Articles tagged with Worms
Scientists have identified a key enzyme that enables simple neurons in worms to transform into more elaborate shapes under stress, which may hold clues for developing drugs to treat severe anxiety disorders. The study also found that these transformed worms become highly resistant to stress and can survive extreme conditions.
A new study has discovered a super-charged methane seep in the ocean off New Zealand that has created a unique food web. The presence of polychaetes worms, which consume bacteria enriched with methane, plays a critical role in stabilizing the ecosystem and preventing excessive greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists discovered a molecular switch that regulates regeneration in flatworms, enabling them to grow heads complete with brain, eyes, and wiring. This breakthrough could lead to insights into why some animals regenerate while others don't, potentially informing regenerative therapies for humans.
Researchers have identified a pathway of self-destruction that triggers the spread of cell death in worms, causing a 'blue Grim Reaper' to track death through the body. This discovery sheds light on how ageing causes death and provides insights into preventing it.
A study published in PLOS Biology reveals how death spreads through an organism like a wave, using blue fluorescence as a visual cue. The researchers found that a specific chemical pathway called necrosis is responsible for this process, which is dependent on calcium signalling.
A newly discovered threadworm, Pristionchus maxplancki, has been named after physicist Max Planck in recognition of his contributions to the fields of evolution, genetics, and ecology. The worm was discovered on a stag beetle in Japan and is now being studied by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology.
Researchers at Rice University analyzed thousands of mutant worms to identify genes controlling movement, revealing 87 new links in the process. The study also uncovered evidence for a protein-signaling pathway regulating locomotion, with implications for prioritizing genetic tests in humans.
A new species of spoon worm, Arhynchite hayaoi, has been discovered in Japan with a distinctive elongated and spoon-like projection. The species was previously abundant but is now in decline, leading to its economic importance as a fish bait declining.
The new technique allows scientists to study protein function in individual cell types in a living organism, providing deeper insights into protein function. The approach uses nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) to restrict knockdown to a single cell type, giving complete control of gene expression.
The first lab study of deep-sea vent worms, called Alvinella pompejana, reveals that they do not experience long-term exposures to temperatures above 50 C in their natural environment. The temperature optimum for survival is well over 42 C, making them one of the most heat-loving animals known.
Scientists have developed a microfluidic electrophysiological device to record brain activity of worms, enabling the detection of drug effects. This technology opens up new possibilities for high-throughput screens in neurotoxicology and generic screening for neuroactive drugs.
Researchers found that disrupting a mechanism in mitochondria using simple antibiotics can multiply lifespan by a factor of 1.6 in worms. The study suggests that reducing protein production in these organelles may lead to increased longevity. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings in mammals.
A new diagnostic test for lymphatic filariasis is highly sensitive, detecting nearly 26% more infections than the standard test. The new test also has a longer shelf life and is expected to cost less.
Bone-melting acid secreted by Osedax worms dissolves whale bones to access collagen and lipids, a process similar to how mammals repair and remodel bone. The symbiotic relationship between the worms and bacteria involved in this process is still not fully understood.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have sequenced the genetic code of Panagrellus redivivus, a tiny nematode also known as the beer-mat worm. The study reveals nearly 24,000 putative genes and sheds light on animal biology, including differences between male and female organisms and unique adaptations of parasitic worms.
Scientists developed an adhesive patch that uses swellable microneedle tips to secure skin grafts firmly in place over wounds. The invention offers a trauma- and infection-prone alternative to traditional staples and sutures.
Scientists have discovered two new species of earthworms in the Mongolian Gobi Desert that possess extreme temperature tolerances and can partially regrow body parts when cut in half. The discovery sheds light on the fascinating world of earthworms, which play a crucial role in soil fertility and food chains.
Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School reveal the molecular mechanism behind the roundworm's escape response, linking two separate actions coordinated by tyramine and its interaction with fast- and slow-acting receptors.
Researchers at UMMS found that small amounts of junk foods can trigger significant changes in gene expression and physiology, potentially impacting human health. The study used C. elegans as a model organism and identified a genetic regulatory network facilitating rapid responses to internal and external cues.
A study published using worms found that metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, delays ageing by altering metabolism in gut bacteria. The drug was shown to extend worm lifespan by mimicking the effects of calorie restriction.
A new study published in Nature Communications confirms the controversial worm Xenoturbella bocki as a key evolutionary organism. Genetic studies reveal that it belongs to the group of deuterostomes, to which humans also belong, sparking important biological and biomedical implications.
Professor Diana Chu's NSF-funded research explores how chemical structure of sperm proteins affects DNA packaging and interpretation. Her studies may help understand fertility disorders in humans and other animals, as well as answer broader questions about gene regulation.
Scripps Research is developing a new diagnostic test for Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, using a biomarker detectable in urine. The test aims to provide accurate and painless diagnosis, guiding treatment decisions and helping global health leaders eradicate the disease.
A 505-million-year-old fossil, Spartobranchus tenuis, provides a crucial missing link in the evolutionary history of hemichordates. The finding pushes back the fossil record of enteropneusts by 200 million years.
A new species of acorn worm, Spartobranchus tenuis, has been discovered in Canada's Burgess Shale fossil beds, providing a crucial missing link in understanding hemichordate evolution. The discovery pushes the fossil record back 200 million years to the Cambrian period, shedding light on biodiversity during this time.
A new study elucidates the reproductive strategy of bone-eating worms, shedding light on their postembryonic development and sexual maturation. The researchers observed the duration of the larval stage, male dwarfism, and rapid female spawning, enabling effective reproduction in a food-rich but isolated habitat.
Research reveals that female migratory shorebirds can forage deeper into estuary mud than males, allowing them to access larger prey. Human impacts on estuaries may have different effects on males and females, depending on the availability of certain prey sizes.
Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism underlying sleep homeostasis in nematode worms, which may have implications for human health. The study found that loss of sleep led to the migration of a stress-related protein into the nucleus, activating stress genes and triggering a behavioral response.
Research reveals that age-related dementia may begin with neurons' inability to dispose of unwanted proteins, leading to their accumulation. This decline in protein disposal mechanisms contributes to the development and progression of dementia, making it a promising area for novel therapies.
A new study reveals that bacteria capable of manufacturing nitric oxide increase the lifespan of roundworms by nearly 15 percent. The beneficial effect is attributed to the activation of specific genes that enhance stress resistance and immune response, suggesting a potential role for microbiome health in human longevity.
Researchers have identified 10 new species of semi-aquatic freshwater earthworms in Thailand, showcasing the country's astonishing biodiversity. These unique creatures play a crucial role in decomposing organic matter and improving soil properties, making them valuable assets for organic rice farming.
Researchers identified HRG1 protein to safely transport heme-iron, a crucial component of red blood cells. This finding offers promise for new treatments for iron deficiency and parasitic worm infections.
Scientists discovered that weight loss plays a crucial role in fighting off intestinal worms by hijacking their natural feeding pathways. This triggers the immune system to expel the worms more effectively.
Researchers found that during a nematode-induced inflammation, the immune system increases cholecystokinin levels, reducing leptin production, which drives defense mechanisms against the parasite. The study suggests a novel mechanism for parasite expulsion in intestinal infections.
Researchers found that parasitic worms secrete a sugar-based molecule that reduces inflammation and alleviates symptoms of obesity-related diseases. The treatment may also work for psoriasis, organ transplants, and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers discovered a new way to regulate calcium signaling in worms, revealing the crucial role of microRNA-786 in dictating when and where the primary calcium spike occurs. This finding may have significant implications for understanding calcium signaling processes in humans.
The genomes of leeches, limpets and marine worms have revealed a deep connection between these diverse organisms, with similarities to humans and other animals. The analysis has also highlighted notable differences in immune systems and developmental processes.
Scientists have developed a new method for studying parasite numbers in individual seabirds in the wild, using endoscopy. The technique found that all birds had parasites ranging from low burdens of several worms to high burdens of over 40 worms, with higher burdens in males and late breeders.
A new plant-parasitic nematode worm, Meloidoderita salina, was discovered in a tidal salt marsh at Mont Saint Michel Bay. The female nematode worm exhibits a unique hexagonal beaded pattern on its cystoids, which is the first observation of this type in nematode worms.
A single type of neuron in Caenorhabditis elegans nerve cord encodes an entire sensorimotor loop, with feedback driving motion itself. The discovery reveals a sophisticated system allowing the worm to organize its movements through proprioceptive feedback.
A parasitic worm, prevalent in Southeast Asia, is believed to cause infections that contribute to liver cancer. The grant-funded research aims to understand how the worm's granulin secretion enhances tumorigenic environments and may lead to the development of a treatment.
A new class of small molecules, P7C3 series, has been identified to block cell death in animal models of Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The compounds protect newborn neurons from cell death and correlate with improvement of disease symptoms.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified a key molecular process in fat cells that affects aging and stress resistance. The study found that reducing microRNA processing in fat tissue promotes longevity and stress resistance, providing potential new avenues for treatment.
Researchers at Harvard University have successfully controlled the behavior of worms by manipulating their neurons with precise laser beams. By hijacking key neurons, they can instruct the worm to perform specific actions, such as turning in a desired direction or responding to fake sensory inputs.
Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered that planarian stem cells, known as neoblasts, can mobilize and rebuild tissues lost to amputation. The team found that these stem cells remain pluripotent even in fully mature animals and migrate to the site of injury when needed.
Researchers found that a bacterium called Wolbachia provides energy to the worm and helps deceive the body's immune system into thinking it's fighting a different infection. The discovery could lead to shorter treatment regimes and potentially inform vaccine development for River Blindness.
Researchers developed an automated system using AI and image processing to rapidly examine large numbers of individual Caenorhabditis elegans, identifying genetic mutations that might not have been detected otherwise. The technique could change high-throughput genetic screening methods.
Researchers found that three earthworm species can remove up to 75% of heavy metals from waste, producing rich compost without accumulating toxins in crops. The worms' digestive system facilitates the separation of metal ions, allowing for safe disposal of organic waste.
Researchers found several genes in nematode worms that could be potential targets for anti-cancer therapies. By inhibiting these genes, they may reverse key traits associated with cancer cells.
Researchers at NYU School of Medicine are enrolling patients in a clinical trial testing the use of worm eggs to relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The trial aims to understand how worm eggs may improve symptoms by altering the lining of the intestine and changing the type of bacteria attached.
A recent study by Wildlife Conservation Society and University of the Azores identifies additional risks to coral reefs from pollution and overfishing. The proliferation of microbes, sponges, and worms further degrades corals, highlighting the complexity of reefs and possible solutions.
Scientists measured reactive oxygen species in worms and found high levels during early development, which may determine lifespan. Mutant worm variants lived longer due to better oxidative stress coping mechanisms.
A team of scientists discovered that spaceflight suppressed the accumulation of toxic proteins in a microscopic worm, Caenorhabditis elegans. When the expression of genes involved in aging was lowered, the worms lived longer, suggesting that spaceflight may slow the aging process.
Tiny Osedax worms have a unique ability to penetrate bone using acid-secreting enzymes, partnering with bacteria for digestion. Researchers discovered this chemical drilling strategy in female worms, which live in gelatinous tubes surrounded by males.
Researchers identified a mechanism related to RNAi that scans for intruders by comparing foreign sequences to a memory of previously expressed native RNA, creating an 'epigenetic memory' that silences the gene. This memory can be passed on from one generation to the next.
Researchers have discovered compartmentalized neural activity in nematode neurons, which enables movement and encodes body position. This finding has significant implications for understanding neurological disorders like schizophrenia and developing potential treatments.
A research team analyzed the proteins in a simple marine worm and its resident bacteria to understand their symbiotic relationship. The study found functional differences in the metabolism of two symbionts despite their genetic similarities, indicating that metaproteomics can be used to unravel complex microbial communities.
A small marine worm can survive on poisonous carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide thanks to symbiotic bacteria that use these compounds to produce food for the worm. The worm has lost its entire digestive system over millions of years of evolution, relying solely on its symbionts for nutrition.
Researchers found that many nematodes communicate using the same types of small-molecule pheromones, revealing a universal nematode language. This discovery could lead to strategies to prevent unwanted nematode species and improve agricultural and healthcare industries.
Biologists identified Wnt signaling pathways that control nerve signal transmission, influencing synapse plasticity and adult brain function. The study found that these molecules also regulate addiction, schizophrenia, and mental disorders.