Researchers from the University of Queensland found that a vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy caused an increase in testosterone levels in male rats, potentially contributing to the higher prevalence of Autism spectrum disorder in boys. Vitamin D plays a critical role in brain development and may help prevent ASD-like traits when su...
A clear goal is needed to stop human-driven species extinctions, but current drafts risk failure. Scientists propose an ambitious, unambiguous goal with quantifiable elements to measure progress and prevent perverse outcomes.
A new global measure found that only 17.4 million square kilometres of Earth's remaining forests - or 40 per cent - are considered to have high integrity. High integrity forests contain high levels of biodiversity and provide ecosystem services, but many have been heavily impacted by human activities.
Researchers from the University of Queensland are exploring traditional Chinese medicine to develop more effective strategies for conservation. The study aims to make this ancient practice more accessible and culturally nuanced for conservationists.
Researchers have discovered that an experimental Alzheimer's disease treatment, PBT2, is effective at disrupting and killing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The study shows that combining PBT2 with the antibiotic polymyxin successfully tackles superbugs like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Researchers used zebrafish with genetic mutations similar to those found in humans with Fragile X syndrome and autism to study sound sensitivity. The study revealed that the brains of these fish processed auditory information differently than normal fish, with more activity in the hindbrain and thalamus.
Two distinct maternal lineages have been identified in rice through a study of over 3000 genotypes. This discovery sheds light on how rice adapted to its environment and could help improve breeding for climate change adaptation and food security.
Researchers are exploring three approaches using the Wolbachia bacterium to control the buffalo fly population and prevent its spread southwards. The methods include artificially infecting adult flies or pupae, releasing sterile males into overwintering areas, and blocking transmission of nematodes closely related to Stephanofilaria.
New research highlights barriers to adopting insect-based food, including Western consumer acceptance and safety concerns. The larvae offer a high-quality protein source with zinc, iron, and calcium content comparable to meat.
A new study suggests that renewable energy targets can actually exacerbate sustainability issues, such as rolling blackouts in California. The researchers argue for a more nuanced approach, considering trade-offs between different policy instruments and long-term objectives.
Scientists found that lipid droplets are not only used as an energy source but also act as a weapon against bacterial invaders. These fatty droplets can be used to target and kill bacteria, providing a new way to fight infection.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Queensland found that nearly 80% of threatened species globally are not adequately protected, falling short of the 17% target for land and 10% target for oceans set by the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Researchers discovered a significant rise in scarlet fever cases globally, attributed to superantigen-toxin 'supercharged clones' of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The toxin genes were acquired through viral infections, enabling the bacteria to better colonize and outcompete other strains.
The University of Queensland's dipstick technology can extract genetic material in 30 seconds and provide a full molecular diagnosis in 40 minutes. This method has the potential to be used for affordable, rapid COVID-19 testing in various settings.
Scientists have discovered a new piece of DNA crucial for forming male sex organs in mice, revealing the Y-chromosome gene Sry has two distinct parts. The findings suggest this discovery could be used to manipulate sex ratios in agriculture and biological pest management, but not on human embryos.
A study from the University of Queensland found that a gene controlling inflammation increases the risk of obesity. Researchers discovered that variations in this gene lead to excessive inflammation in fat tissue, contributing to weight gain. By turning off the gene in mice, they were able to prevent weight gain and reduce diabetes risk
Researchers found people with pale-colored melanomas are more likely to have an albinism gene mutation, which prevents brown pigment synthesis and increases skin cancer risk. This discovery could lead to personalized medicine and earlier treatment for patients with one mutated albinism gene.
A young University of Queensland undergraduate student has developed a mathematical model that suggests paradox-free time travel is theoretically possible. The research reconciles traditional dynamics and Einstein's Theory of Relativity, potentially resolving long-standing puzzles in physics.
People with pale-colored melanomas are more susceptible to developing rare genetic mutations associated with albinism. Researchers plan to collect samples to compare genotype and develop personalized monitoring for patients with one albinism gene mutation.
University of Queensland research reveals that conservation planning is often inadequate, neglecting critical ecosystem services that benefit humans, such as freshwater and pollination services. The study proposes a formal process for governments and policymakers to develop more effective plans.
Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that male funnel web spider venom is deadlier than female venom due to evolutionary adaptations. The study, published in PNAS, sheds light on the unique properties of delta-hexatoxins and their fatal neurotoxic effects on humans.
Researchers found 92 endangered and 11 critically endangered species of seafood were caught globally. The seafood industry lacks effective conservation policies due to international supply chains.
Researchers from the University of Queensland have discovered two pain-blocking peptides in the Venezuelan Pinkfoot Goliath tarantula's venom, showing great potential as treatments for chronic intestinal pain. The peptides inhibit the most important ion channels underlying pain and nearly stopped chronic visceral pain in a model of IBS.
A proposed mining policy in Brazil's Amazon rainforest could lead to significant economic losses due to impacts on rubber, timber, and greenhouse gas mitigation ecosystem services. The policy threatens to destroy valuable ecosystems that provide an estimated $7 billion AUD annually, making it financially unsustainable.
A 20-year study by University of Queensland researchers found that child neglect was the most severe type of maltreatment associated with teen pregnancy, as well as poor educational and psychological outcomes. Neglected children were also more likely to experience substance abuse problems and psychotic episodes.
Researchers at UQ and KTH discovered how plant cell walls balance rigidity with flexibility, thanks to a family of polymers called hemicelluloses. This breakthrough has wide applications in nutrition, medicine, agriculture and more.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have found a new family of toxins, gympietides, in the Gympie-Gympie stinging tree that can cause long-lasting pain similar to spider and cone snail venom. The toxins permanently change sodium channels in sensory neurons, suggesting potential for developing new painkillers.
More than one quarter of asthma patients were prescribed excessive amounts of steroid tablets, posing a risk of serious side effects. Researchers recommend using preventer inhalers as the best way to avoid or minimize steroid use and its associated risks.
A new study reveals that more than 90% of protected areas are isolated from each other due to human activities. This disconnects species from their habitats, making it difficult for them to migrate, escape danger, or track preferred microclimates under climate change.
Research by a University of Queensland-led team shows that protected areas have doubled the populations of 80% of monitored mammal species over the last 50 years. Protected land is home to 10% of analysed species, highlighting their importance in conserving biodiversity.
Research by University of Queensland-led team finds biological control techniques saving farmers $20.1 billion to $26.8 billion annually in Asia-Pacific region. Biological control helps regulate invasive pest threats, particularly in key crops like banana, breadfruit and coconut.
The extinction of mites, crucial to ecosystems worldwide, is occurring at an alarming rate, threatening environmental health and species survival. Human activities such as habitat destruction and climate change exacerbate the issue.
Researchers from the University of Queensland have found that 'dead' coral rubble supports more animals than live coral, revealing a new understanding of these often-overlooked habitats. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity in these areas, which are dominated by tiny invertebrates and microorganisms.
Researchers found similarities in northern quoll skulls across a 5000km range, raising hopes for conservation. The study suggests cross-breeding isolated populations may be feasible without losing adaptations.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have found a strong association between genes influencing cattle temperament and autism in humans. The study's findings could lead to improved animal welfare and meat quality by identifying genetic markers for better temperament.
Researchers at UQ and Griffith University use quantum superposition of order to successfully transmit information through two noisy channels. The technique, which can nullify the effect of one noisy medium on another, has potential applications in satellite communication and secret sharing.
The new diagnostic technique allows direct detection of disease-specific miRNA, breaking through current limitations in early disease detection. The technology is expected to be available to medical practitioners in the next five years, offering a cost-effective solution for rapid and early diagnostics.
Research reveals climate change is drastically affecting species abundance in the tropics, with 69% of tropical species showing negative responses to temperature increases. This study highlights the urgent need for understanding how species respond to changing climates on a global scale.
Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that neurons can fuse together, disrupting electrical circuits and leading to behavioral impairments in nematode worms. The study provides a novel cause for malfunction of brain's electrical circuits and a possible underlying cause of neurological diseases.
Researchers developed a world-first technique to improve cancer treatments by analyzing fresh patient tumour biopsies within 30 minutes of collection. The 'Drug uptake in ex Vivo tumours' technique helps pharmaceutical and technology companies design future cancer drugs.
Researchers at University of Queensland have discovered how bacteria share antibiotic-resistance genes, shedding light on the rapid spread of 'superbugs'. The study reveals a mechanism through which plasmids are mobilized and transferred between bacteria, offering potential solutions to combat antibiotic resistance.
A global research study has identified successful coral reef restoration projects that combined local community engagement, tourism support, and trained local fishermen or divers. These collaborative efforts resulted in high coral survival rates, increased coral cover, and socioeconomic benefits for surrounding communities.
Scientists at the University of Queensland have improved the modeling of nuclear structure in francium atoms, allowing for more precise calculations of their magnetic moments. The new method enables uncertainties four times smaller than previous best values, which is crucial for testing fundamental physics theories.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of agricultural technologies to ensure food supply security. Roboticized farms, vertical farming, and gene-edited foods are being used to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens among workers and minimize reliance on human labor.
University of Queensland researchers have linked improvements in zebrafish's hunting skills to the development of sensory coding in their brains. The study shows that changes in neural circuitry lead to refinements in behavior and even predict individual fish's hunting success.
A recent study has identified trehalulose, a rare sugar in native stingless bee honey, as having a low glycaemic index and not causing tooth decay. This discovery strengthens the market for stingless bee honey and creates new opportunities for its use in food products.
A University of Queensland study has found that early menstruation increases the risk of hot flushes and night sweats at menopause by 50%. Women who started menstruating before age 14 had a higher risk of experiencing both symptoms, with obesity playing a significant role.
Research has found that nearly all water samples from 15 waterways discharging into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon contained pesticide mixtures, with up to 20 pesticides present in some samples. The study emphasizes the need for improved pesticide management practices among land managers and farmers to reduce losses to waterways.
Researchers used social media network models to analyze fish populations in the Mediterranean Sea, finding that warming seas have significant and widespread effects on biodiversity. The study suggests that winter warming may lead to changes in fish communities, potentially causing some species to disappear from certain areas.
UQ researchers have solved a 50-year-old enzyme mystery, revealing the complete structure of an essential amino acid synthesizing enzyme. This discovery could lead to the development of new herbicides and antimicrobial agents, potentially restoring effective treatment options for infections such as tuberculosis and invasive Candida.