Biology

Researchers report that a protein signal called SLIT3 helps brown fat ramp up heat production by coordinating the growth of blood vessels and sympathetic nerves. In experiments using mouse models and human cells and tissue datasets, the team found SLIT3 is cut into two fragments with distinct roles—one linked to vessel growth and the other to nerve expansion—pointing to possible future obesity-treatment strategies aimed at boosting energy expenditure.

March 26, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

Scientists have discovered that snow flies, small wingless insects, produce antifreeze proteins and generate their own body heat to remain active in subfreezing temperatures as low as -6 degrees Celsius. Researchers at Northwestern University sequenced the insects' genome for the first time, revealing unusual genes and reduced sensitivity to cold pain. The findings, published March 24 in Current Biology, offer insights into adaptations for extreme cold.

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have identified a universal thermal performance curve that governs how organisms across the tree of life respond to temperature changes. This pattern shows performance improving gradually up to an optimal point before declining sharply. The finding, based on analysis of over 2,500 curves from diverse species, suggests evolutionary constraints on adapting to warming climates.

March 10, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

Researchers have used a synchrotron particle accelerator, robotics, and AI to create high-resolution 3D models of ants from 800 species. The project scanned 2,000 specimens in just one week, far faster than traditional methods. This effort, called Antscan, aims to build a digital library of insect biodiversity.

Researchers have identified a highly flexible region in cats' spines that allows them to rotate their bodies sequentially while falling, ensuring they land on their feet. Experiments on cat spines and high-speed videos of falling cats support the tuck-and-turn model over other theories. The findings suggest cats may prefer twisting in one direction due to anatomical asymmetries.

March 03, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

Researchers analyzing a Utah family tree dating back to the 1700s have identified a potential selfish Y chromosome that skews sex ratios toward males. The finding, drawn from the Utah Population Database, shows 60 boys and 29 girls among 89 children over seven generations. Experts caution that the sample size is small and other factors like chance or infidelity could play a role.