Researchers at McGill University have discovered a modified protein that plays a key role in memory processes, altering its function and enabling stronger neural connections. This finding represents an important step in understanding how the brain stores memories.
A molecule called Rab35 acts as a switch to activate the fast-track recycling pathway, allowing cargo to be rapidly selected and transported. Defects in this trafficking pathway can lead to numerous diseases, including high cholesterol and neuropathies.
Researchers at McGill University have developed DNA nanotubes that can encapsulate and release materials, such as drugs. These nanotubes could potentially be used to deliver targeted treatments for diseases like cancer.
Enobia Pharma and McGill University partner to develop innovative treatments for rare genetic disorder hypophosphatasia, which affects calcium-phosphate mineralization. The treatment, enzyme replacement therapy, is currently undergoing clinical testing in several countries.
A new tool has been developed to analyze and manage a wide range of ecological services in agricultural ecosystems. Ecosystems that maximize agriculture tend to have fewer hidden ecosystem services, such as water purification and climate moderation, compared to more diverse landscapes.
McGill University astrophysicist Matt Dobbs has been awarded a prestigious Sloan Research Fellowship to investigate cosmic microwave background radiation and shed light on the universe's fundamental structures. The $50,000 two-year award supports Dobbs' research on the origins and evolution of the universe.
Researchers at McGill University discover a molecular link between Parkinson's disease and impaired nerve cell communication. They found that parkin protein binds to endophilin-A, affecting synaptic transmission and potentially leading to dopamine neuron death.
Research reveals that people with Parkinson's disease are often isolated and stigmatized based on their communication style. The study shows that negative perceptions of speech patterns can limit opportunities for social interaction and reduce full participation in society.
A multinational team of researchers has identified a plan to develop new treatments for malaria by targeting the parasites' digestive enzymes. By blocking these enzymes, the parasites can no longer survive within human red blood cells, offering new hope for millions affected by global spread of drug-resistant parasites.
Researchers have identified genetic risk markers for post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS) in victims of the Walkerton tainted drinking water tragedy. The study, led by McGill PhD Alexandra-Chloé Villani, found that genetic factors play a critical role in the development of PI-IBS.
McGill researcher discovers a link between contaminated chicken and E. coli bacteria causing urinary tract infections in young women. The study highlights the need for better food safety measures and antibiotic use regulations in agriculture.
Willard Boyle shares Nobel Prize for co-invention of charged-couple device (CCD) with George E. Smith and Charles K. Kao. The CCD is a semiconductor circuit capable of sensing light and images, key technology behind digital photography.
McGill University has been awarded 19 Canada Research Chairs, including nine Tier-1 and 10 Tier-2 chairs, valued at a total of $17.6 million. The university is also receiving additional funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to support research infrastructure.
A breakthrough discovery identifies a new gene called Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 (IRS1) that affects how the body responds to insulin, leading to insulin resistance. The study found a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the IRS1 gene that reduces its activity by 40%, making it harder for insulin to work effectively.
Researchers at McGill University's Montreal Neurological Institute have discovered a key signaling pathway involved in brain connectivity. The study found that inhibiting the interaction between Calcineurin and NFAT resulted in more dendritic branches and synapses, suggesting a potent role for CaN in regulating neural connections.
A genetic mutation in the TACO1 gene has been identified as underlying late-onset Leigh syndrome, a rare inherited metabolic disorder characterized by central nervous system degeneration. The study provides insights into cell biology and will lead to diagnostic and predictive tests for family and genetic counseling.
A new experimental treatment, GIFT15, has been shown to completely reverse multiple sclerosis in mice by suppressing the immune response. The treatment, which combines two proteins, may also be effective against other autoimmune disorders like Crohn's disease and lupus.
A Montreal study links heavy consumption of beer and spirits to an increased risk of six different cancers, including oesophageal, colon, lung, pancreatic, liver, and prostate cancer. Heavy drinkers face a sevenfold increased risk of esophageal cancer and an 80% higher risk of colon cancer.
Researchers at McGill University discovered significant genetic disparities between blood and tissue cells, undermining the validity of genome-wide association studies. This finding has implications for vascular diseases, such as abdominal aortic aneurysms, where tissue samples are often used.
The Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) has received a $14 million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to support student recruitment and training in biomedical science. The grants will be distributed over six years, attracting and training over 200 high-level students in various dis...
McGill University has received $63 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to support five research projects. These initiatives focus on green chemistry, broadband, embryology, cancer, and disease therapy, with world-class researchers exploring ways to address major public health problems.
A study by McGill University researchers has captured an image of a mechanism underlying long-term memory formation. New proteins are made locally at the synapse, increasing synaptic strength and reinforcing memories.
Researchers at McGill University have pinpointed the key cellular machinery co-opted by HIV-1, allowing it to efficiently transport its RNA genome to the plasma membrane. This discovery opens up hopes for devising strategies to block the process and could lead to treatments to combat the virus.
Researchers discovered that metformin increases the efficiency of T-cells, which boosts infection- and cancer-fighting treatments. This discovery could lead to novel strategies for vaccine and anti-cancer therapies, potentially enhancing immunological memory.
Researchers at McGill University found that statin therapy can inhibit myelin repair in Multiple Sclerosis patients. The study suggests a negative impact of long-term statin therapy on remyelination and oligodendrocyte number.
Researchers at McGill University have identified a principal cause of Alzheimer's disease as the addition of a single phosphate to an amino acid in a key brain protein, tau. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnosis and potentially block the onset of the disease.
Researchers observe transformation of an ordinary, slow-rotating pulsar into a superfast millisecond pulsar with an almost infinitely extended lifespan. The discovery provides direct evidence for the process of cosmic recycling, where matter from a companion star falls into a pulsar's gravity well, increasing its rotation speed.
A major international study by the FANTOM consortium has found that genes are not controlled by 'master regulators' as previously thought. Instead, a more subtle and coordinated approach is needed for cellular differentiation and cancer development.
Researchers discovered a parasitic effect when powering quantum dot amplifiers and were able to overcome it, leading to the most efficient amplifier ever measured. This breakthrough has enormous potential significance for laser technology, telecommunications, and optical computing applications.
A collaborative study by McGill University researchers discovered a positive correlation between cognitive ability and cortical thickness in the brains of healthy 6 to 18-year-olds. The link was found in regions integrating information from different parts of the brain, including 'multi-modal association' areas.
McGill University is proud to announce that Andrew Hendry and Karim Nader have received the E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship for their innovative research in eco-evolutionary dynamics and post-traumatic stress disorder, respectively.
Researchers at McGill University found that Parkinson's patients who develop addictions have elevated dopamine levels, promoting addictive behaviours. Adjusting medication dosage resolved symptoms, suggesting hereditary factors contribute to addiction vulnerability.
A new method of synthesizing peptides using simple reagents has been discovered by McGill University researchers. The technique allows for the creation of multiple peptides with minimal equipment and expense, revolutionizing biological research.
Researchers at McGill University found that disabling the ability to clean cells of toxic molecules can lead to longer lifespan in some organisms. Oxidative stress theory is called into question, with evidence suggesting it may be a result of aging rather than its cause.
A new study from McGill University finds that MCH neurons are activated during sleep and could be important in regulating the sleep state. The study provides deeper understanding of the sleep-wake cycle and vital insight into the basis of sleep disorders such as narcolepsy.
A genome-wide association study has identified three genes associated with an increased risk of severe obesity in children and adults. The study, led by McGill scientists, found that these genes contribute to early-onset obesity in kids and morbid obesity in adults.
Researchers at McGill University and the MUHC have identified a gene crucial for vitamin B12 metabolism, shedding light on a rare genetic disorder. The discovery may lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment options for patients with cblF combined homocystinuria and methylmalonic aciduria.
A new pharmaceutical developed by McGill University researchers may allow PKU sufferers to eat a normal, protein-rich diet, avoiding the need for severe protein restrictions. The treatment, which involves enzyme therapy, aims to reduce phenylalanine levels in the blood and alleviate symptoms such as agoraphobia.
McGill researchers shed light on Earth's beginnings with the discovery of its oldest rocks, found to be 4.28 billion years old. Additionally, scientists from McGill and the MUHC have made significant breakthroughs in cancer treatment and tumour communication, offering new avenues for research and potential treatments.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered a DNA variation in the NLRP3 gene that increases susceptibility to developing Crohn's disease. The study reveals how a faulty bacterial sensor disrupts the digestive immune system's defense against harmful bacteria, leading to chronic inflammation and disease.
Researchers at McGill University discovered that clioquinol reverses Alzheimer's disease progression and may slow down the aging process by inhibiting CLK-1. The study suggests a potential new answer to the mechanisms behind three unrelated neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered a genetic mutation in worms that causes them to burn lipids instead of storing them, leading to a potential new treatment for obesity. The enzyme involved in this process may also play a role in humans, where it could help block the accumulation of fat in fatty tissue
A study of 387 patients found that 43% developed postthrombotic syndrome, a long-term complication not addressed by traditional treatment approaches. The risk factors identified include age, previous DVT, and larger blood clots at diagnosis.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered that plants can forget epigenetic silencing, a process crucial for breeding enhanced crops. This 'molecular amnesia' varies depending on genome position, offering new avenues for understanding gene regulation and developing cancer treatments.
Researchers at McGill University are targeting a small organelle called glycosome to develop new treatments for Leishmania parasite. The goal is to create less toxic drugs with fewer side effects. A potential breakthrough could help combat devastating diseases like African Sleeping Sickness and Chagas' Disease.
Researchers at McGill University have found a molecular mechanism that maintains social harmony in ants by limiting their fertility. This discovery supports Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection and provides insight into the evolution of eusocial organisms like ants.
A new study by McGill and Johns Hopkins universities found that routine screening for depression in heart patients is not effective. The researchers argue that there is insufficient medical evidence to support such a massive undertaking, and that testing would not benefit patients in cardiac care environments.
Dr. Gary J. Bennett's research focuses on understanding how chemotherapy drug paclitaxel causes neuropathy, a painful and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment. The $80,000 grant will support his two-year study to identify novel mechanisms and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers have discovered a new species of microorganism that thrived 55 million years ago during a period of abrupt global warming. The 'giant' magnetofossils, which are up to eight times larger than previously known ones, provide valuable insights into the potential effects of significant climate changes on life.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered a quasi-three-dimensional electron crystal in a material similar to those used in transistors, which could help the industry overcome quantum limits and continue Moore's Law. The discovery was made using ultra-low temperatures and powerful magnetic fields.