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Queen Mary University of London


Chimpanzees have accents too, study finds

A study by Queen Mary University of London finds that young chimpanzees develop distinct population-specific vocal patterns as they mature. This development is influenced by social interactions, environmental conditions, and other non-genetic factors, suggesting a more flexible and dynamic communication system than previously recognized.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS One·DateSep 3, 2026

Introduction of London’s ultra low emission zone linked to improved lung growth in children

A landmark study of over 3,400 children found that London's Ultra Low Emission Zone improved lung growth and health, with lung capacity increasing by 10ml per year. The study suggests that clean air zones can benefit child development and should be considered a priority for cities globally.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2026

New graphene-powered soft lens could pave the way for smarter glasses, cameras and medical devices

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London developed a graphene-based material for soft lenses that can change focus electronically without bulky moving parts. The technology has the potential to open up new applications in medical imaging devices, autofocus cameras, wearable displays and scientific instruments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 10, 2026

International study shows once-weekly HIV pill performs as well as daily treatment

An international clinical trial has shown that a once-weekly oral treatment for HIV is non-inferior to one of today's leading daily therapies. The Phase 3 ISLEND-1 trial evaluated a tablet combining islatravir and lenacapavir in adults with well-controlled HIV, demonstrating over 93% viral suppression in both groups.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 29, 2026

The Gravity from Entropy theory offers new clues for reconciling gravity with the second law of thermodynamics

A new study by Queen Mary University mathematician Professor Ginestra Bianconi proposes a perspective on the deep question of how the Universe can become increasingly structured while obeying the second law of thermodynamics. The Gravity from Entropy theory suggests that gravity and spacetime may have an intrinsic thermodynamic and inf...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPhysical Review·DateJul 17, 2026

New brush test detects oral cancer in one hour

A non-invasive brush biopsy test has been validated for accurate oral cancer detection within one hour, potentially sparing over 90% of low-risk patients from unnecessary invasive procedures. The test's performance is comparable to a microbiopsy-based assay, making it a game-changer in oral cancer diagnosis and treatment.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBiomarker Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2026

Hip fracture patients three times less likely to need repeat surgery with dual mobility hip replacements

A major international clinical trial found that dual mobility total hip replacements (DM-THR) significantly reduce complications in people with a broken hip. DM-THR was shown to be 70% less effective at causing dislocations, while also reducing overall complication rates and hospital stays.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 2, 2026

New paper suggests experts should focus on a “Neurodevelopmental spectrum” to support children rather than considering conditions like ADHD and autism in isolation

Researchers propose a new approach to supporting children with neurodevelopmental conditions by considering the broader neurodevelopmental spectrum. The study identifies a common underlying dimension that reflects the constellation of traits characterizing these conditions across development.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 2, 2026

Better heart 'digital twins' could help target treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (erratic heartbeat)

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London developed digital models of individual patients' hearts to simulate Atrial Fibrillation behavior. Combining three types of data, including MRI scans and electrical voltage measurements, identified more targets than imaging alone.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2026

Children’s motivation and attitudes towards learning play a key role in academic success, study finds

A major new study from Queen Mary University of London found that non-cognitive skills like motivation, curiosity, and self-belief play a key role in translating children's genetic dispositions into academic achievement. The research suggests that education systems should prioritize fostering these skills alongside traditional academic...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2026

Methane emissions maximised by global warming

A new study reveals that global warming will increase natural methane emissions, overwhelming those consumed by microbes, leading to a positive feedback loop in climate change. The research, led by Queen Mary University of London, used unique natural experiments to test the effect of warming on methane balance.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 5, 2026

Drug slows progression of MS

A major clinical trial found ocrelizumab significantly slows disability progression and preserves hand and upper-limb function in people with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study included over 1,000 patients across 22 countries and showed a 30% lower risk of disability progression.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 28, 2026

Scientists discover how HIV hijacks a cellular 'gateway' to infect resting immune cells

Researchers discovered that HIV-1 can infect resting immune cells by temporarily 'unlocking' the nuclear pore complex, allowing its genetic material to enter the host's DNA. This finding challenges a long-standing dogma and has significant implications for understanding the latent reservoir and developing new treatments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateMay 6, 2026

How touch and emotion combine to shape our memories and relationships

A new paper in Neuroscience & Biobehavioural Review proposes a comprehensive neurobiological model of affective tactile memory, suggesting that emotionally meaningful touch is stored in the brain in powerful and lasting ways. This research opens a new window into how early and everyday tactile experiences influence our emotional lives.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateApr 23, 2026

Animals are powerful landscape engineers shaping the Earth’s surface, global study finds

A global meta-analysis of animal activity found that wildlife shapes landscapes through everyday activities like burrowing and feeding. The study revealed a significant influence on geomorphic processes, with animal activity altering the porosity of soils and sediments by up to 136% in freshwater ecosystems.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 30, 2026

High-risk patients account for 80% of post-surgery deaths

A major new study found that high-risk patients, who tend to be older and live with several long-term health conditions, have poor outcomes after surgery. The study highlights the need for greater investment in specialist perioperative services to focus on the care of older, high-risk patients before, during and after surgery.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 25, 2026

“This engine is grinding to a halt” - Nature slowing down as climate change gains pace

A new study from Queen Mary University of London finds that species turnover in ecosystems has significantly slowed down despite accelerating climate change. This slowdown is attributed to environmental degradation and the depletion of regional life pools, suggesting a loss of momentum in biodiversity.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 2026

Unsupervised strategies for naïve animals: New model of adaptive decision making inspired by baby chicks, turtles and insects

A new Royal Society paper proposes a model of adaptive decision making in naïve animals, showing early biases are surprisingly widespread and interact to support survival. This 'unsupervised strategy' can help inexperienced animals and artificial intelligence reduce the need for training.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 3, 2026