Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed shape-shifting nanoparticles that can target and deliver cancer drugs to specific tumor types. The system uses modular particles attached to DNA sequences to gain access to diseased tissue, minimizing collateral damage.
A team of U of T engineers has developed a way to grow cancer cells in the form of a rolled-up sheet that mimics the 3D environment of a tumour, offering a way to speed up drug development and ask new questions about cell behavior. The single-layer design makes it easier for other lab researchers to adopt the process.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a genetically engineered plant biosensor to detect and prevent parasitic Striga infestations. The tool uses protein-based hormone receptors present within Striga to mimic plant hormones and trap the parasite, allowing for its destruction.
Engineers at the University of Toronto have developed a biocompatible scaffold that allows sheets of beating heart cells to snap together like Velcro. This technology enables the creation of layered tissues with varying configurations, including tiny checkerboards, and could be used to repair damaged hearts.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have successfully combined two promising solar cell materials, perovskite and colloidal quantum dots, to create a new platform for LED technology. The resulting hybrid crystal enables hyper-efficient lighting with minimal loss or capture by defects.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new device that can track chemical signals within cells, allowing for faster and more accurate detection of cancerous growth. The device uses digital microfluidics to deliver rapid sequences of chemicals, enabling scientists to study cell responses in unprecedented detail.
Researchers at University of Toronto designed a diagnostic chip to test for antibiotic-resistant bacteria in just one hour. The chip uses electrochemical detection to analyze the effects of antibiotics on bacteria, allowing doctors to quickly prescribe targeted treatments.
Scientists at University of Toronto have made breakthroughs in cell transplantation using hydrogel biomaterials, showing potential for partially restoring vision and aiding brain recovery from stroke. The new gel-like material boosts cell survival and integration in the eye and brain, paving the way for stem-cell-based therapies.
A comprehensive survey of resources used and removed in the world's largest metropolitan areas reveals that megacities consume significantly more energy and produce more solid waste than other regions. Despite having a relatively small percentage of the global population, megacities generate a substantial proportion of global GDP.
A team of researchers has found a new connection between physical forces and limb development in embryos, using live imaging and computer models. Their study could lead to simulations that help repair deformed limbs, potentially creating a drug to alter mechanical stress on cells.
A recent study by University of Toronto engineers found that air pollution from vehicle tailpipes can spread farther than thought, with varying levels across cities. One in three Canadians lives within 250 meters of a major roadway, where exposure to pollutants can be up to ten times higher.
Engineers at the University of Toronto have developed the first all-photonic quantum repeaters, enabling reliable and secure data transmission over long distances. The repeaters use highly entangled quantum states to reduce losses and function at room temperature.
A new study proposes a decision-making threshold for electrification, which can increase or lower carbon emissions depending on the region's electricity production. Regions with high-carbon electricity production, such as China and Australia, may actually experience increased emissions when transitioning to electric-powered technologie...
Researchers grew large, pure perovskite crystals and studied how electrons move through the material as light is converted to electricity. The study identifies the bar for ultimate solar energy-harvesting potential of perovskites and shows that progress is slated to continue without slowing down.
Researchers at the University of Toronto developed a machine learning method to rank genetic mutations based on their likelihood of causing disease. The technique successfully predicted 94% of known genetic culprits behind diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and colorectal cancer, and identified novel genes in autism susceptibility.
Researchers have invented a new way to spray solar cells onto flexible surfaces using colloidal quantum dots, improving efficiency and making it easier to manufacture. The spray-on solar cell technology has the potential to power three 100-Watt light bulbs or 24 compact fluorescents on a surface as large as a car roof.
A new device has been developed to visualize and differentiate between cancer cells in the bloodstream, enabling a more focused understanding of tumour properties. This technology shows promise for better diagnosis and improved patient outcomes by identifying aggressive tumours and metastatic disease.
A new process, dubbed 'bio-inspired approach to thermal control,' has been developed by University of Toronto professor Ben Hatton and his colleagues. This technique involves attaching optically clear, flexible elastomer sheets to regular glass window panes, resulting in a 7-9 degree cooling effect. The innovation could lead to signifi...
The University of Toronto has awarded Michel Devoret and Robert Schoelkopf the John Stewart Bell Prize for their groundbreaking contributions to quantum mechanics. Their pioneering work in 'circuit quantum electrodynamics' has opened up new avenues for studying fundamental quantum physics.
Researchers from the University of Toronto have identified key proteins that control pluripotency, a crucial step in producing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for research and therapy. The discovery could lead to a more efficient production method for these cells, which can develop into many different cell types.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new method to mature human heart cells by applying electrical pulses and simulating fetal heart rates. This discovery offers a fast and reliable way to create mature human cardiac patches for various applications, including drug screening and transplantation.
Researchers from the University of Toronto have created an electronic chip that can analyze samples for panels of infectious bacteria in a matter of minutes. The technology can identify multiple pathogens and determine antibiotic resistance, addressing the urgent need for rapid diagnosis.
University of Toronto researchers have developed a new tool to measure the thermal and vibrational properties of solids, which could lead to more efficient electronic devices. The tool allows for a clearer picture of how an electronic device's ability to dissipate heat shrinks with its size.
A new mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Toronto can pinpoint high-risk areas for cardiac arrests and recommend optimal placement of defibrillators. According to the study, nearly three times as many public cardiac arrests occurred in downtown Toronto than in the rest of the city.
Chemical engineers at the University of Toronto have made an accidental discovery that could lead to improved commercial polymers. The researchers found a new side product in a common polymer synthesis technique, which could reduce inconsistency and increase quality.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that positional flexibility is valuable in baseball, accounting for up to 15% of a team's runs. By being able to adapt to injuries, teams can field a strong lineup and continue winning games.
Researchers at U of T have developed a new technique to boost the efficiency of solar cells by up to 35% through the use of nanoshells. This breakthrough could lead to more affordable and efficient solar power, as the technology already offers low-cost and large-scale production capabilities.
A diagnostic 'cocktail' containing a single drop of blood, a dribble of water, and a dose of DNA powder with gold particles can mean rapid diagnosis and treatment of the world's leading diseases. The technology uses nanoparticles to target and illuminate cancer cells and tumours.
A new study by University of Toronto Professor Chris Kennedy and World Bank climate change specialist Lorraine Sugar shows that cities can make a positive difference in reducing GHG emissions. They propose realistic steps such as increasing bicycling infrastructure and encouraging electric cars to achieve a 70% reduction in emissions.
The University of Toronto Engineering team has received a $2.2 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to develop a waterless, hygienic toilet for developing countries. The team will use a sand filter and UV disinfection to process liquid waste, while incinerating solid waste in a smolder chamber.
The University of Toronto team has developed a novel, waterless toilet design that uses a sand filter and UV-ray disinfecting chamber to process liquid waste and incinerate solid waste. The design is sustainable, easy to use, and can be repaired by people with limited resources and training.
Researchers from U of T and KAUST created a solar cell with world-record efficiency of 7.0%, increasing efficiency by 37% over previous records. The breakthrough uses hybrid passivation to improve device efficiency, opening up avenues for further research and improvement.
Researchers developed a novel solution to produce entangled photon pairs using an integrated circuit, making quantum technologies more accessible. The breakthrough could lead to faster data sorting and solve complex computational problems, potentially leading to new gadgets.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a new neural imaging system that allows for more complex maps of brain functions with just one camera and imaging system. This technology uses vertical cavity surface emitting lasers to classify veins and arteries simultaneously.
Researchers have found a way to detect subtle changes in quantum data, making it harder for hackers to manipulate encoded communication. The new method, called Measurement Device Independent QKD, allows users to verify each other's data, ensuring unconditionally secure encryption.
Researchers at University of Toronto have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the alignment of energy levels in advanced materials, enabling more efficient organic solar cells and OLEDs. This discovery is crucial for developing sustainable technologies that can secure our energy future.
University of Toronto researchers identify a new class of compounds with phthalimido molecular fragments, exhibiting unique electro-chemical properties. These compounds have the potential to execute all three tasks needed for a functional organic solar cell, including absorbing light, moving electrons and transporting holes.
University of Toronto researchers develop high-efficiency OLEDs on plastic, a less costly alternative to traditional glass-based manufacturing, enabling flexible form factors.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have engineered nanomaterials that absorb and funnel light energy to specific locations. Inspired by nature's light harvesting antennas, these artificial molecules exhibit new properties with potential applications in fields such as electronics and photonics.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a tandem solar cell based on colloidal quantum dots, which can convert a broader range of sunlight into electricity. This breakthrough aims to increase efficiency and reduce costs for solar cells.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new method to improve OLED efficiency by using a one-atom thick layer of chlorine. This innovation enables record efficiencies of up to 50% at high brightness levels, making it a promising technology for future flat-panel displays and lighting applications.