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University of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences


Zebrafish teach researchers more about atrial fibrillation

Researchers have found a possible link between a genetic variation and atrial fibrillation in zebrafish, suggesting a structural defect in the heart muscle and mitochondria. Early treatment with antioxidants may prevent the disorder in fish, but more research is needed to understand its human implications.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

Dietary supplements may delay aging in animal models

Researchers have found that dietary supplements can improve the clean-up process in cells called mitophagy, which breaks down defective mitochondria, thereby delaying aging processes in animal models with Werner Syndrome. This study provides promising results for potential treatments and understanding of the mechanisms of aging.

Stress hormone helps control the circadian rhythm of brain cells

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that stress hormones, such as corticosterone, play a crucial role in controlling the circadian rhythm of brain cells. By using test rats and a new method involving medical micropumps, they were able to restore the rhythmic activity of clock genes in the cerebellum even after t...

How are psychiatric disorders linked to infections during pregnancy?

Researchers found that severe infections in pregnant mothers can impair brain development, leading to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. The study showed immediate and long-lasting effects on neuronal cells, including impaired cortical GABAergic interneuron development.

Extinction of Icelandic walrus coincides with Norse settlement

A study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution reveals that the Icelandic walrus went extinct shortly after Norse settlement around 870 AD, likely due to commercial hunting and ivory trade. The research used ancient DNA analyses and C14-dating to demonstrate the existence of a unique population of Icelandic walruses.

Children of refugees with PTSD are at higher risk of developing psychiatric disorders

A large register study shows that refugee children with parents having PTSD are at a significantly higher risk of contact with the psychiatric system before turning 18. The researchers highlight the need for greater focus on this problem and early measures to support these vulnerable children.

Do animals control earth's oxygen level?

Researchers from the GLOBE Institute found that massive fluctuations in ocean oxygen levels during the Cambrian explosion were influenced by animal behavior. The discovery suggests that animals may have controlled their own development through adjustments to oxygen levels, shedding light on Earth's 'heartbeat' and its impact on life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

Discovery of how organs form helps researchers to develop future diabetes treatments

A new study reveals that the development of progenitor cells depends on protein quantity and interaction with other cells. Cells with high P120ctn expression remain in the central part of the pancreas, while those with low expression migrate to the peripheral area, where they acquire their final fate.

Researchers discover cell mechanism that delays and repairs DNA damage that can lead to cancer

A new study reveals a specific mechanism in human cells that delay propagation of DNA damage, giving cells a chance to stop piling up mutations. The discovery relies on precise timing and control inside the cells and identifies key molecular proteins involved in repairing DNA lesions.