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Ruhr-University Bochum


Protecting biocatalysts from oxygen

Researchers discovered a new enzyme with molecular protection against oxygen, increasing its resistance by genetic modification. This breakthrough aims to improve protein dynamics and control inorganic centre reactivity for carbon-neutral hydrogen production.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2023

Covid vaccines also help protect HIV patients

Researchers found that Covid vaccines effectively protect HIV-positive individuals, particularly after a third booster shot. The study also revealed a surprisingly strong cellular immune response in HIV-positive people, similar to those in healthy individuals.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2022

Fearlessness can be learned

Researchers discovered that eliminating a serotonin receptor enhances fear extinction, leading to improved therapy outcomes for PTSD patients. This finding may help develop targeted treatment strategies by understanding the role of SSRIs in modulating brain activity.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2022

Mild thyroid disorders can cause severe heart problems

Researchers discovered that mild thyroid dysfunctions can lead to serious heart issues, with elevated free T4 levels increasing cardiovascular mortality. A systematic review of 32 studies found a direct correlation between FT4 concentrations and cardiac death, paving the way for personalized preventive care.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 24, 2022

Clever birds have cheap neurons

Researchers found avian neurons consume three times less glucose than mammalian neurons due to smaller size and efficient energy usage. This surprising finding sheds light on the evolution of intelligent bird brains.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Replacing social media use by physical activity

A study found that replacing social media use with physical activity improves mental health, leading to increased happiness and reduced depression. Participants who followed the advice for two weeks experienced positive effects that lasted up to six months.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2022

How hepatitis E tricks the immune system

Researchers discovered a mutated form of the hepatitis E virus that produces non-infectious particles but can bind antibodies, potentially giving the virus an advantage. The study found that one mutation affects the capsid protein and leads to smaller, non-infectious particles that are correctly recognized by the immune system.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2022

An Achilles heel shared by plants and animals

Researchers discovered that diphthamide is formed in plants and plays a crucial role in protein biosynthesis, with reduced growth rates observed when its formation is impaired. Environmental stressors such as copper and cadmium also inhibit diphthamide production, highlighting a new factor influencing plant growth rates.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2022

Why natural gas is not a bridge technology

The study highlights the risks of natural gas infrastructure expansion, including underestimated methane emissions and economic climate risks. The researchers propose five measures to avoid these risks, including a timely and consistent natural gas exit.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 5, 2022

How the coronavirus attacks the heart

The coronavirus weakens the heart's pumping function by exerting pressure on heart muscle cells and activating enzymes that degrade proteins. Inflammation and oxidative stress exacerbate this damage.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 30, 2022

Suspect factor for hereditary brain disease

A team of researchers has identified a key player in the molecular pathogenesis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 17 (SCA17), a rare and devastating hereditary brain disease. The enzyme calpain is found to be overactive in cell and animal models of SCA17, leading to impaired protein function and accumulation of toxic protein fragments.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2022

How plesiosaurs swam underwater

Researchers found that plesiosaurs used a unique swimming motion, twisting their flippers to create lift and propel themselves through the water. This was achieved by using muscles to twist the flippers around their long axis, allowing for efficient swimming without rotating the upper arm and thigh.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPeerJ·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 3, 2022

Novel sensors enable precise measurement of dopamine

Researchers have developed novel sensors that can precisely measure dopamine levels in nerve cells, providing new insights into the mechanisms of dopamine release. The sensors use modified carbon nanotubes to visualise individual dopamine release events along neuronal structures.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2022

How Stockholm applied greening concepts and what we can learn from it

The study analyzed 574 articles on greening concepts in Sweden, finding that parks and semi-natural green spaces are the most common type of greening. The researchers derived recommendations for practice, emphasizing the need to harness scientific knowledge through translation and integration into decision support systems.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2022

Glatiramer acetate compatible with breastfeeding

Researchers found glatiramer acetate to be compatible with breastfeeding, reducing the frequency of relapses in multiple sclerosis patients. The study's results indicate no negative effects on infant development, leading to updates in the drug's label and approval for treatment during the breastfeeding period.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 11, 2022

The role of the cerebellum in absence seizures

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum found that stimulating cerebellar nuclei cells can prevent abnormal brain activity associated with absence seizures. The study used mice and optogenetic stimulation to confirm the therapeutic potential of targeted cerebellar stimulation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateMay 4, 2022

Fewer smartphones, more well-being

A study of 619 participants found that reducing smartphone use by one hour daily or complete abstinence for a week led to positive effects on physical activity, life satisfaction, anxiety, and depression. These benefits lasted longer in the reduced-use group, suggesting an optimal daily usage time may exist.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology Applied·DateApr 20, 2022

How to keep knowledge alive for emergencies

A multidisciplinary systematic review of 58 studies found that feedback, brain stimulation, and tools like gaze-guiding can help learn and retain complex skills. Minor refresher interventions, such as observing videos or practicing practical exercises, also have an impact on retaining knowledge.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalSafety·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 7, 2022

Growing quantum dots in a regular arrangement

Scientists from Ruhr-University Bochum have improved the manufacturing process for quantum dots by creating a targeted arrangement on a wafer. The team discovered that the density of quantum dots was distributed concentrically due to the coating process, resulting in high-quality structures.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2022

Early English lessons have lasting effects

Children who started learning English in primary school performed significantly better in listening and reading comprehension in grade nine compared to those who started later. The study found that the transition between school types played a key role in the long-term success of English language education, highlighting the need for wel...

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalSystem·DateMar 18, 2022

Deep insights into a living fungus

Researchers used light sheet microscopy to visualize the inner structures of a living fungus, Sordaria macrospora, without damaging it. They achieved high-resolution images and 3D reconstructions using Bessel beams, which provided uniform illumination and minimized optical properties issues.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 15, 2022

A sieve for molecules

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum, Yale, and Bielefeld have successfully produced a layer of two-dimensional silicon dioxide with natural pores. This material can be used as a fine-mesh sieve for molecules and ions, offering potential applications in desalination, fuel cells, and sustainable energy solutions.

Helping the body overcome Sars-Cov-2

A team of scientists has identified specific interferon-alpha subtypes that elicit a strong immune response against Sars-Cov-2. These subtypes were found to be highly effective in suppressing the virus, even when combined with antiviral drugs like remdesivir.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022