Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 is a rare disease that disrupts brain function and coordination. Researchers have identified endosomal dysfunction as a key contributor to the disease's progression, and found a potential treatment using the compound 7,8-DHF.
A global team of biologists used nearly two decades of field data from the Galápagos Islands to study the relationship between beak traits and individual longevity in four species of Darwin's finches. The researchers found that each species' unique beak traits correspond to fitness peaks, which are essential for survival.
A McGill University study found that Canada's food guide may not be sufficient for older adults' nutritional needs, particularly in calcium, vitamin D, and folate. The researchers suggest that additional recommendations tailored to older adults are needed to address these gaps.
A study by McGill University researchers found that people with symptomatic H. pylori infection have an 11% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest a potential role for the bacterium in the development of the disease, opening avenues for future research and possible prevention strategies.
McGill researchers have developed capillaric chips that can be 3D-printed in 30 minutes, enabling on-the-spot testing and potentially making diagnostic tests more accessible. The technology has the potential to speed up diagnoses, enhance patient care, and usher in a new era of accessible testing.
Researchers discovered a single bacterium transferred genetic material to mussels, enabling their ability to make durable fibers. These fibers, similar to spider silk, could inspire the development of tough polymer fibers for more sustainable materials.
A new study published in Science Advances challenges the long-held theory that a meteorite was responsible for the extinction of the dinosaurs. Researchers from McGill University and around the world found evidence of massive volcanic eruptions in Western India, which may have triggered a global drop in temperature and made life diffic...
A new study suggests that Canada's ability to meet its 30 by 30 target relies on national coordination and prioritizing biodiversity-rich areas. If successful, this could protect over 65% of all species, but regional strategies hinder progress and result in lost biodiversity.
Researchers at McGill University discovered a strong, quick-release connection between living and non-living tissues in marine mussels. The biointerface is mediated by serotonergic cilia-based adhesion, which can be controlled by neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.
A new study by McGill researchers explores the power of imagination in evoking empathy, showing that vividly imagining someone else's problems motivates us to lend a helping hand. The study finds that personal distress is a more prominent form of empathy, which can actually be a catalyst for taking action.
A new study from McGill University and international collaborators investigates the role of temperature in determining animal species' current and potential habitats. The research reveals that temperature is less directly limiting for land animals like reptiles, amphibians, and insects than previously thought.
A study by McGill University researchers found that fathers' slightly higher levels of depressive symptoms during pregnancy were associated with fewer behavioral difficulties in their children at age 6-8. In contrast, mothers' high levels of anxiety and depression were linked to poorer childhood outcomes.
A new study found that killer whales' diets, rather than location, are more important for pollutant exposure. The research analyzed blubber samples from 162 North Atlantic killer whales and discovered varying diet compositions caused striking differences in contaminant concentrations.
A team of researchers from McGill University, UCLA, and Princeton has found an inexpensive, sustainable way to cool buildings in hot climates using radiative cooling materials. They achieved temperatures several degrees below the ambient temperature, without compromising healthy ventilation air changes.
A new framework for microbiome research involving Indigenous communities has been developed, prioritizing collaboration and Indigenous sovereignty. The framework aims to ensure that Indigenous communities reap the benefits from their contributions to science.
Researchers at McGill University found that people who use sunscreen are more likely to develop skin cancer due to inadequate application or excessive sun exposure. Sunscreen is not the most effective way to protect against skin cancer, with clothing and avoidance being better options.
A new study found that AI-tutored students caused less damage to healthy tissues and improved safety measures, but also showed negative outcomes such as reduced efficiency and speed. Human instructors are essential to promote both safety and efficiency in neurosurgical training.
A study by McGill University found that higher-income individuals and those with university education had increased rates of melanoma, while those earning less than $50,000 were more likely to work outdoors and experience occupational sun exposure. Men also had higher rates of melanoma and other skin cancers due to increased UV exposure.
Researchers at McGill University have developed a potato super pangenome, capturing the genetic diversity of nearly 300 varieties and their wild relatives. This extensive collection aims to identify key genetic traits for breeding more resilient, nutritious and disease-free potatoes.
A recent study by McGill University found that young adults who experience more frequent psychotic thoughts also spend more time on digital media. However, the study suggests that digital media use does not cause or exacerbate these experiences. Instead, it may be a factor in accessing mental health information and services.
A new global observatory is needed to guide conservation efforts due to unprecedented biodiversity loss. The Global Biodiversity Observing System (GBIOS) aims to combine technology and data from around the world to foster collaboration and share urgently needed data.
A recent study led by McGill University estimates that the European Union will face significant economic losses due to biological invasions, with costs projected to reach over €142.73 billion by 2040. The study highlights the need for effective management and collaboration to address this threat.
Researchers from McGill University found that stronger winds shift the Labrador Current eastward, leading to sudden warmings or drops in oxygen levels. This has dire consequences for marine ecosystems and fisheries, including smaller species like cod and halibut, which struggle to survive in low-oxygen conditions.
Researchers estimate that plugging documented orphaned wells in the US will exceed $4.7 billion by 30-80% and may not cover undocumented wells. The study analyzed data from over 80,000 documented wells and found that over 4.6 million Americans live near these wells.
A study by McGill University found that humans spend approximately 9 hours on human-centered activities, such as sleep, eating, and personal care. Economic activities, including work and trade, account for only about 2.6 hours of the average day.
A new human pangenome reference has been released, representing the genetic diversity of 47 individuals from around the world. This development may lead to breakthroughs in targeted medical treatments and a better understanding of disease responses, as regions previously missed are now being explored.
A new study found that sixty percent of Canadians maintained or improved their lifestyle habits during the pandemic, while forty percent adopted less healthy behaviors. Researchers identified certain groups, including those with body image issues and stress, as more likely to adopt unhealthy habits.
A new study maps French Canadian populations using a unique dataset of over five million records spanning 400 years, revealing the complex relationship between human migration and genetic variation. The research shows that the genetic structure of French Canadians is encoded within its genealogy.
A study by McGill University found that microplastic pollution alters the gut microbiomes of seabirds, increasing pathogens and antibiotic-resistant microbes. The research warns humans to be wary of microplastics in their environment and food, as they can also impact human health.
McGill researchers are developing a new technique using 3D printing and hydrogels to create biomedical devices that conform to the human body. This emerging technology, called soft ionotronics, has the potential to improve wearable and implantable devices, such as strain sensors for neuromuscular rehabilitation.
Researchers at McGill University have made a major breakthrough in understanding the fundamental structure of melanin, a pigment that gives humans their skin, eye, and hair color. The study revealed that a specific component of melanin can convert light into heat across all wavelengths, providing broad-spectrum protection.
A recent study published in Nature challenges traditional views on human origins in Africa, proposing that modern humans emerged from the interaction of multiple populations across the continent. By analyzing genomic data from diverse African groups, researchers found evidence of gene flow and mixing over hundreds of thousands of years.
Researchers at McGill University discovered that phosphatases of regenerating liver (PRLs) are overexpressed in some cancers, making cells more metastatic and driving disease progression. The study sheds light on PRLs' role in binding magnesium transporters, a common pathway among all studied species.
A study by McGill University and University of British Columbia found that the planet's biomass is concentrated in organisms at either end of the size spectrum. The researchers discovered a universal upper limit for maximum body size across multiple species and environments, with similar sizes reached by trees, fish, and other organisms.
Researchers from McGill University have discovered 25 new sources of repeating fast radio bursts (FRBs), bringing the total number of confirmed FRB sources to 50. This new study uses a novel statistical tool to confirm the repetition of these mysterious phenomena, shedding light on their origins.
A recent study by McGill University found that short exposure to bright light before night shifts can significantly reduce fatigue and errors among nurses. Nurses who received bright light exposure made fewer errors and slept better after their shifts.
Killer whales in the North Atlantic exhibit dietary specialization, with regions preferring different prey species. The study's findings provide insight into potential impacts on sensitive species within Arctic ecosystems.
The HERA team has improved the sensitivity of a radio telescope, allowing them to detect radio waves from the cosmic dawn era. The data suggests that early galaxies contained few elements besides hydrogen and helium, unlike modern galaxies.
Researchers led by Nicolas Ajzenman found that immigrants don't increase crime rates, but people's perception of crime does. In Chile, migrants' presence sparked concerns among citizens, with those exposed to immigration inflows more likely to rank crime as a top concern.
A new study has uncovered the brain's internal compass, which helps it navigate changing environments. The research found that the brain uses a mechanism called 'network gain' to reorient itself after being disoriented, allowing for rapid recovery of its sense of direction.
Researchers at McGill University have found a way to predict the movement of species in fragmented habitats, which is key to their survival. By combining lab experiments and mathematical modeling, they determined that the survival of species lies in the interplay between their patterns of movement and the orientation of habitat corridors.
A study of over 270,000 individuals found that sex-specific genetic variants are linked to depression in females, but not males. Researchers discovered 11 areas of DNA associated with depression in females, highlighting the importance of sex-specific treatments for women with depression.
A new study from McGill University reveals that every day Canadians are exposed to Bisphenol S (BPS) in fresh foods due to chemical migration from packaging materials. High concentrations of BPS were found on thermal food labels, exceeding the European Union's regulatory limit.
A comprehensive review of 137 studies from around the world found minimal changes in mental health during the pandemic. Women and certain groups experienced worsening symptoms due to multiple responsibilities and care work.
A new study from McGill University found that individuals with lower education levels are more likely to contract HIV. Researchers also discovered that people living in unstable housing conditions or those who did not complete post-secondary studies were at a higher risk of infection.
A new study links genetic changes in kidney cancer to patient outcomes, identifying four groups of patients based on mutation presence. This research may lead to more effective prediction of recurrence risk and personalized treatment for thousands of patients annually.
A recent study published in Nature highlights the underestimation of global wetland loss over the past 300 years. The research found that temperate river floodplains and tropical regions are disproportionately affected, while remote boreal-arctic peatlands remain relatively unharmed.
A 250.8 million-year-old fossil find reveals complex marine ecosystems on Earth just one million years after the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, contradicting long-held theories. The discovery provides insights into life's rapid recovery from extreme crises and necessitates a re-evaluation of early Triassic ocean conditions.
Researchers at McGill University have identified a crucial gene (tfec) controlling reptile pigmentation and specifically the classic piebald trait. By combining whole-genome sequencing, gene-editing, and electron microscopy, they found that this mutation affects color-producing cells in reptiles.
A new study finds that obesity-related neurodegeneration mimics Alzheimer's disease, with grey matter atrophy patterns similar in both groups. The researchers suggest that controlling excess weight could lead to improved health outcomes and slowed cognitive decline.