Researchers at University of Melbourne warn of potential risks in pesticide control due to widespread resistance discovered in Drosophila melanogaster fly species. The gene Cyp6g1 confers resistance by producing more protein that breaks down pesticides, posing significant challenges for future pest management options.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne discovered a key player in the brain's response to low glucose levels, shedding light on how diabetes and hypoglycemia are regulated. By studying Neuropeptide Y, scientists hope to develop new treatments for these conditions.
A recent study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that genetically identical twin pairs had similar breast densities, while non-identical pairs had breast densities about half as similar. This suggests that genetic factors play a major role in explaining why women of the same age have different breast density.
Researchers have discovered a key molecule involved in regulating the immune system that may contribute to stomach cancer. Mutations to this molecule, gp130, induced cellular changes reminiscent of early gastric cancer in mice, highlighting a potential new target for treatment.
Researchers discovered an enzyme called Hck that plays a role in activating macrophages, which form part of the immune system in the lungs. The team found that altering the enzyme led to progressive lung disease in mice, mimicking human COPD symptoms, including mucus accumulation and scarring.
Researchers found a decline in genetic diversity in Tasman Bay's New Zealand snapper population, starting from the 1950s when it began to be commercially fished. The 'virgin' population showed a significant decline in six of seven microsatellite loci, raising concerns about the sustainability of commercial fishing industries.
Astronomers found that most comets disappear after their first pass through the solar system, but recent modelling suggests the number of dormant comets is far too low to accommodate predicted numbers. Dr Foot proposes mirror matter as a possible explanation for the missing comets.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have developed a new compound, ACV1, derived from cone shell venom that is more powerful and longer-lasting than morphine. The compound has shown promising results in laboratory studies, treating pain by blocking transmission along peripheral nervous systems without addictive side effects.
A new drug could provide a non-destructive way to treat blindness in diabetics, blocking the pathway that causes damage. The drug is currently being tested in clinical trials and has been funded by $4.7 million from the US-based JDRF and NHMRC.
Researchers have discovered the location of the genes that can cause heart attack, a breakthrough that could lead to new means of prevention and treatment. The study used genetics maps to scan chromosomes and found regions on chromosomes two, three, and 20 linked with heart attacks.
A study of Melbourne women found a decline in sexual interest, arousal, and frequency during menopause, with estradiol levels plummeting. Relationship factors, not hormonal changes, have the greatest impact on sexual response.
Synaesthetes have an extra layer of information that helps with rote memory and creativity. The University of Melbourne team used Magnetic Resonance Imaging to analyze brain images of synaesthetes, revealing the secrets of how their brains function.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have developed a potential allergy vaccine using a modified rye grass protein that reduces allergenic response while boosting immune system. The vaccine, delivered in its pure form, may significantly reduce risk of anaphylactic shock and increase immunotherapy efficacy.
The use of biased conservation lists is exacerbating the rate of species extinctions, according to Associate Professor Mark Burgman. The lists focus on large, spectacular species, neglecting lesser-studied groups that are more vulnerable to extinction.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne are developing crayfish-inspired robots that can navigate complex terrain and perform tasks with minimal brain power. The study aims to advance biomimetics, a field that harvests nature's best design ideas for robotics.