A research team led by Professor Chen Zhiwei at HKU invented a single gene-encoded tandem broadly neutralizing antibody, BiIA-SG, which displays potent activity against all genetically divergent global HIV-1 strains tested. The new findings show that BiIA-SG prevents diverse live viral challenges completely in humanized mice.
Researchers at HKU and Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences have developed a novel scientific method to derive water quality criteria (WQC) of metals for protecting different marine ecosystems. The new approach considers variable temperature and salinity regimes, improving protection for tropical marine organisms.
A new study by HKU researchers found that land-use changes significantly influence species distribution shifts in response to climate change. In cooler regions, forest loss slows down species migration, while deforestation accelerates it in warmer areas.
A team of scientists has developed a novel tissue clearing solution, OPTIClear, to visualize microscopic structures in the human brain. This breakthrough enables high-resolution imaging of neuronal circuitries and could accelerate research on brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers have discovered an alternative strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance by repositioning colloidal bismuth subcitrate, which effectively paralyzes multi-resistant superbugs and suppresses the development of antibiotic resistance. The findings offer a promising new approach to treat deadly infections caused by CRE and CRKP.
Recent publications by Dr. Joseph Michalski and colleagues cast doubt on the idea of surface life evolving on Mars due to extremely cold and dry climate conditions. However, they suggest subsurface life is a promising option, focusing exploration on hydrothermal deposits.
Scientists from HKU created a novel liquid-repellent surface inspired by springtail cuticles, offering enhanced mechanical stability and low production costs. The breakthrough technology can be applied to various fields, including energy, buildings, and water vehicles.
Researchers have successfully created tomatoes with significantly higher antioxidant properties by introducing a variant of HMGS into the plant. This enhancement includes increased vitamin E, carotenoids and phytosterols content, making it a promising step towards developing healthier crops.
Researchers have discovered that low-frequency activities in the hippocampus drive brain-wide functional connectivity in the cerebral cortex, enhancing sensory responses and learning. This breakthrough suggests the hippocampus is a key region in the brain, with potential therapeutic implications for Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists propose a new concept of terrestrial planet formation involving heat-pipes, which transport heat from interior to surface via mantle melting and magma ascent. This hypothesis resolves major outstanding problems across all planets, including the formation of volcanic terrains and lithospheres.
A Hong Kong-Beijing-Taiwan mechanical engineering team led by Dr. Huang Mingxin has developed a Super Steel with ultra-high strength and large ductility, addressing the strength-ductility trade-off in metallic materials. The material's cost is just one-fifth of that of current aerospace and defense applications.
Researchers reveal breakthrough method to release glucose from cellulose in rice straw, improving ethanol production without chemical treatment. The approach could benefit various cereals and grass species worldwide, reducing lignin content and increasing biomass digestibility.
A comprehensive population assessment of Chinese white dolphins in Hong Kong waters reveals a significantly higher number than previously reported. The study used photographic mark-recapture technique to estimate the overall number of dolphins using Hong Kong waters during the study period.
Marine ecologists at HKU have discovered a new species of mangrove-climbing crab, Haberma tingkok, found only in the Ting Kok area of Hong Kong. The crab is small, dark brown, and has elongated legs, representing the second endemic mangrove crab species described in Hong Kong.
A HKU palaeontologist and his team reconstructed the first highly detailed body outline of a feathered dinosaur using high-definition images of its preserved soft tissues. The technique, known as Laser-stimulated fluorescence (LSF), reveals the shape of the dinosaur's wings, legs and foot scales with unprecedented detail.
Researchers have successfully manipulated optogenetics and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to capture large-scale brain-wide neural activity propagation and interaction dynamics. The study revealed dynamic network wiring in the mammalian species, challenging previous assumptions about brain connectivity.
A study highlights challenges and opportunities of fishery management in China, promoting institutional reform for sustainable marine resource management. The researchers recommend new institutions, secure fishing access, policy consistency, educational programs, and increased public access to scientific data.
A comprehensive study on Hong Kong's marine biodiversity reveals the territory is home to over 26% of China's recorded marine species, comparable to regions like the Caribbean Sea and East Africa. The research highlights the importance of conserving marine habitats in Hong Kong, with only 2% currently protected.
A recent study finds that urban centers like Hong Kong can play a crucial role in conserving globally threatened species. Introduced populations of these species have been thriving outside their native habitats, providing an opportunity to augment declining populations in their native ranges and mitigate threats to local ecosystems.
A new study reveals that 82% of global ecological processes have been impacted by climate change, from genes to entire ecosystems. This has significant implications for conservation efforts and human societies, as consequences include increased pests, disease outbreaks, and unpredictable changes in fisheries.
Researchers have developed a light-seeking synthetic Nanorobot that can be injected into patients' bodies to help surgeons remove tumors. The Nanorobots use light as the propelling force, responding to the light shining on them like moths being drawn to flames.
A new generation of teixobactin-based antibacterial drugs has been discovered by HKU Chemists. The researchers successfully synthesized the antibiotic Teixobactin, which can kill a range of pathogens without detectable resistance.
A study has discovered a crucial part of the genetic machinery that switches on the Neuroglobin gene, which is associated with protecting the brain and reducing severity of damage due to stroke and Alzheimer's disease. The research opens up new opportunities for treating AD using gene therapy.
A HKU undergraduate student applied THMOCALC phase-equilibrium modeling technique to determine pressure-temperature conditions of Eastern Hebei mafic granulites. Her research yielded accurate results, reflecting an origin related to underplating of mantle-derived magmas.
Researchers found that environmental factors like plant cover and floral density determine common urban butterfly species, while spatial properties influence rare species. Urban park design can encourage or discourage certain species, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of surrounding landscape and disturbance features.
Professor Nagendra Shah received the prestigious International Dairy Foods Association Research Award in Dairy Foods Processing for his groundbreaking work on GABA-producing lactic acid bacteria. His team's discovery has great commercial significance in developing dairy foods with anti-hypertensive activity.
Researchers from The University of Hong Kong have successfully synthesized the antibiotic Teixobactin, which can kill a range of pathogens without detectable resistance. The team's strategy enables the generation of multiple derivatives with promising properties.
A new method has been developed by HKU astronomers to estimate more accurate distances between planetary nebulae and the Earth. The technique uses three sets of data, including object size, brightness, and dimming, to create a robust distance scale that can provide distances accurate to 20 percent.
A team of researchers from the University of Hong Kong has successfully developed a novel strategy for synthesizing cortistatin A, a molecule with potent anti-angiogenic activity. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of more effective anti-cancer therapies.
A research team from HKU has developed a strategy to promote plant growth by 38-57% in Arabidopsis thaliana, increasing CO2 absorption and potentially boosting food production. The breakthrough is based on a new gene that modulates energy outputs from chloroplasts and mitochondria.
Complex organic compounds found throughout Universe contain aromatic and aliphatic components, resembling coal and petroleum. Stars produce these compounds on short time scales, ejecting them into interstellar space.