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University of Cambridge


Trump shooting and Biden exit flipped social media from hostility to solidarity – study

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers found that social media engagement flips from hostility to solidarity after a major crisis, such as the attempted assassination of Donald Trump and Joe Biden's suspension of his re-election campaign. This 'ingroup love' effect is seen in Republican and Democrat posts expressing unity a...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 25, 2025

Scientists reveal long-standing mystery of ENOD40, a pioneering gene in legume nodulation research that marks nodule identity

A long-standing mystery of ENOD40, a pioneering gene in legume nodulation research, has been solved. ENOD40 acts as a natural microRNA sponge to regulate the legume nodulation pathway, enabling nitrogen-fixing nodule formation. The discovery sheds light on a new layer of control in plant-microbe symbiotic relationships.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2025

Clearing rainforest for cattle farming is far worse for nature than previously thought, finds landmark bird survey

Researchers conducted the world's biggest bird survey in Colombia, recording 971 species and finding that clearing rainforest for cattle pasture causes a 60% greater biodiversity loss than previously thought. The study highlights the need for policymakers to consider the larger-scale impact of deforestation on biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeSurvey·DateJul 22, 2025

AI can accelerate search for more effective Alzheimer’s medicines by streamlining clinical trials

Researchers used an AI model to reassess a completed clinical trial for an Alzheimer's disease drug, finding it slowed cognitive decline by 46% in early-stage patients. The AI model predicts patient progression and allows for more precise selection of trial participants, potentially reducing the cost of developing new medicines.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 17, 2025

Cambridge study shows stem cell grafts can restore myelin in MS lesions in mice

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made a groundbreaking discovery on how neural stem cell grafts can restore myelin in MS lesions in mice. The study provides critical evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of human induced neural stem cell transplantation as a potential new treatment for progressive multiple sclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2025

‘Closed loop’ learning barriers prevent doctors from using life-saving bedside ultrasound

A new study reveals six 'closed loop' barriers that prevent doctors from using point-of-care ultrasound, leading to missed opportunities for life-saving interventions. The researchers propose practical steps to address these cultural and practical challenges, aiming to increase POCUS uptake and benefit patients.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAdvances in Health Sciences Education·DateJun 23, 2025

Cosmic signal from the very early universe will help astronomers detect the first stars

A team of researchers has discovered that a specific radio signal can reveal the masses of the earliest stars, crucial for understanding the Cosmic Dawn. The study utilizes the 21-centimetre signal, created by hydrogen atoms filling gaps between star-forming regions, to inform predictions about future radio telescopes like REACH and SKA.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJun 20, 2025

Majority of riders and drivers in UK 'gig economy' suffer anxiety over ratings and pay, study suggests

A study by the University of Cambridge found that two-thirds of UK gig economy riders and drivers experience anxiety over ratings and pay, with over half risking health and safety while working. The study also revealed that local workers spend an average of ten hours a week waiting for jobs to come through on the app.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalWork Employment and Society·TypeSurvey·DateJun 2, 2025

Plant cell sculptors

The study discovered that closely related SCAR proteins have distinct functions in plant cells, with specific regions impacting protein stability. This knowledge could improve understanding of plant-microbe interactions and develop strategies for improved plant growth.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2025

How Hibiscus flowers lost their bullseyes

A study by University of Cambridge scientists reveals how genetic changes in Hibiscus flowers led to the loss of visually striking bullseye patterns. The research identifies a key gene regulator and demonstrates how similar floral changes can evolve independently through changes in a single genetic element.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2025

New approach to treating aggressive breast cancers shows significant improvement in survival

A new treatment approach significantly improves survival rates for patients with aggressive, inherited breast cancers. In a trial where cancers were treated with chemotherapy followed by a targeted cancer drug before surgery, 100% of patients survived the critical three-year period post-surgery.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 13, 2025