News on the use of animals, and their alternatives, in biomedical research. Covers animal models, primate studies, tissue chips, research ethics, and disease modeling.
Researchers discovered that solitary humpback whales in SE Alaska craft complex bubble nets to catch krill, allowing them to capture up to seven times more prey without extra energy. This behavior sheds light on how migratory humpback whales consume enough calories to traverse the Pacific Ocean.
Researchers found that COVID-19 proteins can lower cortisol levels in the brain, leading to a heightened stress response and inflammation. The study suggests that this phenomenon may contribute to the neurological symptoms of Long COVID, including fatigue, depression, and memory problems.
Researchers from the University of Southampton have reviewed 400 years of scientific literature to correctly classify the Dodo and its closest relative. The study confirms that both birds were members of the columbid family and challenges common misconceptions about their extinction.
Researchers at Arizona State University have introduced a new sterilization technique using X-ray irradiation to reduce Aspergillus flavus viability in contaminated corn. The method stops the fungus from transmitting spores and producing aflatoxins, crucial for developing additional remediation techniques.
Researchers have discovered a new type of brain cell in the medial entorhinal cortex that accurately predicts future locations as an animal travels. This discovery helps explain how planned spatial navigation is possible and has important implications for understanding mechanisms of spatial navigation and episodic memory formation.
Researchers have discovered that comammox bacteria can grow on guanidine, a previously unknown energy source. This finding has the potential to reduce agricultural nitrous oxide emissions and promote more sustainable agricultural practices.
Research reveals that fish in Greenlandic waters feed on jellyfish, with some species making up the majority of their diet. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions about the role of jellyfish in marine food webs and highlight the need for further research on gelatinous zooplankton's impact.
Researchers at JAX propose using genetically diverse mice and cell-based assays to better predict human responses to drugs and diseases. This approach has shown remarkable improvements in mimicking human diseases, offering a significant improvement over standardized but limited mouse and cellular models.
Researchers have developed a suite of parameters that can be used to quantitatively measure different physical characteristics of the lung. The parameters were found to be highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing fibrosis and edema in an animal model, using only five necessary parameters.
A WVU biologist is studying how genes establish animal body plans and contribute to regenerative abilities. He has identified Hox genes as key players in planarian regeneration, suggesting their functions may differ in highly regenerative versus poorly regenerative organisms.
New nutrition strategies could slash methane emissions from dairy cows by a staggering 60%, according to a Journal of Dairy Science review. Diet reformulation, using feed additives like seaweed and 3-NOP, may be key to achieving this goal.
A new method, conditioned taste aversion, has been trialled to protect freshwater crocodiles from deadly invasive cane toads. The trial was successful in reducing crocodile death rates by up to 95% in areas where cane toads were present.
Phenylbutazone, a common horse painkiller, affects the ability of mare egg cells to mature correctly and become viable embryos in assisted reproduction. Researchers discovered that bute can hinder reproduction programs, especially for mares chronically lame and taking bute for pain management.
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers has identified novel players in dopamine signaling using Caenorhabditis elegans. They found that mutations in the BBSome protein complex, which regulates transport and signaling in cells, can lead to rare genetic disorders like Bardet-Biedl Syndrome.
Guan's lab will apply accumulated experience and methods to study SLC6A14, a sodium-coupled epithelial amino acid co-transporter involved in cancer and several chronic diseases. CryoEM will be used to determine the structure of SLC6A14, providing insight into its substrate specificity and inhibitory mechanisms.
Researchers detected a 24-hour cycle of diving during the spring, with whales swimming deepest in the afternoon to track prey. Two bowhead whales were found to dive in synchrony over a week at a time, even when separated by up to 100 km.
Seoul National University researchers developed a biodegradable electronic tent technology that enables non-invasive brain disease diagnosis using a needle. The device unfolds to cover the entire brain over a large area and naturally decomposes in the body after diagnosis, minimizing side effects.
Researchers highlight the need to develop new anti-angiogenic agents to improve cancer treatment efficacy, citing knowledge gaps in human clinical trials. The review recommends considering tumor mutations, microenvironment, and patient profiles to select optimal AAD combinations.
Researchers at Jackson Laboratory have developed a non-intrusive method to accurately and continuously measure mouse body mass using computer vision. This approach reduces stress associated with traditional weighing techniques, improving data accuracy and reproducibility.
Researchers from POSTECH and KRICT created a 3D artificial lung using bioprinting technology, closely mimicking the human respiratory tract. This model allows for accurate testing of COVID-19 drugs and development of therapeutic treatments, potentially shortening the drug development process to under 5 years.
A new study by UC Riverside demonstrates that calorie restriction does not significantly reduce voluntary exercise in mice. Researchers found that mice continued to run at similar levels regardless of the amount of food they ate, challenging the long-held belief that dieting drains workout energy. The study's findings have implications...
Research collaboration highlights social media's detrimental effects on nature, including disrupted breeding patterns and trampling of endangered plant species. However, the study also emphasizes photography as a powerful tool for conservation and education.
New research shows glossy black-cockatoos feed on trees growing in acidic soils, contrary to expectations. Dr Gay Crowley's study found that soil type influences the birds' environment use., Many iconic Australian animals rely on soil fungi for nutrition, highlighting the need to conserve habitats on poor soils.
A new study reveals disturbing practices in South Africa's captive lion industry, including evading detection and animal welfare violations. The research calls for the government to implement a comprehensive plan to transition away from current practices and end the industry.
Researchers have discovered a non-memory-based mechanism for animals to cache and retrieve food, challenging long-held beliefs about animal cognition. The proposed mechanism uses neural networks similar to hash functions, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of cache locations.
A Kobe University research team found that insects, specifically camel crickets, act as primary consumers of fruit and dispersers of dust-like seeds. The study confirmed the importance of insects in seed dispersal for light-harvesting plants.
Researchers developed an inexpensive, water-powered electric bandage that accelerates wound healing in chronic wounds. The bandage produces an electric field that promotes healing and reduces inflammation, with animals treated with the bandage showing a 30% faster rate of wound closure.
Researchers have trained dogs to sniff out Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in the droppings of farmed and wild deer. This method offers a promising non-invasive approach for detecting CWD.
A UCLA researcher identified a compound that effectively jumpstarts the brain's memory circuitry, restoring cognitive functions in mice with Alzheimer's disease symptoms. The molecule, DDL-920, works by targeting specific neurons to enhance gamma oscillations, which are critical for memory and cognition.
A new study reveals that Azara's owl monkeys leave their parents due to a combination of social and ecological factors. The researchers found that seasonal changes in climate, arrival of stepparents, and resource availability affect the timing of dispersal. Owl monkeys disperse mainly in spring when food is abundant.
A recent study from Swansea University found that high levels of allogrooming were followed by higher physiological stress levels in wild female baboons, contrary to expectations. However, long-term positive effects of grooming on health and fitness remain consistent with previous research.
A new study by Prof. Eyal Klement and PhD Student Michal Morgenstern has identified key factors influencing vaccination intentions among Israeli dairy farmers, revealing the significant impact of social pressure and underscoring the need for improved communication between veterinarians and farmers.
Researchers found that dopamine treatment increased neprilysin levels and reduced beta-amyloid plaques in mouse brains, improving memory function. Long-term L-DOPA treatment also showed improved cognitive performance in mice.
A new study reveals that Meteorin-like protein saps energy from T cells, severely limiting their ability to fight cancer. By understanding this signaling pathway, researchers may be able to develop targeted treatments to restore metabolic health and enhance the immune system's power against tumors.
Researchers discovered that certain bacteria living inside ticks are essential for their survival and reproduction. These bacteria produce vital nutrients, making them a potential vulnerability in tick populations that could be exploited to control tick numbers and reduce the incidence of tick-borne diseases.
A study on horse miscarriages revealed that 42% of cases were due to triploidy, a condition characterized by an extra set of chromosomes. This finding provides insight into the frequency of chromosome errors during early human pregnancy, which has been difficult to determine.
Researchers genetically engineered Toxoplasma gondii to produce and release therapeutic proteins in the human brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. The method has potential implications for treating diseases caused by protein deficiencies or abnormal expression.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered a new species of starfish off the coast of Japan, shedding light on the country's marine biodiversity. The newly named Paragonaster hoeimaruae is a distinctive red and beige color with five arms and spans over 10 centimeters.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University found that genes on newly formed neo-sex chromosomes in fruit flies tend to evolve sex-biased genes, which give sex-specific phenotypes. This strongly supports the hypothesis that sex chromosomes reduce sexual conflict by imparting beneficial traits to each sex.
Researchers at Hiroshima University have identified genetic signatures of domestication in pigs and chickens, revealing changes in gene expression related to immune response, stress response, and energy metabolism. These findings provide insights into the genetic basis of domestication and highlight potential candidate genes for breedi...
New research reveals that flamingos are 'middle of the road' when it comes to preening time among waterbirds. The study found that captive flamingos actually spend less time preening compared to wild birds and other waterbird species like pelicans and gannets.
Researchers found that decreasing folate intake can support healthier metabolisms in aging animal models. Folate-limited diets enhanced metabolic flexibility and improved weight management into old age, without adverse health effects.
A new study finds that housing-related companion animal relinquishment increased across 21 US shelters from 2019-2023, while pet restrictions and conflicts declined. Housing insecurity worsens despite pet-inclusive policies, leaving owners with devastating choices.
Researchers discovered that transferring regenerative genes from simple organisms into fruit flies can suppress age-related issues and promote greater intestinal stem cell division. This breakthrough has implications for developing new strategies to rejuvenate stem cell function and extend healthy lifespans, particularly in humans.
Researchers discovered ultrastructural abnormalities in obese patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which may be related to the impact of obesity on muscle structure. The study suggests that reducing obesity and using certain medications could help improve HFpEF outcomes.
Researchers discovered a pheromone receptor that controls parenting behavior in African cichlid fish. The study found that males with a specific genetic mutation picked up eggs in their mouths, taking on the role of 'mouthbrooding' dads.
A new study published by US Forest Service researchers explores the impact of leaf-eating insects on forest ecosystems worldwide. The findings suggest that warmer climates affect plant-herbivore interactions, leading to changes in carbon and nutrient cycling in broadleaved forests globally.
The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals feature new research on PTSD, phobias, and psychiatric vulnerabilities. A special issue on eating disorders is also highlighted in the August issue of Psychiatric Services.
Researchers have identified the human odorant receptor for geosmin, a compound responsible for the distinct 'earthy' to 'musty' odor found in soil, plants, and certain foods. The discovery could aid in developing novel detection systems to monitor food quality and water purity.
A study by EMBL researchers found that gut bacteria can convert carcinogenic chemicals like BBN into BCPN, leading to tumour formation. The team discovered 12 bacterial species involved in this process, with individual differences in human gut microbiome affecting the risk of cancer development.
A team of researchers suggests creating a lunar biorepository to store cryopreserved samples of at-risk animal species, leveraging the Moon's natural cold temperatures for long-term storage. The facility aims to protect biodiversity from extinction threats and challenges such as climate change and geopolitical conflicts.
Scientists used AI to identify genes that can convert brain cancer cells into immune cells, increasing survival chances by up to 75% in mouse models. The approach bypasses the blood-brain barrier, offering new hope for aggressive cancers.
Researchers at U of T mapped the spatial distribution of long non-coding RNAs in testes, finding higher levels than previously estimated. The study suggests lncRNAs play a more significant role in male reproduction and may influence sperm development and behavior.
A study by the University of Essex found that oil and gas extraction can cause a nearly 30% decline in species richness near platforms, with pollutants like hydrocarbons up to 10,613% higher within 500m. This has a direct impact on marine invertebrates and food webs.
A new study found that monarch pupae can survive and produce adults for up to seven weeks in the winter, with a 49.4% success rate in pupal eclosion. The study suggests a potential adaptation to warmer winters and offers an alternative to traditional overwintering methods.
A new study using live mice and influenza virus sheds light on how maternal immune response affects fetal brain development. Researchers found that only a subset of severe infections can cause changes in the developing fetal brain, increasing the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders like schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers explored ancient interactions between life and the environment during the Phanerozoic Eon, a period of significant habitability improvements. They found that ocean algae played a crucial role in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and increasing oxygen levels, allowing for the evolution of more complex life forms.
A team of biologists has discovered a unique breeding behavior in the Andamanese Charles Darwin's frog, laying terrestrial eggs inside tree holes in an upside-down position. The frog also produces complex advertisement calls and engages in aggressive fights for mating rights.
Researchers found 16 native species of mammals using timber plantations as corridors and refuges in Central Panama. However, teak monocultures showed the lowest records of species, highlighting the importance of restoring natural habitats for comprehensive wildlife conservation.
A new study at Tel Aviv University found that geckos experience a sharp increase in metabolic rates when exposed to rocket explosions, leading to energy depletion. The researchers hypothesize that this stress response may apply to many other animals in conflict zones.