Study Discovers Over 6,000 Antibiotic Resistance Genes in the Bacteria that Inhabit the Human Gut
A study carried out in collaboration with the University of Birmingham has used an innovative approach to identify thousands of antibiotic resistance genes found in bacteria that inhabit the human gut. The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, mainly bacteria. Most of these are sensitive to antibiotics, but a significant number of bacteria…
Tiny Fossils Reveal How Shrinking Was Essential For Successful Evolution
A new study published today in Nature shows that getting smaller was a key factor contributing to the exceptional evolution of mammals over the last 200 million years. The origin of modern mammals can be traced back more than 200 million years to the age of dinosaurs. But while dinosaurs evolved to become some of…
Fossilized Plant Leaf Wax Provides New Tool for Understanding Ancient Climates
Maintaining Sufficient Vitamin D Levels May Help to Prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis
Gold “Nanoprobes” Monitor Blood Flow
Scientists have designed gold nanoparticles, no bigger than 100 nanometers, which can be coated and used to track blood flow in the smallest blood vessels in the body. By improving our understanding of blood flow in vivo the nanoprobes represent an opportunity to help in the early diagnosis of disease. Light microscopy is a rapidly…
New Tissue Regeneration Technique Inspired by Nature
Scientists have found a way of mimicking our body’s natural healing process, using cell derived nano-sized particles called vesicles, to repair damaged tissue. The paper, published in Scientific Reports, describes a new approach to bone regeneration; stimulating cells to produce vesicles which can then be delivered to facilitate tissue regeneration. The research team, led by…
Study Reveals Small Group of Cells Within a Plant Embryo Operate in Similar Way to the Human Brain
A plant’s decision about when to germinate is one of the most important it will make during its life. Too soon, and the plant may be damaged by harsh winter conditions; too late, and it may be outcompeted by other, more precocious plants. In a study published today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences…
‘Connshing Syndrome’ Named as New Cause of High Blood Pressure
A New Treatment for Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria and Infectious Disease
A study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, describes a new treatment pathway for antibiotic resistant bacteria and infectious diseases with benefits for patients and health care providers. Researchers from the University of Birmingham and Newcastle University found that the unusual approach of removing antibodies from the blood stream reduced the…
An Epidemic of EpiPens
Fully Functional ‘Nano-Snowman’ Has Applications for Providing Greener Energy
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have captured the formation of a platinum encrusted nanoparticle that bears a striking resemblance to a festive snowman. As well as providing some Christmas cheer, the fully functional ‘nano-snowman’ has applications for providing greener energy and for advancements in medical care. At only five nanometres in size, the nano-snowman…