Researchers at the University of Florida found that anti-aging supplement mixtures may be more effective in preventing decline in physical function than single compounds. Taking such supplements before very old age can lead to improved grip strength and mitochondrial function, suggesting a potential window for intervention.
The University of Florida has been awarded a $1.2 million grant from HHMI to support collaborative undergraduate research initiatives. This funding will enable students to work with faculty members trained in different disciplines, fostering a cross-disciplinary approach to solving human health problems.
A team of scientists finds that global warming is unlikely to expand the range of malaria due to effective control measures, urbanization and economic development. Malaria control efforts have reduced the disease's prevalence over the past century despite a global temperature rise.
Researchers discovered that newborns can learn and respond to tones while asleep, a finding that could lead to early identification of infants at risk for developmental disorders such as autism and dyslexia. The study used EEG recordings to measure brain waves and found that 24 of 26 babies showed neural activity during sleep.
An international team of astronomers will conduct a closer look at the mega star birthing cloud, located 8,000 light years away in the Southern sky constellation Carina. The cloud is collapsing in on itself, offering an unusual view into behemoth star birth and providing insights into the formation of our solar system.
Researchers will assess MRI technology to measure muscle tissue in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, aiming to facilitate therapy testing and improve disease management. The study may provide valuable guidelines for MRI use in clinical trials and drug tests targeting DMD treatments.
A University of Florida engineer has developed a nickel-sized imaging device that uses organic light-emitting diode technology for night vision. The device is lightweight and inexpensive, making it a possible add-on to cell phone cameras or eyeglasses.
Researchers develop a pill system that signals ingestion, aiming to improve medication adherence and enhance clinical trials. The system consists of a biocompatible antenna and microchip that communicates with an electronic device via extremely low-voltage electricity.
A new plant-based system has been developed to help hemophilia patients build tolerance to their treatment, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. The system, made from genetically modified plants, can be ingested and releases a tolerated protein into the small intestine, where it can be acted on by the immune system.
Researchers analyzed 15 female loggerheads' shells to discover their surprising dietary and travel habits. The findings suggest the turtles are surprisingly different in their range, diet, or both, with individualistic patterns revealed over a span of 12 years.
Researchers at the University of Florida have successfully ignited nanoparticles using a weak laser, with potential applications in cancer treatment, explosives, and precise lithography. The discovery could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies in various industries.
A new model of the human body is being developed to improve radiation treatment accuracy for cancer patients, especially children. The research found that children have a greater percentage of total mineral bone in direct contact with sensitive bone marrow than do adults, leading to higher radiation doses and increased cancer risk.
Researchers found that lowering systolic blood pressure below 115 can increase cardiovascular risk for patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease. This new data challenges traditional guidelines recommending lower blood pressure levels as better.
Researchers at the University of Florida have found that papaya extract thwarts the growth of cancer cells in lab tests, boosting the production of key signaling molecules and suggesting possible therapeutic strategies. The extract did not show toxic effects on normal cells, consistent with reports from indigenous populations.
Researchers discovered Sonic hedgehog gene presence in ectoderm of mice limb buds, indicating a new role in digit formation and possible implications for human birth defects. Disrupting this signaling led to extra digits forming.
University of Florida engineers develop a nearly perfect hydrophobic interface by reproducing spider hairs on flat plastic surfaces. The surface repels hot and cold water, pick up dirt, and has potential applications in food packaging, windows, solar cells, and boat hulls.
A new DNA sequencing study has shed light on the evolution of flowering plants, revealing relationships between 70% of all plant species and two major groups that split apart over 111 million years ago. The study provides a clearer picture of the deep divergence that led to speciation in these plants.
Researchers at UF's College of Veterinary Medicine have discovered that dolphins can harbor multiple infections of apillomaviruses, which are linked to cervical cancer in humans. The study suggests that dolphins may be an ideal model for studying human cervical cancer due to their genetic similarity to humans.
Researchers from UF and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found a 60-million-year-old fossil of Cerrejonisuchus improcerus, an ancient crocodile relative that was likely preyed upon by Titanoboa. The study provides new insights into the diversity of ancient South American rainforest ecosystems.
University of Florida researchers are developing a gene therapy to treat Pompe disease, which causes severe muscle weakness and breathing difficulties. The treatment involves delivering a corrective gene directly to the diaphragm using an adeno-associated virus, with clinical trials expected to begin soon.
Researchers at University of Florida have developed a tiny new sensor that can detect glucose levels in the breath and pH levels, offering a potential solution for non-invasive diagnosis and treatment. The sensor is made from widely used technology already in cell phones and other devices, making it inexpensive to produce.
The University of Florida has received a nearly $15 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to construct an almost 40,000-square-foot complex for clinical and translational research on aging. The new building will bring together scientists from various disciplines to improve the health and independence of older adults.
Researchers found that insect societies exhibit nearly indistinguishable lifespan, growth rates, and reproduction features when considered as superorganisms. This finding may shed light on the evolution of social systems in insects.
University of Florida urologists have developed a robot-assisted vasectomy reversal procedure that cuts average surgery time by 20 minutes, comparable to traditional microscope methods. The robotic procedure also shows quicker return of sperm count and improved efficiency.
A University of Florida researcher has co-authored a study tracing the evolution of modern opossums back to the extinction of dinosaurs, with evidence supporting North America as their center of origin. The findings are based on high-resolution CT scans of a 55-million-year-old skull found in Wyoming.
Researchers at the University of Florida have found a way to use reduced dosages of the chemotherapy drug TMZ to achieve better results against colon cancer cells. By combining TMZ with a small molecule, they were able to disable the ability of tumor cells to repair DNA damage.
A multi-institutional team is using genomic tools and the Mexican axolotl salamander to understand regenerative capacity after spinal cord injury, stroke, and other neural conditions. The goal is to tap unused human capacities to treat these conditions.
A new forensic technique can identify shark species by analyzing bite patterns, helping researchers understand the behavioral underpinnings of shark attacks. The method uses measured jaw circumference and tooth distance to distinguish between species like tiger sharks and bull sharks.
A University of Florida project, 'Call the Wild,' aims to educate zoo visitors about science through mobile technology. Researchers will test different audio calls, texts, and smartphone applications to determine their effectiveness in engaging visitors in learning about scientific processes.
Researchers have discovered genetic clues that enable scientists to tailor corn plants for specific traits, such as high protein content for human consumption or high glucose content for biomass fuel. The findings could lead to higher yield or improved quality crops with reduced environmental impact.
A University of Florida researcher is developing a micro-endoscope that can inspect tissues beneath the surface, revealing abnormal cell groups or growth patterns before they form tumors. This technology has shown promising results in laboratory tests and could allow for earlier detection and more precise tumor removal.
A University of Florida team has identified a protein that contributes to age-related hearing loss in the elderly. The findings suggest that enhancing antioxidant defenses may reduce damage and delay onset of hearing loss, offering new targets for therapy.
Researchers have developed an optical biopsy technique that can detect breast cancer without invasive biopsies, reducing costs and complications. The new technology uses light and computing power to create images of the breast's interior, identifying telltale signs of cancer.
A University of Florida study found that eating more plant-based foods can prevent oxidative stress associated with obesity and disease. By incorporating colorful, low-calorie foods like leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables into meals, individuals may be able to control caloric intake and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
UF scientists have re-examined the technique using MRI imaging and found that it works by compressing a different structure in the neck. The esophagus is not involved in the procedure, contrary to previous assumptions. This new understanding will help anesthesiologists use the maneuver more effectively.
The University of Florida and collaborators will implement a new networking system across seven schools, linking researchers nationally and internationally to facilitate collaborations and improve ongoing studies. The program aims to create a verifiable database of researchers using Cornell's VIVO software.
Researchers have discovered a rich cache of plant fossils in Colombia, providing the first reliable evidence of how Neotropical rainforests looked 58 million years ago. The fossil record shows that many dominant plant families still exist today, indicating a relatively stable ecosystem.
Researchers at the University of Florida have found that inflammation in the colon tissue can trigger the transition from a non-cancerous state to cancer. The study suggests that targeting specific immune system hormones may be a key to preventing or inhibiting cancer growth, with potential implications for diagnostic tests and therapy.
A University of Florida study found that exercise alone can improve body image, regardless of the actual physical benefits. The researchers discovered that people who don't meet fitness standards feel just as good about their bodies as those who are more athletic.
Researchers develop method to study and control energy transfer pathways in molecules, enabling faster identification of efficient photovoltaic materials. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cheaper solar cells.
The University of Florida will conduct a six-year study on structured physical activity's effect on preventing or delaying major movement disability in older adults. The Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) study seeks to fill the gap in scientific knowledge on exercise's ability to prevent mobility disability.
Researchers used genetic and geographic data to understand why HIV-1 subtypes held steady in west central Africa before erupting as an epidemic in east Africa. The study found that connectivity between population centers and better transportation networks contributed to the rapid spread of the virus.
Scientists have discovered that the venom of isolated Florida cottonmouth snakes may differ from that of mainland snakes due to their diet of dead fish dropped by seabirds. A new technique for collecting venom, using a portable nerve stimulator, has also been developed as part of this study.
Researchers from the University of Florida and the University of Washington successfully used gene therapy to restore color vision in two squirrel monkeys. The study demonstrates the potential for this treatment to target adult vision disorders involving cone cells, a crucial step towards developing therapies for human cone diseases.
A team led by Professor Stephen Eikenberry captured the first images of the cosmos using a UF-designed camera/spectrometer attached to the Gemini South telescope in Chile. The instrument, FLAMINGOS-2, will enable accurate tracking of black hole growth and evolution over 4 billion years.
A new study by the University of Florida combines socio-cultural and genetic data to reveal health disparities between different groups. The research suggests that social classification is a better predictor of disease status than genetic ancestry.
Researchers have discovered a way to regulate gene therapy for Parkinson's disease by introducing an 'off switch' using the antibiotic doxycycline. This breakthrough addresses safety concerns and paves the way for safer treatment options.
A new analysis by LIGO and Virgo Collaborations has set the most stringent limits yet on gravitational waves from the Big Bang, offering insight into the universe's earliest history. The study constrains models of cosmic strings and provides new constraints on the behavior of the infant universe.
Researchers discovered two genetic variations linked to an increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood cancer in the US. Identifying these genetic glitches could improve treatment for children with this subtype of ALL, which tends to respond well to chemotherapy.
Researchers have discovered that gene therapy can restore vision in adults with Leber congenital amaurosis type 2, a rare form of blindness. The treated parts of the retina have acquired image-processing strength to rival the normal center for visual perception.