Chimpanzees, our closest genetic relatives with approximately 99% of the same DNA, have always fascinated scientists. From their complex social behaviors to their intricate tool-use abilities, these great apes offer valuable insights into the evolution of human traits. One behavior that stands out is their nest-building routine, a fundamental activity for chimps that serves multiple … Read more
The lab of Ege Kavalali, Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology, recently published groundbreaking research in Nature Communications that uncovers a critical role for liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in the nanostructure of synapses. Their findings suggest that LLPS significantly influences synaptic function, particularly in the context of evoked neurotransmission. This new understanding of … Read more
Carbohydrate chains, known as glycans, are essential components of biological systems, influencing various cellular processes such as communication, immune responses, and structural integrity. These complex sugar molecules are widely found in plants, animals, and microorganisms, playing significant roles in metabolism and digestion. Among the many types of glycans, galactosides are particularly important due to their … Read more
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in zoo gorillas, a puzzling and concerning issue for wildlife researchers. Despite extensive research into the biology and health of these animals, the origins of heart disease in gorillas are still unclear. However, recent studies have focused on a promising area of research: the gut microbiome. The … Read more
The American bison, once on the brink of extinction, has made a remarkable recovery thanks to conservation efforts, with the Yellowstone National Park population being the sole group of bison in the United States that has continuously existed in the wild. However, recent studies led by researchers from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine … Read more
New research on the inner ear morphology of Neanderthals and their ancestors is challenging the widely accepted theory regarding the origin of Neanderthals and the genetic diversity of these ancient populations. Recent findings, published in Nature Communications, provide new insights into the evolution of Neanderthals, particularly questioning the long-standing idea that the loss of genetic … Read more
Bigger, tastier tomatoes and eggplants may soon become a reality thanks to groundbreaking genetic research by scientists at Johns Hopkins University and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. By identifying key genes responsible for fruit size, this discovery has the potential to revolutionize agriculture and expand global food production, especially in regions where local varieties have remained … Read more
Dr. Luiz Pezo-Lanfranco and his colleagues have made significant strides in understanding child mortality in the Central Andes through their research published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology. This study focused on the child mortality rates at the Quebrada Chupacigarro Cemetery (QCC), offering a rare glimpse into the health and living conditions of children during … Read more
Adult insects are renowned for their highly specialized and intricate eyes, which grant them remarkable sensory abilities. These sophisticated eyes are essential for performing various life functions, including foraging for food, navigating their environments, and locating potential mates. However, insect larvae are a different matter entirely, as their eyes are often underdeveloped or absent during … Read more
When most people hear the word “pollinator,” the first creatures that come to mind are often bees, butterflies, and sometimes even birds. These insects are widely recognized for their roles in transferring pollen from one flower to another, aiding in the reproduction of countless plant species. However, a recent study has shed light on the … Read more