Articles tagged with Animal Physiology
Scientists have discovered that four types of monarch predators - a bird, a mouse, a parasitic wasp, and a worm - evolved the same unusual cellular mutations as monarchs. These mutations allow them to resist the toxic effects of milkweed plant toxins, which can be deadly to most animals.
A new review in the Journal of Dairy Science explores the relationship between serotonin and calcium metabolism in dairy cows, highlighting its importance in maintaining calcium balance. Research shows that mammary serotonin drives hormone production that modulates mammary calcium transport.
New research reveals that blue, fin and humpback whales consume an average of three times more food each year than scientists previously estimated. This increased consumption plays a crucial role in maintaining ocean health and productivity by recycling key nutrients.
Researchers found that poor health in females can lead to interrupted pregnancies and underdeveloped fetuses. High-caloric fish is essential for successful porpoise reproduction, according to Lonneke IJsseldijk's PhD study published in Scientific Reports.
Chromobacterium violaceum uses zinc ion transporter ZnuABC to overcome host constraints on metal availability, increasing its virulence. The discovery offers a route for novel therapies against bacterial infections.
Researchers created the largest metabolome analysis of the mouse brain, revealing distinct chemical conversions between brain regions. Aging mice showed significant metabolic differences in brain sections, with lipids playing a crucial role in changes to brain function.
A new Stanford University study suggests that rising oxygen levels may have slowed down ancient ocean extinctions. The research found that oxygen levels beyond 40% of present atmospheric levels expanded viable ocean habitat and reduced extinction rates. This discovery has implications for understanding the fate of ocean creatures in to...
Research in mice reveals that coordinated clock-gene and neuronal activity rhythms are necessary for daily hormone release, with the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) working together to generate circadian rhythms. Disruption of these clocks can lead to various pathologies.
Researchers at the University of California - Riverside discovered that hummingbirds can avoid insects with defensive compounds, such as formic acid, which harm birds. The study shows that scent plays a crucial role in hummingbird foraging decisions and ecosystem function.
Researchers have successfully cultivated complex retinal tissue from embryonic stem cells of medaka and zebrafish. The study, published in eLife, demonstrates the feasibility of growing retina-like structures in a Petri dish, offering new insights into retinal development and potential applications for human medicine.
A new study found that heat stress in pregnant dairy cows reduces fetal growth and influences the performance and immune development of offspring. Calves born to heat-stressed cows have lower birth weights, organ weights, and higher rates of cell death, suggesting compromised placental and fetal development.
Researchers discover that gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) is widely conserved among vertebrates, but the NMB/bombesin system has diversified in some lineages. GRP has evolved independently from a single ancestral homologue and plays a role in regulating energy intake and expenditure in both amphibians and mammals.
Chronic light exposure disrupts circadian rhythms in rats, leading to memory deficits and amyloid β accumulation similar to Alzheimer's disease. Fluoxetine treatment prevents these effects, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
Researchers completed the first genetic sequencing of a Brazilian snake's genome, revealing that most toxin genes likely arose from existing functions in ancestral species. The study identified markers for comparing toxin genes with non-toxic 'ancestral' genes, shedding light on the evolution of venom production.
A Duke University-led study found that bottlenose dolphins burn calories at a lower rate with age, similar to humans. The researchers measured the dolphins' average daily metabolic rate using the 'doubly labeled water method,' finding that older dolphins used 22% to 49% fewer calories each day than expected for their body weight.
Researchers have discovered that toxic animals produce 'toxin sponges' to mop up deadly toxins and prevent them from binding to vital proteins. This alternative autoresistance strategy may offer a general means of toxin protection, including the development of antidotes against various toxic agents.
Researchers from Chapman University discover that non-reproductive birds' brains mimic changes in female mice post-partum when induced to become parents. This finding opens new avenues for understanding the regulation of parental care across vertebrates.
The US physician-scientist workforce doing kidney research is shifting towards more women and international medical graduates. However, this trend is accompanied by an increasing age of the workforce, a decline in relative numbers, and a shift away from basic science research.
A new study reveals that light therapy's benefits come from activating the Period1 gene in a brain region involved in mood regulation. Exposure to light at the end of the dark period has an antidepressant effect on mice.
A team of researchers has resurrected a forgotten genus of algae, Philozoon, previously discovered in the late 1800s. The study reveals that these micro-algal symbionts live inside animal tissues and create photosynthetic animals, highlighting their ecological significance.
A new study has found that genes involved in inflammation and white blood cell activity are upregulated in divers with decompression sickness, also known as the bends. This discovery may lead to a more precise diagnostic test for the condition.
Researchers have discovered that embryos across various animal groups rely on acoustic signals to inform their development and adapt to environmental conditions. This phenomenon, known as acoustic developmental programming, suggests that sound plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of animals from the moment of birth.
Researchers identified genetically marked neurons in a zebra finch's forebrain, revealing a landscape of physiology and network roles that mirror those in mammals. This breakthrough advances insight into the fundamental operation of complex brain circuits, suggesting ancient cell types retained features over millions of years.
Researchers found that 18:1 LPE promotes neurite outgrowth and protects neurons from glutamate toxicity, suggesting a key role for LPE in brain function. The study provides new insights into the physiological importance of LPE and its potential as a therapeutic agent for cranial nerve damage.
Researchers developed a method to visualize small tau protein aggregates forming under normal physiology, distinguishing them from pathological aggregates. The new approach uses high-resolution microscopy and machine learning to identify healthy tau aggregates, offering potential for new treatments for neurological diseases.
Researchers found that Eastern and Western house mice developed identical genetic changes to cope with cold temperatures, building bigger nests and growing heftier. This study demonstrates the predictability of evolution in mammals, with implications for understanding human evolution.
Research on Roundup's neurological impact found that exposure prolonged seizure-like behavior in C. elegans, a microscopic worm with human genes. The study suggests potential risks for humans and has implications for environmental health.
A new study found that rapamycin impairs mitochondrial function in guinea pig models of osteoarthritis, worsening disease severity. The drug, which extends lifespan, also caused a rise in blood glucose levels and impaired skeletal muscle function.
Researchers at TUM have developed a method to introduce specific gene mutations into desired organs or correct existing genes without creating new animal models. This reduces the number of animals required for research and enables precise gene manipulation in farm animals, such as chickens and pigs.
Climate change and pollution threaten narwhals, with mercury levels increasing significantly since the 1990s. The narwhal's tusk provides a window into changing conditions, revealing shifts in diet and exposure to pollutants over the past half century.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have studied the giraffe's genome, discovering a key gene FGFRL1 that enables its extraordinary features, such as high blood pressure and dense bones. The study also found that giraffes spend less time sleeping than other mammals due to their unique circadian rhythm regulation.
A new study analyzes biological drivers of multiple paternity in sharks and rays, finding no conclusive evidence that male behavior drives the phenomenon. The researchers suggest that female advantages, such as thicker skin and larger size, may play a role in shaping multiple paternity.
A study by researchers at the University of Bologna found that sea turtles have high levels of plastic debris in their faeces, which can alter their gut microbiota and compromise their health. The Adriatic Sea is a major hotspot for marine pollution, with over 10 million tons of plastic entering the oceans every year.
A new study found that dominant male wide-horned hissing cockroaches have larger respiratory systems, allowing them to dominate physical mating battles. This adaptation may enhance their fighting ability and play a crucial role in sexual selection.
Researchers found that the black and white tegu lizard's baroreflex mechanism is more efficient at lower temperatures, relying on vascular adjustments rather than heart rate alterations. This discovery provides new insights into the physiology of ectothermic animals and paves the way for further research on novel applications.
Research from the University of Copenhagen finds that prolonged exercise increases GDF15 production, suggesting a physiological stress signal. This natural release of GDF15 may induce satiety and reduce appetite, making it a promising area of study for anti-obesity drugs.
A study by Carlos Duarte and colleagues reveals that human-generated noise pollution is negatively affecting marine animals, altering their behavior, physiology, and survivability. The authors argue that mitigating these impacts through regulation of sources can rapidly decline harmful effects.
A new study reveals that despite living in the same Mojave Desert location, mammal and bird communities experience different exposures to climate warming. Small mammals have remained relatively stable, while bird occupancy and species richness have declined dramatically due to their limited ability to mitigate rising temperatures.
Researchers find that hanging black rhinoceroses upside down improves ventilation to a small degree, enhancing the safety of these animals during capture and anesthesia. The study's findings have significant implications for conservation efforts in remote areas where helicopter-assisted aerial transport is often used.
Researchers found that naked mole-rats use distinct dialects within each colony, which strengthens social bonding. The animals can recognize their own dialect and respond selectively to it, demonstrating a unique form of communication.
Scientists have created a mathematical framework to understand how termites construct intricate mounds without a plan. By analyzing the spacing and arrangement of floors and ramps, researchers have made predictions for the spontaneous formation of linear and helical ramps, shedding light on swarm intelligence.
A new study by Washington State University researchers found that chronic cannabis use significantly dampens stress reactivity in female rats, but not males. The study suggests there may be significant differences in how chronic cannabis use affects males and females.
A new study from Oregon State University uses fecal samples from Eastern North Pacific gray whales to assess endocrine levels and establish hormone baselines for stress and reproduction. The findings provide valuable context for understanding how human activities impact whales.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to researchers who discovered the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The discovery was made possible by the perseverance and determination of thousands of scientists worldwide. Their work has paved the way for future research into HCV and potential cures.
The study suggests most animals remain stressed for longer than optimal after a stress-inducing incident, likely due to physiological limits. The researchers propose that environmental predictability and baseline stress levels play key roles in shaping stress responses.
A new study reveals that dolphins adjust their heart rate to suit the length of their planned dive, conserving oxygen and avoiding decompression sickness. This conscious adjustment allows them to safely dive for long periods, providing insights into marine mammal physiology.
A recent study found that maternal body condition and stress hormone levels can affect the traits of jacky dragon offspring, including gender and growth rate. The research suggests that thermal opportunity may play a role in conveying environmental information from mother to offspring.
Scientists have identified two paralogous androgen receptor genes that control social status in African cichlid fish, shedding light on the molecular basis of social hierarchy. These findings suggest independent mechanisms for regulating coloration and behavior, providing a framework for studying human social dominance.
Researchers have discovered a family of plant immune proteins with striking resemblance to vertebrate MLKLs, triggering cell death in response to pathogens. These findings provide new insights into how plants protect themselves from microbial invaders and highlight the shared machinery involved in cell death across kingdoms.
The study investigated the long-term effects of sirolimus on three different cell in vitro models, cultured in physiological conditions mimicking sirolimus-eluted stent. Sirolimus showed a cytostatic effect but had varying effects on clonogenic potential among different cell types.
Researchers found that all species of lizards in Miami can tolerate temperatures as low as 42°F, despite previous individual tolerances. This unexpected finding provides evidence that tropical creatures can sometimes endure conditions beyond their established limits.
A recent review from LSU Health New Orleans found an association between heat-not-burn tobacco products and increased risk of heart problems, cell death, and circulatory dysfunction. The study highlights the need for further research into the health effects of these products.
Researchers at University of South Florida have discovered a key molecule involved in regulating flexibility in animal stress responses. The study provides a novel perspective on how vertebrates cope with environmental stressors and highlights the importance of understanding stress response flexibility for both human and animal health.
Researchers developed a behavioural test to measure rats' individual emotional experiences and found that vocalisations during 'tickling' accurately reflect their emotional states. The study suggests using call patterns to understand and improve rat welfare.
A UCLA-led team of scientists found that sleep changes its purpose at around 2-and-a-half years old, shifting from brain-building during REM sleep to brain-maintenance and repair afterwards. This transition is crucial for clearing damaged genes and proteins from neurons, preventing serious illness.
New research reveals that marine animals generally inhabit the maximum range of breathable ocean zones determined by their physiology and oxygen needs. The study warns that climate change will restrict these ranges as warmer waters harbor less oxygen, potentially leading to habitat shifts or oxygen shortages.
Research suggests that climate change is causing ectothermic animals like fish, amphibians, and reptiles to age faster due to increased growth rates and heat stress. This can lead to reduced life expectancy and compromised ability to produce offspring.
Critical Illness Myopathy can be prevented by stretching patient peripheral muscles during ventilation phase, study suggests. Researchers discovered titin protein's role in muscle power and found defective spring leads to muscle tissue shrinkage.
Researchers from OHSU have identified astrocytes in zebrafish, a key cell type for brain development and function. This discovery will enable studies on neurodegenerative diseases like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
A team of researchers has discovered the crucial role of two proteins, Anakonda and M6, in maintaining a functional barrier at tricellular junctions. The study found that the M6 protein anchors the Anakonda protein to the cell membrane, preventing it from being destabilized and allowing for the formation of a stable epithelial barrier.