A world-first study by University of Otago researchers found the genetic basis for brushtail possum fur colour, revealing grey and black variations. The discovery sheds light on evolution of fur colour in marsupials, with implications for understanding adaptation to environments.
A new species of fossil penguin discovered in New Zealand shows how penguins' wings evolved into their present form and function. The study highlights the unique combination of bones that allowed penguins to dive and swim, contributing to their ecological diversity.
Researchers have discovered a protein function that could guide novel cancer treatment options and improve diagnostic procedures for various cancers. The tumour-suppressing protein p16 has the ability to dramatically alter its structure and function, with potential implications for cancer formation and therapy response.
Researchers found that participants who completed activity breaks during prolonged sitting sessions slept for 30 minutes longer than those who sat continuously. Short bursts of light-intensity exercise, such as chair squats and calf raises, were used in the intervention.
A team of researchers led by Professor Peter Fineran from the University of Otago discovered a novel regulatory mechanism in a protein used by phages to deploy anti-CRISPR. This finding has significant implications for understanding gene regulation and developing new antimicrobial therapies.
A University of Otago-led trial found that extended-release ketamine tablets significantly improved depressive symptoms in adults with treatment-resistant depression. The tablets showed good tolerability and minimal side effects compared to traditional injection or nasal spray methods.
A study found that people in affluent areas in New Zealand were contributing more than their fair share of greenhouse gas emissions from transport. They drove further and owned more cars, leading to higher emissions per week.
A University of Otago-led study has uncovered the origins of a mysterious lineage of mergansers in Aotearoa New Zealand, revealing that they arrived from the Northern Hemisphere at least seven million years ago. The research used ancient DNA techniques to extract genetic material from extinct species and reconstruct their family tree.
Researchers have identified a rare genetic condition, Glutamine Synthetase Stabilization Disorder, which causes seizures and delayed development. The study found that genetic variants increase the stability of an enzyme producing glutamine, disrupting brain development.
Researchers found that people with greater mental distress, lower self-control, and higher extraversion were more likely to take up vaping. Interventions addressing these factors could be effective in preventing vaping uptake among non-smoking adults.
Researchers from the University of Otago have found that areas of open water along Antarctic coasts are growing in area as the climate warms, creating opportunities for non-native plants and animals to establish themselves. This could have significant implications for native Antarctic coastal ecosystems.
A University of Otago-led study found that sensory cues alone can drive ageing effects in animals. Researchers tested male mice exposed to female odours and found reduced fertility and increased mortality later in life. The study highlights the importance of sensory perception of mates in influencing life-history trade-offs.
A systematic review of Pacific Island countries' food taxation policies found that five countries introduced new excise taxes, while 14 made changes to tariffs on imported foods, primarily targeting processed foods, sugar, fatty meats, and salt.
Researchers found evidence of seasonal vitamin D deficiency in ancient teeth, indicating that latitude and sunlight exposure played a major role. The study's findings provide insight into how past populations developed the disease, shedding light on its history and potential causes.
A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition found that kiwifruit supplementation improved vitality and mood within four days, peaking around 14-16 days. Vitamin C intake also showed benefits, but to a lesser extent, improving mood until day 12.
A University of Otago study found strong links between Long COVID and ME/CFS, suggesting a coordinated treatment approach could improve patient outcomes. The research confirmed changes in immune system activity between Long COVID patients and healthy controls, reflecting chronic dysfunction.
A University of Otago-led study found that early primates primarily consumed soft fruits, as indicated by dental chipping patterns and cavities. The research, published in the American Journal of Biological Anthropology, analyzed fossils from the Fayum Depression in Egypt and compared them to data from living primates.
A recent study found that the Antarctic ozone hole is not only larger in area but also deeper throughout most of spring. The researchers believe changes in air arriving at the polar vortex above Antarctica are contributing to the growth of the ozone hole, which may be caused by factors beyond just CFCs.
The Otago Community Head Impact Detection study and Elite Extension study used smart mouthguard technology to measure head acceleration events in over 17,000 players. These findings provide greater clarity and confidence than ever before into the benefits and safety of rugby.
A University of Otago study found biodegradable plastics can negatively impact wild fish, especially in terms of escape performance and aerobic metabolism. In contrast, bioplastics only affected maximum escape speed, highlighting the need for regulation and control of raw materials used.
Researchers have identified a new mechanism by which phages evade CRISPR-Cas immune systems in bacteria, revealing a potential approach to make gene editing safer and more efficient. This discovery could lead to the development of bespoke anti-CRISPRs to neutralize CRISPR-Cas systems and provide an alternative to antibiotics.
Researchers have assembled the entire genetic code of the brushtail possum, revealing population diversity, reproduction, and origins. The study's findings provide valuable knowledge for managing the animal's populations in both New Zealand and Australia.
Researchers at University of Otago have developed a new form of antenna for radio waves using an atomic vapor, providing high sensitivity and broad tunability. The portable design enables efficient measurement of fields over long distances, making it suitable for defence and communications applications.
A breakthrough study on kākāpō population sequencing is helping New Zealand manage the health of this critically endangered species. The study reveals genetic characteristics crucial to survival and has massive implications for conservation genomics in other species.
Researchers at the University of Otago have found that gluten can cause brain inflammation in mice, a discovery that may have implications for human physiology. The study showed that gluten increased the number of immune cells in the brain, leading to hypothalamic inflammation.
Researchers have discovered a 'cheating' strategy used by an insect in New Zealand to avoid being eaten. The Zelandoperla fenestrata stonefly mimics the appearance of a cyanide-producing species to deter predators. However, this strategy may not be effective in regions where the toxic species is rare, and can backfire if the mimicry st...
A University of Otago study found that children who watched more TV as kids were more likely to develop metabolic syndrome in adulthood. The research, published in Pediatrics, associated prolonged screen time with a higher risk of overweight and obesity in mid-adulthood.
A University of Otago study reveals that pre-operative high-intensity interval training can significantly improve patient outcomes after surgery, with a 56% reduction in post-operative complications. The study also found that participants who underwent HIIT prior to surgery stayed in the hospital for three fewer days on average.
Researchers have finally solved the mystery of the pygmy right whale's evolutionary history, revealing it as a distinct lineage not related to right whales. The study, published in Marine Mammal Science, used genome sequencing and morphology to confirm the whale's unique characteristics.
A team of researchers has discovered a plant molecule that acts in the brain and improves blood sugar regulation. The dahlia extract was shown to considerably improve blood sugar regulation in preclinical trials and clinical studies, offering new hope for people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
A new study from the University of Otago found that vaping may be a gateway to smoking for non-smokers in New Zealand. The research analysed data from the 2018-2020 New Zealand Attitudes and Values survey, revealing frequent transitions between smoking and vaping.
Researchers have discovered abnormalities in the DNA instruction code that lead to the aggressive spread of colorectal cancer. By studying DNA methylation levels, they identified unique gene regions associated with liver metastasis and found a link between these changes and cancer cell aggression.
A New Zealand study found that 96% of participants reported improved conditions after using cannabis therapeutically. The study suggests that medicinal cannabis products could have a role in treating chronic pain and other conditions refractory to treatment by conventional means.
A study found that high school students' attitudes towards drinking have shifted over the past 20 years, with a decrease in youth drinking attributed to changes in social media and spending time online. Today's teens view not drinking as more socially acceptable than it used to be.
Researchers at the University of Otago have discovered a new area of coastal uplift in Rarangi, Marlborough, using laser mapping and kelp genetics. The study provides new insights into Aotearoa's landscapes and recent earthquake impacts.
Research found that young people living in health-constraining environments were more likely to experience poorer emotional and mental health. In contrast, those living in health-promoting environments were less likely to have problems with substance-abuse and hospitalisations for self-harm.
Researchers have identified new ways to treat antibiotic-resistant TB by targeting unique weaknesses in the bacteria. The study found that certain drug-resistant strains are more sensitive to antibiotics targeting unrelated pathways, paving the way for faster treatment and reduced resistance.
Exposure to female odours causes weight loss and extends the life spans of mice, potentially influencing human metabolism and ageing. The study found that male mice exposed to female odours experienced increased energy expenditure and reduced body fat levels.
A University of Otago study finds that 40% of people diagnosed with HIV in Aotearoa were diagnosed late, highlighting the need for improved awareness and access to testing services. Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment and preventing transmission to sexual partners.
Researchers examine phytoplankton blooms induced by tropical cyclones to predict climate change impacts. The study found a massive bloom in the wake of Cyclone Oma, which occurred once every 1500 years, and may indicate changes in ocean temperatures.
New Zealand and five other island nations, including Australia and Vanuatu, have the potential to continue producing food despite reduced sunlight and cooler temperatures after a nuclear war. However, countries' resilience is threatened by dependence on imported commodities and collapse of industry and social functioning.
A study by University of Otago researchers found removing the $5 prescription charge significantly reduces hospital admissions and length of stays, especially for those with high health needs and low incomes. The authors recommend eliminating or reducing charges to address health inequities.
A global study has discovered a gene, SULT1A1, that may help reduce the risk of breast cancer, especially in women with BRCA1 gene mutations. The study, involving over 26,000 women, found that reducing levels of this protein can lower breast cancer risk and is being used to develop a new risk-reducing drug.
A University of Otago-led study found that television advertisements are more successful when the product is shown first and the brand is revealed later. This approach creates unresolved tension and attention, leading to prolonged processing and positive associations. The results contradict standard marketing theory and practice, highl...
A study on extinct lemurs has found surprising similarities between ancient primate species and fossil humans. The 'monkey lemur' had novel anatomical features, including tooth chipping patterns similar to those of Neanderthals, suggesting a more complex diet than previously thought.
A University of Otago study found that rising ocean temperatures stunt spore settlement and germination in giant kelp. Temperatures above 23.8°C significantly decline germ-tube length, highlighting the vulnerability of early life stages in this valuable ecosystem engineer.
A new University of Otago study found that only half of women with gestational diabetes were tested for type 2 diabetes within six months of giving birth. The study also highlighted ethnic and regional disparities in testing rates, with Māori women being particularly under-tested.
A University of Otago study found that ice ages occurred every 41,000 years until 400,000 years ago, contradicting previous assumptions of a 100,000-year cycle. The research uses sediment cores and paleomagnetic analysis to reconstruct changes in the Earth's magnetic field.
A University of Otago study found that excessive leisure time television viewing in childhood and adolescence is associated with a higher risk of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis disorders and disordered gambling in adulthood. This association was independent of other potential influences.
A University of Otago-led study examines male and female travellers’ subjective travel experiences and identifies nine types of tourist transformation. The research reveals significant differences in reflection and self-efficacy outcomes between men and women, while other transformations are experienced similarly.