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University of Basel


Lab-on-a-chip for tracking single bacterial cells

Researchers used a novel lab-on-a-chip to study gene regulation in single E. coli bacteria under changing environmental conditions. The chip allows for the precise growth and behavior of individual bacteria to be tracked over several days, revealing new insights into bacterial adaptation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

Cancer patients: Web-based help improves quality of life

A new web-based stress management program has been shown to significantly improve the quality of life and reduce distress in newly diagnosed cancer patients. The online program, developed by researchers from the University of Basel, provides patients with information, exercises, and strategies to manage their condition.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 31, 2018

Optical nanoscope allows imaging of quantum dots

Physicists at the University of Basel developed an optical nanoscope that can image individual atoms and quantum dots with unprecedented resolution. The technique, which works with two-energy level systems, overcomes the wave nature of light limitations, releasing no heat in the process.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 22, 2018

Bacteria acquire resistance from competitors

Researchers have discovered that bacteria can inject toxic proteins into their competitors, causing cell lysis and death, and then acquire antibiotic resistance by incorporating the released genetic material. This ability allows bacteria to rapidly develop resistance to antibiotics, posing a significant threat to patients in hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 27, 2017

The coldest chip in the world

Physicists successfully cool a nanoelectronic chip to a temperature lower than 3 millikelvin using magnetic cooling. They also maintain these extremely low temperatures for seven hours, enabling various experiments close to absolute zero.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 20, 2017

Do violent communities foster violent kids?

Researchers found that exposure to community violence is associated with increased antisocial behavior in children and adolescents, regardless of pre-existing conduct disorder. The study suggests that prevention programs can help break the cycle of violence.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateNov 6, 2017

Willingness to take risks -- a personality trait

Researchers found a stable general factor of risk preference that affects decisions across different areas of life. This trait shares the psychometric structure of major psychological characteristics and can be measured using self-reports and frequency measures of actual risky activities.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2017

Bacteria have a sense of touch

Researchers discovered bacteria possess a 'sense of touch' enabling them to recognize surfaces and induce adhesive production in response to mechanical stimulation. This mechanism helps pathogens colonize host cells, making it crucial for understanding infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2017

Nanocapsules enable cell-inspired metabolic reactions

Scientists at the University of Basel created bio-catalytic capsules capable of producing glucose-6-phosphate, a key metabolite involved in carbohydrate degradation and energy storage. The nanocapsules, measuring less than 200 nanometers, can be taken up by cells and may pave the way for new disease treatments.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 19, 2017

High-speed quantum memory for photons

Physicists from University of Basel create a simple and fast quantum memory that stores photons, enabling ultra-fast data transfer and potentially leading to unconditionally secure communication and super-fast quantum computers. The technology has low noise levels and can be implemented in compact setups.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 8, 2017

New test for rare immunodeficiency

Researchers at the University of Basel developed a rapid test to diagnose Sp110 protein deficiency, a severe immune defect. The test uses flow cytometry to detect the presence of Sp110 protein in patient blood cells, enabling quick diagnosis in hours.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·DateAug 22, 2017

RNA molecules live short lives

Researchers at University of Basel developed a new method to measure RNA molecule half-life, revealing most RNAs are short-lived, living less than 2 minutes. This challenges conventional methods and underlines importance of accurate measurements for cell cycle studies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2017