Researchers have uncovered the 3,500-year history of sheeppox virus in medieval manuscripts, including the York Gospels. The study found genetic evidence of the disease in animal skins used to make parchment, providing insights into its evolution and impact on past societies.
New research reveals that bones once thought to mark Ireland's farming arrival date back to ancient bear and wild boar remains. This discovery challenges long-held theories of Mesolithic-Neolithic transition in Ireland.
A study published in New Phytologist has identified a genetic region on the X chromosome that determines the sex of cannabis plants. Researchers also found this same region in hops, suggesting a shared 'sex switch'. This discovery has practical implications for agriculture, particularly for crop yields and plant breeding.
Researchers at UCD have discovered a previously unknown courier system in cells that enables the transfer of coherent biological messages between cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved RNA-, gene- and protein-based therapies by ferrying functional biomolecules directly into previously inaccessible areas within cells.
A landmark study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that ADHD medication in childhood may reduce the risk of developing serious psychotic disorders later in life. The study found no evidence that treatment with methylphenidate increased the likelihood of psychosis in adulthood.
Researchers have discovered a 3,000-year genetic link between the Old Irish Goat and ancient goats living in Ireland during the Late Bronze Age. The study sheds light on the breed's remarkable continuity and highlights its importance as a living piece of Ireland's ancient heritage.
A new study suggests that both defendants and complainants are equally susceptible to memory errors in sexual assault cases. The research found strong misinformation effects, with individuals in both roles equally likely to misremember details of the events leading up to the sexual encounter.
Researchers challenge claims of an incestuous ruling elite in Neolithic Ireland, citing a lack of evidence and unsuitable comparisons. The study argues that burial practices were not strictly determined by lineage, but rather reflect the community's social dynamics.
Researchers have identified several key genes and pathways involved in the bovine response to Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of tuberculosis in cattle. The study found that genetic variation affecting the initial proinflammatory immune response contributes to bTB susceptibility.
An international research team has identified a critical set of genes linked to successful racehorses, which play a significant role in muscle, metabolism, and neurobiology. These genes were found to be common to all racing breeds and differ from non-racing breeds.
A UCD-led study found that 50% of people who developed schizophrenia and bipolar disorder had attended CAMHS in childhood, suggesting earlier intervention is key. The study highlights the possibility of intervening far earlier than present to prevent these illnesses.
Researchers identified protective structures at the end of chromosomes called telomeres that don't shorten with age in longest-lived bat species. The study found two genes ATM and SETX drive this process, potentially leading to new solutions to slow down aging and extend human lifespan.
Conventional tillage severely damages earthworm populations, but reduced tillage practices can increase their numbers. Farming with no-tillage, Conservation Agriculture, and shallow non-inversion tillage are shown to significantly boost earthworm populations.
A new protein (C5orf30) has been identified as a genetic marker for rheumatoid arthritis severity, allowing for early diagnosis and targeted treatment. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce tissue damage caused by the condition.
A new protein (C5orf30) has been identified as a genetic marker that can help regulate the severity of tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. This discovery enables early identification of patients at risk of severe joint damage, allowing for fast-tracked treatment with more aggressive therapies.
A study of 292 ancient skeletons reveals that malocclusion and dental crowding emerged among European farmers around 12,000 years ago. The shift from a hunter-gatherer diet to agriculture led to changes in jaw shape and tooth structure.
Scientists analyzed DNA from ancient European skulls and found that they were intolerant to lactose for 5,000 years after adopting agriculture. Major technological transitions in Central Europe were associated with changes in genetics of these populations.
The pygmy shrew population in Ireland is under threat from the rapid expansion of the greater white-toothed shrew species. The invasive species has spread across the landscape at a rate of over five kilometers per year, leading to concerns that it may displace the native pygmy shrews and even lead to their local extinction.
Scientists at University College Dublin discovered a thriving population of Mediterranean earthworms in an urban farm in Dublin, Ireland. The species, Prosellodrilus amplisetosus, has expanded its geographical habitat range due to rising soil temperatures caused by climate change.
Scientists at University College Dublin have developed a new method to predict successful IVF embryos by analyzing follicular fluid. The study found metabolic differences between fluids from women who achieved pregnancy and those who did not.
Researchers have identified the 'speed gene' in modern Thoroughbred racehorses as originating from a single British mare around 300 years ago. This finding was made by analyzing DNA from hundreds of horses and is significant for understanding the evolution of racing strategies.
Researchers at University College Dublin have identified a genetic alteration causing anophthalmia, a condition where children are born without eyes. The STRA6 gene plays a crucial role in vitamin A transport, and alterations in this gene can lead to eye malformations.
A new species of gigantic theropod dinosaur, Zhuchengtyrannus magnus, was identified from fossil skull and jaw bones discovered in China. The newly named dinosaur measured about 11 metres long, stood about 4 metres tall, and weighed close to 6 tonnes.