Add BrightSurf on Google Email

University of Minnesota


New avenue of HIV damage found

Researchers have found a new avenue of HIV damage that affects the structure of CD4 T cells, making it impossible for them to function normally. This discovery may lead to improved disease staging and therapy, as therapies targeting inflammation and scar tissue accumulation could enhance current antiviral treatment.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 9, 2002

A mane is a pain, but worth it for male lions

Researchers found that male lions are intimidated by longer manes, while females prefer darker-maned males. Darker manes also correlate with higher testosterone levels, which may be an advantage for attracting mates and defending territories. Despite this, there is no correlation between mane length and temperature regulation.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2002

Aspirin may help prevent pancreatic cancer

A study of over 7 years found that women taking aspirin two to five times per week had a lower risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those not taking it. The researchers estimate that aspirin use might prevent up to 43% of pancreatic cancer cases in women who do not normally take aspirin.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 6, 2002

Bile acid inhibits cell death in Huntington's disease

Researchers discovered that tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) can cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce apoptosis in mice with the HD gene, improving neurological cell function. The bile acid's anti-apoptotic qualities may also have potential for treating other chronic neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2002

New method used to transfer genes into mouse

University of Minnesota researchers successfully genetically modify a mouse by injecting a transposon containing the gene for yellow coat color, utilizing the Sleeping Beauty transposase enzyme. This breakthrough technology has far-reaching implications for treating diseases such as cancer and genetic disorders, including hemophilia an...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2002

Transplanted stem cells restore function in stroke

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have successfully transplanted stem cells into laboratory animals with stroke, restoring brain function. The study demonstrates that bone marrow-derived stem cells can differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendroglia, offering hope for future clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateMar 4, 2002

Diversity of species triumphs

Researcher David Tilman's study found that mixing multiple plant species leads to higher productivity, as each species brings unique traits for resource utilization. This principle can benefit various ecosystems, including forests and fisheries, by promoting a more diverse range of organisms.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateOct 25, 2001

Monarch butterflies, corn pollen coexist in cornfields

Researchers found that monarch larvae are more likely to be exposed to toxic corn pollen when pollen is shed during peak larval activity. In Ontario, 62% of larvae were exposed to toxic pollen, while in Iowa, the figure was 15%. The study suggests that agricultural habitats like cornfields are crucial for monarchs.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 21, 2001

Nitrogen And Global Warming

A recent study found that high levels of nitrogen deposition in grasslands lead to the loss of plant species diversity and the disruption of ecosystem functioning. Native prairie species are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of excessive nitrogen addition, which can cause their extinction and reduce carbon storage.