Researchers at University of Queensland have discovered a zinc pathway defect in immune cells of people with cystic fibrosis, leading to increased susceptibility to bacterial infections. The team identified a potential solution by restoring the macrophages' ability to kill bacteria with a zinc transport protein.
Scientists found a mutation in E. coli that allows it to spread further into the body and infect organs, causing life-threatening diseases. The discovery helps explain why certain types of E. coli become more dangerous and provides an explanation for emerging virulent bacteria.
A new species of giant anaconda, Eunectes akayima, has been discovered in the Amazon by a team of scientists led by Professor Bryan Fry. The anaconda measures up to 6.3 meters long and weighs around 500 kilograms, making it one of the largest known species of anacondas.
Scientists have mapped out the proteins involved in motor neurone disease (MND) across its trajectory, identifying potential therapeutic pathways for further investigation. The study found that a protein-folding factor called DNAJB5 is elevated early on in MND, sparking curiosity about its role in disease progression.
Scientists have developed a cage-like molecule to trap sulfate in water, which could help control its concentration in health, industry, and environmental management. The molecular trap can be prepared inexpensively from off-the-shelf chemicals and has potential applications in medicine, such as treating cystic fibrosis.
Researchers have discovered an estimated 348,000 square kilometers of shallow coral reefs worldwide, revising previous estimates. The high-resolution satellite maps also identify areas with hard and soft bottoms, providing valuable data for scientists and policymakers to better understand and manage reef systems.
Researchers have identified the molecular mechanism behind memory creation and found that saturated fatty acids interact with a protein called STXBP1. This interaction coordinates the release of fatty acids and directs communication at synapses in the brain.
A machine learning technique called LASSO was used to analyze blood samples from six countries, identifying seven genes that can predict the risk of developing a secondary respiratory bacterial infection. The findings aim to guide clinicians in making more informed decisions about antibiotic use.
A new study suggests that a cross-sectoral approach to marine protection can meet conservation targets at lower costs for all stakeholders involved. The approach minimizes the opportunity cost to each stakeholder simultaneously, resulting in more affordable protection of high seas biodiversity.
A University of Queensland team has developed a spider venom molecule, Hi1a, that protects cells from heart attack and stroke damage. The drug candidate has passed critical benchmarks in preclinical tests, which indicate it could be an effective therapeutic with reduced side effects.
A University of Queensland study found humans can correctly identify the emotional context of chickens' clucks, with 69% accuracy. The ability to detect emotional information from vocalisations could improve the welfare of farmed chickens.
Research led by Professor John McGrath found no association between neonatal protein C4 and risk of mental disorders, but a link was discovered between higher C3 concentration and reduced schizophrenia risk in women. The study also found strong genetic links with several autoimmune disorders.
A recent study by University of Queensland scientist Professor Ove Hoegh-Guldberg warns that record-breaking marine heatwaves will cause catastrophic mass coral bleaching worldwide. The research suggests that current marine heatwaves will likely lead to a global mass coral bleaching event over the next 12-24 months.
A research paper reveals a suburban backyard is home to 1,150 unique species of animals, plants, and fungi. The study's authors discovered unexpected diversity, including 436 moth and butterfly species, 56 spiders, and eight reptiles.
Research found that being overweight hampers the body's immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to reduced antibody levels and activity. However, vaccination offered protection against COVID-19. The study suggests personalized recommendations for overweight individuals to ensure better COVID-19 management.
A new vaccine patch has delivered an effective immune response to Zika virus in mice, providing rapid protection against the disease. The patch, which uses a high-density microarray platform, targets a specific protein crucial to the virus's survival and evokes T-cell responses up to 270% higher than traditional vaccines.
Researchers from the University of Queensland have identified a noncoding RNA called Gas5 that coordinates neuronal excitability in real time, contributing to learning and memory. The study found that this RNA is uniquely required for fear extinction memory, a type of critical input processing that leads to the formation of memory.
Researchers have identified Australia's most hard-to-find species using over 3.8 million volunteer hours of birdwatching data, including the elusive Coxen's fig-parrot.
A study found nearly a third of mine tailings are stored within or near protected conservation areas, posing an enormous risk to biodiversity. Mine wastes threaten habitats in protected areas worldwide, including Australia's Atlantic Forest and Brazilian ecosystems.
Researchers have successfully mapped thousands of animal species in Bangladesh using social media posts, significantly improving habitat conservation. The study also highlights opportunities for social media companies to automate biodiversity data collection, making it easier for scientists to access and utilize.
Tau protein forms nano-biomolecular condensates that dynamically cluster recycling synaptic vesicles, influencing synaptic function. This study highlights the importance of protein mapping in understanding neural transmission and synaptic plasticity.
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals that endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) share common genetic risk factors. This finding explains why patients with one condition may also develop the other, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early diagnosis.
Research reveals that the illegal killing of orangutans on Borneo remains a significant threat to the species, with 30% of villages reporting killings in the last 5-10 years. Conservation efforts may not be effectively preventing killing and addressing human-orangutan conflict is crucial.
Researchers from The University of Queensland and The Alfred hospital in Melbourne have identified gene variants associated with a higher risk of nodular melanoma. The study found that four genes with rare DNA variants were linked to the aggressive subtype, which accounts for most melanoma deaths.
Researchers recommend prioritizing ecosystem services in mangrove conservation to protect infrastructure, communities, and fisheries while safeguarding billions of dollars' worth of coastal property value. This approach could safeguard 6.1 million people against flooding and sequester over one billion tonnes of carbon.
University of Queensland researchers have identified a novel molecule that could overcome cancer drug resistance and prevent tumour regrowth in cancer patients. The newly discovered molecule is not currently a target for treatment, opening the potential for new drug development to combat this major cause of death in cancer patients.
Researchers warn that greenwashing poses a threat to achieving a 'nature positive' world, where environmental decline halts and biodiversity improves. The University of Queensland study emphasizes the need for standards and transparency to distinguish genuine efforts from misleading claims.
A study analyzing data from KoalaBASE found that car strikes, dog attacks, and chlamydia-related illnesses are responsible for a significant number of koala deaths in South East Queensland. The research suggests that interventions such as road signs, overpasses, and information campaigns can help reduce these fatalities.
The Thriving Kids Brain Builders initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and practical application, ensuring all children have access to support for brain development. The project offers a free online course, 'Understanding Brain Development', developed by QBI and Emerging Minds.
A new study reveals that large national parks can enhance bird diversity inside their borders and boost mammal diversity in nearby unprotected areas by up to 194 per cent.
Researchers at University of Queensland discovered platelets secrete a protein that rejuvenates neurons in aged mice, similar to exercise. This finding has significant implications for developing drug interventions to promote neurogenesis and enhance cognition.
Researchers at the University of Queensland believe AI can help feed 10 billion people by 2050. The technology can identify optimal genetic combinations, analyze large-scale images, and predict breed performance.
A global study led by researchers from the University of Queensland and Harvard Medical School found that one in two people will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime. The study analyzed data from over 150,000 adults across 29 countries and found that 50% of the population develops at least one disorder by age 75.
A report from University of Queensland researchers highlights promising developments in new antibiotics, with 62 in development. However, experts warn that current pace is not enough to avoid a crisis due to rising deaths from resistant bacteria, with potential solutions including subscription payment models and non-antibiotic approaches.
Researchers discovered unprecedented snake venom resistance in caecilians, highlighting the species' ability to evolve under severe selective pressure. The study found that caecilians deployed three distinct biological methods to resist elapid snake venom, including changing receptor shape and deploying an electromagnetic 'weapon'.
A protein called ATSF-1 controls a fine balance between new mitochondria creation and damaged mitochondria repair, promoting cellular health and healthy ageing. This discovery could have exciting implications for preventing mitochondrial damage and improving quality of life.
A University of Queensland-led survey found non-native English speakers need up to twice as much time to conduct scientific activities, with papers rejected two-and-a-half times more. The study highlights the challenges faced by non-native English speakers in academia, which can lead to stagnated careers and a loss of potential contrib...
Researchers at The University of Queensland have discovered the venom of asp caterpillars contains toxins similar to those produced by disease-causing bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. These toxins can punch holes in cells, making them a potential source for targeted cancer treatment.
Research found that financial payments by developers to compensate for environmental consequences are insufficient to achieve intended outcomes. Only 0.7 of 13.4 hectares of impacts on koala habitat have been offset through financial payments since 2018, raising concerns about the future of this endangered species.
Research suggests that Queensland's low-intensity forestry management techniques can restore wildlife habitat, promote floristic diversity, and improve the resilience of large trees against climate change. The study emphasizes that sustainably managing forests is crucial to maximizing global biodiversity and climate goals.
A genome-wide association study found 150 genetic factors linked to diverticular disease of intestine (DivD), an overlooked and understudied disease. DivD is highly heritable, with 40% of risk inherited, according to researchers.
University of Queensland researchers have developed a new technique using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma quadruple mass spectrometry to analyze the chemical composition of magma. This high-resolution method provides clearer data on the eruption style and lava flow, enabling better forecasting of volcanic eruptions.
Researchers warn that exploding wild pig and macaque populations in Southeast Asia pose significant zoonotic disease risks to humans. The study, led by the University of Queensland, found that these animals can carry diseases that can be transmitted to people, highlighting the need for urgent management solutions.
A University of Queensland developed vaccine will protect farmed saltwater crocodiles from West Nile virus (WNV), providing economic benefits worth $10million per year. The vaccine is the first of its kind to achieve proven safety and efficacy in crocodiles, with a robust immune response induced after two doses.
Researchers discovered crucial differences in venoms across the lifecycle of cone snails, using a new laboratory aquarium system to study juvenile stages. The findings reveal unique adaptations for hunting and venom composition, offering potential new drugs for pain medication and disease treatment.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have uncovered the atomic structure of the Langya virus, a highly infectious virus with pandemic potential. The study aims to develop broad-spectrum human vaccines and treatments for Henipaviruses, which cause severe disease and have the potential to get out of control.
University of Queensland researchers used a video game algorithm to study the behavior of molecules within live brain cells. The algorithm, originally designed for tracking bullets in combat games, was adapted to analyze the movement and clustering of tiny molecules within brain cells.
Researchers discovered COVID-19 causes brain cells to fuse, initiating malfunctions that lead to chronic neurological symptoms. This cell fusion process has not been seen before and may be a major cause of neurological diseases.
Scientists at the University of Queensland are working on a new method for artificial insemination in sheep, aiming to boost pregnancy success rates. The research could lead to significant improvements in wool and meat production, as well as enhance animal welfare.
University of Queensland researchers have identified ant venoms that target nerve cells, leading to a long-lasting pain signal. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms of pain and may lead to the development of new pain treatments.