News on the use of animals, and their alternatives, in biomedical research. Covers animal models, primate studies, tissue chips, research ethics, and disease modeling.
A new study by Emory University neuroscientists reveals that oxytocin plays a key role in male zebra finches' learning to sing by imitating their elders. The hormone influences young birds' preference for certain 'voice coaches', shedding light on the neural underpinnings of social vocal learning.
A team of Virginia Tech scientists has identified a brain pathway responsible for synchronized movement in individuals, including mice, without rehearsal. The study provides an underlying mechanism for coordinating group behavior, which is essential for understanding social communication in humans and developing therapies for ADHD, ASD...
Researchers at MUSC identified changes in pyramidal neurons contributing to drug seeking. Inhibiting enzyme protein kinase A restored normal function and reduced opioid-seeking behavior.
Scientists at Duke-NUS Medical School have discovered a protein called ASC2 that inhibits inflammasomes, thereby limiting inflammation in bats. This discovery could lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs for human diseases, including those caused by viral infections and ageing.
Researchers discovered that scalloped hammerhead sharks close their gill slits during deep dives to prevent heat loss and keep warm. This unique behavior allows them to hunt effectively in cold water depths.
A team led by Professor Timo Betz has developed a 3D cell culture chamber to grow muscle and other tissue using high-resolution microscopy. The new system will enable scientists to mimic the mechanical situations that confront various living tissues in serious conditions, reducing animal testing and costs.
A new study from University of Michigan suggests that the perception of not enough food can be sufficient to slow aging in flies. The researchers induced hunger in flies through various methods, including altering amino acid levels and using optogenetics, and found that these flies lived significantly longer than controls.
A new study reveals a shared molecular response to nanoparticles, linking immune activation and particulate matter exposure. The findings propose a solution to the 'one-chemical-one-signature' problem in chemical safety assessment.
The gene LRRC4 regulates synapse formation, stability and excitatory transmission, playing a crucial role in learning, memory formation and storage. It also has key implications in neuronal disorders and aggressive brain and spinal cord cancer.
Researchers discovered that Obamus coronatus, a half-inch long Ediacaran animal, preferred to live on specific parts of the sea floor in the company of other Obamus. This finding shows that even without modern descendants, ancient animals could exhibit sophisticated behavior and habitat selection.
Researchers found that three specialized Kenyon cell subtypes in honey bees evolved from a single, multifunctional ancestor, potentially offering insights into human behavior. Transcriptome analysis revealed comparable similarity between the Kenyon cell subtypes of sawflies and honey bees.
Scientists have used sub-surface imaging and aerial surveys to uncover the Red Lily Lagoon area in West Arnhem Land, revealing significant implications for understanding the First Australians. The study provides a new way to understand the rock art in the region, which is recognized globally for its significance and distinctive style.
A study by the University of Zurich found that chimpanzees understand and respond strongly to combined calls, which they use to recruit group members in threatening situations. This discovery sheds light on the potential evolutionary origins of language's compositional structure, suggesting it may be at least 6 million years old.
Research reveals that urban bird species are generally smaller, less territorial, and have greater ability to fly long distances. They also have broader dietary and habitat niches, lay more eggs at a time, live longer, and inhabit wider elevations compared to other species.
Researchers found that psilocybin facilitates fear extinction in mice by promoting hippocampal neuroplasticity. The study's results improve our understanding of the restorative effects of psilocybin on the brain and may lead to alternative treatments for PTSD.
A study by the University of Barcelona found that individuals less integrated in groups and more afraid of new objects were best at solving challenges. Dromedaries and goats were among the most skilled animals, with success rates of 86% and 69%, respectively.
The study reveals that mammals diversified before the K-Pg extinction, driven by continental drifting and stability following the mass extinction. This led to the rich diversity of mammal lineages, including carnivores, primates, and hoofed animals.
More than 3 million sq km of Asian elephant habitat has been lost in 300 years, with suitable habitats cut by nearly two-thirds. The study suggests that the remaining elephant populations may not have adequate habitat areas, setting up a high potential for conflicts with people living in those areas.
A large-scale genomic study of 240 mammal species reveals previously uncharacterized regulatory elements in the human genome, linked to disease risks and distinctive traits. The research provides insights into the evolutionary development of mammalian genomes and their potential applications in medical research.
Scientists have identified Norn cells as the primary source of erythropoietin (Epo) in humans, a crucial hormone for red blood cell production. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for anemia and other conditions related to impaired Epo production.
George Mason University researchers have identified key methods for successfully reintroducing captive birds into the wild, including exposing animals to wild food and providing supplemental feeding after release. Their study provides evidence-based support for exploring the use of behavior and its management as an influential tool in ...
A Cornell University-led project has reconstructed Balto's phenotype using ancient DNA extraction and analysis. The research reveals that Balto had a genetically healthier and less inbred lineage than modern breeds, with characteristics adapted to the extreme environment of 1920s Alaska.
A team of IUPUI researchers has developed an AI-powered approach to classify insect species, tackling the challenge of discovering new species. The method uses deep hierarchical Bayesian learning to distinguish between known and unknown species, providing insight into their taxonomy and ecosystem impacts.
Rice University scientists developed a screening technique to identify high-performing biomaterials for encapsulating insulin-secreting cells, providing long-term blood sugar level control in diabetic mice. The study's findings have the potential to open the door to a more sustainable and self-regulating way to treat Type 1 diabetes.
Researchers have developed a 'vein-on-a-chip' device that mimics the human vein, eliminating the need for animal models in some studies. The device, which includes structures called valves and endothelial cells, allows scientists to study mechanisms of blood clot formation in a realistic manner.
New research reveals that ant mounds on Danish heathlands are crucial for biodiversity. The heat and nutrients from these structures create a unique environment that allows certain plant species to thrive. This finding highlights the importance of preserving ant mounds as part of efforts to mitigate the biodiversity crisis.
Scientists design a mini gene therapy to replace the mutated gene in Usher 1F, increasing protein production and restoring hearing in mice. The approach may also prevent blindness by targeting a different form of the protein involved in vision loss.
This study examined the effects of deferoxamine and ferrostatin-1 on salivary gland dysfunction in ovariectomized rats. The researchers found that these compounds reduced inflammation, fibrosis, and improved salivary gland function, suggesting potential treatments for postmenopausal xerostomia.
Researchers discovered a 'cocktail' of human antibodies that show promise in fighting severe SARS-CoV-2 infections, including Omicron variants. The study revealed how the original Moderna vaccine could prompt the body to produce these broad-spectrum antibodies.
A study found that horses living in groups and large paddocks were better at following human indications than those kept in individual stables. The research showed that social interaction and space availability play a crucial role in the horses' ability to follow instructions.
A new study finds that pet rabbits require daily freedom to exercise outside their home enclosure, even in larger hutches with access to an exercise area. The research highlights the importance of allowing pairs of rabbits to move freely throughout the day.
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Neuroscience shows that monkeys can think deeply about problems, consider multiple factors, and find optimal outcomes. This discovery challenges traditional views on animal intelligence and highlights the complexity of monkey cognition.
Research on 28 male chimps found that certain personality traits like dominance and low conscientiousness are linked to high rank and reproductive success. The study suggests that the best personality for males varies depending on environmental or social conditions, rather than being a fixed trait.
Researchers tracked social grooming behavior in wild baboons using collars-mounted accelerometers, identifying and quantifying giving and receiving grooming with high accuracy. The study's findings have important implications for the study of social behavior in animals, particularly non-human primates.
New research reveals that millipede segments contain tiny bundles of legs, which appear as transparent protrusions before molting. This discovery could help understand how not only millipedes but also other arthropods grow and develop.
Researchers used drones to capture images of corn fields damaged by wild pigs in Texas, finding an average loss of 3,416 kg of corn per hectare and a direct cost to producers of up to $48.24 per hectare. The damage occurred mainly in later growth stages, when corn ears were maturing.
A new study suggests that large animals are disadvantaged due to their limited traveling speeds, which can be attributed to their inability to effectively dissipate excess heat generated by their muscles. This limitation leads to slower travel speeds compared to medium-sized animals.
Researchers use 3D imaging technology to study Tully monsters and reject vertebrate hypothesis, but uncertainty remains about its exact classification as an invertebrate chordate or protostome. The study sheds light on the challenges of piecing together Earth's evolutionary history and highlights the importance of Mazon Creek fossils.
A Portuguese study found that 19% of surfaces in small animal veterinary practices harboured at least one multidrug-resistant bacterium. These included Staphylococci, such as S. pseudintermedius, and Acinetobacter spp., which are resistant to carbapenem antibiotics.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable skin patch that can deliver multiple doses of antibodies over several weeks, reducing pain and infection risks. The patch uses a stabilized powder of antibody, which is slowly released into the bloodstream as it degrades.
Researchers have solved the mystery of why orchid bees concoct their own fragrance. The bee fragrance serves as a sex attractant and increases the reproductive success of males. The study found that the females are attracted to the scent and that it triggers mating behavior in them.
Research reveals eastern wolves are genetically distinct from grey wolves and coyotes, suggesting a separate evolutionary origin around 67,000 years ago. The study also indicates hybridization between coyotes and eastern wolves has occurred at least twice, in the Great Lakes region.
Scientists create B cell organoids to screen conjugate vaccine candidates, identifying antigen-specific antibodies with potential applications. The platform accelerates testing throughput, offering insights into the immune response to vaccines.
A genetically engineered probiotic has been shown to blunt the ill effects of alcohol in mice by reducing alcohol absorption and prolonging tolerance. The treatment also shortened recovery time after alcohol exposure and reduced liver damage. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that adding nonanal, a chemical used in perfumes, to a pheromone blend increases its effectiveness in mimicking female fall armyworm calls. The discovery could help farmers detect and control fall armyworm populations more effectively.
Researchers found that endotherms have well-developed turbinates and larger nasal cavities than ectotherms, helping to cool their brains. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of nasal cooling in warm-blooded animals from their theropod dinosaur ancestors.
A recent study has found that sleep is necessary for survival due to its role in regulating the body's homeostasis and preventing diseases. The research also shows that the brain disconnects from the environment during sleep, and that the gut plays a crucial role in this process.
Dominique Higgins and his team found that a specialized diet can induce ferroptosis, a type of cell death, in glioblastoma cells, making chemotherapy drugs more effective. This approach has shown promise in animal models and is being explored as a potential treatment for brain tumors.
A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has developed a bio-inspired model that simulates variable stiffness flaps on an airfoil to improve lift. The study used reinforcement learning to optimize the stiffness levels, resulting in significant improvements compared to traditional single-stiffness models.
Researchers tracked female bushcrickets' movement and found they tend to fly more frequently and longer distances than males, making them more vulnerable to bats. This contradicts the assumption that males take higher risks in search of mates.
A review of scientific literature on reptiles between 1960 and 2021 found that 15% of articles focused on only ten species, with fewer than ten studies published on 90.5% of all species. The authors attribute this bias to factors such as habitat, size, danger of extinction, and proximity to research institutions.
A recent study published in Journal of Animal Ecology has identified disease avoidance strategies in various animal species, including humans. The research provides insights into how emotions like disgust help protect against diseases and has implications for human health and conservation efforts.
Researchers have documented a rare defense mechanism in the Dwarf Reed Snake, which uses active cartwheeling to evade predators. This behavior is the first time such an action has been observed in snakes.
Researchers found that elephants exhibit hallmarks of domestication, including low aggression, empathic behaviour, and social learning. They propose that elephants' massive size and safe environment may have relaxed selective pressures for aggression, allowing for the evolution of prosocial behaviour.
Researchers found that rats, like humans, tend to overestimate the likelihood of two events occurring together. This study suggests a shared cognitive mechanism between humans and animals, which could have implications for understanding psychopathological conditions.
A new study reveals a protein in the nervous system regulates collagen expression, potentially extending human lifespan as temperatures rise. Mutant worms with increased collagen production lived longer and looked younger than wild-type worms under warm temperatures.
A group led by Virginia Tech's Audrey Ruple developed the PetSORT guidelines to standardize reporting in clinical trials involving dogs and cats. The guidelines address methodological features often missing from reported trials, which can affect meta-analysis results.
WVU engineers developed a new electrode cuff called MouseFlex to test electric current treatments, overcoming previous challenges with stability and durability. The device can withstand high electrical stimulation and may benefit patients with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and drug-resistant epilepsy.
A research team from Germany, Austria, Canada, and the USA analyzed Troodon eggshells using a new method, revealing that they were produced at temperatures of 42°C and 30°C. The findings suggest that Troodon females laid eggs in communal nests, similar to modern ostriches.
Researchers found that monk parakeets lose their social standing after a brief absence, particularly among high-ranking birds. The study, led by Annemarie van der Marel, used networks of aggression and observational studies to quantify bird status in dominance hierarchies.