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University of Tokyo


Heavy water helps weather forecasts

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have demonstrated that incorporating satellite measurements of water vapor isotopes into weather models improves forecasts of atmospheric conditions. This addition leads to more accurate weather forecasts, particularly for heavy rainfall predictions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateSep 3, 2026

Archaic human parents also had a hard time raising kids

Archaeic human parents likely had to provide constant parental care due to deformed head shapes in fossilized humans. Human babies are born less developed than other great apes, requiring specialized care, and this helps explain the origins of cooperative social behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 28, 2026

Helping cells find their perfect match

By coating extracellular vesicles with metal ions, cells can recognize and capture their own vesicles more strongly, improving liquid biopsies and aiding in drug delivery, rejuvenation, and more. This technique amplifies signals indicating cancer cells by a factor of 10,000, making single cells detectable even in large samples.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 23, 2026

Deep-sea creatures’ epic migrations between hydrothermal vents

Researchers from the University of Tokyo used limpet shell analysis to reconstruct the journeys of tiny creatures between hydrothermal vents, finding they explore sunlit upper ocean during larval stage. This discovery helps explain how animals living at isolated vent sites can spread over hundreds or thousands of kilometers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJul 15, 2026

Climate change costs lives in more ways than one

Researchers found a projected increase in temperature-associated suicide mortality worldwide by the 2050s under various climate change scenarios. The study analyzed data from 751 locations across 26 countries and considered regional differences in adaptation to high temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2026

Camouflaging snails change color in the rain

Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered that two tree snail species can alter their shell colors and patterns in response to humidity, using a process called refractive index matching. This unique mechanism has potential applications for smart sensors and materials.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalZoological Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 29, 2026

Mini monitor measures artificial heartbeat

A new device inspired by fish's lateral line senses the pulse of lab-grown heart tissue, enabling real-time monitoring of hundreds of tests. This breakthrough could revolutionize drug screening and personalized medicine with more accurate human tissue simulations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2026

Training hands-on dads

A new study from the University of Tokyo finds that a one-off training session increased time spent by fathers on childcare and housework, freeing up mothers to use for their own work. The training corrected common misconceptions about paternity leave and led to significant behavioral change.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeSurvey·DateJun 18, 2026

Counterclockwise bias

Researchers found that most people prefer counterclockwise motion when turning, with age being the only factor that affects this bias. The study could impact our understanding of brain function and fields like design, engineering, and architecture.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 10, 2026

Nanometer nanotubes for future electronics

Scientists from the University of Tokyo have successfully synthesized 1-nanometer-wide, single-walled MoS2 nanotubes with well-defined atomic structures. These ultrafine materials could provide a new route toward miniaturized electronic devices and expand nanotube science beyond carbon.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2026

Carbon ratios in concrete can improve carbon accounting

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered a method to quantify CO2 absorbed by cementitious materials and its atmospheric contamination using carbon isotope measurements. This breakthrough aims to improve carbon accounting and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in concrete production.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCement and Concrete Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 3, 2026

Printed manga may give the brain a storytelling advantage

A new study by researchers at the University of Tokyo found that readers of paper manga took longer to answer complex questions than those who read on tablets, indicating a potential advantage of printed materials for comprehension. Brain scans revealed reduced activation in frontal language-related brain regions when reading on paper.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPLOS One·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 3, 2026

Snap-loading cells into uniform microcapsules

The new method allows for scalable production of cell-containing capsules, maintaining cell viability and enabling studies on dynamic interactions. Researchers can customize capsule size and properties, making the technique useful for drug screening, regenerative medicine, and basic cell biology research.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2026

Heat lingers on in our cells

New research reveals that cells slow down heat dissipation due to unique biomolecules, changing our understanding of heat conduction. This phenomenon could affect treatments for conditions linked to body temperature changes.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2026

Little blue buttons’ long journey

Researchers estimate blue buttons can survive for several years drifting on the ocean surface, much longer than previously estimated. The float that keeps them afloat grows new rings from its outermost layer, expanding over time.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2026

Community-based baby hip screening success

A recent trial in Japan found community-based ultrasound screening detected 8.7% of infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip, including those without clinical signs or known risk factors. The study suggests that comprehensive ultrasound screening could help catch missed cases without requiring hospital resources.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·TypeCase study·DateMay 18, 2026

Venus’ atmosphere jumps and waves

Researchers discovered a 'hydraulic jump' causing massive cloud waves on Venus, connected to the planet's superrotation and sulfuric acid vapor. This phenomenon may also impact future Mars missions, with potential implications for planetary exploration.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2026

Cells under the spotlight reveal their inner secrets

Scientists discovered a method to predict cellular protein makeup from Raman light measurements, leveraging the power of Raman spectroscopy. The technique reveals globally coordinated abundance ratios across various conditions, with a core of proteins maintaining stability while smaller groups adapt to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2026

The naming of mollusks evolves at a snail's pace

Research by Taro Yoshimura examines the history and linguistic landscape of biodiversity, finding that ancient Greek dominates molluscan family names, often due to prestige and style. This highlights a human side to naming, where science is shaped by epistemic values and cultural biases.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2026

Tropical volcanoes and Asian droughts

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have discovered a link between tropical volcanic eruptions and droughts in Asia. The study found that large eruptions can suppress monsoon convection, leading to reduced precipitation and droughts.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2026

Successful use of high-pressure freezing for cell cryopreservation

Researchers from the University of Tokyo successfully developed a high-pressure freezing method that reduces CPA concentration to 20-30% and improves cell viability and metabolic activity. The method holds promise for cryopreservation in regenerative medicine research, with potential applications in drug testing and cell transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2026

Precision tumor imaging with a fluorescence probe and engineered enzymes

Researchers developed a bioorthogonal fluorescence probe and matching reporter enzyme that selectively activates at targeted tumor sites, enabling high-contrast tumor visualization with minimal background. This technology has potential for improving cancer surgery outcomes and may also be adapted for targeted drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2026

Accelerated coral reef collapse

Ocean researchers call for broadened species categories and improved protections for coral reefs, as narrow definitions allow for military and economic interference. The researchers' letter aims to inform policymakers to address conservation gaps and ensure reef protection.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 18, 2026

Retelling the Jomon story

Researchers used mitochondrial DNA from 13 Jomon skeletons to examine population changes over time, finding a significant increase in eastern Japan between 13,000 and 8,000 years ago. This study suggests regional factors, such as climate and food resources, played a role in shaping the Jomon population history.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAnthropological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2026

Why Triceratops has such a big nose

Researchers from the University of Tokyo used CT scans to study Triceratops' nasal anatomy, revealing a specialized structure called a respiratory turbinate. This unique feature helped regulate temperature and moisture levels in the dinosaur's large skull.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Anatomical Record·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2026

Social environment impacts sleep quality

Researchers found that mice higher in their social hierarchy benefited from isolation, while those lower did not. The team also discovered that being alone can disrupt the brain's ability to stabilize its internal rhythms during sleep, which may be relevant to human mental health.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2026

The path to solar weather forecasts

Scientists used multiple space-based instruments to track the evolution of a solar eruption, observing how it reduced background cosmic-ray activity. This approach has potential for improving space-weather forecasting and protecting satellites, astronauts, and power grids.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2026

A speed camera for the universe

Astronomers at the University of Tokyo use time-delay cosmography to measure the universe's expansion rate, finding a result consistent with current-day observations. The method exploits gravitational lensing to improve models of cosmic expansion and potentially resolve the Hubble tension.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2025

Fullerenes for finer detailed MRI scans

Scientists have successfully used fullerenes as polarizing agents to improve MRI imaging capabilities, enabling clearer images with greater sensitivity. This breakthrough technique could lead to enhanced diagnostic capabilities and faster detection of diseases, potentially revolutionizing medical imaging.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2025

Building better, building beautiful

Researchers have developed a novel computational form-finding method that allows for the creation of complex, lattice-structured gridshells. This breakthrough method reduces computation cost by 98% and provides a standardized approach to designing attractive and robust gridshell structures.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 3, 2025

Dancing on the brain

A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo used AI and fMRI to study brain activity while participants viewed dance clips. They found that experts exhibited more diverse neural patterns than non-experts, suggesting a greater freedom in artistic expression.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2025

A new way to trigger responses in the body

Researchers developed a novel method to induce physiological responses similar to those experienced under psychological pressure. The approach, which involves aiming for consecutive successes, shows promise for studying the impact of pressure on human performance, including physical and intellectual tasks.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2025

Microwaves for energy-efficient chemical reactions

Researchers from the University of Tokyo developed a method to use microwaves to heat specific areas in industrial processes, reducing energy costs and improving selectivity in chemical reactions. This technique has the potential to optimize catalyst design, improve durability, and scalability for eco-friendly industrial processes.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2025

AI tool offers deep insight into the immune system

Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed an AI-based framework, scHDeepInsight, to rapidly and consistently identify immune cells from gene data. The system uses hierarchical learning and image-based representation to distinguish broad and fine subtypes with improved accuracy and consistency.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2025

DNA nanospring measures cellular motor power

Scientists have developed a DNA nanospring to measure the force of protein motors like KIF1A, which can lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The technique uses fluorescent imaging to detect the stretching of the DNA nanospring, allowing researchers to accurately measure the motor's power.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2025

The lord of the ring mouse

Researchers developed picoRing, an ultralow-power, ring-based wireless mouse that controls AR glasses for over a month on a single charge. The device uses semi-passive inductive telemetry to amplify magnetic fields, providing a power boost without active signal amplification.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2025

Water flowed on ancient asteroid

A team of researchers discovered that liquid water once flowed on the ancient asteroid Ryugu, which was formed more than a billion years ago. The finding suggests that carbon-rich asteroids may have delivered much more water to Earth than previously thought, impacting models of the planet's early oceans and atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2025

LEDs shed light on efficient tomato cultivation

Researchers successfully grew large and cherry tomatoes using LED-based controlled agricultural methods, matching greenhouse performance in some ways. The study demonstrates the feasibility of this method for urban environments and potential food security in climate change scenarios.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalHortScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2025

Giant DNA discovered hiding in your mouth

Scientists have identified a new genetic material called Inocles, which are large DNA elements hosted by bacteria in the mouth. These findings provide fresh insight into how oral bacteria colonize and persist in humans, with potential implications for health and disease research.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2025

Making diamonds with electron radiation

A team at University of Tokyo successfully created nanodiamonds using electron radiation on adamantane molecules. This method offers new techniques for imaging and analysis, and could lead to breakthroughs in fields like quantum computing and sensors.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 2025

There’s something in the air

Researchers at the University of Tokyo found that certain scent compounds in female body odor increase during ovulation and can subtly influence how men feel, making them perceive the scent as more pleasant and reducing stress. The study suggests that smell may play a role in shaping human interactions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2025

Demystifying gut bacteria with AI

Researchers used Bayesian neural network to identify relationships between gut bacteria and metabolites, providing clues about health. The approach outperformed existing methods in analyzing sleep disorder, obesity, and cancer studies.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 4, 2025