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New research: No trace of DMT in the rat brain’s serotonin system

A new study by researchers from the University of Southern Denmark has found no evidence of naturally occurring DMT in the adult rat brain, even when its breakdown was inhibited. The study used highly sensitive methods to detect trace substances and examined whether administered DMT could be stored in serotonin neurons.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalNeuropharmacology·TypeExperimental study

Your genes may influence gut microbiome of others, rat study shows

A recent rat study found that an individual's genes can shape their own gut microbiome as well as the microbiomes of those they live with. The research identified three new gene-microbe links and demonstrates how genetic influences can ripple through social groups via shared microbes

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study
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.

Clues in the claws: finger length may reveal sexual preferences in rats

Researchers found that rats with shorter second digits exhibit stronger sexual behavior, including a preference for female scent and frequent ejaculations. This study reveals the impact of fetal hormone exposure on brain development and highlights the link between body and mind.

SourceOkayama University·JournalExperimental Animals·TypeExperimental study
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.

Novel rat model paves the way to advance COPD-associated cor pulmonale research

Researchers developed a novel rat model that closely replicates human COPD-associated cor pulmonale, exhibiting chronic lung inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, and right ventricular hypertrophy. The model provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of disease progression and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study

A study reveals sex differences in experimental liver cirrhosis

Researchers found that females developed ascites later and were more susceptible to carbon tetrachloride toxicity than males. The study highlights the need for gender parity in preclinical studies and suggests that sex hormones may play a protective role against disease progression.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalLaboratory Animals·TypeExperimental study

Developing treatment strategies for an understudied bladder disease

Researchers used a rat model to explore electroacupuncture's effectiveness in reducing neuropathic pain, promoting urinary function and decreasing neuroinflammation. The study suggests electroacupuncture as a promising treatment strategy for bladder pain syndrome.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro

Gene expression profiles in respiratory settings in rats under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Researchers analyzed gene expression profiles in rats undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, finding reduced inflammation and increased immune suppression with spontaneous breathing. The study suggests weaning off ventilator support during VV-ECMO may be beneficial for clinical practice.

SourceNational Center for Respiratory Medicine·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·TypeExperimental study

Long-term survival and cardiac efficacy of a gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A new study found that gene therapy delandistrogene moxeparvovec significantly extended the median survival of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) rats to >25 months. Additionally, the treatment elicited statistically significant improvements in cardiac parameters and mobility.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Integrating data from different experimental approaches into one model is challenging – this study presents a community-based, full-scale in silico model of the rat hippocampal CA1 region that integrates diverse experimental data from synapse to network

A full-scale in silico model of the rat hippocampal CA1 region has been developed, integrating diverse experimental data from synapse to network. This community-based approach overcomes challenges in integrating data from different experimental approaches.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study

Harvard, Google DeepMind researchers create realistic virtual rodent

Researchers created a virtual rodent with an artificial brain that can move like a real rodent, simulating complex behaviors using biomechanical data from real rats. The model uses deep reinforcement learning and AI to predict neural activity across behaviors.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling

Researchers create human aortic aneurysm model to advance disease understanding, treatment testing

Scientists have developed a functional model of thoracic aortic aneurysm using human cells in laboratory rats, offering new avenues for drug development and effective screening. The model successfully mimics dilation of the human aorta and has potential applications for treating this potentially fatal condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study

Can animals count?

Researchers discovered that rats without prior knowledge of numbers can develop a sense of numbers when trained with sounds representing two or three numbers. The study found that the brain has a specific area for dealing with numbers, which is separate from the processing of magnitude.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Low-cost versatile mesoscope makes brain imaging in rodents more accessible

Researchers developed a custom-built, low-cost mesoscope that can adapt to different neuroimaging experiments in live mice and rats. The system offers excellent spatial and temporal resolutions, achieved through its reversible tandem lens configuration, which enables flexible experimentation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics

A call for standardization of controls in lifespan studies

The lack of standardized controls in lifespan studies leads to misleading outcomes and makes it difficult to compare results. Researchers propose solutions for quality control by checking inter- and intra-study consistency of lifespan data.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeLiterature review

Research shows continued cocaine use disrupts communication between major brain networks

A study by researchers at UNC School of Medicine found that chronic cocaine use alters the functional networks in the brain, including the default mode network and salience network. This disruption can make it harder for individuals to focus, control impulses, or feel motivated without the drug.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJNeurosci

Uncovering the connections between autism, sensory hypersensitivity

The study investigates how different genes related to autism spectrum disorders affect the brain's neural circuits, resulting in heightened sensitivity to sounds. The researchers aim to identify a potential biomarker for sensory hypersensitivity and develop treatments using optogenetics and minocycline.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology

Mitochondrial activation in transplanted cells promotes regenerative therapy for heart healing

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a technique to promote cardiac regeneration by activating mitochondrial function in transplanted cells. The study found that activated mitochondria improved cardiac function and suppressed myocardial fibrosis, suggesting a new approach for treating severe heart failure.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study
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.

A flicker of truth: Piercing the “continuity illusion”

The study reveals that the superior colliculus is vital in the transition from seeing individual flashes to smooth motion, and may be a key component in creating the continuity illusion. Different methods of measuring the Flicker Fusion Frequency threshold suggest other parts of the brain also play a role in this process.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study

Advancing the generation of in-vivo chimeric lungs in mice using rat-derived stem cells

Researchers successfully created a rat-derived lung in mouse model using reverse-blastocyst complementation and tetraploid-based organ complementation. The study identified crucial factors required for functional lung formation, including fibroblast growth factor 10 (Fgf10) and its interaction with Fgfr2b.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalDevelopment
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Anti-aging effects of 1,5-anhydro-D-fructose on brain diseases via AMPK activation

Researchers found that 1,5-AF activated AMPK, leading to upregulation of the PGC-1α/BDNF pathway and alleviating aging-related decline in motor cognitive function. The study suggests that 1,5-AF can induce endogenous neurovascular protection, potentially preventing aging-associated brain diseases.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study

Cognitive rescue in aging through prior training

A new study published in Aging (Albany NY) suggests that prior training can rescue cognitive decline in aging by improving task performance and strengthening memory processes. The research, conducted on rats, found that prior training enhanced short-term and intermediate memory, while also enabling encoding-boosted long-term memory.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study

Towards rapid tissue regeneration

Researchers at DTU Health Tech created a multi-levelled scaffold that enables near-perfect bone healing in just eight weeks, without using growth factors or endocrine factors and cells. The scaffold combines essential bone minerals with mechanical properties matching human bone compressive strength.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Healthy kidneys despite hypertension

Researchers found that a mutated PDE3A gene prevents kidney damage despite severe hypertension. The study suggests that this mutation could be used therapeutically to prevent chronic kidney disease.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalKidney International·TypeExperimental study
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.

Rats! Rodents seem to make the same logical errors humans do

Researchers found that rats, like humans, tend to overestimate the likelihood of two events occurring together. This study suggests a shared cognitive mechanism between humans and animals, which could have implications for understanding psychopathological conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review

Wilson’s disease: Bacterial agent opens new therapeutic options

A bacterial molecule, ARBM101, has been found to efficiently lower liver copper levels in a rat model, offering a promising new therapeutic option for Wilson's disease. The treatment approach involves weekly applications followed by month-long breaks, significantly shortening the therapy period.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalGastroenterology

Rats trade initial rewards for long-term learning opportunities

Researchers found that rats adopt a non-greedy strategy to balance speed and accuracy, sacrificing immediate rewards for improved learning outcomes. The study suggests that slower reaction times lead to faster learning and higher rewards in both experimental and simulated environments.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife
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.

Building a better biopsy

A new biopsy procedure is developed with a multispectral confocal endomicroscope to aid in lung tissue imaging. The system allows for simultaneous imaging of multiple fluorescent dyes, enabling unique identification and spectral unmixing.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems

Genome sequencing supports Nile rat animal model for diabetes research

A high-quality Nile rat genome sequence has been assembled, expanding its potential as a model organism for studying type 2 diabetes and disorders associated with disrupted circadian rhythms. The genome's long contigs and completeness make it suitable for investigating the genetic factors contributing to disease, including epigenetics.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·JournalBMC Biology

OCD on TV

A new study published in GigaScience has made available an enormous amount of behavioral data from an animal model of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), comprising over 2 years of continuous recording. The data set, which is the culmination of a 15-year study, provides insights into the mechanisms of OCD and potential treatments.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeData/statistical analysis

Excessive smartphone screen time linked to earlier puberty onset

A rat study found that excessive blue light exposure is associated with earlier puberty onset, reduced melatonin levels, and increased reproductive hormones. This suggests a potential risk for childhood development and future fertility.

SourceEuropean Society for Paediatric Endocrinology
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.

Using sound and bubbles to make bandages stickier and longer lasting

A team of researchers from McGill University has discovered a way to control the stickiness of adhesive bandages using ultrasound waves and bubbles. This breakthrough could lead to new advances in medical adhesives, especially in cases where adhesives are difficult to apply.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study

Sterile mice produce rat sperm

Researchers generated rat sperm cells inside sterile mice using blastocyst complementation, achieving a proof-of-principle for producing gametes from one animal species in another. This breakthrough may speed up the production of transgenic rats for biomedical research and potentially support animal species conservation efforts.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study

Gene therapy approach shows promise in treating ALS

A new gene therapy approach using the neuroprotective protein SynCav1 has shown promising results in slowing down ALS disease progression and increasing life span in rodent models. The treatment preserved spinal cord motor neurons and extended longevity in mice, with similar effects observed in a rat model of ALS.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTheranostics
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.

Mother’s immune cells appear to exacerbate complications of preeclampsia

Studies in rats have found that T-cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to preeclampsia complications. Researchers are exploring ways to dampen this response to reduce the risk of premature birth or worse outcomes for mother and child.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University

NIH scientists identify new brain mechanism involved in impulsive cocaine-seeking in rats

Researchers discovered that blocking certain acetylcholine receptors in the lateral habenula balances reward and aversion, making it harder to resist seeking cocaine. This finding identifies a new role for these receptors as a potential target for treating cocaine use disorder.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study

Stress may be associated with fertility issues in women

A recent study published in Endocrinology found that exposure to a scream sound may lead to diminished ovarian reserve and decreased fertility in female rats. The researchers discovered that the scream sound reduced estrogen and Anti-Mullerian hormone levels, as well as the number and quality of eggs, resulting in smaller litters.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalEndocrinology
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Live monitoring of brain metabolism with fluorescence

A new sensor technology allows for real-time monitoring of lactate levels in the brain, providing insights into energy metabolism and potential applications in cancer detection. The sensors corrected for hemodynamic artifacts using MRI-informed corrections enable accurate cell-specific lactate level recordings.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics

It’s all in the hiPS

A team of researchers from Osaka University and Kyoto University developed a stem cell-based biomaterial, hiPS-Cart, to treat IVD degeneration and prevent further deterioration. The biomaterial was able to survive and maintain its functionality in lab rats with NP removal, reversing IVF and vertebral bone degeneration.

SourceOsaka University·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study

Scientists create novel genetic model of down syndrome in rats

Researchers have genetically engineered a rat model of Down syndrome to test new therapies and explore the condition's unique genetics. The rats exhibit cognitive impairments, anxiety, and hyperactivity similar to humans with Down syndrome, providing a valuable tool for medical research.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics

Treating heart attacks with a medium chain fatty acid

Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that a medium-chain fatty acid called octanoic acid can reduce further injury and improve heart function after a heart attack. This discovery could lead to the development of a new therapy to treat heart attacks, targeting the interplay between energy metabolism and epigenetics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Soft food diet increases risks for captive animals released in wild

Research reveals that captive animals on soft food diets may experience weaker skulls and reduced bite effectiveness when released back into the wild. The study found that rats fed softer diets had weaker skulls, but those switched from hard to soft food as juveniles also showed signs of weakened bone growth.

SourceFlinders University·JournalIntegrative Organismal Biology·TypeLiterature review

Promising treatment for Alexander disease moves from rat model to human clinical trials

A new study provides preliminary data for a human clinical trial of a treatment that targets the root cause of Alexander disease. The treatment has shown promising results in halting the progression of the disease and even reversing some symptoms in rat models, which better represent the human condition.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study

Glyscend Therapeutics announces initiation of phase 1 clinical trial on the heels of preclinical data presented at EASD 2021 on the metabolic benefits of its oral polymer-based duodenal exclusion therapy

Glyscend Therapeutics has initiated a phase 1 clinical trial in Australia investigating an oral polymer therapy that improves glucose homeostasis with weight loss in nonclinical models. The therapy targets mechanisms underlying bariatric surgery and aims to replicate its benefits without the need for surgery.

SourceGlyscend Inc

Getting to the root of tooth replantation challenges

A new gene delivery system promotes healing in rat models by preventing inflammation and bone degradation after tooth replantation. The study found that teeth treated with the system showed significantly greater dental root thickness and fewer osteoclasts, leading to improved success rates.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Periodontology
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.

Treatment with gene therapy of a new rat model of Morquio A, a disease with severe skeletal dysplasia and cartilage deterioration

Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona develop gene therapy that fully corrects severe whole-body alterations in Morquio A disease, a rare condition caused by GALNS enzyme deficiency. The therapy, administered via intravenous viral vector, prevents bone malformations and life-threatening complications.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study

Mutated enzyme weakens connection between brain cells that help control movement

Researchers found a mutation in ELOVL4 enzyme impairs communication between neurons, leading to impaired motor control and coordination. The study provides new insights into the essential role of ELOVL4 in motor function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Neurobiology

First 3D simulation of rat's complete whisker system acts as a tactile 'camera'

Northwestern University engineers created the first full 3D simulation of a rat's complete whisker system, providing rare insight into how rats actively sense their natural environments. The model incorporates 60 individual whiskers and simulates rats in various environments, revealing unique patterns of data.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New tech aims to tackle 'disseminated intravascular coagulation' blood disorder

Researchers have developed a new tool to address disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) by targeting blood clots with nanogel spheres loaded with tissue-type plasminogen activator. In vivo studies show promising results in rat models and in vitro tests using DIC patient blood plasma.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBlood Advances