IN THE LAB
It’s Not Always Better To Taste Bitter
Japanese macaques may have lost the ability to taste bitter flavors as an adaptation to agriculture, scientists say.
Two Genes Linked To Schizophrenia
Double mutations in BDNF and dysbindin-1 have been associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia.
Precise, Reversible Control Of Calcium Flux
By combining optogenetics with the Ca2+ sensor STIM1, scientists now have unprecedented control over Ca2+ influx into a cell in vitro and in vivo.
The Secret Language Of Ants
Using DNA sequencing and quantitative methods to study gene expression, scientists have identified the chemosensory proteins involved in communication between ants.
‘Living Fossil’ Evolves Faster Than Previously Thought
The genome of the brachiopod Lingula anatina sheds light on how different branches of the animal kingdom converted sort tissue to hard structures.
Towards Better Tests For Depression
The current method of testing for a precursor to depression using monetary incentives may miss out many sufferers, study says.
Gene Linked To Osteoporosis Found
Loss of the non-coding gene EN1 has been linked to reduced bone mineral density and increased risk of fractures, hallmarks of osteoporosis.
Breaching The Blood Brain Barrier To Treat Autoimmune Diseases
Efficient delivery of a protein that regulates lymphocyte activation could be one way to treat central nervous system (CNS) diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Oxygen Not Necessarily A Marker Of Extrasolar Life
Research shows that oxygen could come from other inorganic sources, changing the idea that oxygen is a marker of life on exoplanets.
