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University of Münster


Teaching old transition metals new tricks: Chemists activate palladium catalysis by light

Researchers from the University of Münster have developed a novel approach to allyl functionalization using radical chemistry, generating π-allylpalladium complexes through visible light activation. The method has been shown to be highly selective and sustainable, with over 60 examples demonstrating its utility in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·DateMar 24, 2020

The invisibility cloak of a fungus

A fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, has been found to use an enzyme called chitosan deacetylase to alter its cell wall structure, making it invisible to the human immune system. Researchers have identified a new chitosan deacetylase that is crucial for the fungus's ability to evade detection.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2020

Deciphering the sugar code

Scientists at the University of Münster have developed a vaccine-like treatment that stimulates plants' natural immune system using a specific pattern in chitosan, a biopolymer. This breakthrough could lead to reduced chemical pesticide use and improved plant growth, as well as potential applications in scar-free wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 24, 2020

Two chiral catalysts working hand in hand

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has developed a new synthetic method for producing all four stereoisomers of α,β-disubstituted γ-butyrolactones. The method uses two chiral catalysts working in tandem to efficiently produce the final product.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 3, 2019

Physicists couple key components of quantum technologies

Researchers at the University of Münster have created an interface that couples light sources with nanophotonic networks, enabling the integration of quantum optical circuits on chips. The interface uses photonic crystals to enhance a specific wavelength range and can be replicated using established nanofabrication processes.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·DateOct 9, 2019

Chemists give chance a helping hand

A team of chemists at the University of Münster has developed a strategy for generating random hits in a systematic way, discovering new reactions and gaining deeper understanding of molecular processes. The study identified three previously unknown reactions, including a photochemical cycloaddition.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalChem·DateJul 1, 2019

Magnetism discovered in the Earth's mantle

Researchers from Germany, France, Denmark, and the USA have made a groundbreaking discovery about the Earth's magnetic field. By studying iron oxide hematite under extreme conditions, they found that it retains its magnetic properties even deep in the mantle, challenging the long-held assumption of its non-magnetic nature.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2019

Reproduction: How male flies enforce their interests

Researchers found that male fruit flies produce fewer proteins in their seminal fluid when females are without competition, leading to health disadvantages for the females. In contrast, polygamous males with no competition can manipulate females through protein receipt, increasing their own reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2019

Converting biomass by applying mechanical force

Researchers at the University of Münster have identified a new reaction mechanism for converting biomass into fuels and chemicals using mechanical force. The mechano-catalytic reaction reduces energy requirements and eliminates unnecessary steps, leading to a more efficient and environmentally friendly process.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 14, 2019

Why forgetting at work can be a good thing

A new study by psychologists and information scientists found that the ability to forget information can lead to better economic decisions and reduced cognitive load. Participants who used an information system reported feeling less stressed and having more time to recall details of other products.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalErgonomics·DateFeb 7, 2019

How plants cope with iron deficiency

Plant biologists at HHU and WWU have discovered a key mechanism that enables plants to regulate their responses to iron deficiency, ultimately controlling iron uptake in roots and seed storage. This finding has significant implications for understanding plant biology and agricultural research.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 1, 2019

New insights into pruning

Researchers at the University of Münster have discovered a correlation between the spatial organization of a nerve cell and its process degeneration. The study found that specific arrangement of cytoskeleton components influences the direction of dendrite degeneration in fruit flies.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 26, 2018

Restricting unwanted immune reactions

Scientists at the University of Münster have decoded a mechanism that regulates the release of S100A8/S100A9 protein complexes, which can trigger or amplify inflammatory reactions. The researchers aim to develop new treatment options for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 6, 2018