Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Monash University


Ocean's journey towards the center of the Earth

Researchers used computer modeling to reconstruct a 1100km subducted tectonic plate and found a connection between New Caledonia and northern New Zealand. The discovery provides evidence of a geographical link between the two islands at that time, shedding light on evolution in the region.

SourceMonash University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMar 5, 2009

Monash scientists debug superbug

Researchers uncover way to genetically modify Clostridium difficile and solve mystery surrounding its toxicity, revealing toxin B as the cause of severe disease. The discovery has the potential to save lives and healthcare systems billions of dollars annually.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2009

Monash research breakthrough to treat malaria

Researchers at Monash University have made a breakthrough in treating malaria by deactivating the parasite's digestive machinery. The discovery could provide treatment for millions of people worldwide and offers hope against drug-resistant malaria.

SourceMonash University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2009

New insight into how bees see

Honeybees can learn to recognise human faces even when seen from different viewpoints due to their ability to interpolate or image average previously learnt views. The study suggests that bee brains have evolved clever mechanisms for problem solving which may help develop improved models for AI face recognition systems.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 22, 2009

New medication brings hope of jet lag cure

Researchers at Monash University found a new drug, tasimelteon, that can effectively shift melatonin levels to alleviate jet lag and sleep disorders. The drug has the potential to improve sleep quality for patients with transient insomnia caused by time zone changes.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 1, 2008

Footrot vaccine closer than ever

Monash University scientists have initiated a clinical trials program for a footrot vaccine using reverse vaccinology to identify potential antigens. The goal is to develop a cross-protective vaccine that could significantly reduce the financial impact of footrot on the Australian wool and livestock industry.

Toxic shock: immune system's anthrax link

Researchers at Monash University uncover a molecular arms race between bacteria and the human immune system, revealing perforins as key players in defense against bacterial toxins. The discovery could lead to new ways to fight disease, including infectious diseases and transplantation rejection.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience·DateAug 23, 2007

Big Bang theory saved

Astrophysicists have resolved a long-standing issue with the Big Bang theory by studying gas movements in stars. Computer models revealed that low mass stars destroy helium 3 before it can be released into space, resolving the discrepancy.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2006

Scientists discover toxin that causes gastro disease

Australian scientists identified a toxin produced by E. coli bacteria that causes severe gastrointestinal illnesses, including food poisoning and haemolytic uraemic syndrome. The research breakthrough may provide insights into age-related diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, as well as cancer treatments.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateOct 9, 2006