Researchers have developed a method to produce the coral-antibiotic erogorgiaene in a laboratory using genetically optimized bacteria. The production costs are significantly lower than conventional methods, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative.
Two types of solar cells, perovskite and organic, were tested in space as part of the MAPHEUS 8 program, achieving efficiency levels of 25% and generating power under exceptional conditions. The results show promise for future aerospace applications, particularly for missions to the outer solar system.
A meta-study of 92 studies found that secondary school students outperform their peers in traditional classes when using digital tools. The tools' effectiveness increases when used with paper-based materials and accompanied by teachers. Intelligent tutor systems and professionally trained teachers are particularly effective.
Research by Technical University of Munich shows that faster-growing bacteria are more likely to die when deprived of food, highlighting the balance between growth and survivability in bacterial fitness. The study may lead to improved effectiveness of antibiotics by stimulating intestinal bacteria growth.
A scientific team has successfully simulated the formation of pallasites, a type of stony-iron meteorite, on an experimental basis. The experiments confirmed that both partial separation of core and mantle, and subsequent impact of another celestial body, are required for their formation.
Research on Drosophila melanogaster reveals that dopaminergic neurons respond to both internal behavioral states and external signals, enabling flexible and individualized decision-making. The study provides insights into how dopamine contributes to neural circuit functionality and behavior.
Researchers found that arsenic trioxide can restore the body's natural antiviral factories to fight adenovirus infections. The medication has been approved for leukemia treatment and shows promise in inhibiting adenovirus replication without developing resistance.
Researchers have successfully investigated the basic mechanisms of molecular factories in bacteria, revealing insights into the production of complex structures like polyketides. This discovery inspires targeted manipulation of biochemical processes, leading to potential improvements in antibiotics and other drugs.
Researchers found that certain gut bacteria not following a day-night rhythm can serve as an indicator for potential type 2 diabetes. Mathematical models also suggest this microbial risk signature helps in diagnosing diabetes, improving diagnosis and outlook of the disease.
Researchers at TUM have developed a new method to quantify the key substances in chanterelles responsible for their distinctive kokumi effect. These natural fatty acid derivatives can be used as quality control markers and potentially improve flavor profiles in mushroom dishes and other savory foods.
A new technique, multi-spectral optoacoustic mesoscopy (MSOM), enables high-resolution visualization of tumor tissue patterns without the need for surgical biopsies. MSOM allows researchers to study blood supply patterns, oxygenation levels, and drug efficacy with greater accuracy.
A study published in Gastroenterology identified a genetic defect in the calcium channel TRPV6 as a cause of early-onset chronic pancreatitis. The researchers found that the absence of this gene led to inflammation and fibrotic changes in the pancreas, paving the way for new therapeutic interventions.
Researchers at TUM have discovered a novel mechanism that inhibits cancer-specific immune responses, leading to the development of new immunotherapies. The discovery identifies a suppressive metabolite from glucose metabolism as a key factor in limiting cancer immunity.
Researchers from TUM have identified a substance that worm larvae use to modulate the host's immune response, activating anti-inflammatory pathways and reducing inflammatory mediators. This active molecule shows promise as a new treatment for chronic airway inflammation in allergic asthma.
A new diagnostic method for allergic rhinitis has been developed using nasal smears, providing a gentle alternative to blood tests. The method detected identical allergic sensitization patterns in both blood and nasal secretions for a wide range of airborne allergens.
Researchers discovered that microscopic alterations in stem cell niche can predict Crohn's disease recurrence. A therapeutic approach using dichloracetate (DCA) restored intestinal stem cell functionality and maintained the intestinal barrier.
A new study reveals that flavorings containing benzaldehyde can form benzene when exposed to light, posing a risk to consumer health. The long-term solution lies in protecting these flavorings from light, particularly during production and storage.
Researchers at TUM designed an artificial binding protein with a unique chemical composition to bind to biological sugar structures. This protein has superior affinity to natural lectins and can inhibit cell growth, making it a potential therapeutic agent for conditions like cancer and infectious diseases.
A comprehensive map of the proteome of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana has been created, detailing the presence, location, and quantity of approximately 18,000 proteins in the plant. This study provides new insights into plant biology and offers potential avenues for improving crop yields and disease resistance.
Researchers identified a mutation responsible for destabilizing light chains, leading to the formation of deadly amyloid fibrils. The study provides new insights into the disease and potential diagnostic methods.
Researchers have developed an algorithm that uses the transit time of sound waves to assign echoes to specific walls. The drone's six degrees of freedom are sufficient for optimal microphone placement, reducing ghost wall detection. This innovation opens a new pathway towards practical applications in various fields.
A new study reveals that biodiversity increases the efficiency of energy use in grasslands by storing more energy, having greater flow of energy and using energy more efficiently across all trophic levels. Ecosystems with higher plant diversity contain twice as much standing biomass compared to monocultures
Researchers created 'active droplets' that release drugs at a constant rate over several days, reducing the risk of overdose. The droplets are stable for longer due to hydrolysis protection and can be loaded with varying doses.
Researchers identified a molecular mechanism for communication between microtubule and actin networks, enabling color change in amphibians and fish. A theoretical model supports the findings, highlighting the regulatory efficiency of cytoskeletal interactions.
Bumble bees prefer normal, low-fat pollen over high-fat versions, which can negatively impact their reproduction and survival. The bees' ability to distinguish between nutrients allows them to make informed food choices.
A study by TUM found that higher biodiversity increases economic value, but only up to a certain point. Adding more species beyond this threshold doesn't produce significant benefits. Instead, a medium level of biodiversity is often most beneficial for ecosystem functionality and risk diversification.
Researchers from TUM have identified a new role for the alpha-A-crystallin protein in protecting other proteins from oxidation, which may contribute to the prevention of cataracts and age-related blindness. The study reveals that oxidized alpha-A-crystallin can transfer disulfide bridges to other proteins, influencing their redox state.
A new polyamide family has been developed from a biogenic residue, offering improved performance and lower costs compared to traditional crude oil-based materials. The synthesis process is scalable and can be conducted in one reaction container, increasing sustainability.
Researchers at Technical University of Munich used CRISPR-Cas9 gene scissors to correct the mutated dystrophin gene in living pigs, improving muscle function and life expectancy. The therapy has shown promising results in a clinically relevant large animal model, mirroring Duchenne muscular dystrophy in humans.
Researchers at TUM functionalized a simple rod-like building block with hydroxamic acids to form molecular networks displaying complexity and beauty. The networks exhibit exceptional properties and chiral symmetry, with unique opportunities for bottom-up nano-templating.
Researchers have identified a genetic program controlling the development of beige fat cells, which can convert energy into heat. The study's findings suggest that people with more thermogenic fat cells may be less likely to develop obesity and related metabolic disorders.
A team of scientists has modified an approved cancer drug to create a new antibiotic effective against multi-resistant bacteria, including MRSA. The new agent, PK150, targets unconventional structures within the bacteria and has shown promising results in mice, with no observed resistance development.
Researchers studied traditional Khasi building techniques for living root bridges, which can reach over 50 meters in length and withstand centuries. The bridges' complex root structure provides stable and safe passage, while also serving as a natural cooling system for cities.
Scientists from Technical University of Munich found that the plug dome's permeability drops significantly as stone alteration increases, leading to an imminent eruption. This discovery enables more reliable prediction of volcanic eruptions, with reduced outgassing being a key indicator of an impending event.
A large-scale biodiversity study found that insect decline is more extensive than previously thought, with many species affected in both grasslands and forests. The researchers identified the biggest losses in grasslands surrounded by intensively farmed land, where the most heavily impacted species were those unable to travel far.
A team of researchers has identified a key regulator of root hair growth in plants, revealing a new mechanism for controlling this process. The discovery, made using 'smoke detectors' from fire-following seeds, shows promise for improving crop yields and drought resistance.
Researchers from Technical University of Munich discovered an inactive receptor in cancer cells prevents checkpoint inhibitors from reactivating the immune system. This leads to a weakened immune response against cancer cells.
The artificial skin developed by Prof. Gordon Cheng and his team enables robots to perceive their surroundings in greater detail and with more sensitivity, making them safer when operating near people. The system combines hexagonal cells with microprocessors and sensors to detect contact, acceleration, proximity, and temperature.
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is launching TUM.Additive, a comprehensive research focus on additive manufacturing. The initiative aims to establish Bavaria as a leading economic region for digital manufacturing technologies, promoting sustainable industrial use and creating new products with complex geometries. The strategy ...
Scientists have elucidated the structure of the ClpX-ClpP proteolytic complex, a key to developing innovative antibiotics that target bacterial degradation processes. The complex's unique mechanism of action has considerable innovation potential in the fight against pathogenic bacteria.
Researchers at Technical University of Munich have discovered a specific neuroenzyme responsible for analgesics resistance in chronic pancreatitis. The team found that targeting this enzyme, nNOS, with an existing inhibitor reduces pain perception in animal models, offering new hope for pancreatic patients
Researchers identified a neural circuit in fruit flies that controls perseverance, with dopamine and octopamine neurotransmitters playing a key role. The finding suggests that simple organisms like fruit flies exhibit stamina and perseverance, challenging the idea that these traits are unique to humans.
Chaperones, molecular protein machines, ensure that proteins are built correctly. In the study, researchers found that chaperones retain one part of interleukin 23-alpha until it is incorporated into the complete complex, controlling its secretion and biosynthesis.
A major population study found that genetic variants associated with educational attainment also lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. These variants have implications for a healthier lifestyle, regardless of education level.
A study found that co-infection with blood flukes and Helicobacter pylori reduces stomach inflammation by misdirecting immune cells to the liver. The interaction may limit vaccine effectiveness but also provides protection against cirrhosis, a common complication of schistosomiasis.
The GERDA experiment has set a record-breaking sensitivity for detecting the neutrinoless double beta decay, which could reveal if neutrinos are their own antiparticles. The LEGEND project plans to increase the detector mass and reduce background noise to achieve even greater sensitivity.
A European study found that patients with high PRD values (≥7.5 degrees) benefit from implantable defibrillators, with a 75% decrease in mortality risk, while those with lower values see a 31% reduction.
The HADES experiment simulates electromagnetic radiation from colliding neutron stars, revealing temperatures of 800 billion degrees Celsius. The research provides insight into the cosmic kitchen for heavy nuclei fusion.
A TUM research team discovered iron-60 in Antarctic snow, ruling out cosmic radiation and nuclear sources. The isotope's presence suggests the solar system recently passed through an interstellar gas cloud.
Researchers discover beta-amyloid blocks glutamate re-uptake in hyperactive neurons, causing false signals and impairments in signal processing. The soluble form of beta-amyloid dimers are responsible for the toxic effect, providing a new target for early treatment strategies.