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University of Manchester


Anti-fungal drug kills TB bug

Scientists have discovered that anti-fungal drugs can kill the TB bacteria, potentially effective against emerging drug-resistant strains. The study found that chemicals called azoles target a specific enzyme in the TB bacterium, leading to its death.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 12, 2007

Pain relief effectiveness down to mind-set?

A study by the Human Pain Research Group at the University of Manchester found that individuals' expectations and beliefs play a crucial role in their response to pain relief. The researchers discovered that 67% of volunteers who expected pain relief continued to perceive less pain after applying a placebo cream, highlighting the power...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPain·DateDec 21, 2006

Boost for new cancer therapies

Researchers have identified a new key step in how the Polo kinase enzyme functions, confirming its potential as a target for anti-cancer drug development. The study sheds light on how the enzyme helps cells divide and multiply in an uncontrolled manner to form tumors.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 2006

Parental genes do what's best for baby

A new genetic theory suggests that certain offspring characteristics can only be explained by genetic cooperation between maternal and paternal genes. This challenges the prevailing view of a parental power struggle, instead proposing that positive interactions between mothers and their offspring drive imprinting patterns.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 29, 2006

New cancer drug hope

Researchers at the University of Manchester have made a breakthrough in developing a new class of cancer drugs that target the Aurora B enzyme, which helps cells divide and can lead to uncontrolled cell growth in cancer. Early clinical trials suggest the drug's toxicity is mild, offering a revolutionary new way to treat cancer.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateOct 26, 2006

Hirsute-s you, Sir!

Researchers identified three proteins that determine an individual's hair pattern during embryonic development. They also found that hyperactivating one of these proteins in mice led to abnormal fur growth, providing insights into male-pattern baldness and ectodermal dysplasia.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2006

Big kids are getting too big

Researchers found that taller, faster-growing children are more vulnerable to the effects of an obesogenic environment. The study, which surveyed 50,000 three-year-olds, showed a strong relationship between child growth and obesity.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 1, 2006

Worm links cancer risk to ageing

Researchers have discovered a connection between a protein that prevents cancer in humans and lifespan in nematode worms, suggesting that this protein may determine how long we live. The 'checkpoint proteins' also appear to play a role in cell division and could be used to develop new strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateJun 1, 2006

Why we could all do with a siesta

Scientists at the University of Manchester have identified a previously unknown mechanism by which glucose blocks brain cells responsible for regulating wakefulness. This finding has implications for understanding and treating disorders such as narcolepsy, obesity, and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNeuron·DateJun 1, 2006

Trial success for diabetic nerve therapy

A novel therapeutic approach has been discovered by the University of Manchester team, using a DNA-binding protein to stimulate genes and promote nerve growth. The preclinical results have been encouraging, with initial-stage clinical trials in the US showing promising progress in managing diabetic neuropathy.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalDiabetes·DateMay 30, 2006

Scientists reveal fate of Earth's oceans

Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified seawater in volcanic gas samples from the Earth's mantle, supporting the theory that seawater is subducted deep into the Earth. The study reveals that up to 10% of the Earth's oceans have been absorbed into the planet since its formation.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateMay 10, 2006

Wound monitor 'sniffs out' infections

A new wound monitor uses hybrid sensor technology to detect bad bacteria in the air emitted from a wound, enabling rapid and non-invasive infection diagnosis. The device aims to improve early detection of infections, reducing discomfort for patients with severe burns, skin ulcers, or gaping wounds.

Hens' teeth not so rare after all

Researchers have found a naturally occurring mutant chicken called Talpid with a complete set of teeth, similar to those of crocodiles. The team successfully induced teeth growth in normal chickens by activating dormant genes, paving the way for potential applications in tissue regeneration and tooth replacement.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 22, 2006

Magnetic fields revealed in technicolour

A team of scientists has successfully created a new material that induces magnetic vibrations at visible light frequencies, allowing for the creation of ultra-small optical lenses and miniature lasers. This breakthrough could lead to significant advancements in optics, optoelectronics, and biosensing.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateNov 16, 2005