Hebrew University researchers received prestigious EU research grants to advance their careers and tackle groundbreaking projects. The five winners will focus on innovative fields such as dormant bacterial spores, group theory, neurophysiological changes, planetary formation, and protein-modulating drugs for cancer and AIDS.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a new communication factor that enables bacterial communities to 'talk to each other' and die under stressful conditions. This discovery could lead to the development of a new class of antibiotics targeting Escherichia coli and other pathogenic bacteria.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have identified a brain region, the planum temporale, as responsible for perceiving 'sound space', or the location of sounds. The study found that this region is activated when subjects are not concentrating on those sounds and can represent sound locations in a non-intentional manner.
Research found that administering cannabinoids like THC reduces allergic reactions in mice with contact dermatitis. The study suggests a protective role for the endocannabinoid system in skin allergy and potential therapeutic applications.
Scientists at Hebrew University of Jerusalem Racah Institute of Physics have developed a way to program polymer sheets to bend and wrinkle into prescribed structures. By varying the local polymer density, the gel shrinks at specific temperatures, causing it to buckle and change shape.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem developed a method to increase plant tolerance to salt stress, preventing stunted growth and plant death. The technique uses genetic manipulation to reduce self-induced membrane damage and has significant consequences for dealing with soil salinization.
A miniature robot developed by Prof. Leo Joskowicz and his team enables precise targeting in neurosurgical procedures, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes. The system, which uses preoperative scans and real-time image guidance, has been recognized with a Kaye Innovation Award.
Research by a Chinese-Israeli team shows that air pollution significantly reduces precipitation on mountains in semi-arid regions, highlighting the dire consequences for water resources in the Middle East and worldwide. The study found that increasing levels of manmade air pollution have led to a 20% decrease in precipitation on Mount ...
Researchers at Hebrew University found a link between depression and osteoporosis, showing that anti-depressant drugs can halt bone density loss. The study used laboratory mice to demonstrate the connection, revealing a neural system linking the brain to bones, which is disrupted in depressed individuals.
The honey bee's molecular structure of its biological clock is more similar to mammals than to flies, according to groundbreaking research. The key genes involved in the biological clock were identified and characterized, opening up new directions for understanding complex behaviors like sun-compass navigation and time sensing.
A team of researchers has developed a new method for targeting malignant brain tumors by inducing cancerous cells to commit suicide. The technique uses a molecule containing long, double-stranded RNA attached to epidermal growth factor (EGF) and delivered selectively to cells with high EGF receptors.
Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem isolated malignant tumor cells from their nutritional and oxygen supplies, inhibiting growth and stopping metastases. Actibind, a protein found in black mold, was shown to bind actin in human and animal cells, halting cell growth and reducing the ability of cancer cells to form new tumors.
Researchers found correlations between DNA variants in the D4 receptor gene and self-reported sexual desire, arousal, and function. Variants affecting dopamine levels were shown to influence sexual behavior.
Researchers at Hebrew University have identified a new protein that scans DNA for damage during bacterial sporulation, identifying a key mechanism in the process. This discovery may aid in understanding diseases involving DNA damage, such as cancer.
Researchers have successfully repaired torn Achilles tendons in rats using engineered mesenchymal stem cells expressing Smad8 and BMP2, promoting tendon regeneration. The study provides a novel approach to treating musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative diseases.
A hydrological mapping study found that the Judea Group Aquifer in Israel's desert has an average yearly volume of 100 million cubic meters, with only 20% currently used. The remaining water could supply 5% of Israel's total freshwater needs and meet the potable water needs of several towns at a lower cost.
Scientists have found that there are two separate visual streams in the brains of healthy individuals, one for perceiving objects and another for guiding actions. This discovery was made using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and provides new insights into the neural basis of perception and action.
A recent study recommends a large-scale test of speed camera networks in the US to curb road deaths. Small increases in travel speeds resulted in over 42,000 annual road deaths in the 1990s. Implementing speed control policies like those in the UK could have reduced US road deaths by 16-25%.
A new study found that eating one grapefruit daily can lower blood lipid levels in patients with hyperlipidemia, reducing the risk of heart disease. Grapefruit's antioxidant action is believed to be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
A Hebrew University researcher found genetic differences in 85 dancers and advanced students, affecting serotonin and vasopressin receptors. These variations were also reflected in questionnaire results, highlighting a 'dancer type' with heightened communication and spiritual traits.
Researchers discovered that substances produced in the body called endocannabinoids, which are present in bones and other tissues, help preserve bone density. A new synthetic compound has been developed to activate CB2 receptors, slowing osteoporosis development without psychoactive side effects.
A new approach to fighting MRSA infections suggests allowing harmless bacteria to live in hospitals, creating a natural protection against more virulent strains. By doing so, antibiotic-free hospitals with 'good' bacteria can test the effectiveness of this method, potentially reducing the spread of deadly MRSA.
Researchers discovered two types of fluids at depths of up to 180 kilometers, with one being a liquid rich in water and the other a thick hydrous melt containing dissolved matter. This study sheds light on the role of hidden fluids in shaping precipitation and volcanic eruptions.
A recent study published in Nature refutes previous claims of missing dark matter in elliptical galaxies, suggesting that massive dark-matter halos are present around these galaxies as well. The research uses simulations of galaxy mergers to explain the observations made by earlier studies.
Hebrew University researchers found that investors prefer non-liquid, low-risk assets like bank deposits over liquid, high-yielding T-bills, paying a premium for the perceived safety. This 'ostrich effect' ignores reported risks in T-bills and unreported risks in bank deposits.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding cell mutations that cause human diseases, particularly in children, by studying the C. elegans worm.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have discovered that the brain regulates bone density by controlling the activity of interleukin 1 protein. This finding holds promise for developing new treatments for osteoporosis.
Hebrew University researchers found that desert locusts use their polarization vision to determine if an area is land or water, avoiding water at all costs. This discovery could lead to the development of methods to deter locust swarms from flying over agricultural lands.
Researchers have discovered that monarch butterflies use specialized UV photoreceptors in their eyes to guide their long-distance migration. The butterflies' biological clock also plays a crucial role, with input from both the light-detecting navigation sensors and brain clock combining to provide direction.
A team of scientists from Israel, US, and Germany have found that tiny ocean animals called zooplankton can 'treadmill' against strong vertical currents to keep their depth. This remarkable behavior has significant implications for the survival of predators and humans.
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Geological Survey of Israel developed a new method to date ancient earthquakes using cave evidence. They found evidence of earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.5 or greater occurring in the region over the last 200,000 years, but not in recent times.
Researchers have discovered a new protein, SP-1, with unique structural characteristics that can survive extreme conditions. The protein has the ability to assemble into a structure composed of 12 identical units, making it exceptionally resistant to conditions and promising for medicinal applications.
A recent study published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that drinking pomelit juice daily can lower LDL blood cholesterol and increase antioxidant activity. Hypercholesterolic patients may benefit from adding fresh Sweetie juice to their diet as a preventative measure against future heart disease.
Researchers successfully produce spider silk fibers in insect cell cultures using genetic engineering, opening the way for commercial development. The fibers possess chemical resistance characteristics similar to those produced by spiders.
Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have discovered that slow waves in the earth's crust may be precursors to frictional movement causing earthquakes. By measuring these 'unfelt' waves using micro-scale technology, scientists hope to prevent earthquake-related damage through early warnings.
A study by Dr. Guy Stecklov and Dr. Joshua Goldstein found a significant increase in road fatalities in Israel following terrorist attacks. The research suggests that people may become more considerate after an attack, only to experience a temporary surge in aggressive behavior that leads to increased accidents
Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem produced the most detailed 3-D representation of the spliceosome's structure to date, revealing a complex with two distinct halves surrounding a tunnel. The study sheds light on RNA splicing and alternative splicing mechanisms, providing new understanding of protein diversity.
Researchers discovered that controlling temperature and daylight regulated bulb growth, allowing for flowering and seed production in garlic plants. This breakthrough opens possibilities for genetic diversity, pest resistance, and improved yields.
Researchers at the Hebrew University have identified the earliest evidence of a hereditary genetic disorder, amelogenesis imperfecta, in a 1.5 million-year-old Homo erectus child from Ethiopia. The disease affects tooth enamel structure and mineral content, leading to rapid wear and chipping.
Researchers at Hebrew University create gold-tipped nanocrystals that offer a solution to problems of building nanoscale transistors and electronic circuits. These nanodumbbells provide strong chemical bonds between the gold and semiconductor, leading to good electrical connectivity.
A team of archaeologists has unearthed conclusive evidence of early humans' control over fire in Eurasia, dating back to the Acheulian culture. The discovery, made at the Benot Ya'aqov site in Israel, reveals that ancient humans used fire for cooking and warmth, significantly impacting their diet and survival.
Researchers from Hebrew University and UCLA successfully created a tiny molecular motor that can be halted, paving the way for nanoscale devices with high precision. The achievement uses light or electrical stimulation to rotate a molecule, opening up possibilities for industrial and surgical applications.
Researchers found that smoke from forest fires delays cloud release, preventing moderate rain and causing thunderstorms instead. High-altitude clouds produce large hailstones on the Amazon rainforest floor.
Researchers discovered how day length and light quality affect stability of floral-promoting protein constans in Arabidopsis thaliana. This finding helps explain seasonal, day-length dependent flowering behavior in many plant species.
Scientists at the Hebrew University and Max Planck Institute have discovered a gene-based approach to suppressing stress-induced reactions. They developed an 'antisense' agent that neutralizes the production of modified proteins, preventing extreme fright or immobilizing shock reactions associated with traumatic memories.
Prof. Shaik, a renowned expert in organic chemistry, has been selected by the AAAS for his groundbreaking work on valence bond theory, which has recharted the mental map of chemistry. He is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Young Chemist Award and the Lise Meitner-Alexander von Humboldt Research Award.
Scientists verify King Hezekiah's role in constructing the Siloam Tunnel by dating organic material and stalactites within the tunnel. The findings refute a recent claim suggesting a much later date for the tunnel.
Researchers suggest celestial processes dominate climate change, with cosmic rays influencing low-level cloud formation and blocking sun warming. Human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are secondary to natural forces.
A study by Hebrew University researcher Dr. Ehud Zohary found that blind people's brains reorganize to process touch and memory, leading to superior verbal memory skills. The research opens a window into understanding cortical plasticity in brain systems, potentially leading to improved treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
A new method reveals previously unknown control genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, enabling insight into the roles of regulatory genes and their targets. The method predicts functions of regulator genes and their targets, shedding light on gene regulation and its implications for cell function and disease.