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University of Leeds


Climate change could increase volcano eruptions

Scientists at the University of Leeds warn that climate change could lead to more frequent volcanic eruptions in Iceland as glaciers melt. The study found a time lag of roughly 600 years between climate events and decreased volcanic activity, suggesting a similar delay may occur with warming temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeology·DateNov 23, 2017

Research reveals the true impact of diabetic foot ulcers

A recent study published by the University of Leeds reveals that diabetic foot ulcers have severe consequences, including limited mobility and increased risk of heart disease. The research found that more than half of patients with infected ulcers did not heal over a year, highlighting the need for close monitoring and timely treatment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalDiabetic Medicine·DateNov 8, 2017

Researchers identify a test to target cancer drug

A new test targeting cancer drug effectiveness has been identified using protein HER3 levels, helping doctors tailor treatment for patients. The test shows that patients with high HER3 levels benefit from the drug, while those with low levels experience no effect, providing a more personalized approach to bowel cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 26, 2017

Mimetic Martian water is under pressure

Researchers analyzed the structure of mimetic Martian water to understand how it could exist on the Martian surface. They found that concentrated perchlorate solutions could survive low temperatures, raising questions about the possibility of life on Mars.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2017

Paving the way towards 'designer organelles'

Researchers at the University of Leeds have created an alternative pathway for peroxisome organelles to import proteins, leading to the development of 'designer organelles'. These custom compartments could be used as biofactories for producing therapeutic proteins or other useful molecules.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2017

Fantastic beasts and why to conserve them

A new study finds that acknowledging and understanding the role of mythical creatures in local cultures can have a positive impact on conservation. In Madagascar, for example, spiritual beliefs surrounding magical animals are linked to local taboos that protect endangered species like the radiated tortoise.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalOryx·DateAug 24, 2017

Update on the Larsen-C iceberg breakaway

The largest remaining ice shelf on the Antarctic Peninsula has lost 10% of its area after a giant iceberg four times the size of London broke free. Dr Anna Hogg and Dr Hilmar Gudmundsson tracked the iceberg using satellite technology, revealing that it has started to drift away from the Larsen-C and formed smaller icebergs.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 2, 2017

Volcanic 'plumerang' could impact human health

A team of scientists discovered a previously undetected health risk from volcanic plumes, finding that certain fine particles can penetrate deep into lungs, exacerbating asthma attacks. The study recommends considering both young and mature plumes when forecasting air pollution and dispersion.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJun 12, 2017

Children at increased risk of suicide

A new study found that children and young people admitted to hospital with injuries related to self-harm, drugs, or alcohol faced an increased risk of killing themselves over the following 10 years. The researchers argue that this risk applies to a larger group of adolescents than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 25, 2017

Antarctic Peninsula ice more stable than thought

A new study found the Antarctic Peninsula's glaciers are losing ice at a rate of 15 cubic kilometers per year, not three times as much as previously reported. The glacier speed increase is attributed to ocean melting and warming, causing dynamical imbalance in Western Palmer Land.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 2, 2017

Scientists prove new approach to Polio vaccines works

A research team at the University of Leeds has identified new mutations that make 'empty capsids' stable enough to act as vaccines, replacing traditional killed poliovirus vaccines. The stabilised VLPs are suitable for use after the virus has been eradicated and can be produced without growing live virus.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Virology·DateFeb 1, 2017

Diabetes raises risk of heart attack death by 50 percent

A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with diabetes are at a 56% increased risk of dying from a STEMI heart attack and a 39% increased risk of dying from a NSTEMI heart attack compared to those without diabetes. Researchers tracked over 700,000 people who had been admitted to hos...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJun 22, 2016