According to a study conducted by researchers in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, more deforested areas have fewer species that are more similar to each other and perform the same ecological functions. The authors say this phenomenon compromises the resilience of the ecosystem.
Called BR4, the microorganism breaks down PET and produces PHB, a high-quality biopolymer that can be used to manufacture sustainable packaging and for biomedical applications.
Based on the analysis of the genotypes of 500 volunteers, the research project aims to develop a panel of prognostic biomarkers and differentiate Alzheimer’s disease from other types of dementia using blood tests.
In pre-clinical tests conducted at the University of São Paulo, compounds called batzelladins were effective even against strains of Plasmodium that are resistant to conventional antimalarial drugs.
A study by Brazilian scientists shows that a by-product of industrial sunflower oil extraction can be used to produce functional breads with high nutritional value.
In a review article, researchers highlight the challenges that must be overcome to increase the performance and lifetime of MS-SOFC fuel cells while reducing the cost and environmental impact.
A project in the Chico Mendes Extractive Reserve shows that rubber provides adequate income to sustain livelihoods and conserve the forest. However, nut collection yields low pay, which contributes to the adoption of unsustainable practices such as extensive cattle ranching.
Acetic acid, a component of vinegar, was used by researchers in the state of São Paulo to fractionate kraft lignin. The method produces nanoparticles with different properties, including UV protection.
FAPESP will begin supporting the Latin American Center for Medical Mycology, a global network of laboratories led by the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, which also has a unit in South Africa and will soon open another in Asia. Over five years, the foundation will contribute approximately £ 750,000, while the British institution will invest an additional £ 1 million.
In tests with rodents, researchers from the State University of Campinas and their collaborators found that hyperactivation of the PARP1 protein after exhaustive training was associated with decreased performance, fatigue, and behavioral symptoms of overtraining. Animals treated with a drug that inhibits the molecule’s activity did not exhibit the condition.
A pilot intervention project involving playful activities that engaged motor skills and cognition showed promising results in improving eye movements and reading speed in eleven children with dyslexia.
Researchers at a FAPESP-supported research center have combined innovative techniques to determine the chromosome number of species of the genus Vellozia, typical of this montane savannah ecoregion. The result provides support for conservation programs and biotechnological applications.
Blood and urine analyses of the population living in the Mundaú lagoon complex revealed a greater presence of chemical contaminants and metabolic alterations that can exacerbate chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. These results underscore the need to monitor the health of the inhabitants and control the sources of contamination.
An experiment carried out by researchers from São Paulo State University on zucchini crops indicated that a 30% drop in rainfall would reduce the availability of calories in the sweet liquid that serves as food for pollinators, such as bees, by 34%, while extreme drought practically wipes out the resource. These results are particularly concerning for plants that depend on cross-pollination.
The ingredient, extracted from the plant’s seeds, is a good source of protein and has a neutral flavor and aroma, making it easy to use in food products.
Findings published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules could guide studies aimed at treating diseases such as osteoporosis.
An experiment conducted at the State University of Campinas showed that FGF19, produced in the intestine, acts on specific regions of the brain, causing the body to burn energy to produce heat; the discovery paves the way for new drugs.
In animal tests, the molecule developed in South America has been shown to prevent fat accumulation and treat existing obesity and associated metabolic disorders. Initial human studies have confirmed the safety of the compound.
Sodium and tungsten bronze nanorods have various applications, including use in devices capable of controlling indoor lighting and climate control.
The goal of reintroducing the bird is to restore the original fauna of the forest and its functionality. Supported by FAPESP, the project was presented at the Brazil-France Forum on Forests, Biodiversity, and Human Societies in Paris.
The study compared data from patients and healthy individuals from Brazil, Canada, and the United States. The results help paint a clearer picture of how genetics influences the development of OCD.
During the visit, a cooperation agreement was signed between the University of São Paulo and the National Museum of Natural History.
The assessment was made by Barbara Pompili, the French Ambassador for the Environment, at the opening of a forum at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris. The event is part of the FAPESP Week France program.
Researchers from Brazil and France meet at a seminar during FAPESP Week to discuss ways forward for museums in the face of the changes and challenges of the 21st century.
Researchers from the University of São Paulo have identified a molecule in arachnid venom that acts similarly to a commonly used chemotherapy drug for treating the disease; preliminary results of the study were presented at FAPESP Week France.
