A study discovered that an ancient viral remnant in chimpanzee DNA silences a key gene, LINC00662, which is active in humans and plays a role in early brain development. This finding highlights the importance of understanding gene regulation and its potential link to brain diseases.
Researchers investigated the association between Alzheimer-related changes and disease progression in ALS, finding that coexisting changes may affect prognosis. The study suggests that biomarkers like amyloid beta and NfL could improve diagnosis and prognosis, and may contribute to better patient stratification and more efficient clini...
A new international study found that population levels in Japan after the Kikai-Akahoya eruption were more complex than previously believed. The research team discovered that while populations declined in some areas, they actually increased in others, with survivors adapting to new social relations and economies.
A new study from Lund University reveals how the European nightjar's wings balance competing demands for long-distance migration and hunting. The bird's broad wing tips prioritize slow flight but reduce lift efficiency at higher speeds.
A new study from Lund University found that only 9% of the world's largest companies in sectors with a significant impact on biodiversity use biodiversity indicators. Different indicators can lead to different conclusions, emphasizing the importance of using multiple indicators for accurate decision-making.
A study redefines the biology of honey bee colonies as superorganisms, where individual bees contribute to the colony's development and functioning. This new perspective offers insights into dealing with parasites and challenges modern beekeeping methods.
A study led by Lund University reveals that aurochs, the ancient ancestors of modern cattle, declined in Scandinavia due to genetic depletion, human pressure, and habitat change. The research found that the aurochs population became isolated from the main European population around 8,000 years ago, and was eventually driven to extincti...
A new study from Lund University reveals that Alzheimer's disease changes brain communication in distinct patterns from normal aging, with early alterations detectable before cognitive symptoms emerge. The study analyzed brain imaging from over 1,000 people, showing that connectivity patterns between brain regions change in coordinated...
Researchers have identified the molecular signaling pathway that links mechanical stimulation to changes in plant genes and growth. A chain of three specific proteins becomes activated within a minute, sending signals that affect hundreds of genes and contribute to changes in plant growth.
A retrospective observational study found that lamotrigine reduced the frequency of migraine aura by 80% in patients with frequent or troublesome aura. The study also showed that slower dose escalation was associated with fewer side effects, a finding that may be relevant for future clinical trials.
A new diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease is being developed using blood-based diagnostics, which could provide a more accurate prognosis and treatment options. The test, led by Lund University, aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
Researchers at Lund University found that heavy menstrual bleeding, skipping meals, and daily nicotine use are linked to higher levels of self-reported tiredness in teenage girls. Iron deficiency was not found to be a cause of fatigue in the study.
A global virus atlas has been created by mapping RNA viruses in 102 cities worldwide, identifying nearly 55,000 different types, 80% of which were unknown to science. This data can be used for biological risk assessment, crime scene investigations, and environmental monitoring, providing a unique viral fingerprint for each location.
Injuries in Swedish women's ice hockey have almost doubled after the introduction of body-checking, with shoulder and knee injuries being the most common types. Despite this, players are optimistic about the change, with concerns over fatigue and recovery time also raised.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a new type of LED light that controls light generation, reducing losses and increasing efficiency. The technology has the potential to lead to more energy-efficient light sources and advanced optoelectronic applications.
Astronomers at Lund University detected sodium gas variations in front of a young star, suggesting comets may transport water to inner planetary system regions. Comets' orbits were simulated, showing they can be flung towards the star by gas giants' gravitational pull, transporting volatile substances.
Researchers at Lund University have identified a mechanism by which heme, released from damaged red blood cells, activates an inflammatory response. The kallikrein-kinin system pathway was found to be involved, leading to increased permeability and fluid leakage in surrounding tissues.
Researchers have discovered that smaller bee species, such as bumblebees and solitary bees, possess sharper eyesight than previously believed. They can detect objects with higher visual resolution and fine detail than worker honey bees. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that large eyes are the key to sharp vision in bees.
UM171 molecule helps retain stem cell properties, stimulating multiplication, and exploits protein KBTBD4 to break down important protein structure CoREST. This mechanism is also affected by mutations in KBTBD4 gene, linked to aggressive brain tumours in children.
A landmark study has shown that transplanting stem-cell derived dopamine progenitor cells into the brain is feasible and safe. Eight patients received the transplanted cell product, with no serious side effects observed during the first year of follow-up.
Research shows that road verges with heavy traffic can be deadly for bumblebees, while those with low traffic have a mortality rate of near zero. The study suggests investing in species-rich road verges may not replace traditional conservation habitats.
A team of researchers has successfully created an artificial protein motor that can perform tasks such as cell division and muscle movement with high efficiency and precision. The breakthrough, published in Nature Nanotechnology, demonstrates the feasibility of designing dynamic proteins capable of performing movements.
A national quality registry, RaraSwed, is being implemented across the Swedish healthcare system to collect patient data and records on rare diseases. This will contribute to the development of national clinical guidelines and improve care coordination for individuals with rare diseases.
Researchers found that pramipexole, a Parkinson's disease medication, improved symptoms of anhedonia in patients with treatment-resistant depression. The therapy was associated with positive effects on the brain's reward system and increased physical activity.
A comprehensive study has identified 100 species with documented migratory behaviour in dragonflies, while another 85 are likely to migrate. Dragonfly migrations reveal an unseen world above our heads, with insects undertaking journeys that can rival those of birds, and provide insights into ecosystem changes and climate shifts.
Researchers at Lund University developed a blood test that can detect early signs of breast cancer recurrence, providing information on how the disease responds to chemotherapy. The method, called Pathlight, measures small fragments of tumor DNA in blood samples and detected recurrence up to four years before current methods.
The Lancet Commission, led by Professor Paul Franks, aims to design health systems that work for everyone, not just the average model. The commission will explore how stratified approaches can improve cost-effectiveness in low- and middle-income countries.
A new study published in eBioMedicine found that integrating measurements such as body fat percentage and waist circumference can help identify individuals at high risk of developing obesity-related diseases. The research team analysed data from 489,311 participants and found that those with an adverse adiposity profile despite normal ...
Patients with congenital heart defects are more likely to experience a first acute heart attack at an earlier age, averaging 58 years old. Despite this, there is no difference in mortality rates or risk of further heart attacks between the group with congenital heart defects and those without.
A new study by Lund University researchers identifies knowledge gaps and proposes tools to analyze the risks of extreme weather on birds. Birds are vulnerable due to their diurnal nature and lack of burrowing capabilities, making them more susceptible to heatwaves.
A team of international researchers will investigate the underlying biology of psychiatric and cognitive symptoms in Parkinson's disease, with a focus on depression, anxiety, and other non-motor symptoms. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of these symptoms, which are common but poorly understood in the disease.
Researchers at Lund University mapped the genome of Drosophila enhydrobia, a carnivorous fruit fly that lives entirely underwater in African streams. The study shows clear genetic adaptations to its unusual lifestyle, highlighting the importance of natural history museums for understanding biodiversity and evolution.
A long-term study reveals how the red-necked nightjar's annual cycle follows the moon's light, influencing feeding, migration, and breeding patterns. The research highlights the vulnerability of nocturnal animals to changes in light levels, with potential consequences for conservation.
Researchers from Lund University successfully harnessed the regenerative capacity of Scandinavian flatworms to accelerate wound healing in human skin models. The study found that signalling molecules from flatworm exosomes increased skin thickness and improved wound healing rates, including accelerated blood vessel regeneration.
A nationwide ecological study found a statistical correlation between fewer psychiatric beds and higher suicide rates in Sweden. The study suggests that investing in outpatient care may not be enough to prevent suicides, highlighting the need for further research into healthcare resource allocation.
Researchers mapped epigenome changes in cells that regulate blood sugar levels, finding patterns differ between people with and without type 2 diabetes. Epigenetic alterations impact insulin-producing beta cells, leading to impaired energy production and reduced insulin release.
Research from Lund University reveals that stiffer tumor tissue triggers a chain of molecular events driving cancer cells to invade surrounding tissue. The studies identified key proteins and pathways involved in this process, offering new insights into the mechanical properties of tumor microenvironments.
The thrush nightingale migrates up to 18,000 km with four-to-five consecutive nighttime flights and daytime breaks to avoid intense heat, conserving energy along the way. Advanced sensors track this extreme behaviour, providing insight into the bird's strategy for survival.
Researchers analyzed battery development in electric vehicles over 15 years, finding that market innovation can quickly address material shortages and price increases. The study suggests individual materials may not be as critical to the energy transition as previously thought.
Research from Lund University found a link between male infertility and an increased risk of developing colorectal and thyroid cancer. Men who underwent assisted reproduction techniques, such as ICSI, were more likely to develop these cancers.
A study of over 600,000 people found that early weight gain is associated with a higher risk of dying from various diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight gain during adulthood also increases the risk of premature death, especially for those who develop obesity at a younger age.
A recent study found a significant link between very high PFAS exposure and an increased incidence of asthma in children. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 children born in Sweden and discovered that the risk of developing asthma was around 40% higher among those with very high PFAS exposure.
A new study by Lund University researchers found that genetic risk scores can predict coronary artery disease even before diabetes onset. The study identifies a group at high risk of developing both conditions, offering potential for early detection and prevention.
A new twin study reveals that innate IQ is a key predictor of future socio-economic status, with genetics playing a significant role. The study found that IQ is approximately 75% genetically predicted and that socio-economic status is mostly explained by genetics.
Researchers developed an AI model that can detect several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, from a single blood sample. The model uses protein measurements from over 17,000 patients and outperforms previous models.
Research from Lund University reveals that female mosquitofish from different habitats exhibit aggression towards males from other environments, leading to reduced fertilization success and potential reproductive isolation. This phenomenon highlights the importance of female resistance as a mechanism underlying evolutionary processes.
Researchers at Lund University have developed a new blood marker that significantly improves the accuracy of Alzheimer's diagnosis. The study found that combining two biomarkers, p-tau217 and eMTBR-tau243, can identify people with established Alzheimer's disease with an accuracy rate of around 80%. This breakthrough reduces false posit...
A new study from Lund University reveals that old-growth forests in Sweden store 78-89% more carbon than managed forests, mainly due to large carbon stocks in the soil. The study's findings have significant implications for climate change mitigation and forest management.
A new study by Lund University reveals that large forest fire emissions occur below the ground surface, in peat and organic soils, rather than above-ground. This affects climate impact assessments, as traditional methods risk missing significant carbon releases.
A new discovery from Lund University reveals that minor changes in moisture levels can promote lipid molecule reorganization, affecting skin, lung, and tear film protection from dehydration. This understanding can inspire smart materials and improve lipid-based drug delivery systems.