Researchers from Osaka University found that peristaltic pump flow mechanically breaks supersaturation to induce amyloid formation by hen egg white lysozyme, a-synuclein, amyloid b 1-40, and b2-microglobulin. The high shear stresses induced by peristaltic flow likely reflect those that occur the blood and cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting that this factor could promote amyloidosis.

Researchers from Osaka University found that knockdown of the Adaptor Protein Complex 2, Alpha 1 Subunit (AP2A1) rejuvenates aging cells, while AP2A1 overexpression ages young cells. AP2A1 appears to mediate these effects by promoting integrin β1 translocation along enlarged stress fibers, which in turn creates large cell–substrate adhesions and strengthens cellular anchoring to the substrate, potentially explaining how senescent cells maintain their large size.

A groundbreaking study explores Ba-Si orthosilicate oxynitride-hydride (Ba₃SiO_5−xN_yH_z) as a sustainable catalyst for ammonia synthesis, offering a potential alternative to traditional transition metal-based systems. Synthesized through low-temperature solid-state reactions and enhanced with ruthenium nanoparticles, these compounds demonstrated improved catalytic performance under milder conditions, providing a more energy-efficient route to ammonia production. This approach also addresses the environmental challenges associated with conventional methods, signaling a shift toward greener industrial practices in ammonia production.

Protein translocation across cellular membranes is crucial for moving proteins to specific locations and their extracellular secretion. Recently, researchers from Japan have used high-speed atomic force microscopy to observe SecYEG-SecA complex-mediated bacterial protein translocation in real-time for the very first time. Their study revealed how energy-driven conformational changes in SecA regulate protein movement across the membrane, offering new insights into mechanisms underlying protein transportation and showcasing the potential for several applications in pharmacy and medical science.

Graphite has been widely used as an anode material for lithium ion-batteries. However, its low storage capacity falls short of meeting current demands for high-capacity batteries required for long-range electrical vehicles and renewable energy storage. In a new study, researchers developed a novel germanium (Ge)/LiAlGePO composite material for LIB anodes that significantly improves storage capacities and capacity retention. This new anode material can lead to next-generation LIBs that can support the growing renewable energy demand.

A multi-institutional research team led by Osaka University has introduced a piezoelectric device that can measure acceleration and pressure simultaneously. The device can be manufactured at room temperature and is made from inexpensive materials, which makes it a promising candidate for a wide range of applications, including the maintenance of industrial machinery and disaster mitigation.