A research team discovered that leucine prevents the degradation of specific mitochondrial proteins, enabling efficient energy production. This mechanism allows cells to adapt to increased energy demands during periods of nutrient abundance.
A recent study found that preserving just one centimeter of corpus callosum fibers is enough to maintain information exchange between the two brain hemispheres, preventing neurological symptoms. The research challenged long-held assumptions about the relationships between brain structure and function.
Researchers found that L-DOPA increased participants' willingness to wait for larger delayed rewards by 20%, decreasing impulsivity. The study also suggests that dopamine's effect on waiting may not stem from changes in basic decision processes, but rather from future reward valuation.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that uses MRI scans to predict which patients with mental illnesses will gain weight after diagnosis, and which ones won't. The BMIgap tool has the potential to prevent future weight gain and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.
A new study has identified a leptin-sensitive brain circuit in the lateral hypothalamus that helps animals overcome anxiety to perform essential behaviors such as eating, exploring, and limiting maladaptive hyperactivity. Boosting the activity of these neurons can restore adaptive choices even under conditions that cause anxiety.
A newly identified antibody, 04_A06, has been found to block 98.5% of over 300 different HIV strains in laboratory tests. In humanized mice models, the antibody reduced viral load to undetectable levels, offering a promising approach for HIV prevention and treatment.
Researchers discovered a ubiquitin precursor form, CxUb, that amplifies abnormal protein destruction under stress, supporting healthy regeneration. This unique mechanism may lead to improved therapies for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Neolithic farmers in Central Europe integrated new cereal varieties into their range of crops between the 6th and early 4th millennium BCE. This led to more resilient and flexible agriculture, enabling the cultivation of winter and summer crops and adapting to changing environmental conditions.
A team of researchers at the University of Cologne has made a groundbreaking discovery about the molecular basis of inhibitory synapse formation. They found that gephyrin filaments play a crucial role in forming post-synapses, which are essential for billions of synapses in the brain. This study has significant implications for underst...
Researchers have developed a system to selectively switch off the key molecule of NMD, allowing them to observe its function in human cells with unprecedented precision. The study reveals that NMD not only prevents errors but also acts as an important regulator of gene activity.
Researchers found that lung cancer cells can form functional synapses with neurons, supporting their growth and survival. Disrupting glutamate signalling led to lower tumour burden and longer survival in experimental mice, highlighting promising therapeutic targets.
Researchers found that increased levels of EPS8 drive pathological protein aggregation and neurodegeneration in worms and human cell models. By reducing EPS8 activity, they prevented toxic protein accumulation and preserved neuronal function.
A team of researchers at the University of Cologne discovered a fundamental biological mechanism connecting STING to inflammatory cell death, which underlies SAVI. Inhibiting programmed cell death alleviated disease symptoms in a preclinical mouse model.
Researchers discovered that mitochondrial dysfunction triggers a sophisticated metabolic response in brown fat cells, rewiring key enzymes to produce D-2HG. This metabolite modifies the cell nucleus, changing gene expression and nuclear structure, promoting adaptation and altering cellular identity.
A new method called DynaTag has been developed for mapping protein binding to DNA, providing high-resolution results. This innovation enables the analysis of single cells across various tissues and enhances understanding of developmental biological processes and disease mechanisms.
Researchers developed a serum proteomics-based prediction model to identify biomarkers involved in ADPKD progression. The study identified 29 proteins linked to immune system, fat transport, and metabolism, which can predict kidney function decline rate. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate and earlier diagnosis of ADPKD.
An international study has shown that BrECADD preserves fertility significantly better than eBEACOPP without worsening recovery chances. After treatment, 95% of women and 86% of men had normal hormone levels, enabling more pregnancies and births.
Research found that video summaries in simpler language and presentation improve comprehension, but the 'easiness effect' increases perceived credibility and confidence in evaluation. The study suggests responsible strategies for science communication and optimizing video-based information transfer.
A collaborative study from the University of Cologne has discovered the key role of mitochondrial protein AIFM1 in regulating cellular energy metabolism. The research found that AIFM1 interacts with AK2A to maintain energy homeostasis, and visualized its complex structure using cryo-electron microscopy.
Researchers at University of Cologne have discovered a previously unknown mechanism that explains why many patients with aggressive B-cell lymphoma don't respond to CAR-T cell therapy. Combining this innovative treatment with CSF1R inhibitors improves its effectiveness, according to the study published in Cancer Cell.
A new international study identified two distinct genetic signatures for complex forms of Alzheimer's disease, with one primarily driven by apolipoprotein E and the other involving a combination of 75 additional genetic variants. This shared biological mechanism is largely consistent across global populations.
A new study by University of Cologne researchers found that digital games can effectively teach people about depression, reducing stigma and increasing empathy. The study showed that participants who watched gaming videos on the topic reported improved knowledge, emotional responses, and motivation to learn more about depression.
A new study by University of Cologne researchers found that teaching 'threshold concepts' like randomness and probability in a biological context improves students' understanding of biology. The study suggests that addressing these concepts can increase the complexity and coherence of concept networks.
A study by University of Cologne researchers reveals that parenthood is associated with a greater sense of meaning in life, despite lower life satisfaction. The analysis of over 43,000 participants from 30 countries found that people who have children tend to feel their lives carry more value and worth.
The University of Cologne has been awarded funding for five Clusters of Excellence in aging research, plant sciences, astrophysics, economics, and quantum research. The clusters will focus on fundamental understanding and innovative research to address major challenges like age-related diseases, climate change, and global food security.
Researchers discover over 500 dense cores in Milky Way's Central Molecular Zone, which may indicate widespread presence of protoplanetary disks. The findings propose two scenarios: self-absorption of smaller structures within dense cores or growth of dust grains in these systems.
Research discovers mitochondrial respiration impairment accelerates skeletal ageing by altering cell metabolism and reducing regenerative abilities. The study highlights the role of mitochondria in skeletal health and potential therapeutic avenues.
Research found that MPO promotes inflammation and inhibits protective mechanisms in perivascular adipose tissue, leading to poorer vascular function. Inhibiting MPO could be a promising therapeutic approach for obesity-related cardiovascular risk reduction.
A new study reveals significant shifts in prehistoric hunter-gatherer populations in Europe due to climate changes at the end of the last Ice Age. The population declined by half, but some areas in central Europe showed stability or even an increase in population size, indicating human migration towards the east.
A clinical study confirms that early treatment with fosdenopterin/rcPMP significantly reduces the risk of early death and promotes healthy brain development in infants with MoCD type A. The therapy restores the missing molybdenum cofactor, leading to improved developmental milestones.
Researchers found that mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines cause persistent epigenetic changes in monocyte-derived macrophages, enabling a sustained immune response. These changes were preserved for six months after vaccination and required multiple doses to maintain long-term immunity.
A study by University of Cologne found that virtual reality videos increased feelings of being intensely involved in the narrative, leading to a stronger positive emotional affect and greater willingness to donate. This immersive experience was found to have a significant impact on personal attitudes and behavioral intentions.
Physicists at the University of Cologne have successfully observed Crossed Andreev Reflection in TI nanowires, a crucial step toward engineering Majorana-based qubits. This breakthrough enables reliable control over superconducting correlations in topological insulator nanowires.
A research team at the University of Cologne has identified a specific form of the tau protein, 1N4R, responsible for mediating toxic effects of protein clumps in human brain cells. This breakthrough understanding could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have discovered Mitofusin 2's unexpected function in maintaining protein quality within cells, interacting with the proteasome and chaperones to prevent toxic aggregates. This novel connection has far-reaching implications for treating CMT and other neurodegenerative diseases.
A new global guideline has been published to manage fungal infections caused by Candida, affecting millions worldwide annually. The guideline establishes standards for prevention, diagnosis, and innovative treatment approaches.
Researchers discovered that independent evolution of chromosome copies in oribatid mites enables genetic diversity through mechanisms like the Meselson effect and horizontal gene transfer. This approach allows for rapid adaptation to environmental changes and supports long-term survival.
A study by Professor Jan Peters at the University of Cologne explores how virtual slot machines' design features trigger dopaminergic effects in the brain's reward system, leading to erroneous beliefs and expectations about control over outcomes and chances of winning. This can lead to continued gambling despite high losses.
An international team of researchers has found the first binary star in the immediate vicinity of Sgr A* by analyzing individual observations of dust sources. The discovery provides new clues to how young stars form close to the supermassive black hole, solving a long-standing mystery.
The study creates ultra-stable thin-film polariton filters with exceptional angular stability, transmitting up to 98% of light, even at extreme viewing angles. This technology has enormous scientific and economic potential for applications in display technology, sensor technologies, biophotonics, and more.
Researchers have deciphered how the beneficial fungus Serendipita indica successfully colonizes plant roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. The fungus secretes enzymes that produce a molecule called deoxyadenosine (dAdo), which activates cell death in plants, enabling colonization without causing significant harm.
A new mathematical model of prostate cancer has been developed, revealing key findings on genetic changes and tumour growth. The study shows that strong genetic changes are necessary for aggressive tumours to develop early in the course of tumour development.
A clinical study found that an FasL inhibitor, asunercept, led to a faster recovery of COVID-19 patients in eight days compared to 13 days in the control group. The treatment also reduced mortality by about 20%. The study suggests a new therapeutic concept for severe COVID-19.
An international team of researchers has confirmed the location of the oldest ochre mine in the world, dating back around 48,000 years. Ochre was found to have spread from the mine to nearby areas, revealing ancient extraction and transport networks.
The study reveals large genomic differences between European aurochs, North Asian aurochs, and South Asian ancestor, with evidence of human intentional feeding and targeted domestication. The genome of the central European aurochs was fully decoded for the first time, providing insights into the history of wild cattle in Europe and Asia.
Scientists have found that biomolecular condensates can cross membranes without specialized cutting proteins, a process called wetting, which is essential for plant survival. The study shows that these liquid droplets can exert large capillary forces on membranes, cutting them in two and enabling material exchange between cell parts.
Researchers discovered TERT gene activation as a key factor in determining the clinical course of pulmonary carcinoid tumours, with aggressive growth linked to telomerase activation. The study aims to improve treatment planning and targeted therapeutic strategies for cancer types.
The 'Our Way Model' reveals four phases of human dispersal, including a slow expansion from the Levant to western Europe and rapid advancements into previously unsettled areas. Climate change significantly impacted human dispersal, with periods of severe cold and warming influencing population growth and decline.
Researchers found that control of most genes doesn't deteriorate with age, but coordination between cellular processes becomes less effective. The study suggests a more complex approach to understanding aging is needed, analyzing all genes simultaneously and their protein interactions.
A new AI-based digital platform has been developed to analyze tissue sections from lung cancer patients, making diagnosis faster and more accurate. The platform uses algorithms that enable fully automated analysis of digitized tissue samples, allowing for personalized therapy based on molecularly specific genetic changes.