Connecting Research and Experts with Journalists

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A cutting-edge study offers fresh insights into how roses defend themselves against the damaging fungus Botrytis cinerea, which causes severe losses in ornamental plants. Researchers uncovered how phosphorylation and ubiquitination—two key protein modifications—work together to regulate the plant’s immune response. Their findings may lead to the development of roses with stronger resistance to fungal infections, potentially benefiting both commercial growers and horticulturists.

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A new study has uncovered critical genetic factors that influence the height of chrysanthemum plants, a key trait that affects both their market appeal and structural integrity. The research analyzed plant height, internode number, internode length, and stem diameter in 200 chrysanthemum varieties. By identifying essential genetic markers, the scientists aim to equip breeders with tools to cultivate chrysanthemums that are not only visually appealing but also more robust.

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A new study has uncovered the crucial role of the CsMYB67 gene in controlling flavonoid biosynthesis in tea leaves, compounds that give tea its bitter and astringent taste. This gene’s role in regulating flavonoid production in response to environmental stress offers valuable insights into tea plant biology and opens up avenues for enhancing tea quality through genetic modification.

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Gardens offer a steady and reliable source of nectar all year round, helping to keep pollinators fed when farmland sources are limited, researchers have discovered.

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One of the biggest decisions older adults and people with serious disabilities face each fall is which type of Medicare to enroll in. If they change from one to the other, a new study finds, they may be entering a revolving door and find themselves changing again in the future.

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Political affiliation may not make a difference on everyday purchases for individuals, but it can play a role when buying for friends, family and co-workers, new research from the University of New Hampshire has found. This may have implications for gift buying this holiday season and beyond.

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Threats to democracy are occurring all over the globe, and UC San Diego scholars are taking a deep dive into understanding the growing phenomena as part of the Future of Democracy, an initiative of the UC Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation

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New research from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) reveals that 100% ground beef packs a bigger punch for muscle protein synthesis than a soy-based counterpart. In fact, the study suggests that a person would need double the amount of soy-based protein to achieve the same results. Published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the study examined the anabolic response — how the body builds muscle — after consuming a 4-ounce beef patty versus one or two 4-ounce patties of a soy-based product. The results? Just one serving of beef did the job, while two servings of the soy-based alternative were necessary to see the same muscle-building benefits.

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A recent study published by Dr. Jordan Verplank, Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Genetics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), and a team of scientists from USU, State University of Buffalo (New York), and Cyclerion Therapeutics, has identified a promising approach for treating hereditary peripheral neuropathies, specifically Charcot Marie Tooth disease types 1A (CMT1A) and 1B (CMT1B). By focusing on increasing levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) – a signaling molecule involved in various biological processes – the study has shown potential improvements in myelination, nerve conduction, and motor coordination in mouse models affected by these conditions. The findings were published in Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences on October 14, 2024.

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A new study conducted by researchers at George Washington University sheds light on the critical role that same-race peer groups play in the success of African American doctoral students at predominantly white institutions (PWIs).