News on the use of animals, and their alternatives, in biomedical research. Covers animal models, primate studies, tissue chips, research ethics, and disease modeling.
The latest publication from the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study reviews current demographics and health parameters, including cancer diagnoses and deaths. The study has obtained 223 of its desired primary endpoints, with hemangiosarcoma being the most common cancer.
A new study from Ohio State University found that DNA nanotechnology is safe for medical use in mice, with a dose-dependent immune response. The research suggests that different shapes of nanostructures may be more conducive to different therapeutic applications.
Southern right whale mothers choose shallow nursery sites in 30-foot-deep waters to minimize predator detection, allowing them to communicate securely with their calves. This habitat selection behavior is a new form of acoustic crypsis, reducing the risk of being overheard by predators.
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that nasopharyngeal swabs were the most effective method for detecting COVID-19, with detection rates ranging from 92 to 100%. Saliva and anterior nares tests had lower detection rates, particularly in asymptomatic patients.
A new study found that banded mongooses engage in lethal intergroup battles, with the number of adult males and age of oldest male being crucial factors. Experienced individuals are vital for success, while older males become liabilities beyond a certain age.
Researchers found that zinc ion serves as a master-regulator of various processes in sperm to facilitate fertilization. Zinc helps maintain sperm in the non-capacitated state, preventing premature capacitation during artificial insemination.
Researchers have found that deep-diving seals rely on their sensitive whiskers to detect water movement and capture prey in the absence of light. The study provides insight into the unique sensory adaptations of marine mammals and sheds light on how seals navigate and hunt in extreme environments.
Research finds prenatal exposure to BPA and DEHP may contribute to mood disorders later in life by altering brain chemistry. Adult offspring exposed to these chemicals displayed impaired fear responses and altered behavioral patterns, highlighting the importance of avoiding exposures during pregnancy.
Research from the University of Georgia shows that monarch populations have remained relatively stable over the past 25 years due to summer breeding growth. The study suggests that population growth during the summer compensates for losses due to migration, winter weather, and environmental factors.
A study published in PNAS reveals that about 15.4% of rhinos in Kruger National Park have been infected with M. bovis, the pathogen causing bovine tuberculosis. The finding highlights the need for a one health approach to support global conservation efforts and prevent potential spread to human health.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a tiny, flexible neural probe that can record and stimulate neural activity while minimizing injury to surrounding tissue. The probe is ideal for studying peripheral nerves or the spinal cord, where traditional probes may not fit due to its small size and flexibility.
A randomized clinical trial found that vaccinating household chickens increased consumption of high-protein foods, leading to improved growth and reduced child stunting in rural Kenya. Children from vaccinated households showed a 24% increase in protein-rich food intake and significant gains in height and weight.
A new research group led by biologist Dr. Michael Gerth will investigate the interactions between bacteria and insects, with a focus on how bacterial DNA changes when transferred from one species to another. The team aims to identify successful host transfer strategies and understand environmental factors influencing these processes.
Researchers tracked medium ground finches' movements day and night, finding they cover areas equivalent to 30 soccer fields and gather nightly in a lush grove. This behavior helps birds fight cold and reduces predation risk.
A new study finds the Red-billed Leiothrix, a small songbird native to subtropical Asia, has become an invasive non-native species in Britain. The species' potential impact on local wildlife and ecosystems is being highlighted by researchers, who note that it could cause significant changes if widely established.
Researchers found that boldness, dominance, and obstinacy are key factors in problem-solving success for zebra finches. Over two years, consistent personality traits predicted innovation in novel foraging tasks, supporting the 'necessity drives innovation' hypothesis.
A study by Dr. Anja Weidenmüller reveals that glyphosate affects the collective thermoregulatory capacity of bumblebee colonies, impacting brood development and colony growth. This effect is particularly pronounced in times of resource scarcity, highlighting the need to reassess pesticide approval procedures.
The first international study of its kind assesses the status of all reptile species, revealing that at least 2,000 species are threatened with extinction. The study found that 50% of turtle and crocodile species face extinction threats, while 30% of forest-dwelling reptiles and 14% of arid area reptiles are in danger.
A new species of leopard gecko, Eublepharis pictus, has been discovered in India's relic forests. The Painted Leopard Gecko measures 11.7 cm in length and is strictly nocturnal, actively foraging along trails in the forest after dusk.
A new Cornell-led study reveals that more than 99% of veterinarians have encountered useless or non-beneficial veterinary care, leading to moral distress and difficulties in advocating for euthanasia. The study found that 89% of veterinarians administer futile care, with 42% experiencing frequent instances.
New tools for working with axolotls, developed by Prayag Murawala, hold promise for treating traumatic injury and disease. The axolotl's ability to regenerate tissues and organs could lead to new insights into human health.
A new Cornell University-led study found that low-income residents near new public transit stations in Medellin, Colombia experienced higher dengue fever rates. The researchers discovered that the proximity to these stations and socioeconomic status are significant factors in determining dengue incidence rates.
Research at Lund University found that ostriches are sensitive to fluctuating temperatures and lay up to 40% fewer eggs if the temperatures rise or fall by 5 degrees. The study also revealed a genetic trade-off between heat and cold tolerance, meaning that increased heat tolerance comes at the cost of decreased cold tolerance.
Researchers analyzed polar bear fecal samples and dietary intake to understand how chemical contaminants accumulate inside the body. They found that polar bears store high amounts of fat, leading to higher levels of toxins in their bodies.
Researchers used heterochronic parabiosis to connect old and young mice, revealing key mediators of systemic rejuvenation. Aged stem cells in bone marrow were revitalized by exposure to young blood, regaining lymphoid differentiation potential.
Researchers found that wild animal populations exhibit significant genetic differences in traits related to reproduction, enabling rapid adaptation to environmental changes. The study's findings suggest a potential speed-up in evolution due to natural selection, with implications for species' adaptability to climate change.
Researchers discovered that chromatin entropy increases during aging, leading to epigenetic dysregulation and cellular senescence. The study found that aberrant expression of placenta-related genes is a key driver of cellular aging.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki used new techniques to observe tree hyraxes in Kenya's Taita Hills, finding that they are social animals with specific habitat preferences. The study estimated a population size of no more than 2,000–4,000 individuals, shedding light on the behavior and conservation of these unique mammals.
Researchers developed a tool to analyze facial movements in common marmosets, finding they have more facial expressions than previously thought. The study suggests that facial expressions may be more ancient and prevalent among social animals.
A study led by Tel Aviv University researchers reveals a common mechanism underlying genetic mutations associated with autism, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders. The discovery points to an experimental drug developed by the team as a potential treatment for these conditions.
Researchers propose a new method to study neural networks using intrinsic signal optical imaging (ISOI), which provides detailed maps of brain activity in living subjects. The study shows that ISOI can reveal cortical architecture at columnar resolution, offering a more accurate picture of brain network activity than existing methods.
Researchers discovered that wandering salamanders, living in redwoods, have developed aerial behaviors to avoid predators, including parachuting and gliding. They are able to maintain control and make horizontal maneuvers, defying expectations of their sluggish nature.
A new diagnostic marker has been identified that predicts successful and efficient oocyte development. The study found that X-chromosome inactivation and reactivation are critical for normal germ cell differentiation.
A study found that domesticated pigs and horses, as well as Asian wild horses, can tell the difference between positively and negatively charged sounds. The animals reacted stronger to negatively charged voices and showed mirroring of emotions.
A team of ornithologists revised a Romanian museum collection, uncovering rare species and updated taxonomy. The study provides valuable information on the status of avifauna in the Carpathian basin during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The study found that breeding output collapsed due to increased maximum air temperature, with no successful breeding attempts above a threshold temperature of 35.7°C. The researchers predict that the yellow-billed hornbill could be extirpated from its range as soon as 2027.
A new analysis found that citizen science data from apps like eBird can be a valuable resource for researchers and managers, offering insights into wild bird populations. By comparing publicly-produced data with officially tracked numbers, researchers have identified patterns and potential areas for improvement.
A study reveals that wild duck, gull, goose, and poultry species play a crucial role in the global spread of bird flu. Ecological divergence among these species contributes to spillover events.
Researchers from Nagoya University found that Quetzalcoatlus was not suited for soaring flight due to its large wing loading. The study suggests that the Quetzalcoatlus's thermal soaring abilities were below those of modern birds, contrary to previous assumptions.
Researchers linked dietary cholesterol to exacerbation of viral infections in mice, showing that high levels of cholesterol made mice sicker when infected with influenza. The study found that dietary cholesterol increased the number of cytokine-producing immune cells in the lungs, contributing to excessive inflammation.
A new study finds that California coastal condors are at increased risk of reproductive impairment due to consuming dead marine mammals contaminated with banned chemicals like DDT and PCBs. Baja California, Mexico, presents a reduced risk compared to the California coast.
A team of researchers has developed a novel method using infrared imaging to assess glymphatic function, which is crucial for understanding neurological conditions. The technique allows for the measurement of temporal dynamics of glymphatic functions and provides insights into brain fluid exchange and clearance.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that a specific bacterial compound, lipopolysaccharide, induces larval marine tubeworms to settle on the seafloor and undergo metamorphosis. The discovery offers hope for coral reef restoration, mariculture, and biofouling prevention.
Researchers at NIST developed a new, faster, and more accessible method for screening skin allergens without animal testing. The electrophilic allergen screening assay (EASA) achieved similar results to existing methods with 77% agreement rate, paving the way for potential standardization and increased international trade.
Researchers studied naked mole-rats' skin using single-cell RNA-seq to understand its remarkable stability against aging. They found no changes in epidermal gene expression with age and a unique keratinocyte differentiation trajectory that remained intact.
Researchers have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 method for gene editing in cockroaches, achieving efficiency rates of up to 22% and over 50% in the red flour beetle. The technique, named DIPA-CRISPR, allows for efficient and accessible gene editing without requiring expensive equipment or skilled laboratory personnel.
Conservation efforts have made progress along the African east coast, but tens of thousands of sea turtles still die each year. The study highlights the importance of local knowledge and community engagement in turtle conservation.
Researchers have untangled the intricate physics and neural controls that enable dragonflies to right themselves while falling. They found that vision plays a key role in initiating the righting reflex, which triggers a series of reflexes that send neural signals to the wings.
Researchers have found that Sowerby's beaked whales are faster, more agile hunters than expected, with shorter dives and higher frequency clicks. This unique strategy may help them avoid competition among other beaked whale species.
Researchers found that jellyfish's stinging cells evolved by repurposing a neuron inherited from a pre-cnidarian ancestor. This discovery provides insights into the emergence of new cell types and the evolution of biodiversity, suggesting that co-option of ancestral cell types was an important source for new cell functions.
Researchers revived photoreceptor cells in human macula, responding to bright and dim lights. The study restores communication between retinal cells, transforming brain and vision research.
Researchers at EPFL's School of Life Sciences create a digital twin of Drosophila called NeuroMechFly, which uses biomechanical modeling and machine learning to simulate the fly's movements. The model is validated through experiments that demonstrate its accuracy in replicating real animal behaviors.
A team of researchers found that laboratory conditions, rather than the number of experimenters, have a greater influence on animal study results. This suggests that biological variation plays a key role in animal research, even with standardized conditions.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that climate change is causing the pine beauty moth to shift its range northward 50 years ahead of earlier predictions. The larvae feed on pine needles, and their population size is linked to warmer temperatures and forest health decline.
Researchers assessed metabolites in African savanna elephants for the first time, finding little variation among six healthy adults on the same diet. The study establishes a technique to accurately capture metabolites and provides insights into metabolism and health relationships in these endangered animals.
Researchers found that extinct species had smaller brains than surviving ones, suggesting a link between brain size and adaptability. The study suggests that larger brains helped extant species cope with human activities and climate change.
A study published in JCI Insight reveals that epigenetic drugs targeting BRD4 significantly reduce scarring in patients with scleroderma. The findings could lead to repurposing these drugs for faster relief from debilitating symptoms of this chronic disease.
A tropical spider species uses a thin layer of air to hide underwater from predators for up to 30 minutes, according to Binghamton University researchers. This unique adaptation allows the spider to prevent thermal loss and maintain respiratory function while submerged.
A new study suggests that supplementing a diet with Ascidiacea, also known as sea squirts, reverses some main signs of aging in animal models. The researchers found that plasmalogens, vital to body processes, decrease with age and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers discovered that moss cells can form mobile spindles during mitosis, moving like animal cells. This unusual process suggests a tug-of-war between microtubules and actin filaments to position the spindle, similar to animal cells.