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University of Copenhagen


Researchers reveal malaria's deadly grip

Researchers discovered how malaria parasites stick to blood vessels by binding to endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR). This finding may lead to new means of combating malaria, including vaccines and drugs. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind severe malaria symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2013

Alternative medicine use by MS patients now mapped

A new study has mapped the use of alternative treatments among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, revealing that more than half combine conventional and alternative medicine. The research highlights the importance of understanding how MS patients use both conventional and alternative treatments to manage their condition.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Public Health·DateApr 19, 2013

More hurricane surges in the future

New research from the Niels Bohr Institute predicts a tenfold increase in extreme storm surges due to global warming, resulting in 'Katrina' magnitude storms every other year. The study suggests that 0.4 degrees Celcius warming already leads to a doubling of extreme storm surges and an additional 3-4 times increase with further warming.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2013

Why your brain tires when exercising

A new study published in PNAS reveals that excessive serotonin release triggers central fatigue, a condition where the brain and nervous system become exhausted during exercise. The findings may help develop better drugs for conditions like spasticity and cerebral palsy, as well as improve understanding of antidepressant side effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2013

Chemistry trick kills climate controversy

A team of atmosphere chemists has created a method to analyze ancient sulfur isotopes in ice cores, allowing for precise determination of the impact of volcanic eruptions on global climate. This breakthrough resolves debates over historical episodes of cooling and provides new insights into past climate events.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2013

Overlooked ugly cholesterol causes heart disease

A new study of 73,000 Danes found that 'ugly' cholesterol, a type of remnant-like particle cholesterol, is the direct cause of arteriosclerosis and ischaemic heart disease. High levels of ugly cholesterol triple the risk of heart disease, emphasizing the need for preventive treatment and lifestyle changes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 21, 2013

Cholesterol medicine affects energy production in muscles

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a mechanism underlying statin-induced muscle pain, which may be related to low energy production in muscles due to Q10 depletion. Statins, commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels, can affect skeletal muscle function and lead to muscle weakness and pain.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 3, 2013

The paths of photons are random -- but coordinated

Researchers have shown that even in disordered structures, photons can sense and coordinate their travel through a medium. This is due to the wave properties of photons, which allow them to interact with each other. By analyzing these interactions, valuable insight into complex microscopic structures can be gained.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 20, 2012

Wallace's century-old map of natural world updated

The University of Copenhagen's researchers have produced a next-generation map depicting the organization of life on Earth, combining evolutionary and geographical information for over 20,000 species. The new map shows 11 large biogeographic realms and has major conservation significance in light of the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScience·DateDec 20, 2012

Stem cells develop best in 3-D

Scientists from the Danish Stem Cell Center found that stem cells grow better in three-dimensional environments, leading to improved insulin-producing cell development. This discovery holds promise for improving diabetes treatment with cell therapy.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 21, 2012

Reconsidering cancer's bad guy

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that a protein known for causing cancer cells to spread is also involved in brain repair. The study, published in Nature Communications, suggests new avenues for treating degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 16, 2012

Fetus suffers when mother lacks vitamin C

A new study at the University of Copenhagen found that maternal vitamin C deficiency during pregnancy can stunt fetal hippocampus development by up to 10-15%, potentially leading to memory problems and learning difficulties. The damage cannot be reversed even with vitamin C supplements after birth.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 16, 2012

Solar system's birth record revised

Researchers have revised the timeline of our solar system's formation using uranium and lead isotopes in primitive meteorites. The study reveals that chondrules formed during the first three million years, contrary to previous assumptions. This new understanding paints a more familiar picture of planetary system development.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScience·DateNov 2, 2012

High blood cholesterol is overlooked

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that high blood cholesterol is far more prevalent in Denmark and globally than previously recognized. The research found 40,000 Danes with hereditary high blood cholesterol, a significant underdiagnosis and undertreatment of this serious disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 31, 2012

Turbulent flows in 2D can be calculated in new model

Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute have developed a statistical model that can replicate chaotic flows in two dimensions, providing a better understanding of turbulent behavior. This breakthrough enables more accurate weather forecasting by accounting for motion patterns in the atmosphere, which are largely two-dimensional.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 23, 2012

Chloroquine makes comeback to combat malaria

Scientists have observed that chloroquine is once again effective in combating malaria parasites, particularly in Senegal and other African countries. This development could lead to more affordable treatment options for millions of people in Africa, with the current treatment costing twice as much as chloroquine.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 3, 2012

Gut bacteria could cause diabetes

A study published in Nature reveals that people with type 2 diabetes have a high level of pathogens in their intestines, which can increase resistance to certain medicines. The research also identifies biological indicators that could be used for faster and earlier diagnosis of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2012

Cause of diabetes may be linked to iron transport

A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that an increased activity of a particular iron-transport protein destroys insulin-producing beta cells, leading to type-2 diabetes. Mice without this iron transporter are protected against developing diabetes, providing potential insights into preventing the disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 20, 2012

Birth is no reason to go to hospital

A new Cochrane Review concludes that all countries should consider establishing proper home birth services to provide low-risk pregnant women with informed choice options. Home births in many settings can be as safe as hospital births with fewer interventions and complications, according to the review.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateSep 19, 2012