Science & Technology
Modelling the collective movement of bacteria
A new paper presents a mathematical model for the motion of bacteria that includes cell division and death, the basic ingredients of the cell cycle.
A glimpse of a cell’s sense of touch
Scientists have now been able to unravel a mystery surrounding the question of how cells use their sense of touch to make vital decisions during embryogenesis.
Tissue-specific immunity may be the future, if we can first learn its rules
A new study reveals critical insights into the complex biology of tissue-specific T cells, paving the way for a new branch of precision therapeutics in immunity, autoimmunity, and cancer.
Alveolar macrophages help CD8+ T cells go (anti-)viral
Researchers have found that antigen-specific killer T cells (CD8+ T cells) rapidly expand in the lungs when primed by antigen-presenting lung-resident alveolar macrophages (AMs). This interaction helps protect against viral infection and could form the…
When our vertical perception gets distorted: Body pitch and translational body motion
Taking Hong Kong’s famous Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak offers stunning views of its central business district, Victoria Harbor, and the surrounding islands. But a team of international scientists has recently discovered that the trams winding journey …
Good and bad feelings for brain stem serotonin
New insights into the opposing actions of serotonin-producing nerve fibers in mice could lead to drugs for treating addictions and major depression.
Enzyme that protects against viruses could fuel cancer evolution
An enzyme that defends human cells against viruses can help drive cancer evolution towards greater malignancy by causing myriad mutations in cancer cells, according to a new study. The finding suggests that the enzyme may be a potential target for futu…
New biomarker test can detect Alzheimer’s neurodegeneration in blood
The biomarker, called ‘brain-derived tau,’ or BD-tau, outperforms current blood diagnostic tests used to detect Alzheimer’s-related neurodegeneration clinically. It is specific to Alzheimer’s disease and correlates well with Alzheimer’s neurodegenerati…
Skiing over Christmas holidays no longer guaranteed — even with snow guns
For many people, holidays in the snow are as much a part of the end of the year as Christmas trees and fireworks. As global warming progresses, however, white slopes are becoming increasingly rare. Researchers have calculated how well one of Switzerlan…