Researchers in Japan found that excessively activated neurons over time, rather than decreased neuronal activity, cause aging-related decline in brain function in nematodes.

Tokyo, Japan - A collaboration between the International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), The University of Tokyo and Tohoku University brings new insights into how the brain uses structured representations to process information. 

A research team from Osaka University and Diponegoro University, Indonesia has developed two new autonomous navigation systems for cyborg insects to better navigate unknown, complex environments. The algorithms utilized only simple circuits that leveraged natural insect behaviors, like wall-following and climbing, to navigate challenging terrain, such as sandy, rock-strewn surfaces. For all difficulties of terrain tested, the cyborg insects were able to reach their target destination, demonstrating the potential of cyborg insects for surveillance, disaster-site exploration, and more.

A biohybrid hand which can move objects and do a scissor gesture has been built by a team at the University of Tokyo and Waseda University in Japan. The researchers used thin strings of lab-grown muscle tissue bundled into sushilike rolls to give the fingers enough strength to contract. These multiple muscle tissue actuators (MuMuTAs), created by the researchers, are a major development towards building larger biohybrid limbs. While currently limited to the lab environment, MuMuTAs have the potential to advance future biohybrid prosthetics, aid drug testing on muscle tissue and broaden the potential of biohybrid robotics to mimic real-life forms.

An Osaka Metropolitan University-led research team finds wild medaka engage in surprisingly active nocturnal behavior in their natural river environment.

Healing severe wounds requires strong, safe, and effective dressings to prevent infections. Researchers at the University of Lincoln and Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a new type of wound patch by adding magnesium chloride to polyurethane nanofibers. These enhanced patches are stronger, more blood-compatible, and exhibit superior antibacterial properties than conventional ones, making them a game-changer for wound care. This innovative approach could improve healing outcomes and care for patients with serious injuries.

What’s the only native insect of Antarctica have to do to survive? An Osaka Metropolitan University-led international research team has uncovered the special ability of the Antarctic midge to prosper in an extreme environment.

Researchers at Ehime University successfully assessed the risk of DDTs on endocrine disruption in killer whales using New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) that avoid animal testing. By in vitro experiments and computer analysis, they found that DDTs activate killer whale estrogen receptor α, potentially disrupting hormone balance. This is concerning because DDTs levels in killer whales are high enough to cause harm. This study highlights the potential of NAMs for assessing chemical risks in wild species.

 A team from Osaka University has developed scSPOT, a new technique that reveals how immune cells called Tregs simultaneously control the immune system. The team identified key immune cells controlled by Tregs and found that Tregs are targets for the cancer drugs ipilimumab and tazemetostat. They also found that Tregs are indicators of serious viral infection. This valuable technique may accelerate the development of treatments for cancer and other diseases.

A research team at Toho University, has revealed that cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, increases the synthesis of hyaluronan in vascular endothelial cells. Their study has also identified that this process is mediated by the induction of hyaluronan synthase 3 (HAS3) expression.