Articles tagged with Worms
Researchers studying a mutant worm found that the absence of a gene altered dopamine signaling, leading to changes in how nerve cells respond to stimuli. This discovery may open new treatment avenues for diseases such as Parkinson's and schizophrenia.
A team of researchers has developed a C. elegans worm model with mutations that cause Retinitis pigmentosa, a rare blindness subtype affecting over 1 million people worldwide. The study reveals the disease's specificity in the retina and proposes a new hypothesis based on genomic instability.
A recent study published in PLOS Computational Biology identifies molecular similarities between environmental allergens and parasitic worm proteins, suggesting that allergy is a flawed immune response. The research provides tools for predicting protein molecules that may cause allergic reactions and could lead to new treatments.
Researchers found that intestinal worm infections can increase short-chain fatty acid production, activating receptors that influence the immune system. This discovery highlights the microbiome as a new pathway for helminths to modulate host immune function.
Researchers discover halloysite clay tubes with potential for drug delivery, antimicrobial materials and regenerative medicine. However, they are not biodegradable and cannot be injected intravenously.
A pair of neurons found in the brains of male nematode worms, called 'mystery cells of the male' or 'MCMs', are responsible for sex-based differences in learning and behavior. These MCMs create behavioral differences between males and females by changing a brain circuit common to both sexes.
Researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans worms to develop a method to predict lifespan based on metabolic profiles. The study found that middle age was a key turning point in aging, with normal lifespan worms aging 40% faster than long-lived counterparts at this stage.
Researchers found that variation in a single gene, plep-1, produces males with excretory pores attracting other males. This attraction is likely never manifest in nature due to the rarity of males, but highlights the role of molecular biology and genetic differences in shaping sexual behavior.
A randomized controlled trial in Peru found that deworming treatment had no significant impact on growth in pre-school children, similar to a placebo. The study highlights methodological challenges and the need for further research to accurately detect the true effect of deworming on growth in early childhood.
Scientists at UC Riverside have sequenced the genomes of five nematodes to understand parasite biology and evolution. The study identified gene families involved in parasitism and found instructions for turning genes on and off, shedding light on biological mysteries.
Researchers found a promising target for new therapies in genes affected by praziquantel treatment, including a proton pump inhibited by omeprazole. Combining sub-lethal doses of praziquantel with omeprazole killed more parasites than praziquantel alone.
Researchers discovered that the parasite Brugia malayi releases microRNA-containing vesicles to infect human hosts. These vesicles activate a pro-inflammatory response in human macrophages, opening up new avenues for therapeutic targets and treatment strategies.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Macrostomum lignano, a flatworm that can regrow its body parts, to gain insights into its regenerative abilities and advance stem cell biology. The genome's complex structure holds promise for studying developmental pathways and gene expression involved in regeneration.
The Genetics Society of America (GSA) is supporting workshops organized by students and postdocs to broaden interest in genetics. These trainee-organized symposia aim to advance knowledge, encourage exchange, and further the GSA mission.
Researchers found that polychaete worms near volcanic vents in Mediterranean waters exhibit brooding behavior, producing larger eggs and adapting to harsh conditions. This adaptation may help species cope with increasing carbon dioxide levels in the sea.
A study on nematode worms found that starvation early in life can affect growth, reproduction and stress resistance in subsequent generations. The worms that survived famine became smaller, less fertile, but their offspring were more resistant to starvation and had improved stress tolerance.
Researchers at Duke University discovered that tapeworms in babies' guts can shield their brains from long-term learning and memory problems caused by newborn infections. Expectant mothers who had tapeworms passed on protection to their worm-free offspring, suggesting the benefits began early in life.
A new study has uncovered a key factor in the variability of genetic disease severity, enabling prediction and personalized treatment approaches. By analyzing genetic background, researchers can now estimate disease severity, providing hope for improved management and therapy development.
Researchers found that nematode worms commonly inhabit slugs, woodlice, and centipedes, using them as public transport to find new food sources. The worms survive inside slug intestines and are excreted alive, suggesting a potentially harmless but also possibly parasitic association.
Two Antarctic roundworm species, A. isokaryoni and P. paradoxus, have been studied in detail for the first time using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The research revealed new information on their morphology and taxonomic position, including peculiarities of their lip region and vulva shape.
A new species of 'super-armoured' worm was identified by palaeontologists, featuring a unique defence mechanism and a distant ancestor of modern velvet worms. The creature had up to 72 sharp spikes covering its body, making it one of the earliest soft-bodied animals to develop armour for protection, 294
A new study has definitively identified the head of a 500-million-year-old creature, revealing a ring of teeth and simple eyes. The discovery helps scientists reconstruct the common ancestor of ecdysozoans, a group including insects, spiders, and crustaceans.
Scientists identified a microscopic structure in worms called C. elegans as the first sensor of the Earth's magnetic field. This discovery sheds light on how animals like geese and sea turtles navigate using the magnetic field, which varies from spot to spot on Earth.
Scientists at the University of Montreal have discovered a new approach to treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by targeting the immune system. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that an imbalance of the immune system can contribute to ALS and trigger motor neuron destruction.
Researchers developed an algorithm to predict planarian regeneration outcomes and identified a simple regulatory network. This breakthrough applies artificial intelligence to understand complex biological processes.
Researchers at WSU Vancouver found that hunter-gatherer cannabis users had significantly lower rates of intestinal worm infection compared to non-users. The study suggests that the Aka people may be unconsciously using cannabis as a form of 'medical marijuana' to ward off parasites.
Research shows that estuaries offer a parasite-free zone for Dungeness crabs, allowing them to rid themselves of deadly nemertean worms. The crabs thrive in lower-salinity environments, making estuaries an essential habitat for their survival.
A team of scientists from the University of Leicester has discovered a new species of 425-million-year-old fossil, which is the first parasite of its kind to be found intact with its host. The fossil species, named Invavita piratica, is a 'tongue worm' that was previously known only from isolated juvenile specimens.
Researchers have discovered a 425-million-year-old fossil of an ancient tongue worm parasite, providing significant insights into the origins of parasitism. The new species, Invavita piratica, is remarkably well-preserved and has been found attached to its host animal, an ostracod, in Herefordshire, England.
The Genetics Society of America has awarded travel grants to 15 undergraduate students to present their research findings at the 20th International C. elegans Meeting. Recipients include students from institutions such as Pennsylvania State University, Washington State University, and Rutgers University.
A new study reveals that protein aggregates accumulate in the proteome of C. elegans as it ages, overwhelming the machinery of protein quality control and impairing cell function. However, long-lived worms deposit surplus proteins in insoluble aggregates enriched with molecular chaperones, which may help maintain healthy aging.
A new study from the University of Cambridge has enabled researchers to identify previously unrecognised fossil specimens by reconstructing the teeth of penis worms in fine detail. The results have aided in the identification of fossilised teeth from a number of species around the world.
Researchers used microscopes to study the structure of Penis Worm teeth, discovering a 'dentist's handbook' for paleontologists. The findings uncovered previously unrecognized species worldwide, shedding light on ancient creatures.
A new mobile phone microscope, called CellScope Loa, uses video and automation to detect and quantify infection by parasitic worms in a drop of blood. The device is as accurate as conventional screening methods and can provide critical information for health providers in the field.
Scientists discovered a new DNA modification that regulates gene expression in insects, worms, and green algae. This finding opens a new field of biology and epigenetics research.
A new tool developed by Baylor College of Medicine researchers shows a strong association between worm index and human development index, indicating neglected tropical diseases should be considered in international development goals. The study found that higher worm indices are linked to lower human development indices.
A team of scientists from the University of Manchester has identified a new protein called Mbd2 that plays a key role in controlling inflammation during worm infections and allergies. By understanding how this protein functions, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies for these conditions.
A new study finds that niclosamide, a drug used to treat tapeworms, suppresses the growth of MRSA cultures and preserves the lives of infected nematode worms. Oxyclozanide, another salicylanilide anthelmintic, proves more effective in killing MRSA.
Researchers use statistical analysis to predict the spread of invasive European earthworm species Dendrobaena octaedra into Canada's boreal forest, forecasting it will expand from 3% to 39% of the forest floor by 2056. The worms are entering the forest via roadways, altering soil pH and decomposition rates.
Researchers used PET/CT scans to study the behavior of lugworms in sediment, revealing how they burrow and interact with their surroundings. This technique provides insights into the ecological models of benthic animals, highlighting the importance of understanding their activities for maintaining ocean health.
Scientists discovered that a species of bone-eating worm, Osedax, originated at least 100 million years ago and subsisted on prehistoric reptile bones. The discovery suggests that Osedax may have prevented many skeletons from becoming fossilized, affecting our knowledge of extinct marine life.
Researchers found that a neural circuit evaluates environmental variability to prompt animals to explore new locations. The circuit uses information from the animal's senses to determine predictability, triggering dopamine release and increased risk-taking behavior. This discovery could lead to better therapies for neurodegenerative an...
Research at Duke University Medical Center found that increasing bacterial and worm diversity in the digestive tract enhances immune function, with better responses to vaccination and increased natural antibody production. The study suggests that biome enrichment may serve as an 'immune trainer' to improve overall health.
A single oral dose of azithromycin has shown promising results in eliminating yaws from Papua New Guinea, with an 83.8% success rate among infected residents. To achieve global eradication, Kazura advocates for improved infrastructure, mapping systems, and community commitment.
Researchers at Harvard University have discovered the secret to the velvet worm's rapid and perfectly aimed slime attack, which could inspire new microfluidic devices. The unique anatomy of the worm's papillae and elasticity of its slime allow for a wide-spraying jet that entraps prey with great speed.
Researchers studied a simple three-cell network within the roundworm brain and found that the collective state of the neurons determines the likelihood of movement towards an odor. The study suggests that nervous systems have internal patterns of activity that are as important as external signals in generating behaviors.
Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genome of a specific hookworm species to discover new information for treating parasitic infections. They identified unique protein families, such as ASPRs, that may block the host's immune response, paving the way for potential new treatments.
Researchers are using satellite data to target deadly parasites by identifying areas where disease flourishes. The project combines skills from various scientists to create maps accessible to countries with limited capacity for managing disease data.
Scientists study epigenetic changes in C. elegans worms exposed to simulated microgravity to gain insights into how humans adapt to different gravitational environments. The research reveals an 'epigenetic memory' of microgravity that can be passed on to offspring, sparking new questions about the long-term health consequences of space...
A Rice University study uses the lowly roundworm to measure the effects of various nanoparticles on individual organisms and entire populations. The researchers found that five types of nanoparticles showed little to no toxicity, while others were moderately or highly toxic to the worm population.
Researchers identified 32% of parasites found in rats also infecting humans, highlighting the importance of habitat overlap and species relationships. The study developed a new modeling approach to forecast parasitic infections and disease emergence globally.
A new study has identified over 750 genes involved in long-term memory in the worm, including those not previously found. The researchers hope to understand how these genes contribute to memory loss with age and potentially develop compounds to maintain memory.
A UMass Medical School study found that long-lived C. elegans mutants spend more time in a frail state than healthy ones, challenging the assumption that longevity and health are linked. The researchers identified genes that control 'healthspan' as separate from those influencing lifespan.
A £90,000 research project is exploring the genetic basis of human diseases using Caernorhabditis elegans worms. The study may lead to the development of new treatments for kidney disease and age-related disorders.
A study in C. elegans found that excess iron promotes aging by causing dysfunction and malfolding of proteins implicated in the aging process. Treating worms with a metal chelator slowed age-related accumulation of iron, extending lifespan and healthspan.
A study of African buffalo found that de-worming drastically improves an animal's chances of surviving bovine tuberculosis. However, this treatment allows infected animals to continue spreading TB within the herd, leading to unexpected negative consequences for the population as a whole.
Resistin, an immune protein found in human serum, instigates an inappropriate inflammatory response to worm infections, impairing clearance. Targeting this pathway with drugs or antibodies could lead to new therapeutic strategies for worm infections and associated pathology.
A study published in PLoS Genetics found that ibuprofen extended the lifespan of yeast, worms, and fruit flies, with treated organisms living up to 15% longer. The research suggests that ibuprofen impacts a process not yet implicated in aging, offering a new approach to studying and understanding the aging process.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center used C. elegans to identify a new path that could lead to drugs to slow aging and chronic diseases, and might even impact cosmetics. Production of collagen and other ECM components plays a key role in longevity, suggesting agents promoting tissue remodeling might slow aging in humans.
A new study found that protein Maf1 controls fat levels in C. elegans worms, suggesting a similar function in humans. Increasing or decreasing Maf1 levels resulted in significant changes in stored lipids.