Clue to how cancer cells spread
A Yale-led research team found that a melanoma cell and a white blood cell can fuse to form a hybrid with the ability to metastasize, providing insight into how cancer spreads from solid tumors.
Yale University
Antidote for partisanship? In science, curiosity seems to work
A new study suggests that science curiosity can reduce polarization on contentious issues like climate change and fracking. Curious individuals are more willing to engage with surprising information that challenges their political predispositions, leading to a decrease in partisan divide.
How 'stealth warrior' bacteria turn a tick's gut microbes against itself
Researchers found that bacteria alters molecules in a tick's gut, allowing it to enter and colonize the gut microbes. This finding could help scientists develop strategies to block tick-borne agents causing disease.
Keys to hunting behavior tucked deep into vertebrate brain
A new study by Yale University suggests that two sets of neurons deep in the forebrain control hunting behavior, enabling precise muscle control and increased efficiency. The central amygdala region is preserved in almost all vertebrates, suggesting its importance in evolution.
Ice Age 'skeleton crew' offers insights for today's endangered species
A Yale University study tracked Ice Age mammals to understand how they impact ecosystems. The research found that even small extinctions can have significant effects on functional diversity.
Brain impairments in premature infants may begin in the womb
Researchers found altered brain circuitry in premature infants as early as 24 weeks gestation, which may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and cerebral palsy. The study suggests that factors contributing to early birth may impact brain development in the womb.
Progesterone may be key to preventing recurrent miscarriage
A new study suggests that progesterone could be a key to preventing recurrent miscarriage in women who suffer multiple pregnancy losses. Researchers found that micronized plant-derived progesterone improved endometrial function and prevented pregnancy loss.
Risk of long-term disability in older adults who visit the ED
A study by Yale researchers found that older adults who visit the emergency department (ED) are at increased risk for disability and decline in physical abilities up to six months later. The discharged group had significantly higher disability scores than the control group, and were also more likely to be living in a nursing home.
Older lung cancer patients face significant treatment burden
A study by Yale researchers found that older lung cancer patients can spend an average of one in three days interacting with the healthcare system within the first 60 days after surgery or radiation therapy. Patients with a higher number of medical conditions treated with surgery had the most post-treatment burdens.
Lung cancer patients may benefit from delayed chemotherapy after surgery
A new Yale study suggests that delaying chemotherapy after lung cancer surgery can lead to similar outcomes and lower risk of death. The research found that initiation between 57-127 days post-surgery had a similar impact as traditional timing, indicating a potential benefit for patients.
Study finds potential instability in Atlantic Ocean water circulation system
A new study suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may not be as stable as previously thought, with changes occurring abruptly in geologic terms. The research predicts a potential collapse of the AMOC system, which could have significant implications for regional and global climate change.
When it comes to reducing hospital readmissions, financial penalties work
A new study found that hospitals financially penalized for high readmissions reduced readmissions across all conditions, with larger reductions for target conditions. Hospitals responded positively to external policy initiatives, but further improvements are sought.
Searching a sea of 'noise' to find exoplanets -- using only data as a guide
Researchers at Yale University developed a novel approach to detect exoplanets by analyzing signal fluctuations in star spectral intensity. By studying all signal information together, they can refine the search for Earth-like planets and improve traditional methods.
Risk avoidance in older adults is related to brain anatomy, not age
A new Yale-led study finds that changes in brain anatomy, specifically the posterior parietal cortex, are more closely related to risk avoidance in older adults than aging itself. The research team used MRI scans and risk-choice experiments to analyze the phenomenon.
Here comes 'NoBody,' a microprotein on a mission
Researchers have identified a novel microprotein called NoBody, which is involved in sweeping out unneeded genetic material inside cells. This discovery may signal the existence of additional microproteins involved in key biological mechanisms and diseases.
A watershed moment in understanding how H2O conducts electricity
Researchers at Yale University have made a major breakthrough in understanding how water conducts electricity, revealing a fundamental mechanism found in biology and chemistry. By capturing the structural changes in water molecules, they were able to demonstrate a precise process known as the Grotthuss mechanism.
Zika and glaucoma linked for first time in new study
A new study has found a possible link between the Zika virus and glaucoma in infants exposed to the virus during gestation. Researchers identified a three-month-old boy with symptoms of glaucoma caused by Zika exposure, leading to successful treatment via trabeculectomy.
Study finds key protein that binds to LDL cholesterol
A Yale-led research team identified a protein called ALK1 that binds to LDL cholesterol, facilitating its transport into cells. This finding could lead to a new therapeutic approach for reducing atherosclerosis and slowing heart disease.
The promise of precision medicine for rheumatoid arthritis
Researchers identified a gene variant that raises risk of severe rheumatoid arthritis, potentially leading to targeted treatment. The study found that the variant correlates with increased MIF production and structural changes in cells, resembling cancerous tissues.
Tracking the flow of quantum information
Researchers have developed a formula to understand where quantum objects land when transmitted, offering insights for controlling open quantum systems. The formula suggests that 'rain gutters' and 'gates' can be engineered to manipulate quantum objects, either after they land or during their flow.
Yale scientists edit gene mutations in inherited form of anemia
Researchers developed a novel gene editing strategy to correct thalassemia mutations in mice, alleviating symptoms and normalizing hemoglobin levels. The technique, which uses nanoparticles and synthetic DNA, has the potential to treat people with inherited blood disorders like sickle cell anemia.
A major challenge for young heart attack patients: Affordable health care
A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that financial barriers to healthcare services and medication significantly worsened quality of life, depressive symptoms, and stress among young adults with myocardial infarction. Despite the expansion of insurance coverage, young adults still struggle to access affordable care.
Hospital choice could determine survival after a heart attack
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients treated at high-performing hospitals after a heart attack live an average of 9 to 14 months longer than those treated at low-performing hospitals. This improvement is largely due to better survival rates during the first 30 days post-heart attack.
Researchers find genes behind aggressive ovarian and endometrial cancers
Researchers have defined the genetic landscape of rare, highly aggressive tumors called carcinosarcomas, pointing to possible new treatments. The study identified key mutations in cancer genes that may explain the mixed tissue characteristics of these tumors.
Targeting the social networks of group violence
A new study by Yale University researchers found that the initiation of violent raids among the Nyangatom nomadic tribal group depends on the presence of leaders who have participated in many raids and hold central positions in their social network. Non-leaders, however, had a bigger impact on raid participation due to their friendships.
Zika virus may persist in the vagina days after infection
A study published in Cell found that Zika virus can replicate in the vaginal tissue of pregnant mice several days after infection, potentially leading to dire consequences for reproduction. The researchers also detected Zika virus in the fetal brains of infected mice, associated with fetal weight loss.
Yale team discovers how Zika virus causes fetal brain damage
A Yale team discovered that Zika virus diverts a key protein necessary for neural cell division, causing microcephaly. Researchers found an FDA-approved drug, Sofosbuvir, may prevent Zika virus infection of neural stem cells and keep phospho-TBK1 involved in cell division.
A new Goldilocks for habitable planets
A new study by Yale University researcher Jun Korenaga suggests that planets like Earth form through multiple giant impacts, leading to diverse sizes and internal temperatures. This lack of self-regulating mantle convection has significant implications for planetary habitability.
Yale study identifies how Zika virus infects the placenta
A Yale study reveals how the Zika virus crosses the maternal-fetal barrier, affecting infant brain development. Researchers found that specific placenta cells are susceptible to infection, potentially leading to fetal brain damage.
The push for more clinical research data sharing is paying off
The Yale Open Data Access (YODA) Project has made significant progress in accelerating clinical trial data sharing, enabling greater access to high-quality medical research. The project's independent scientific reviews have ensured fair judgment and decision-making authority over data release.
Yale researchers shed light on evolutionary mystery: Origins of the female orgasm
Researchers at Yale and Cincinnati Children's Hospital propose that the human female orgasm evolved to stimulate ovulation, a trait shared with many other placental mammals. The study suggests that female orgasm became superfluous for reproduction later in evolution, freeing it for secondary roles.
SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Zoology Part B Molecular and Developmental Evolution·DateAug 1, 2016
Genome-editing 'toolbox' targets multiple genes at once
A Yale research team designed a system to modify multiple genes in the genome simultaneously, reducing unintended effects. The gene-editing 'toolbox' provides a user-friendly solution for studying cancer and other diseases.
Low Zika risk for travelers to Olympics in Brazil, study finds
Researchers at Yale University found that only a small percentage of Olympic athletes, spectators, and visitors will bring the Zika virus back to their home countries.
Building a Moebius strip of good vibrations
Researchers at Yale University have created a Moebius strip-like structure by manipulating the shape of connected vibrating springs, demonstrating a new way to control waves. The experiment showcases an extension to the adiabatic theorem, which predicts a robust method for wave manipulation.
Yale scientists apply new imaging tool to common brain disorders
Researchers created a new approach to scanning brain synapses using PET technology, revealing synaptic loss in patients with epilepsy. The technique may help diagnose and treat various disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
New Yale-developed device lengthens the life of quantum information
Researchers at Yale University have created a novel system to encode, spot errors, decode and correct errors in a quantum bit, extending its lifetime more than three times longer than typical superconducting qubits. This breakthrough enables the use of Quantum Error Correction (QEC) for real computing.
Warmer body temp puts the heat on the common cold
A new Yale study found that warmer body temperatures impaired key immune system proteins in human airway cells, but did not completely disable the immune response. Researchers also identified two additional mechanisms that contribute to defense against the cold virus at core body temperature.
Efforts to lower hospital admission rates may also reduce readmissions
A Yale-led study found that efforts to lower hospital admission rates also reduce readmissions, despite patients being sicker when hospitalized. The research used Medicare data and found strong associations between reduced hospital admissions and decreased 30-day readmissions.
ACA's tobacco surcharges reduce smokers' insurance take-up, study finds
A new study by Yale University researchers found that high tobacco surcharges under the Affordable Care Act reduced smokers' insurance enrollment rates, contrary to the ACA's goal of universal coverage. The study also showed no increase in smoking cessation among smokers facing these surcharges.
The silencer: Study reveals how a cancer gene promotes tumor growth
A Yale-led study found that the EGFR cancer gene silences tumor suppressor genes in lung and glioblastoma brain cancers using a common mechanism. This discovery informs future research directions and may help determine how effective treatments will be against different EGFR mutations.
Device for irregular heartbeat may be more cost-effective than medication
A new study by Yale researchers suggests that a catheter-delivered device called the Watchman may be a more cost-effective treatment option for patients with atrial fibrillation. The device, which is permanently implanted in the opening of the left atrial appendage, prevents blood clots from forming and reducing the risk of stroke.
Yale scientists amplify light using sound on a silicon chip
A Yale team has developed a new waveguide system that harnesses the interaction of light and sound waves to boost light intensity on a silicon microchip, solving a long-standing problem in hybrid technologies. The breakthrough enables precise control over the interaction, leading to potential commercial applications in fiber-optic comm...
Environmental and health impacts of US health-care system
The US healthcare system has significant environmental and health impacts, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. Researchers estimate 8% of national emissions come from the sector, while healthcare-related emissions linked to respiratory disease, cancer, and acid rain are substantial.
This black hole has an appetite for cold, cosmic rain
Researchers detected cold gas clouds traveling at 1 million km/h toward a black hole in the Abell 2597 Cluster. The discovery offers new understanding of how black holes ingest fuel, with implications for our knowledge of accretion processes.
Constipated? Study finds surprising cause
Researchers found that herpes virus infects neurons in colon wall, killing them and preventing food movement, leading to enlarged colon. The study provides a surprising cause for unexplained chronic constipation in some patients.
Study reveals how altered gut microbes cause obesity
A Yale-led team of researchers identified how altered gut microbiota causes obesity by stimulating insulin secretion through acetate production. The study suggests a causal link between changes in the diet, gut microbiota, and increased food intake, driving a positive feedback loop.
The biological clock gets a time stamp
Yale researchers have identified key molecular pathways involved in the aging of human eggs, which could lead to new treatments for age-related fertility issues. The study found that oxygen-deprived cells are a major cause of egg damage, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and reduced egg quality in women over 40.
Combination therapy cures tick-borne illness in mice
A novel combination therapy has been found to clear the infection and prevent recurrence of babesiosis up to 122 days after treatment. The study used a mouse model to test the efficacy of atovaquone and ELQ-334, two drugs that work together to attack the parasite's target enzyme.
PROSPECT experiment will search for sterile neutrinos, thanks to DOE grant
The Yale University-led PROSPECT experiment will explore key questions about neutrinos and potentially improve nuclear reactor safety. It aims to detect and measure the energy distribution of neutrinos near a research reactor with unparalleled sensitivity.
Effects of maternal smoking continue long after birth
A new study found that early exposure to nicotine can trigger genetic changes affecting brain cell connections, leading to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other behavioral problems. Maternal smoking has been linked to these conditions, and the study provides a possible explanation for its long-term effects.