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Gut bacteria can process dietary fiber into an anti-allergy weapon, finds new study

Scientists found that short-chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria suppress allergic reactions by modulating mast cell activation and epigenetic modifications. This study provides new insights into the relationship between diet and immune system regulation, with potential applications in allergy treatment.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2024

DNA construction led to unexpected discovery of important cell function

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used DNA origami to activate the Notch receptor in a new way, revealing it can be activated 'on demand' with the help of a protein called Jag1. The study opens new avenues for understanding the Notch signalling pathway and its role in serious diseases like cancer and Alagille Syndrome.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Cannabis activates specific hunger neurons in brain

Researchers at Washington State University discovered that cannabis activates a set of cells in the hypothalamus, promoting appetite in mice. The study used calcium imaging technology to determine how brain cells responded to vaporized cannabis sativa.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Immune system plays crucial step in creating blood stem cells

A microbial sensor, Nod1, plays a crucial role in the development of blood stem cells. The discovery could lead to the creation of patient-derived blood stem cells, eliminating the need for bone marrow transplants and improving lives of leukemia, lymphoma, and anemia patients. Researchers are continuing to study the complex interaction...

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2023

Dietary environmental factors shape the immune defense against Cryptosporidium infection

Researchers discovered that dietary indoles, such as those found in broccoli, can activate the immune system to fight off Cryptosporidium infection. This protection was seen in mice, including those with weakened immune systems and newborns, suggesting a potential way to prevent recurring infections in children.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2023

Osteopontin induces mitochondrial biogenesis in deadherent cancer cells

Researchers discovered that Osteopontin induces mitochondrial biogenesis in deadherent breast tumor cells, which aids metastatic success. The study suggests a possible mechanism and targets for treating cancer metastasis by increasing ATP levels and mitochondrial mass.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Spanish scientists discover a promising therapeutic target for cardiac arrhythmias

Researchers at the CNIC in Madrid have discovered a connection between stress kinases and the development of ventricular fibrillation. The study found that activation of these enzymes alters the electrical properties of cardiomyocytes, triggering arrhythmias.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

How marine bristle worms use a special protein to distinguish between sunlight and moonlight

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz discovered a unique cryptochrome protein in marine bristle worms that distinguishes between sunlight and moonlight. The protein's structure reveals an unusual light-induced change from dimer to monomer arrangements, allowing it to synchronize reproduction with lunar phases.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Team creates synthetic enzymes to unravel molecular mysteries

A team of researchers developed synthetic enzymes that can control the behavior of the signaling protein Vg1, which plays a key role in vertebrate embryonic development. The study uses zebrafish to investigate how Vg1 is formed and found that it must undergo additional processing before it can be activated.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

BNP peptide a culprit in eczema

The brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a peptide that plays a crucial role in activating atopic dermatitis, or eczema. In a mouse model of AD, mice without BNP exhibited reduced thickened skin and itching compared to control mice with BNP.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 19, 2023

Unlocking secrets of immune system proteins: A potential path to new treatments

Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to capture detailed images of key receptors, unveiling their interactions with molecules and signaling mechanisms. This study provides significant insights into a crucial receptor family within the immune system, potentially paving the way for innovative treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 17, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

B cell response after influenza vaccine in young and older adults

Researchers found a quantitative difference in B cell response following vaccination between young and older adults, with younger adults mounting a stronger clonal response and older adults having more activated B cells. This study provides insights into the age-related differences in B cell vaccine response and may lead to the develop...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateOct 10, 2023

New grant to optimize gut microbes, boost health benefits of broccoli

Researchers at the University of Illinois are exploring how gut microbe communities impact broccoli's health benefits. They plan to identify which microbes maximize the benefits and develop custom probiotics to help people with lower-efficiency microbial communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

Liver-targeting drug reverses obesity, lowers cholesterol in mice

Researchers developed a liver-targeting drug that reversed obesity and lowered cholesterol in obese mice by delivering the drug via nanogel. The treatment, which was administered intraperitoneally, effectively normalized weight and reduced cholesterol levels despite continued high-fat diet consumption.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2023

New LJI research has major implications for controlling T cell activity

Researchers discovered cytoplasmic retinoic acid receptors, such as RARalpha, are essential for T cell linking sensing at the cell surface with downstream signaling cascades and gene expression programs. The study sheds new light on TCR signaling and its connection to cancer treatment.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New orally available drug for spinal cord injury found to be safe and tolerable in healthy participants

A new drug treatment, KCL-286, has demonstrated safety and tolerability in a Phase 1 clinical trial, promoting recovery through activating retinoic acid receptor beta (RARb) in the spine. Researchers are now seeking funding for a Phase 2a trial to study its effects in those with spinal cord injuries.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 10, 2023

On-off switch for enzymes

A protein found in bacteria activates its enzymatic activity by up to 10,000 times when exposed to blue light, acting like an on-off switch. This discovery could lead to enhanced and optimized optogenetic tools and medical treatments.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 3, 2023

A multiplex assay to assess activated p300/CBP in circulating prostate tumor cells

A new multiplex assay has been developed to assess activated p300/CBP in circulating prostate tumor cells, revealing correlations with clinical outcomes and potential therapeutic targets for castration-resistant prostate cancer. The study found that patients with upregulated p300/CBP activity had shorter response times to ARSI therapy.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2023

BUB1 regulates EGFR signaling by reducing EGFR internalization

Researchers found that BUB1 protein regulates EGFR signaling by reducing receptor internalization, which may lead to new therapeutic interventions for EGFR-driven cancers. The study also showed that BUB1 impacts receptor recycling and degradation, affecting signaling amplitude and duration.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

A novel peptide ‘T14’ reflects age and photo-aging in human skin

Researchers discovered a novel peptide, T14, that is detectable in human keratinocytes and inversely related to age, with higher levels found in chronically photosensitive individuals. The study suggests that monitoring T14 levels may offer insights into the link between degenerative diseases and epidermal cell profiles.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2023

New role for taste receptors

Researchers found that bitter taste receptors can detect and respond to bile acids, which are produced in the liver and play a crucial role in fat digestion. The discovery suggests that bitter taste receptors may have evolved not only to detect food toxins but also to sense endogenous substances.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

Serotonin booster leads to increased functional brain connectivity

A new study found that the serotonin booster prucalopride increased functional brain connectivity in healthy adults, particularly between cognitive networks. The results suggest that prucalopride may improve cognitive function and have therapeutic potential for depression patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2023

A new way to develop drugs without side effects

Scientists discovered a novel method to activate G protein-coupled receptors from inside cells, which can help develop drugs with fewer or no side effects. This new process uses a non-peptide message molecule called PCO371 that binds to the intracellular region of the receptor and interacts directly with G protein subunits.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

GLA, the fatty acid that makes the heart function properly after birth

A study by CNIC researchers reveals that gamma-linolenic acid in breast milk binds to the retinoid X receptor protein, activating gene expression and influencing biological functions. This activation initiates genetic programs that equip mitochondria with the necessary enzymes and proteins to start consuming lipids as energy.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2023

How opioid drugs get into our cells

Researchers at UNIGE discovered that natural opioids cannot enter cells, whereas therapeutic opioids can, leading to differences in physiological responses. The study's findings could help develop safer medications with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateApr 19, 2023

Mount Sinai researchers discover novel receptors for SARS-CoV-2 and their age-dependent expression, providing new insights for public health

Researchers identified potential novel receptors for SARS-CoV-2 that utilize multiple receptors to facilitate its life cycle. The study reveals a strong correlation between tissue age-dependency and SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced receptor expression, with older adults being more susceptible to severe outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateApr 11, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Making sense of scents: Deciphering our sense of smell

Researchers at UC San Francisco have created the first molecular-level picture of how an odor molecule activates a human odorant receptor, opening doors to creating novel smells. This achievement paves the way for new insights into biological processes, including fragrances and food science.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2023

A closer look at Matcha tea powder’s antidepressant-like effects

Researchers found that Matcha tea powder reduces depression in mice by activating dopaminergic neural circuits and improving mood. The study's results suggest that Matcha's antidepressant-like effects depend on the animal's prior mental state, with stress-susceptible mice showing a significant response.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalNutrients·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2023

Triggering bitter taste receptors could someday treat asthma, COPD

Researchers have designed a potent and selective compound that could lead to new therapies for asthma and COPD by activating bitter taste receptors. The new ligand is six times more potent than a known NSAID and highly selective for the TAS2R14 subtype, minimizing potential side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Chicory, surrogate and roasted coffee provide new insights into mechanisms of taste perception

Researchers investigated how the order of eating affects bitter taste perception using chicory and coffee substitutes. They found that consuming chicory or coffee substitute after roasted coffee reduces bitterness, while consuming roasted coffee before chicory has no effect.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Heavy drinking in young adults tied to endocannabinoid pathway

A new study explores the relationship between fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) levels and heavy drinking patterns in young adults. Lower FAAH activity was associated with more severe drinking, increased cravings, and reduced sensitivity to alcohol's negative effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2023

Blood pressure drug holds promise for treating PTSD

Researchers found that clonidine, a common blood pressure medication, can reduce the consolidation of traumatic memories in PTSD patients. By interacting with the adrenergic receptor axis, clonidine interferes with cofilin's ability to form mushroom-shaped dendritic spines, which are essential for memory formation. This suggests that c...

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 5, 2023

Pain relief without side effects and addiction

Scientists at FAU have discovered new substances that activate adrenaline receptors instead of opioid receptors, providing effective pain relief without respiratory depression or addiction. The findings are a milestone in the development of non-opioid pain medication.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateOct 19, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

LSD-like molecules counter depression without the trip

Scientists have designed compounds that activate the 5HT2a receptor, producing antidepressant and antianxiety effects in mice. The compounds' mechanism of action differs from psychedelics like LSD, offering a potential new approach to developing effective antidepressants with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateSep 28, 2022

Scientists thought they knew how the nose ‘knows,’ new research suggests otherwise

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discover that nasal cell receptors activate few G protein molecules to produce a signal, contradicting the mainstream idea of high amplification. The study found that the probability of an odorant receptor activating just one G protein is 1 in 10,000, supporting weak signaling.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Peptide delivered by nasal spray can reduce seizure activity, protect neurons in Alzheimer’s, epilepsy

Researchers developed a peptide that can be administered through nasal spray to reduce seizure activity and protect neurons in both Alzheimer's and epilepsy. The A1R-CT peptide inhibits neurabin, a protein that prevents the overactivation of neurons, allowing for increased action by adenosine receptors.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 16, 2022

Distinct cellular receptor mutations influence the COVID-19 disease severity

Research reveals distinct cellular receptor mutations influence COVID-19 disease severity, with high-affinity variants associated with increased risk. The study found that these genetic variants lead to an exaggerated immune response and enhanced antibody-dependent activation of killer cells.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMay 12, 2022

Why stored linseed oil tastes bitter -- And what you could do about it

Researchers identified cyclolinopeptides, particularly a methionine sulfoxide-containing class 4 peptide, as the primary cause of linseed oil's bitter off-flavor. Breeding or technical measures may help optimize flavor quality by reducing these peptides' content.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Widespread brain receptor hides surprising mechanism of action

Researchers discovered that glutamate binds to specific patterns on its receptors, overturning the prevailing view of simple stepwise transitions. This finding may aid the development of more effective treatments with fewer side effects for conditions like depression, dementia, and epilepsy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

How ovarian cancer defies immunotherapy

Researchers at UC San Diego found that ovarian cancer tumors activate FAK protein to regulate CD155 expression, creating a shield against immune detection and evading treatment. New molecular targets may boost immune response and lead to new combinatorial strategies for this disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 11, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Protein protects brain cells most impacted by glaucoma

Researchers have discovered that sigma 1 receptor plays a crucial role in protecting retinal ganglion cells from damage in glaucoma. The protein enables astrocytes to secrete supportive factors for neurons, improving their survival and function.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMar 1, 2022

A fish story with a human tell

Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateFeb 17, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Human miniature brain models may boost drug screening for neurological diseases

Neuroscientists have designed neural organoids with both mature neurons and astrocytic glial cells to study interactions between brain cells. The new technology enables the emulation of brain activity during healthy and disease states, opening doors to rapid drug screening for neurological diseases.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

The Xa Factor: pushing back on Atherosclerosis

Researchers found that Rivaroxaban reduces atherosclerosis progression by inhibiting factor Xa-PAR2 mediated macrophage autophagy and inflammasome activity. The study suggests RIV as a potential anti-atherosclerotic drug, offering hope for treating this fatal disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJACC Basic to Translational Science·DateJan 19, 2022

Biased signalling for better drugs

Researchers at PSI have developed a platform to measure biased signalling in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), enabling selective therapeutic effects and fewer side effects. By testing specially designed bivalent ligands, they can bias signalling towards desired pathways.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021

LSU Health contributes to research suggesting late-onset retinal degeneration mechanism and potential Rx

A study led by LSU Health found how late-onset retinal degeneration develops and identified a surprising potential therapeutic, metformin. The research suggests that an enzyme called AMPK activates the protein CTRP5 to regulate fatty acid metabolism and energy stability.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New Alzheimer’s research impacting female mice could help steer future drug trials

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have made a breakthrough in reversing memory deficits and slowing disease progression in female mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The study found that activating a specific receptor was effective in treating females, who make up two-thirds of diagnosed cases.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 26, 2021