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University of Konstanz


Mapping the brain

Neurobiologists have reconstructed nerve cells and synapses in a larval brain, revealing new circuit connection patterns that will aid future research on brain function. The project represents a significant contribution to the creation of a complete wiring diagram of the Drosophila larvae's brain.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2017

Molecular archaeology

A new phylogenetic tree resolves key relationships among vertebrates, including the identification of lungfishes as closest living relatives of land vertebrates. The study uses a novel set of analyses for building large-scale genomic datasets.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 24, 2017

Pipetting in space

Astronauts are exposed to DNA damage due to zero gravity and cosmic radiation; an automated diagnostic procedure is being adapted for use in space, promising constant conditions for each sample. The device could also be used to evaluate the effects of radiotherapy.

Insights into closed enzymes

Scientists at the University of Konstanz and Umea University have successfully generated a structural model of the adenylate kinase enzyme in its closed state. This breakthrough allows researchers to analyze the precise moment when the enzyme is biochemically active, shedding light on its biochemical mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2017

Drip by drip

Researchers from University of Konstanz have observed non-classical growth of crystals, where liquid preliminary stages accelerate growth rates. This finding has implications for basic research and practical applications, including faster-dissolving medicines.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017

Education a top priority

A public opinion survey conducted across eight Western European countries found that 80% of respondents support increasing spending on education, while only 20% back defense policy. Respondents prioritize general school education and vocational training, with 62% demanding more funding in these sectors.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of European Social Policy·DateJun 16, 2017

The clever cell

The University of Konstanz's biological chemistry working group has decoded a molecular mechanism that inhibits bacterial populations' swarming motility. This mechanism enables bacteria to produce various natural substances using minimal resources, which may aid in combating infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 26, 2017

Estimating wealth from outer space

Researchers found that nighttime illumination can accurately predict wealth levels in regions, including individual settlements. Satellite data on night light emissions was used to make inferences about local economic rank and compare wealth levels across countries.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of Peace Research·DateApr 25, 2017

The beginning of the end of order

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have proven the existence of Mermin-Wagner fluctuations, which grow logarithmically with system size and prevent crystal formation over long ranges. In contrast, small systems can exhibit crystal formation.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2017

On the trail of Parkinson's disease

A team of chemists from Konstanz University has made a significant discovery about the effects of selective mutations on the alpha-synuclein protein. By applying magnetic probes to the protein, they found that these changes disturb the binding of alpha-synuclein to membranes.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 24, 2017

Single molecule switch

Researchers successfully demonstrated a reliable and reproducible single molecule switch, enabling electric current to flow between electrodes through the molecule or not. The breakthrough could lead to advancements in molecular electronics.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2017

Who benefits from praise?

A study published by University of Konstanz researchers found that praise from peers can motivate students to perform better, particularly those who are already high-achievers. However, this positive effect is limited for students whose grades fall just below the top threshold.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics·DateFeb 17, 2017

Breakthrough with a chain of gold atoms

An international team of physicists has made a breakthrough in understanding heat transport at the nanoscale by studying a chain of gold atoms. The study confirms the validity of the Wiedemann-Franz law, which describes the relationship between electric and thermal conductance.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience·DateFeb 17, 2017

Bioinvasion on the rise

A recent study found that 37% of all recorded alien species have been introduced globally over the past few decades, with new introductions increasing at an alarming rate. Climate change is expected to lead to further invasions as non-native plants adapt to new environments.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 15, 2017

The galloping evolution in seahorses

A international research collaboration sequenced the entire seahorse genome, revealing gene losses and duplications that enabled specialized traits such as male pregnancy and armored body. The study provides insights into evolutionary mechanisms driving biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 2016

Family member with special connections

The discovery by University of Konstanz researchers reveals two regions within Ssb that mediate direct contact with the ribosome, supporting its function. The findings suggest a unique feature of Ssb that enables it to position itself optimally at the ribosome.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2016

A matter of orientation

A collaborative research centre at the University of Konstanz is studying directional properties of particles and their superstructures. The SFB 1214 aims to create a new generation of materials with tailor-made properties by controlling particle arrangement.