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Lund University


Machine learning drives drug repurposing for neuroblastoma

A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine has identified a combination of statins and phenothiazines that shows promise in treating aggressive neuroblastoma. The drug combination was found to impede tumour growth and improve survival rates in laboratory trials with mice.

SourceLund University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 29, 2025

Capturing the moment a cell shuts the door on free radicals

Researchers at Lund University have discovered a cell's protective mechanism against excessive hydrogen peroxide, a key free radical. The study shows that the channel in the cell membrane closes automatically when high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are detected, preventing damage and cell death.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2025

How to reduce the risk of lymphedema

Researchers found that patients with low physical activity levels are at higher risk of developing lymphedema. The study used a lymph scanner to measure tissue water and identified limits for what is considered lymphedema. Regular physical activity may help reduce the risk of lymphedema after head and neck cancer treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalOral Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2025

Contaminated bathing water easier to detect

A new method uses machine learning and flow cytometry to detect contaminated bathing water, providing faster and more complete answers on water safety. The method has several advantages, including being open-source and able to detect changes in entire bacterial communities.

SourceLund University·JournalWater Research X·DateDec 15, 2025

Blood test reveals prognosis after cardiac arrest

A new blood biomarker, neurofilament light (NFL), has been shown to accurately predict the extent of brain damage after a cardiac arrest. This breakthrough discovery may transform care for patients in intensive care units, allowing for more informed decisions about their treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2025

Harmful exposure in metal recycling

Researchers found elevated levels of lead, arsenic, copper, cadmium, and antimony in metal recycling workers' blood and urine, highlighting the need for better cleaning practices and respiratory protection. The study's results emphasize the importance of monitoring rare earth metals and implementing measures to reduce workplace exposure.

SourceLund University·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateDec 4, 2025

Old air samples hint at effects of climate change

Researchers at Lund University analyzed old air samples collected by the Swedish Armed Forces and found that spore dispersal of northern mosses has shifted four weeks earlier over the past 35 years. Warmer autumns enable mosses to release their spores earlier in spring, with climate conditions from the previous year being the key factor.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateNov 26, 2025

Tattoos could be a risk factor for melanoma

A study published by Lund University suggests that tattoos could be a risk factor for melanoma. Researchers found a 29% increased relative risk among tattooed individuals compared to non-tattooed individuals. The link may be due to the immune system's response to tattoo ink, which can lead to exposure to potential carcinogens.

SourceLund University·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2025

Fishing for phages in Lund University’s Botanical Gardens

The discovery of five new bacteriophages in Lund University's Botanical Gardens' ponds has significant implications for phage research and treatment of bacterial infections. The newly-discovered phages were isolated using a motile E. coli strain, which was specifically designed to attract the viruses.

SourceLund University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2025

Warmer Nordic springs double the incidence of avian malaria

A 30-year study in southern Sweden finds that rising spring temperatures have doubled the incidence of avian malaria, with a specific period from May 9 to June 24 being particularly critical. The researchers believe that warmer years trigger blood-sucking insects to seek out nests, allowing parasites to thrive and spread disease.

SourceLund University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 23, 2025

New study reveals the innermost secrets of spaghetti

A new study by Lund University researchers has discovered the key to preventing spaghetti disintegration in boiling water. The findings show that gluten acts as a 'safety net' for regular pasta, preserving its starch structure during cooking. In contrast, gluten-free pasta relies on precise cooking conditions to maintain its structure.

SourceLund University·JournalFood Hydrocolloids·DateOct 17, 2025

Type 1 diabetes increased among young people during the pandemic

A study found a significant increase in type 1 diabetes cases among children under five and young adult men in Sweden during the Covid-19 pandemic. The incidence of diabetes increased by 12% in 2021 and 9% in 2022 compared to previous years, with no clear connection between Covid-19 infection and diabetes.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetologia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 15, 2025

The hidden highways of the sky mapped

A new study from Lund University maps the hidden highways of the sky, revealing how environmental factors and species interaction affect animal distribution in the aerial habitat. The research highlights the importance of understanding the air as a dynamic environment that requires adaptation to preserve flying animals.

SourceLund University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 7, 2025

Solar fuel conundrum nears a solution

Scientists have made significant progress in developing iron-based solar fuel systems, which could pave the way for cheaper and more sustainable fuels. The study reveals new mechanisms that enable efficient charge transfer between light-absorbing molecules and acceptor molecules, reducing energy losses and increasing efficiency.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 23, 2025

Hostile hoots make robins eat less at night

Research reveals that young robins reduce their nighttime activity and food intake when exposed to tawny owl calls, leading to slower energy buildup and poorer physical condition. This adaptation helps them balance the risk of predation against the need to replenish energy reserves.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateSep 22, 2025

AI model from Lund University indicates four out of ten breast cancer patients could avoid axillary surgery

A Lund University AI model analyzed mammograms to identify breast cancer patients at high risk of armpit metastasis, suggesting that 41.7% of axillary surgeries could be avoided. The study's findings have the potential to revolutionize breast cancer treatment by enabling more personalized care and reducing unnecessary surgeries.

SourceLund University·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 17, 2025

Why repetitive DNA has an active role in the human brain

Researchers at Lund University found that specific sequences within non-coding genome help shape the developing human brain. Disrupting these sequences leads to abnormalities in gene activity and brain organoid growth, highlighting their importance in regulating genes and development.

SourceLund University·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2025

Uniquely preserved artillery offers clues of European colonisation

The study of Gribshunden's preserved artillery reveals insights into the technology and tactics used by European explorers in their quest for global domination. The discovery sheds light on why Denmark failed to compete with Iberian powers in colonizing the Americas, instead focusing on consolidating rule over the Baltic region.

SourceLund University·JournalThe International Journal of Nautical Archaeology·DateAug 22, 2025

New signalling pathway to protect against hypertension discovered by Lund University researchers

Researchers at Lund University have discovered a new signalling pathway that protects against hypertension by activating a compensatory mechanism in blood vessel cells. The study found that the mice were protected against hypertension by activating this pathway, which suggests potential for future complementary blood pressure medicines.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2025

Higher success rate using a simple oral swab test before IVF

A new study found that a simple oral swab test can increase IVF success rates by identifying the best hormone treatment for each woman based on her genetic profile. The test, developed by researchers at Lund University, shows promise in reducing costs and increasing pregnancies.

SourceLund University·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 13, 2025

Reptiles are brightest in open habitats

A study from Lund University found that reptiles living in open habitats generally have brighter colouration than those in denser vegetation. The researchers analyzed images of 10,638 species and discovered a strong connection between light colors and open habitats over the past 200 million years.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2025

Migrating roach have sharper eyesight

A study from Lund University found that migrating freshwater roach have larger pupils and better eyesight than non-migrating individuals. This adaptation enables them to detect small food sources in low-light conditions, crucial for survival during migration.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateApr 3, 2025

Surprising number of environmental pollutants in hedgehogs

Researchers at Lund University found that hedgehogs collected from urban areas in Sweden contained high concentrations of lead, pesticides, and other pollutants. The study provides an environmental fingerprint of urban ecosystems, highlighting the need for increased monitoring and reduced use of synthetic materials.

SourceLund University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateApr 1, 2025