Researchers have identified amyloid precursor protein (APP) as a key player in the molecular transportation system of the brain. The protein's cellular trafficking function is linked to the formation of harmful plaque deposits called amyloid beta, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists from UCSD's Divisions of Biology and Physical Sciences have observed the formation of permanent nerve connections that store short- and long-term memories. By visualizing the rods and filaments of actin, they discovered that these changes occur after repeated stimulation, mimicking human memory consolidation.
UCSD researchers have discovered a natural regulatory protein, RGS-PX1, with dual roles in regulating cellular functions. The protein modulates both cell signaling and membrane trafficking, offering new avenues for disease research and potential targets for developing drugs to treat heart failure, hormone imbalances, and cancer.
Researchers have found that vitamin B-vitamins can reduce the risk of repeat blockage in coronary arteries by 48 percent. This is based on a clinical trial involving 205 patients who received either a placebo or vitamin B-vitamins, with significant differences observed between the two groups.
Researchers at UCSD and VA San Diego Healthcare System discovered a natural antibiotic peptide called cathelicidin, which inhibits microbe growth and plays a crucial role in mammalian innate immunity. The study provides hope for developing new treatments and a blood test to identify individuals susceptible to bacterial infections.
Cosmologists have developed a new simulation model that suggests the first star in the universe formed from a cloud of hydrogen and helium at least 100 times more massive than our sun. The simulations provide insights into the chemical elements produced in stars, including metals heavier than lithium.
Research reveals that selected NSAIDs decrease AB42 levels by up to 80%, providing hope for plaque-reducing drugs without anti-inflammatory side effects. The study suggests a new mechanism through which NSAIDs may confer protection against Alzheimer's disease, independent of direct anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers at UCSD suggest that naturally occurring molecules called beta-synucleins (b-synucleins) may inhibit the excessive accumulation of Lewy bodies, which are characteristic of Parkinson's disease. In mice studies, b-synuclein was shown to block the formation of these abnormal deposits.
Scientists have identified a protein segment responsible for fibrous tissue growth leading to liver cirrhosis. They've developed a mutated version of the protein that blocks this process in mice, offering potential new hope for treating liver diseases.
Researchers have identified Candidatus Endobugula sertula bacteria in Bugula neritina as the likely source of the anti-cancer compound Bryostatin 1. The study provides a new experimental system to unlock the potential of bryostatin drugs.
The Biomedical Informatics Research Network (BIRN) will share digital magnetic resonance images and advanced 3-D microscope images using high-bandwidth networking technologies. Researchers can study linkages between animal models of human diseases and data from patients suffering with these diseases.
Research shows waves in southern California and the North Pacific have increased in size and intensity over the past half century due to stronger wind and storm activity. The approach direction of winter ocean swells has rotated from northwesterly to westerly, reducing natural sheltering effects and increasing direct impacts on the coast.
UCSD bioengineers have fabricated cartilage tissue that mimics the structure and function of natural articular cartilage. The tissue is made entirely from biological materials and has shown promise in laboratory tests, with cells effectively secreting a key lubricant molecule.
A first-of-its-kind oral drug, bosentan, has been shown to reverse the deadly consequences of primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) and improve patients' quality of life. By increasing exercise capacity and improving heart function, bosentan reduces symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Scientists discovered that Alzheimer's and Parkinson's proteins interact to accelerate disease progression, causing cognitive and motor function destruction. The study found that Abeta, a metabolic breakdown product of hAPP, enhances the accumulation of hSYN in brain cells.
The Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) has received a five-year grant of $54 million to conduct clinical trials and research on new approaches to treating and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers aim to delay the onset of the disease and have already made significant progress in the past decade.
The von Liebig Center will provide mentorship and commercialization services to UCSD inventors, awarding pre-seed funds to assess new discovery potential. The center will also support academic courses preparing engineering students for entrepreneurial environments.
Researchers at UCSD will team up with Celera Genomics to identify and genotypic genetic variations in patients with hypertension, aiming to develop individualized treatment plans based on genetic profiles. The goal is to predict therapeutic drug responses and minimize side effects.
Walter Munk, a leading figure in physical oceanography, is being honored with the inaugural Prince Albert I Medal for his decades-long research on ocean currents, tides, and climate change. His work has significantly improved our understanding of the oceans and their impact on global warming.
Researchers at UCSD have discovered a new immunological pathway involving the enzyme I-kappa-B kinase alpha (IKKa), which plays a crucial role in developing B cells and forming certain lymphoid organs. Blocking IKKa's action may offer a new approach to treating autoimmune diseases without compromising the immune system.
The new global network of listening posts will track atmospheric signals from diverse events like secret nuclear tests, volcanic eruptions, and hurricanes. Infrasound energy is generated by meteors, chemical explosions, supersonic aircraft, tornadoes, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanoes.
Researchers created atomic-resolution maps of microtubules and ribosomes to understand their functions in transporting drugs like taxol. The maps revealed areas that play a key role in intracellular transport, with potential binding sites for such drugs.
The Center for Wireless Communications has been awarded $1.5 million in California matching funds to complement corporate funding for five separate research projects. The grants will support Ph.D. students performing wireless research on key issues such as achieving higher data rates and lowering wireless access costs.
A new NASA satellite sensor and field experiment reveals that aerosols can both cool the surface and warm the atmosphere. By analyzing data from the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) campaign, scientists found a regional cooling effect of up to three times greater than the warming effect of greenhouse gases.
A new study by Scripps researchers reveals that tiny marine crustaceans called copepods use cannibalism as a mechanism to limit their population. The study found that egg mortality in copepod species Calanus finmarchicus is directly related to the abundance of females in the population, suggesting a self-regulating mechanism.
Scientists have discovered the genetic and molecular means by which roundworms develop resistance to Bt toxins, which are safe to humans but threaten long-term effectiveness. The researchers identified a galactosyltransferase enzyme as key to toxin recognition, enabling the development of strategies to delay or circumvent resistance.
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography has developed a groundbreaking wildfire forecast for the western United States, using statistical methods to predict fire seasons and fuel availability. The 2001 forecast suggests a much milder wildfire season compared to 2000, which burned over 7 million acres and caused $1.6 billion in damage.
A study by UCSD researchers reveals that chronic kidney rejection is caused by the recipient's own cells' normal reaction to a wound, specifically mesenchymal cells colonizing the transplant site. This finding opens up new possibilities for developing methods to block scar-causing cells and mitigate or prevent kidney rejection.
Biologists at UCSD discover how to genetically convert leaves into petals, a process made possible by the expression of five genes in leaves. The achievement has significant implications for plant development and could lead to the creation of novel plants with colorful, petal-like structures.
Researchers at UCSD Cancer Center develop a two-drug combination that tricks leukemia-causing gene Bcr-Abl into committing suicide, achieving complete eradication of CML cells. The treatment uses STI571 and Leptomycin B to mobilize and trap the oncogene in the nucleus.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have identified a gene in mice that causes an autoimmune disease similar to human systemic lupus erythematous. The study found abnormal N-glycans in the mice, leading to SLE-like symptoms and organ damage, offering new insights into understanding autoimmune disease.
Researchers discover a ring species of greenish warblers with gradually changing behavioral and genetic characteristics encircling the Tibetan Plateau. The study reveals how small evolutionary changes can lead to reproductive isolation between species.
Structural engineers at UCSD are researching ways to stabilize fragile cliffs along the US coastline, particularly in San Diego County. Their comprehensive guidebook aims to provide proactive solutions to prevent erosion and destruction, while maintaining environmental integrity.
Researchers from UCSD and Japan have identified a new gene called NUDEL, which plays a critical role in regulating the function of motor-molecules that transport cellular cargo within cells. This discovery sheds light on how neurons in the developing brain become wired and provides insights into neurodegenerative diseases.
Joseph L. Reid, a renowned physical oceanographer, is being honored with the Maurice Ewing Medal for his significant contributions to understanding ocean circulation and currents in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. His work has also focused on current exchanges between major oceans.
Richard S. Kornbluth, a UCSD professor, has received a grant to study a novel method for stimulating the immune system against TB microbes. His research aims to treat latent TB, preventing it from becoming deadly.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine have found that the DNA-repair enzyme DNA-PK also plays a key role in innate immunity, protecting against internal and external threats. The discovery could lead to treatments for DNA instability caused by radiation or cancer treatment.
Recent findings on autophagy, a vital cellular process, reveal its connection to various human diseases such as breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. Autophagy's role in maintaining cell development is also highlighted, alongside the challenges researchers face in understanding its mechanisms.
James R. Stewart, a pioneer in scuba diving, was inducted into the NAUI Hall of Honor for his invaluable work on developing training procedures and data collecting techniques. He is recognized as an expert on interactions between divers and marine environments.
Geochemist Jeffrey Severinghaus will investigate the stability of past and future climates using a new technology for extracting air samples from ancient ice cores. His research aims to decipher how methane hydrates contribute to the atmospheric methane budget and potentially trigger catastrophic climate changes.
A team of top experts from the University of California will participate in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-6) in The Hague, Netherlands. The scientists will present a special event on global climate change issues, providing objective scientific discussions and updates.
Researchers found that paying attention to a sudden sound improves ability to see visual stimuli, suggesting a stronger linkage between sight and hearing. The study provides insights into normal brain activities and may lead to better understanding of attention deficit disorder and schizophrenia.
Researchers at UCSD discovered an oxygen-isotope anomaly in soils that suggests atmospheric deposition of sulfates from sulfur-emitting marine algae is a significant contributor to the region's high salt concentrations. The study provides concrete evidence for biological activity as the primary source of salt in the Dry Valleys.
Researchers at UCSD Institute of Molecular Medicine have discovered a new genetic pathway that plays a pivotal role in the onset of sudden cardiac death. The study found defects in genes controlling heart's electrical wiring may lead to ventricular arrhythmia and sudden death.
The University of California has established the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) to conduct rigorous scientific studies on medicinal cannabis. The center aims to assess the safety and efficacy of cannabis in treating specific medical conditions, such as severe appetite suppression, chronic pain, and nausea associated with...
A new $100,000 prize has been established at UC San Diego to honor human cognition pioneer David Rumelhart. The prize will recognize significant contributions in the field of human cognition and be awarded biennially.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have produced the first direct three-dimensional image of a volcanic system using sound waves. The team used a two-mile long array of hydrophones to record sound signals reflected from a magma chamber beneath the East Pacific Rise, revealing a large and complex magma chamber system.
Researchers analyzed Precambrian sedimentary rocks to track the evolution of oxygen and ozone in the early atmosphere. The study found a 'profound change' in chemical reactions involving sulfur, indicating limited free oxygen and a global signature.
The Colloquium on Perspectives of Bioengineering at UCSD will bring together bioengineering leaders to discuss future advancements. The event, sponsored by the Jacobs School of Engineering, is a free public lecture open to all.
The UC San Diego team, led by captain Scott Ketcham, aims to shatter the Human Powered Vehicle Association's non-propeller world speed record. The SubSonic submarine features a dolphin-inspired design with vectored thrust and dynamic ballast tanks for propulsion.