Fapesp

FAPESP and the Sustainable Development Goals

News

Research funded by FAPESP aligned with the SDGs

News

Research funded by FAPESP aligned with the SDGs

Researchers discover neural circuit involved in compulsive eating even without hunger
SDG 3
Researchers discover neural circuit involved in compulsive eating even without hunger

In a study involving mice, scientists used a technique that combines light stimulation and bioengineering to activate a cluster of nerve cells deep inside the brain. The discovery could pave the way to future treatment of eating disorders.


Scientists in Brazil and India collaborate on research to create promising treatment for solid tumors
SDG 3
Scientists in Brazil and India collaborate on research to create promising treatment for solid tumors

In tests involving animals, nanoparticles containing substances already approved for human use reduced inflammation in the biological microenvironment where malignant tumors flourish and facilitated the action of the immune system.


A Brazilian solution to help basic industries manage refractory linings
SDG 9
A Brazilian solution to help basic industries manage refractory linings

A startup supported by FAPESP is developing a system to assure the proper use of elements capable of guaranteeing structural integrity at high temperatures while reducing heat transfer from machinery and equipment to the environment.


Molecule produced in gut can have protective effect against flu, study shows
SDG 3
Molecule produced in gut can have protective effect against flu, study shows

In experiments with mice, researchers at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in Brazil and the Pasteur Institute in Lille (France) found that viral load and inflammation decreased in animals infected by influenza virus when they were given the substance.


Research optimizes biological control of pest that severely damages soybean crops
SDG 2
Research optimizes biological control of pest that severely damages soybean crops

Scientists at São Paulo State University (UNESP) and Oklahoma State University (OSU) verified in the field that a parasitoid wasp that neutralizes the Brown stink bug should ideally be released at intervals of 30 m.


Novel material shows potential to produce green hydrogen
SDG 7, SDG 9
Novel material shows potential to produce green hydrogen

A study supported by FAPESP produced films comprising polyaniline nanostructures with a carbon nanotube underlayer.


Center for Research on Biodiversity Dynamics and Climate Change is launched in Rio Claro
SDG 12, SDG 13
Center for Research on Biodiversity Dynamics and Climate Change is launched in Rio Claro

The first Research, Innovation and Dissemination Center (RIDC) hosted by São Paulo State University (UNESP) will promote innovation focusing on sustainable solutions and accelerated knowledge dissemination.


Fight against obesity goes far beyond individual struggle to change lifestyle, scientists say
SDG 3
Fight against obesity goes far beyond individual struggle to change lifestyle, scientists say

In an article published in Nature Metabolism, researchers based in Brazil and Mexico analyze the Latin American obesity epidemic from a broad perspective that includes socioeconomic, cultural and epigenetic factors. For the authors, solutions must focus on collective action rather than individualization of the problem.


Choice of best medication for cancer treatment can be facilitated by predictive testing
SDG 3, SDG 9
Choice of best medication for cancer treatment can be facilitated by predictive testing

A startup supported by FAPESP is developing a methodology that will give oncologists more precise information to help them choose the best therapeutic approach.


FAPESP and France’s National Institute of Research on Agriculture and Environment plan cooperation agreement
SDG 17
FAPESP and France’s National Institute of Research on Agriculture and Environment plan cooperation agreement

A delegation from INRAE visited FAPESP to discuss common areas of interest in scientific collaboration.


University of São Paulo presents seven new research centers directly linked to the Rector’s Office
SDG 3, SDG 9, SDG 13, SDG 16
University of São Paulo presents seven new research centers directly linked to the Rector’s Office

Today’s key issues, such as artificial intelligence, climate change, cancer and Brazilian institutions, will be the focus of inter-institutional and multidisciplinary teaching and research; the new organization gives groups more autonomy and agility.


A portable sensor for self-testing of urine to detect markers of diseases such as cancer, gout and Parkinson’s
SDG 3
A portable sensor for self-testing of urine to detect markers of diseases such as cancer, gout and Parkinson’s

Developed by Brazilian scientists, the device connects wirelessly to a smartphone and can be used to monitor general health.


FAPESP, São Paulo State Government and German university THI sign cooperation agreement
SDG 17
FAPESP, São Paulo State Government and German university THI sign cooperation agreement

The aim is to fund bilateral projects in the field of artificial intelligence, focusing on mobility, energy and security.


Jaboticaba peel reduces inflammation and controls blood sugar in people with metabolic syndrome
SDG 3
Jaboticaba peel reduces inflammation and controls blood sugar in people with metabolic syndrome

In a study with 49 participants, researchers at the State University of Campinas found that daily consumption of a dietary supplement containing 15 g of the substance for five weeks improved glucose metabolism even after meals.


Novel technique can improve quality of animal embryos produced in vitro
SDG 9
Novel technique can improve quality of animal embryos produced in vitro

Researchers at a startup supported by FAPESP have developed a material that mimics conditions in the uterus and could result in a 32% rise in bovine embryo production.


Drought in the Cerrado (Neotropical savanna) is the worst for at least seven centuries, study shows
SDG 13
Drought in the Cerrado (Neotropical savanna) is the worst for at least seven centuries, study shows

Chemical analysis of stalagmites in the Peruaçu Caves National Park showed that global warming has disrupted the hydrological cycle in Brazil’s central region, making a significant proportion of any rain that falls evaporate before it can penetrate the soil.


Inflammation during pregnancy can cause cleft lip in individuals with a genetic predisposition
SDG 3
Inflammation during pregnancy can cause cleft lip in individuals with a genetic predisposition

Through experiments with human cells and animals, researchers from the University of São Paulo and collaborators have shown how gene-environment interactions during the craniofacial development of the embryo can lead to malformations.


Plasma treatment of semiconductor films can improve hydrogen production
SDG 7, SDG 9
Plasma treatment of semiconductor films can improve hydrogen production

In an experiment resulting from collaboration between two FAPESP-supported research centers, a material was modified for use in solar-driven water splitting to produce hydrogen.


Bruxism is frequently observed in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder
SDG 3
Bruxism is frequently observed in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder

This study was conducted at the University of São Paulo and published in Clinical Oral Investigations; the authors emphasize the importance of collaboration between dentists and psychiatrists to improve diagnosis and treatment.


São Paulo School of Advanced Science presents innovative approach to environmental issues
SDG 11, SDG 13, SDG 17
São Paulo School of Advanced Science presents innovative approach to environmental issues

Focus on transdisciplinarity aims to foster participation by all stakeholders in efforts to address global change. The subject was front and center at an event held in April 2024 at a historic town in São Paulo state.


Researchers conduct first-ever study to characterize microbiota in saliva of weaned piglets on commercial farms in Brazil
SDG 9, SDG 12
Researchers conduct first-ever study to characterize microbiota in saliva of weaned piglets on commercial farms in Brazil

Results show that oral fluid bacteria differ from fecal and environmental bacteria. Identification of these microorganisms can help diagnose infectious diseases and improve pork production.


Aerobic exercise performed in the evening benefits elderly hypertensives more than morning exercise
SDG 3
Aerobic exercise performed in the evening benefits elderly hypertensives more than morning exercise

A study conducted at the University of São Paulo with 23 volunteers found that only evening training regulated baroreflex sensitivity, a mechanism that compensates for abrupt changes in blood pressure.


A startup supported by FAPESP is conducting one of the largest studies on Huntington’s disease
SDG 3, SDG 9
A startup supported by FAPESP is conducting one of the largest studies on Huntington’s disease

BioDecision has developed a methodology that combines RNA sequencing and big data to offer the pharmaceutical industry molecular targets of interest for treatment of the disease.


In a reservoir in Southeast Brazil, introduction of a fish native to the Amazon has reduced native species diversity
SDG 14
In a reservoir in Southeast Brazil, introduction of a fish native to the Amazon has reduced native species diversity

Since 2001, when it was first recorded in the Jaguarai reservoir in São Paulo state, the Silver croaker (Plagioscion squamosissimus) has established and increased its population in the Paraíba do Sul Basin to the detriment of native fish species.


World experts create document on AI capabilities and risks
SDG 9
World experts create document on AI capabilities and risks

Director of the Institute of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at the University of São Paulo collaborates with work developed in the UK to guide governments.


News about research projects funded by FAPESP and articulated with the SDGs: