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 confirm Atlantic cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus) has made a novel migration to Bermuda, using citizen science and morphological/data analysis. The species likely resides in Bermuda for extended periods due to the islands' mild sea temperatures.
Research from Stockholm University found that translocated pied flycatchers retain songs from their ancestral Dutch population while learning those of their new Swedish environment. This suggests that genetics play a role in shaping bird songs.
Researchers from the University of Konstanz and Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour found that meerkats use two different types of vocal interactions to communicate within their groups. Close calls are call-and-response exchanges between animals, while short notes announce 'I am here' but don't necessarily get a direct reply.
Researchers used supercomputers to study how fruit fly embryo cells develop into wings, offering a window into human development and possible treatments for birth defects. The team found that actomyosin drives much of the development process, particularly in the lower wing disc flattening.
A UMaine graduate student's research found that small mammal personalities determine the effectiveness of pilferage in mice and voles. Deer mice were the most accomplished thieves, while individuals with lower body condition and female voles were more likely to pilfer.
A team of researchers led by Dr. Ahmed discovered that two FDA-approved antibiotics can induce heart regeneration in mammals, showing promise for treating heart failure. The study found that the antibiotics improved cardiac output and reduced fibrotic scar tissue, suggesting a potential new therapy.
Researchers discover Striated Caracaras' playful behavior, showing they interact with objects for fun and explore novel items. The study sheds light on how these birds learn about their environment and could provide insights into the evolution of play in nature.
A new study reveals sex-specific effects of germline regulation on longevity and somatic repair in vertebrates. Removing the germline extends male lifespan and improves stress resistance in females.
Researchers have found that a parasitic worm, Eleaophora schneideri, is likely contributing to the decline of moose populations in some regions. The study found microfilariae scattered throughout the brains of infected animals, leading to potential increased morbidity and mortality.
A recent study found highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in 6 city birds in New York City, collected through a community involvement program. The researchers found the virus belonged to two different genotypes and highlighted the critical role urban wildlife rehabilitation centers play in viral surveillance.
Researchers found that repetitive practice leads to changes in working memory circuits, making them more stable and refined. The study's findings have implications for addressing memory-related disorders.
A Binghamton University professor investigates the adaptive response of fire ant rafts to mechanical load, discovering that they exhibit catch bond behavior under force, which enhances cohesion for survival. This phenomenon is being explored to develop artificial materials with autonomous self-strengthening properties.
Researchers analyzed the calls of two male emperor penguins, E-79 and E-81, and discovered a unique combination of masculine and feminine characteristics. This finding could lead to new methods for studying penguin behavior and assessing their reproductive state, which is crucial for conservation efforts.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that Eurasian jays can recall visual characteristics of cups with unique features after a 10-minute delay, demonstrating episodic-like memory. This ability may aid the birds in finding food stores and could be explored further.
Researchers characterized the microbial composition of oral fluid, feces, and environment of nursery piglets on commercial farms in Brazil. The study found distinct oral fluid bacterial profiles differing from those in feces and environment, with potential implications for swine health and production.
Researchers have developed a new weight loss drug that combines GLP-1 with molecules blocking the NMDA receptor, exploiting its effects on appetite control and neuroplasticity. This approach shows promise for greater weight loss in mice than existing medications.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed menthyl esters with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects. The compounds outperformed menthol in inflammatory assays and suppressed genes involved in immune responses. They also inhibited adipogenesis, showing promise for addressing metabolic disorders.
A team of researchers discovered a line of chickens bred for water conservation that can thrive under heat stress while consuming significantly less water than standard broiler lines. The high water-efficient chickens showed a 32-point improvement in water conversion and six-point improvement in feed conversion.
Researchers investigated molecular changes in aging mouse sweat glands, finding 171 mRNAs enriched in secretory cells. Altered mRNA and protein abundance were associated with age-related declines in sweat gland function.
Researchers have identified over 2000 protein-coding genes that change significantly between summer and winter in the starfish's reproductive process. This study provides a promising breakthrough in understanding how crown-of-thorns starfish communicate during reproduction, which could lead to the development of natural pest control me...
A University at Buffalo-led research team has found that the same genes whose mutations gave rise to a low functioning male gorilla reproductive system may also be responsible for human male infertility. Researchers identified 109 reproductive-related gorilla genes that are often mutated when present in infertile men.
A young sperm whale's long-range migration across the Mediterranean poses significant threats to its survival due to busy straits and pollution. The study demonstrates the need for targeted protection at key locations to safeguard marine life in the region.
Scientists have developed a functional model of thoracic aortic aneurysm using human cells in laboratory rats, offering new avenues for drug development and effective screening. The model successfully mimics dilation of the human aorta and has potential applications for treating this potentially fatal condition.
Researchers found that tiger beetles respond to bat echolocation by producing their own ultrasonic signal, which they believe is a defense mechanism. The beetles' defensive chemicals are not effective at deterring bats, but the sound itself may be used to trick bats into thinking they are noxious.
Researchers identified two distinct species of Giant Hummingbirds, differing in their migratory patterns and genomes. The northern population remains in the high Andes year-round, while the southern population migrates up to 14,000 feet for non-breeding months.
A new soft multi-electrode system for electroretinography has been developed to overcome the limitations of traditional devices. The system uses a commercially available soft disposable contact lens with gold mesh electrodes, allowing for simultaneous measurement of electrical potentials from different regions of the retina. This innov...
A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society found that birds on islands are more evolutionarily similar and diverse than expected, with more species thriving in agricultural areas. The research suggests that there may be fundamental principles of ecology at play, influencing bird evolution on islands.
A team of scientists at the University of Ottawa has developed a novel peptide-based hydrogel that can be used for on-the-spot repair to damaged organs and tissues. The material shows great potential for closing skin wounds, delivering therapeutics to damaged heart muscle, and reshaping and healing injured corneas.
Researchers in South Korea have detected the first hepatitis E virus from urban Norway rats, raising concerns about potential human transmission. The study found that 4.4% of examined rats carried the virus, which is linked to symptoms like fever, fatigue, and jaundice in humans.
A new study reveals that neural activity related to sound detection and movement are temporally separated but share commonalities, with neurons adapting their activity based on experience. The findings shed light on the brain's complex processing of sensory information and behavioral choices.
Researchers Polina A. Loseva and Vadim N. Gladyshev challenge the existing definition of human life, suggesting a new meaning for the 14-day stage in organismal life grounded in recent mechanistic advances and insights from aging studies. This stage defines the separation of soma from the germline and marks the boundary between rejuven...
Researchers found a significant association between neighborhood deprivation and DNA methylation in brain tissue, which may be linked to immune response. The study identified one CpG site (cg26514961, PLXNC1 gene) significantly associated with neighborhood deprivation after controlling for covariates.
Residents in the UK have complex views on the introduced ring-necked parakeet, with acceptance of urban presence but resistance in rural areas. Concerns include competition with native birds and unknown impacts on local ecosystems. The study suggests a possible generational divide in perceptions.
New research reveals human activities alter marine organism preservation, improving or impairing the fossil record. Human actions can prevent useful information about ongoing changes and enhance the quality of the fossil record.
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown population of the Australian brook lamprey, an ancient and endangered species, in Queensland. The find expands the species' geographic range into truly tropical waters, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this unusual fish.
A study by Duke University researchers found that combining a low-carb, high-fat keto diet with fluconazole significantly improved treatment outcomes against fungal meningitis. The keto diet increased the effectiveness of fluconazole by reducing fungal levels by up to ten thousandfold.
Scientists have found an effective treatment for spitting cobra snakebites by blocking one of the major dermonecrosis-causing toxins with varespladib. The study suggests that this repurposed drug can prevent tissue damage and may become a valuable treatment against black-necked and red spitting cobra venoms.
Researchers found associations between inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers and accelerated aging, with GlycA and GrimAge showing robust correlations. The study provides insight into the relationship between aging and cardiometabolic health, potentially informing vulnerable populations.
Desert isopods rigorously regulate their intake of macronutrients and calcium, preferring biological soil crust over plant litter. The research highlights the crucial role of ingested microorganisms in facilitating digestion and growth.
A new study by University of Colorado Boulder primatologist Michelle Sauther found that smaller animals like the lesser galago face extra challenges adapting to climate change. The research highlights the importance of protecting these small and nocturnal species, which are often overlooked in conservation efforts.
Recent technological breakthroughs enable global insect surveys using sound recordings, images, radar, laser beams, and DNA analysis. This allows for new insights into insect trends and species identification without relying on experts or killing insects.
A new study finds that birdwatching can improve subjective well-being and reduce psychological distress in college students compared to nature walks or a control group. Birdwatching was found to yield higher gains in well-being and more reduction in distress than nature exposure.
A study found that male baby chickens play more than females, with males engaging in social and object play. The researchers suggest that this difference may be due to the high degree of sexual dimorphism in adult junglefowl.
A new AI method developed by Swedish researchers can identify toxic substances based on their chemical structure, potentially replacing animal testing. The method has been shown to be more accurate and broadly applicable than existing computational tools, offering a promising alternative for environmental research and authorities.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a novel approach to treating pancreatic cancer using nano-drugs delivered via bacteria. The treatment bypasses the dense collagen barrier surrounding tumors, allowing for more effective delivery of immunotherapies.
Research reveals giant otters are more nocturnal around their dens than sympatric neotropical otters, showcasing their complex carnivore coexistence. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding these interactions in the Amazonian ecosystem.
Researchers used a novel deep proteomics approach to investigate the effects of aging and resistance training on skeletal muscle. The study found that aging predominantly affects non-contractile proteins, while resistance training has minimal effects on protein abundance.
A team of researchers has developed a hemostasis sponge that swiftly staunchs kidney bleeding and facilitates wound recovery. The material uses kidney-derived decellularized extracellular matrix to recreate the kidney's microenvironment, boasting high biocompatibility.
A comprehensive analysis of over 200 scientific articles reveals the fundamental importance of scavengers and carrion in wetlands, benefiting soil, plants, birds, and mammals. The study highlights five different functions performed by scavengers during carrion consumption, including nutrient recycling and pathogen control.
Researchers found widespread data gaps on environmental effects, emphasizing the need for updated information requirements in REACH legislation. They propose utilizing cross-species knowledge and grouping substances to increase understanding.
An experimental monoclonal antibody drug called mAb43 appears to prevent and reverse the onset of clinical type 1 diabetes in mice, lengthening their lifespan. The drug targets insulin-making beta cells directly and shields them from immune system attacks, raising the possibility of a new treatment for the autoimmune condition.
The study found that European bison prefer woody plants in autumn and winter, while red deer eat more woody plants than other species. Fallow deer have a higher consumption of legumes and herbaceous plants compared to the bison.
A Cornell University study found that foxes' sharp snouts penetrate the snow with little resistance, reducing potential tissue damage during a headfirst dive. The unique hunting behavior, known as mousing, allows foxes to reach their prey earlier and avoid injury.
A recent study published in Science Robotics found that robots struggle to outperform biological organisms in foot races. The researchers analyzed data from dozens of studies and concluded that the failure of robots to outrun animals is not due to shortfalls in individual components, but rather inefficiencies in system design.
Researchers at Lund University found that a specific cell type plays a key role in the joint evolution of these traits in the Mediterranean region. The study used field work and DNA analysis to investigate large, green, aggressive wall lizards and discovered genes responsible for their unique appearance.
A new study reveals mice think like babies, exhibiting exploratory and strategic behavior when learning tasks. Researchers found that mice adjust their strategy based on expectations and internal models, leading to improved performance without rewards.
Researchers at University of Florida discovered a Florida bottlenose dolphin infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV), the first reported case in a mammal in North America. The team analyzed tissue samples and confirmed the presence of HPAI A(H5N1) virus subtype 2.3.4.4b.
A new study reveals that dog owners experience significant emotional distress after their pet is stolen, similar to the grief of losing a child. The 'owner' role and relationship with dogs equate to familial relationships, leading to feelings of disenfranchised grief and ambiguous loss.
The lionfish species has significantly expanded its territory in the Mediterranean since its invasion began around ten years ago. Lionfish are generalist predators that impact ecosystems by preying extensively on local fishes, including endemics of high conservation value.
Researchers identified 35-63 proteins affecting severe COVID-19, hospitalization, SARS-COV2 infection, and 4-32 proteins for healthspan and lifespan. Novel proteins involved in inflammation, immunity, apoptosis and metabolism were also found.