The INSIGHT Health Data Research Hub for Eye Health and Oculomics is expanding UK eye health research by linking national data resources, supporting research and improving patient care. The hub will on-board NHS sites, broaden national data linkages, and integrate genetic data to accelerate oculomics research.
A new brain atlas developed by UCL researchers enables analysis of brain scans at an unprecedented level of detail, opening up possibilities for studying neurodegenerative diseases and ageing. The atlas uses AI to identify hundreds of brain regions in living patients quickly and consistently.
Astronomers at UCL and the University of Warwick discovered that aging stars are destroying giant planets orbiting closest to them. The researchers analyzed nearly half a million stars and found that planets were less likely to occur around stars that had expanded and cooled enough to be classed as red giants.
A new analysis of the PANDA trial found that sertraline contributes to improvements in low mood and suicidal thinking within two weeks of taking the drug. The study also revealed an improvement in emotional symptoms of depression within two weeks, with continued benefits from six weeks to 12 weeks.
A new study from UCL researchers found that cycling near misses are most likely to occur on roads without dedicated cycling infrastructure and during peak hours. The study used helmet-mounted cameras and GPS devices to track commuter journeys, resulting in 94 near miss events.
A new study published in The Lancet found that semaglutide, a 'weight loss' drug, can help prevent heart attacks and other major cardiac events, regardless of the amount of weight people lose. The study suggests there are multiple ways the drug benefits the heart, beyond its protective effect on cardiovascular health.
A new study found that fitness and calorie counting apps can lead to negative emotions such as shame, disappointment, and demotivation among users. The researchers called for a more holistic approach focusing on wellbeing rather than rigid calorie counting and exercise quantification.
Researchers analyzed ape skulls to find that humans evolved the largest brain size and flattest face among closely related species. This rapid evolution suggests a strong link between cranial structure and cognitive abilities, but social factors may also play a role in human skull development.
A pioneering eye device has restored reading vision to people with sight loss, allowing them to read letters, numbers, and words through a prosthetic eye. The PRIMA chip operation involves an implant paired with augmented-reality glasses, enabling patients to regain their independence and confidence.
Scientists at UCL have engineered γδT cells to kill slow-growing bowel cancer cells resistant to chemotherapy. The supercharged cells outperformed regular cells, surviving longer and killing cancer cells even when they couldn't be targeted by chemotherapy.
A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reports the long-term safety and efficacy of gene therapy for children with ADA-SCID, a rare immune disorder. The treatment resulted in a 100% survival rate and over 95% cure rate, with patients able to respond to routine childhood vaccinations.
A study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that quitting smoking, even in the 50s or older, significantly reduces cognitive decline. Cognitive scores of quitters declined 20% less for memory and 50% less for verbal fluency over six years after cessation.
A new study found that cognitive performance peaks during ovulation, while physical activity level has a greater influence on brain function. Reaction times are faster and errors are lower when active compared to inactive women, with a difference of around 70 milliseconds.
Researchers found that women who had Caesareans during advanced labor are eight times more likely to develop scars near or within the cervix, increasing the risk of premature births. The study also discovered that scars lower down the womb heal less well than those higher up.
A new drug combination has shown promising results in delaying the progression of advanced prostate cancer in patients with specific genetic mutations. The trial, led by UCL researchers, found that combining niraparib with standard treatment delayed disease recurrence and improved survival rates for eligible patients.
A panel of experts recommends considering hormone replacement therapy for breast cancer survivors with severe menopausal symptoms, citing the need for more patient-centered care. The study suggests that HRT may be safe and beneficial for many women, particularly those with low-risk disease, while minimizing the risk of relapse.
A new analysis of rock samples from the far side of the moon suggests it may be colder than the near side, with a temperature difference of up to 100 degrees C. The study, led by UCL and Peking University researchers, found that the far side has fewer heat-producing elements, which release heat through radioactive decay.
Researchers from UCL and Imperial College London have discovered how life-saving antibiotics called polymyxins target the outer layer of Gram-negative bacteria. By triggering the production and shedding of this armor, polymyxins create gaps in the cell's defenses, allowing the antibiotic to enter and kill the bacteria.
A major review of international evidence found that racial discrimination contributes to the development of psychosis, with people experiencing discrimination being 77% more likely to develop psychotic symptoms. The study highlights the need for public health action to tackle systemic racism and its impact on mental health disparities.
A new study found that plain packaging of vape pods reduces young people's interest in trying them, but does not affect adults' interest. Standardised packaging also failed to deter adults from perceiving vapes as harmful compared to cigarettes.
A new study suggests that school meal procurement can be redesigned to maximize public value, promoting nutritious meals, sustainable farming, and local producer participation. This approach has the potential to shape markets and drive social, environmental, and economic benefits, as seen in Scotland's and Brazil's successful programs.
A UK study found that implementing AI in NHS hospitals is challenging due to governance, contracts, data collection, and staff training issues. The research highlights the importance of national programme leadership, dedicated project management, and education on AI implementation.
A quicker and cheaper two-part MRI scan is just as effective as the current 30-40 minute scan in detecting prostate cancer. The PRIME trial confirms that this streamlined approach can diagnose cancer at the same rate as a full three-part scan, cutting scan time to 15-20 minutes and reducing costs.
A new ultrasound device has been developed to precisely stimulate areas deep in the brain without surgery, offering new possibilities for neurological research and treatment. The technology features a special helmet with 256 elements that target specific parts of the brain, and includes a soft plastic face mask to keep the head still.
Researchers developed a powerful new AI algorithm called RoboBallet that enables large sets of robotic arms to work together faster and smarter. The system plans movements and tasks automatically, unlocking new levels of flexibility and efficiency in manufacturing.
Researchers have created a new technique to control synthetic cells using magnetic fields, enabling precise targeting of medicines for cancers or bacterial infections. This approach reduces side effects and increases effectiveness, with potential applications in treating tumors or detecting bacteria.
A Phase III clinical trial has shown that baxdrostat significantly lowers blood pressure in people whose levels remain dangerously high despite taking multiple existing medicines. The study found that nearly 4 in 10 patients achieved healthy blood pressure levels, compared to fewer than 2 in 10 on placebo.
A new study found that a gene expression test can help guide therapy choices for prostate cancer patients with metastatic disease. The Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier test identified groups of patients who are more likely to benefit from docetaxel chemotherapy, reducing the risk of death by 36%.
A major clinical trial led by University College London has found that surgery is more effective than long-term use of antibiotics in treating chronic rhinosinusitis. The study, which involved over 500 patients, showed that sinus surgery significantly improved symptoms and quality of life for those who underwent the procedure.
Researchers at UCL successfully chemically linked amino acids to RNA under conditions that could have occurred on early Earth, a significant step towards understanding the origin of protein synthesis. The study demonstrates how RNA might have first come to control protein synthesis.
Researchers are using nanodiamonds and VEGF to design treatments for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), a devastating disease affecting 1 in 3,000 newborns. The treatment aims to stimulate lung growth before birth and improve survival rates.
A major new study quantifies the health impacts of outdoor air pollution from US oil and gas activities, revealing widespread disparities in exposure and health burden across racial and ethnic groups. The research estimates 91,000 premature deaths annually, with Black, Asian, Native American, and Hispanic populations most affected.
Researchers at UCL discovered that blocking brain damage triggered by glioblastomas can slow cancer growth and maintain normal brain function. The study found that early-stage tumours damaged axons, accelerating tumor growth, but deactivating SARM1 slowed tumor progression.
A new study by University College London researchers suggests that lessons on periods in British schools should be more comprehensive, covering the impact on well-being and academic performance. The study also recommends involving boys in menstruation education to promote better understanding and support for friends and future partners.
A new study found that popular generative AI web browser assistants are collecting and sharing sensitive user data, such as medical records and social security numbers, without transparency or consent. The researchers recommend adopting privacy-by-design principles to mitigate this issue.
Researchers at University College London developed durable new solar cells capable of efficiently harvesting energy from indoor light. The team successfully reduced defects in the perovskite material, increasing efficiency and durability, paving the way for electronics powered by ambient light.
A new study found that mothers' genetics may have a greater impact on their children's weight than previously thought. Researchers analyzed genetic and health data from over 2,600 UK families to examine the association between parental BMI and child birthweight, BMI, and diet.
A new study by University College London found that stimulating the vagus nerve through small electric pulses can amplify the benefits of self-compassion meditation training. This technique shows promise in boosting self-kindness and mindfulness, particularly when combined with regular practice.
A clinical trial found that participants who followed a minimally processed diet lost twice as much weight compared to those on an ultra-processed diet. The study suggests that cutting down on processing can help sustain a healthy weight long term.
A new study reveals that cyberstalking is increasing at a faster rate than traditional stalking, with nearly half of victims not perceiving it as a crime. The researchers call for improved public education, clearer legal definitions, and enhanced support services to address the growing threat of cyberstalking.
A new study finds that people with dementia are diagnosed an average of 3.5 years after symptoms start, highlighting the need for improved healthcare strategies to speed up diagnosis. The research also reveals racial disparities in diagnosis rates, with black patients experiencing longer delays.
A UCL-led study suggests that community-based technician-led virtual review clinics could significantly reduce wait times for patients with stable chronic eye conditions. The research found that appointment delays decreased by an average of 8.1 days per week after the clinic's launch, leading to a faster reduction in waiting times.
New research predicts a significant rise in heat-related deaths in England and Wales due to climate change, with projections of sixfold to fiftyfold increases by the 2050s and 2070s. The study suggests that careful planning and adaptation strategies can mitigate these impacts.
A new study by University College London found that nearly 58% of women who had given birth in the last year were not using contraception two months later, despite the risk of back-to-back pregnancies. Women who received high-quality contraceptive advice were more likely to use contraception sooner after giving birth.
A new study found that older people with diabetes who do not control their blood sugar levels are three times more likely to develop eye disease than those with controlled blood sugar levels. High glucose levels were also linked to an increased risk of glaucoma and macular degeneration.
A new study from UCL found correlations between exercise type and personality traits, including extroverts' preference for high-intensity exercise and those with neuroticism trait enjoying short bursts of activity. The research suggests that understanding individual personality can help tailor physical activity recommendations to suppo...
Researchers investigated low-density amorphous ice and found it was not fully disordered but contained tiny crystals. This discovery challenges the assumption that space ice is similar to liquid water and has implications for theories like Panspermia.
A new study published in The Lancet found that starting direct oral anticoagulants within four days of a stroke significantly reduces the risk of another stroke due to bleeding or artery blockage. Early treatment also did not increase the risk of bleeding into the brain.
Researchers at UCL found that low-risk thyroid cancer patients can safely forego radioactive iodine treatment after surgery, allowing them to spend more time with family. This could impact hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, particularly younger parents and those living in the UK.
A new study found that babies are born with the ability to sense physical pain but lack the cognitive understanding of it. The research, led by UCL researchers, used brain imaging data from infants and adults to map the development of pain-processing networks in the brain.