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University at Buffalo


Preventing 'traffic jams' in brain cells

A study by University at Buffalo researchers has identified a novel function of the protein presenilin in controlling the speed of molecular motors along neuronal highways. This regulation may prevent deadly blockages in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, offering hope for new treatments.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 28, 2013

Carnivorous plant throws out 'junk' DNA

The Utricularia gibba genome, smallest sequenced from a complex plant, contradicts the notion that vast quantities of noncoding DNA are crucial for complex life. The bladderwort has purged most of its genetic material, including noncoding 'junk' DNA, while maintaining a functional set of genes similar to those of other plant species.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2013

Hitting 'reset' in protein synthesis restores myelination

Researchers at UB's Hunter James Kelly Research Institute have found that reducing a protein called Gadd34 can improve nerve and muscle function in patients with CMT neuropathies. By leaving protein synthesis partially off, they were able to restore myelination, potentially leading to new treatments for other misfolded protein diseases.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 26, 2013

Indoor air puts Chinese women nonsmokers at risk

A University at Buffalo study found that indoor air pollution contributes significantly to lung cancer risk in Chinese women, despite low smoking rates. The research measured particulate matter levels inside homes and linked them to lung cancer incidence, highlighting the need for improved ventilation systems and public education.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateJan 29, 2013

Injured coral? Expect less sex

Research found that injured coral colonies in The Bahamas still produced low numbers of eggs four years after damage, and sperm-producing factories were also scarce. This suggests that damaged corals may divert resources away from reproduction towards growth and injury repair.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateDec 17, 2012

Level up: Study reveals keys to gamer loyalty

Online role-playing game developers can increase player loyalty by providing gamers with more opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and character ownership. The study found that strategies such as cooperative play and guilds built loyalty and social identity among players.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Commerce·DateNov 16, 2012

A protein’s role in helping cells repair DNA damage

Researchers found that TFIIB halts general transcription when DNA damage occurs, enabling cells to prioritize repair and support p53's tumor-suppressing functions. This process allows p53 to bypass the need for TFIIB phosphorylation, activating its target genes vital for DNA damage response.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2012

How fast can ice sheets respond to climate change?

Scientists found that glaciers on Baffin Island expanded quickly during a short-lived cold snap about 8,200 years ago, providing insight into ice sheets' response to past climate change. This discovery suggests that ice sheets may react rapidly to temperature shifts, raising concerns for future climate change.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·DateSep 13, 2012

In fly DNA, the footprint of a fly virus

Scientists discovered virus-like genes in the DNA of a commonly studied fruit fly, which could enable research on whether animals hijack viral genes as an anti-viral defense. The study found that several types of fruit flies harbored genes similar to those that code for the sigma virus, a fly virus in the same family as rabies.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateAug 1, 2012

Study links alcohol/energy drink mixes with casual, risky sex

A study from the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions found a link between consuming caffeinated energy drinks mixed with alcohol and having casual -- often risky -- sex among college-age adults. The study suggests that mixing energy drinks with alcohol can lead to unintentional overdrinking, increasing the risk of ...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Caffeine Research·DateJul 25, 2012

Researchers develop new method to measure IT quality

A new method to measure IT quality has been proposed by researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Management. The Quality Distinction (QD) Capability Model offers a more reliable understanding of IT capabilities by acknowledging the importance of regularly evaluating and adapting development and delivery processes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalIEEE Transactions on Engineering Management·DateApr 30, 2012