Clot-busting enzymes are working 2 jobs
Scientists found that clot-busting enzyme t-PA also removes necrotic cells from the body. The process involves a blood clot-like structure, allowing for efficient removal without damage to the body.
Monash University
New ways to protect female fertility
Researchers found that blocking the activity of PUMA and NOXA proteins may lead to new strategies to protect women's fertility. The study also showed that missing these proteins can provide protection against radiation damage, potentially delaying menopause and prolonging female fertility.
Advancing the treatment of trauma
A new series published in The Lancet presents laboratory research and clinical trial results on traumatic brain injury, haemorrhagic shock and major musculoskeletal injuries. Researchers identified promising avenues for improving patient outcomes, including innovative treatments for these complex conditions.
Evolutionary straitjacket means flies can't take the heat
Many fruit fly species lack heat resistance, making them vulnerable to predicted global temperature increases. Researchers found that most tropical and mid-latitude species are at risk of extinction without adaptation.
Study gives new insight on inflammation
Researchers at Monash University have discovered a mechanism that shuts down the body's inflammatory response after injury. This finding has significant implications for treating inflammation and may lead to new treatments for conditions such as myeloperoxidase deficiency.
It's in our genes: Why women outlive men
Research by Monash University scientists found that genetic variation in mitochondrial DNA can predict male life expectancy, but not female. The study suggests that these mutations, which affect males' aging speed and lifespan, are passed down from mothers due to the unique inheritance pattern of mitochondria.
New recruits in the fight against disease
Scientists at Monash University have deciphered the atomic structure of PlyC, a powerful anti-bacterial lysin that kills bacteria causing infections from sore throats to pneumonia. PlyC's unique 'saucer' shape and eight docking sites make it 100 times more efficient than other lysins at killing certain bacteria.
Better management of traumatic brain injury
Researchers identified two enzymes, t-PA and MMP-3, that promote injury severity following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Inhibiting these enzymes may protect the brain from TBI by blocking the activation of MMP-3, which causes damage. The study provides a promising therapeutic target for treating human TBI.
The challenges facing the vulnerable Antarctic
The Antarctic faces numerous challenges from human activity and climate change, including marine system impacts, invasive species, and pollution. The existing Antarctic Treaty System is being tested by growing tourism and resource use, highlighting the need for swifter decision-making and increased collaboration to conserve the region.
Disarming disease-causing bacteria
Research discovered a protein complex called the Translocation and Assembly Module (TAM), which forms a molecular pump allowing bacteria to shuttle disease-causing molecules from inside to outside the bacterial cell. This finding paves the way for designing new drugs that inhibit this process, potentially preventing antibiotic resistance.
Clot-busting enzyme plays 'peek-a-boo' with blood clots
Researchers at Monash University have discovered how a blood clot-busting enzyme is switched on, revealing a 'peek-a-boo' mechanism that could lead to new treatments for clotting and bleeding disorders. The findings also provide insights into the molecular details of current plasminogen-activating drugs.
Mouse to elephant? Just wait 24 million generations
Research reveals that rates of size decrease are much faster than growth rates, with dwarfism occurring in just 100,000 generations. It takes at least 24 million generations for large-scale changes in body size to occur.
Sexual healing? Not likely
Research by Monash University reveals that producing high-quality sperm comes with significant health costs for males. The study found a negative correlation between sperm quality and immune function, suggesting males invest energy strategically to produce better sperm.
Saving the snow leopard with stem cells
Researchers generated induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from ear tissue of adult snow leopards, paving the way for cryopreservation and cloning techniques to save endangered species. This breakthrough raises hopes for the conservation of the snow leopard and other cat family members.
Earth's past gives clues to future changes
Researchers develop three-dimensional model to explain Andes formation, predicting earthquakes and mountain range evolution. The new approach improves predictive power, allowing scientists to forecast tectonic plate behavior.
Stop signal discovered for skin cancer
Researchers at Monash University discovered a gene that helps protect against squamous cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. The absence of this gene is a profound driver of SCC tumours, leading to unchecked cell growth and cancer.
Unraveling the mysteries of the natural killer within us
Natural Killer cells play a critical role in early immune responses to tumours and viruses, exploiting HLA molecules on healthy cells to launch attacks. The research may help develop approaches to better utilize Natural Killer cells to combat viral infection.
Another clue to how obesity works
Researchers at Monash University have discovered how leptin-resistance develops in overweight and obese individuals. The study reveals that targeting only one of the negative regulators won't be enough to increase leptin-sensitivity in obesity, suggesting that all three regulators might need to be switched off.
Helping preterm babies get the best start
A landmark study from Monash University found that preterm babies have fewer nephrons and underdeveloped kidneys, increasing their risk of renal disease. The research aims to develop strategies to minimize the consequences of preterm birth and improve kidney development in these babies.
Major malaria drug research award
Researchers from Monash University and international partners have developed a potential new malaria drug candidate targeting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase enzyme. The team's work has been hailed as significant in combating malaria, which kills up to one million people annually worldwide.
Universe's not-so-missing mass
A 22-year-old undergraduate student has made a groundbreaking discovery of the Universe's 'missing mass' by detecting filaments in X-ray data. This finding is significant as it proves the prediction that the mass should be low in density but high in temperature, providing valuable insights into large-scale cosmic structures.
Stem cell study could pave the way to treatment for age-related muscle wasting
A recent study published in Nature has identified a key molecular mechanism that causes stem cells to differentiate into muscle cells in embryos. This breakthrough discovery could lead to new treatments for muscle dysfunction associated with aging and disease.
Splitting water to create renewable energy simpler than first thought?
A team of scientists at Monash University has discovered a manganese-based catalyst that can split water into hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight. The breakthrough uses the common mineral birnessite, which is found in rocks, to create a simple and efficient process for producing clean fuel.
Winding back the clock with kidney stem cells
Researchers at Monash University have successfully reprogrammed healthy adult kidney cells into embryonic-like stem cells, offering a new approach to modeling genetic kidney disorders and developing personalized medicine. The breakthrough enables the creation of limitless patient-specific stem cell lines for drug testing and disease mo...
Research breakthrough on male infertility
Researchers have identified a set of genes within mitochondria crucial to understanding male infertility. Mutations in these genes can build up unnoticed and cause harm to males but not females due to maternal inheritance.
Time lived with obesity linked with mortality
A Monash University study has found a direct link between time lived with obesity and the risk of mortality. Participants who experienced medium to long durations of obesity had significantly higher mortality rates compared to those who were never obese.
Monash scientists uncover a new understanding of male puberty
Researchers discovered that lower SMAD3 levels result in faster maturation, while absent levels lead to abnormal responses to testosterone. This finding has implications for altered pubertal timing, affecting adult height and bone density.
Evidence mounting on the harms of alcohol industry sponsorship of sport
A study published in Alcohol and Alcoholism found that sportspeople receiving alcohol industry sponsorship had higher drinking levels compared to those with non-alcohol sponsorships. The research suggests a link between the financial resources provided by alcohol companies and increased drinking habits.
Researcher explores the evolution of largest mammals over the past 100 million years
After the dinosaurs' demise, mammals grew significantly in size, from about ten kilograms to 17 tonnes, with consistent patterns across continents and time. The largest mammal, Indricotherium transouralicum, weighed around 17 tonnes.
A love game: Fish courtship more complex than thought
Researchers at Monash University discovered that male Australian desert goby fish are strategic in their courtship, adapting to the frequency of female encounters. When females are scarce, males become less discriminating and court any female they find, regardless of size.
World's oldest ground-edge implement discovered in northern Australia
A team of international experts has discovered the world's oldest ground-edge stone tool in northern Australia, dated to 35,000 years ago. The find provides evidence of modern human technology and innovation dating back to this period, challenging previous estimates of axe use among early hominid ancestors.
Elusive protein may lead the fight against inflammatory disease
Researchers from Monash University identified interleukin 37 as a key therapy for many inflammatory diseases, including those affecting premature babies. The protein blocks inflammation throughout the body and has been activated by various biological triggers.
A crucial link in immune development and regulation unearthed
Researchers at Monash University have discovered a protein called pre-T alpha that guides the correct expression of T cell receptors, enabling the immune system to effectively destroy harmful viruses and bacteria. The finding has significant implications for understanding immune development and potential treatments for childhood leukemia.
Mount Etna's mystery explained?
Researchers have developed a dynamic model to explain Mount Etna's existence, suggesting it resulted from decompression melting of upper mantle material. The theory provides an alternative explanation for the volcano's geological environment and surrounding volcanism.
Female fish abandoned by males to raise offspring on their own
A new study published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that male cichlid fish often desert their mates, leaving females to care for their young on their own. This abandonment severely compromises the quality of care provided by females, making them vulnerable to predators.
Brain cells determine obesity -- not lack of willpower: Study
A high-fat diet causes brain cells to become insulated, rendering them unable to detect signals of fullness. The insulation also creates a further complication in that the body is unable to detect signals to increase energy use and burn off calories.
Bees warm up with a drink, too!
A study by Monash University researchers reveals that bees use a 'hot' drink to warm up on cold days and a 'cool' drink in warmer weather. The bees preferred feeding from artificial flowers with warmer nectar, which helped them maintain an optimal body temperature for flight.
Brain estrogen shows promise as schizophrenia treatment
A study found Raloxifene improves psychosis symptoms and enhances memory in postmenopausal women with schizophrenia. The therapy may revolutionize treatment options for women suffering from the condition.
PEGylated dendrimers: a novel mechanism of drug delivery
Researchers have developed PEGylated Polylysine dendrimers as a novel mechanism of drug delivery, targeting either the lymphatic system or bloodstream. The technology offers improved treatment options for diseases such as cancer, HIV, and lymphatic conditions worldwide.
How long is a piece of thread? Long enough to save a life
Monash University scientists have developed a novel cotton-thread based microfluidic device capable of detecting diseases such as kidney failure and diabetes at an affordable cost. The device is the size of a postage stamp and can be produced using simple equipment like sewing machines.
Effective prostate cancer treatment discovery
Monash University scientists have identified a new way to treat castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells using estrogen receptors. The study shows that activating these receptors can cause cell death in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
An answer to another of life's big questions
Researchers found bacteria developed into complex cells earlier than thought, with mitochondria evolving around 2000 million years ago. The discovery transforms our understanding of cell evolution and the emergence of more complex life forms.
Winning the war on weight
A Monash University-led nationwide study found that severely obese individuals feel powerless to change their weight due to internalized stigma and shame. In contrast, mildly to moderately obese individuals believed they could lose weight if needed, but felt no urgent need to do so.
SourceMonash University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 4, 2010
Virtual testing gives lightweight planes lift-off
Researchers are using virtual testing to design and construct a new generation of efficient passenger airplanes with carbon-fibre composite structures. Virtual tests allow for simultaneous testing in hours, condensing months of physical testing into just hours.
Innovation puts next-generation solar cells on the horizon
Researchers at Monash University have developed a new way to increase the output of next-generation solar cells, achieving a three-fold increase in energy conversion efficiency. The breakthrough uses a new, more efficient type of dye that enables the operation of inverse dye-sensitised solar cells.
Monash study suggests rainwater is safe to drink
A Monash University study found that rates of gastroenteritis were similar between households with treated and untreated rainwater. The results confirm there is a low risk of illness from drinking rainwater, making it safe for activities like showering and bathing.
Milestone discovery in cell behaviors
A team of international molecular scientists has discovered a fast mechanism by which cells communicate changes, such as location during cancer spread, to adjacent cells. This discovery sheds light on cell behavior and could lead to the development of new drugs for diseases like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease.
Intensive care procedure saves lives: Swine flu study
A new report shows that doctors in Australia and New Zealand used ECMO to treat critically ill patients with H1N1, saving 54 out of 68 patients' lives. The study found that prolonged life support treatment was effective in severe cases, and survival rates were high despite the severity of symptoms.
Lessons learned from H1N1 virus pandemic
A comprehensive study on H1N1 virus impact in Australia and New Zealand reveals 20% ICU bed occupancy during peak epidemic. The study shares critical illness patterns, including unexpected effects on middle-aged individuals and pregnant patients.
Monash research cautions against use of antioxidants
Monash researchers found that antioxidants can prevent beneficial effects of ROS on insulin action in early stages of Type 2 diabetes. Elevated ROS levels in genetically-modified mice prevented insulin resistance and diabetes induced by a high-fat diet.