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Uncovering how ascidians measure time to adulthood

Researchers have discovered that ascidians measure time to adulthood by accumulating cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), ensuring a reliable timing of metamorphosis. The study's findings provide insights into time-measurement mechanisms in other organisms and may aid in aquaculture and marine biofouling control.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournaleLife·DateJul 10, 2025

Scientists unravel the mystery of a rare sweating disorder

A rare genetic disorder called anhidrosis has been linked to a mutation in the ITPR2 gene, which controls calcium release in sweat glands. The study, led by Katsuhiko Mikoshiba and Niklas Dahl, found that a single nucleotide change in the DNA code impairs sweat production, leading to hyperthermia risk.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 20, 2014

Broken signals lead to neurodegeneration

A study published in PNAS reveals that a protein cross-linking enzyme interacts with a cell receptor to lock it in a closed state, reducing neuron signaling in neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's and Alzheimer's. The mechanism may provide insight into the development of new drug therapies for these conditions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2014