agenesis. The antibody, which targets the factor that antagonizes BMP and Wnt signaling, is promising for a potential therapeutic framework for regenerating teeth.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2021

Eat me: The cell signal of death

Researchers at Kyoto University's iCeMS have identified a nuclear protein fragment that activates a lipid-scrambling protein to display an 'eat-me' signal on cell surfaces, alerting phagocytes to eliminate unwanted cells. This discovery sheds light on the complex process of cell death and its importance for maintaining tissue health.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 26, 2021

Chimpanzees unite against a common enemy

Researchers at Kyoto University found that chimpanzees become more cohesive and engage in affiliative behaviors when threatened by out-groups, similar to humans. This suggests that intergroup competition may have led to the evolution of cooperation and tolerant relations in large groups.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 24, 2021

Bonobos, chimpanzees, and oxytocin

A new study from Kyoto University found that oxytocin influences eye contact in bonobos and chimpanzees differently, promoting species-specific behaviors. The hormone shifted attention more to eyes in images for bonobos, while chimps focused on mouths.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJan 20, 2021

Large transporter protein linked to schizophrenia

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences have identified a possible link between a large cholesterol transport protein and schizophrenia. Mice with disrupted ABCA13 protein showed abnormal behaviour, including impaired prepulse inhibition, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of ps...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 29, 2020

The ABCs of species evolution

Researchers propose that a family of transporter proteins, including ABCA1, enabled vertebrates to thrive on land and develop complex body structures. The protein regulated cholesterol levels, allowing for the development of sophisticated biological processes.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFEBS Letters·DateDec 23, 2020

Don't let them go quietly into the night

Kyoto University researchers highlight the need for targeted conservation efforts due to 90% extinction risk for Japanese bat species. The study reveals poor alignment between conservation needs and research resource allocation, with many threats understudied.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMammal Review·DateDec 7, 2020

How does the spider spin its self-assembled silk?

Scientists at Kyoto University have discovered a new method for producing artificial spider silk by combining acidification and liquid-liquid phase separation. This breakthrough could lead to the development of sustainable, high-strength fibers with potential applications in manufacturing.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 30, 2020

Near-infrared probe decodes telomere dynamics

A synthetic probe offers a safe approach for visualizing chromosome tips in living cells. The probe can precisely deliver a fluorescent compound to telomeres on the tips of chromosomes, enabling researchers to understand their relevance to disease and aging. This breakthrough advances research into aging and diseases like cancer.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 20, 2020

Order from chaos

Researchers from Kyoto University have created a beam-scanning device using photonic crystals, eliminating the need for moving parts. The technology enables high-power, high-beam-quality two-dimensional beam scanning lasers with improved resolution and accuracy.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2020

Detect with PKAchu

Biologists developed fluorescent mice to visualize protein kinase A (PKA) activation in the retina. They found that light stimulation activates PKA for nearly 15 minutes in rod cells, which are essential for night vision.

Primates aren't quite frogs

Scientists have discovered that spinal modules in macaques can independently control forelimb force direction and magnitude, offering new insights into movement disorders and potential recovery methods. This finding, known as the 'spinal motor module hypothesis,' has significant implications for robotics and clinical medicine.

Terahertz zaps alter gene activity in stem cells

Researchers from Kyoto University and Tokai University have developed a new apparatus to study terahertz radiation's effects on human stem cells. The findings reveal that terahertz pulses activate genes involved in motor neuron survival and mitochondrial function, while deactivating those involved in cell differentiation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 8, 2020

New insight into mammalian stem cell evolution

Researchers at Kyoto University found that gene regulatory networks for pluripotent stem cells are highly conserved across mammals, but also exhibit unique variations. These differences may explain why certain features of mammalian pluripotent stem cells have evolved differently in various species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateSep 7, 2020