Research

Researchers have uncovered how egg cells prepare for the creation of life. Their work reveals the secrets of the Balbiani body, a remarkable structure that organizes essential molecules to guide early embryonic development. Using zebrafish models and cutting-edge imaging, the team discovered how this structure transforms from liquid droplets into a stable core, laying the groundwork for life itself. This discovery sheds light on the extraordinary precision of nature’s reproductive process. 

Israeli and Palestinian engineers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem develop novel metamaterials for the cost-effective injection molding of whole cuts of meat. 

A study reveals that the structure of milk fat globules, rather than their chemical composition, plays a key role in their interactions with bacteria. Small globules promote the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bacillus subtilis, while larger ones trigger biofilm formation, a behavior linked to bacterial adaptation. These findings demonstrate milk’s natural protective mechanisms and highlight its potential to support gut health, offering significant implications for dairy science and nutrition.

A new study has uncovered a surprising link between Alzheimer’s disease and Herpes Simplex Virus-1 (HSV-1). Researchers found HSV-1 proteins embedded in Alzheimer’s brains, revealing how the virus is inhibited by tau protein—a key player in the disease. These insights could pave the way for innovative treatments targeting viral activity and the brain’s immune response to slow or even stop Alzheimer’s progression.

A new study reveals that typically developing twins consistently take on the dominant role over their nontypically developing siblings, even after developmental gaps are resolved. By highlighting how parental perceptions shape these dynamics, the research offers fresh insights into the delicate balance of twin relationships and the importance of fostering equality to support both children’s growth. 

A new study reveals how repeated fasting enhances the liver’s ability to adapt through a cellular memory mechanism. The research shows that alternate-day fasting “sensitizes” key genes and liver enhancers, boosting ketogenesis during subsequent fasting bouts. This process, driven by the transcription factor PPARα, highlights how the body adjusts to recurring nutritional challenges. These findings provide fresh insights into the metabolic benefits of fasting and its potential applications in health and dietary science.

Researchers at the Hebrew University enhanced the Elixhauser Comorbidity Model, improving predictions for length of hospital stay, mortality, readmission, and escalated care. The study outperformed the standard Elixhauser model, offering a comprehensive view of patient complexity. These findings benefit healthcare decisions and patient outcomes, with broad implications for the field.

New research has revealed that fish embryos actively control their hatching timing through a neurohormone, Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH), which triggers the release of enzymes that dissolve the egg wall. This groundbreaking discovery uncovers a previously unknown neural mechanism that governs a critical life-stage transition, showing that embryos are not passive but instead actively make life-or-death decisions. The finding has significant evolutionary implications, offering new insights into neurobiology, survival strategies, and environmental adaptation in vertebrates.

A recent study has developed a novel method to analyze genetic variations in families with a high incidence of breast cancer. By examining 1218 genetic variants in 12 families, the research identified 80 genes linked to an increased risk of the disease. It also highlighted the significant, yet previously overlooked, roles of peroxisomal and mitochondrial pathways in breast cancer predisposition and patient survival.

A new study highlights the potential of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette’s Syndrome. Research conducted on mice showed that psilocybin and psychedelic mushroom extract significantly reduced OCD-like behaviors and tic-like head-body twitches. These promising results pave the way for clinical trials and offer hope for new, effective treatments for OCD and Tourette’s Syndrome.

UNDER EMBARGO October 18, 2024
5:00 AM ET | 10:00 AM London Time | 12:00 PM Israel time

Revolutionizing Optical Imaging: Breakthrough Non-Invasive Technology for Imaging Through Scattering Media

Hebrew University Researchers Introduce Image-Guided Computational Holographic Wavefront Shaping, Offering Fast and Versatile Solutions for Complex Imaging Challenges