News Archive - Biological Sciences

New Blueprint of Brain Connections Reveals Extensive Reach of Central Regulator

UC San Diego researchers have generated a new map of brain connectivity from a part of the brain called the basal ganglia, a hub for regulating motor and behavior functions. The breadth of connections revealed could potentially open avenues for intervention of Parkinson’s disease and other disorders

Distinct Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms Tied to Different Brain Pathways

Neurobiologists have found that identifiable brain pathways are linked with specific debilitating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The findings could help form the basis for improving therapeutic strategies for precise symptoms of Parkinson’s at various levels of disease progression.

‘Island of Rats’ Recovers

A coordinated conservation effort that removed rats from Hawadax Island, formerly known as “Rat Island,” has become a new example of how ecosystems can fully recover to their natural state in little more than a decade. The results are described in a report led by a UC San Diego scientist.

New ‘Split-drive’ System Puts Scientists in the (Gene) Driver Seat

New research published in two papers by UC San Diego scientists describes novel achievements designed to make the implementation of gene drives safer and more controllable. The new split drive and home-and-rescue systems address concerns about the release of gene drives in wild populations.

‘Comet’ Illustrates the Mechanical Process of Cancer Growth

Tissues which consist largely of collagen were the focus of a recent collaborative study by a team from Stanford University and Purdue University. To accomplish their work, they used the Comet supercomputer at the San Diego Supercomputer Center at UC San Diego.

Food for Thought: New Maps Reveal How Brains are Kept Nourished

UC San Diego scientists have created new brain maps with unprecedented detail. The insights provided by the new maps are helping answer questions about blood supply and how more active parts of the brain are kept nourished versus less demanding areas.

Researchers Unveil Detailed Genome of Invasive Malaria Mosquito

Researchers have produced a groundbreaking new reference genome for the Asian malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi. The achievement will help scientists engineer advanced forms of defense against malaria transmission, including targeted CRISPR and gene drive-based strategies.

Immune System Sets ‘Tripwire’ to Protect against Viruses

A new study by UC San Diego biologists has revealed insights on the intricate, adaptive mechanisms of a protective system employed by the cells of mammalian immune systems. These defenses have evolved to set a type of tripwire that produces an immune response against attack from viruses.

Ocean Acidification is Transforming California Mussel Shells

As the waters off our coasts change due to human influences, scientists have found that the composition of shells of California mussels, a critical species found along the Pacific Coast, are weakening as a result of ocean acidification.

Scientists Developing New Solutions for Honeybee Colony Collapse

Under a new effort to halt a worldwide decline in honeybees, scientists at UC San Diego and other UC campuses have established a network of bee researchers and engineers. The network, one of the largest in the country, will develop new solutions by joining various avenues of expertise.