Hokkaido University

Scientists have devised a way to produce recyclable and stable polymers from cellulose, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. This development opens up new possibilities in the production of environmentally friendly materials. Above is a transparent film made from the new recyclable polymer developed in this study. Credit: Feng LiCellulose, widely sourced from plant matter, can be transformed into molecules for the creation of a novel category of recyclable polymers, offering a sustainable…

A new study reveals the role of STAP-1 in T cell activation and immune response, showing its mediation in cell signaling and its potential link to immune disorders like multiple sclerosis and asthma. This understanding paves the way for therapeutic advancements targeting STAP-1. Credit: SciTechDaily.comNew research highlights a potential therapeutic target for immune-related disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and asthma.A new study has shed light on the importance of the protein STAP-1 in activating certain immune…

Researchers at Hokkaido University have created molecules capable of rotating internally when exposed to light, potentially revolutionizing molecular switches, computing, and drug development. Inspired by natural processes, this breakthrough offers new avenues for precise molecular manipulation and applications in targeted therapies and bioactive systems.Molecules that are induced by light to rotate bulky groups around central bonds when exposed to light could lead to the creation of light-activated bioactive systems,…

Researchers have discovered evidence of suppressed star formation in a quasar-host galaxy, caused by the outflow of molecular gas. This finding marks a significant step in understanding galaxy evolution in the early Universe. Credit: SciTechDaily.comTheoretical predictions have been confirmed with the discovery of an outflow of molecular gas from a quasar when the Universe was less than a billion years old.A quasar is a compact region powered by a supermassive black hole located in the center of a massive galaxy. They are…

Researchers have introduced a groundbreaking CRISPR technology to boost the immune system’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. By increasing MHC class I molecules on cancer cells, the new method, dubbed the TRED-I system, shows promise in enhancing cancer treatment efficacy and offers hope for tackling resistant cancer types.New technology using CRISPR to enhance the immune system’s ability to detect cancer cells has been created, potentially paving the way for innovative cancer treatment methods.Major…

A new study suggests that stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) could effectively reduce ice sheet melting caused by climate change. However, this geoengineering approach is contentious, focusing on symptoms rather than the underlying causes of global warming, with uncertain impacts on natural systems. Credit: SciTechDaily.comSimulations indicate that injecting aerosols into the stratosphere could mitigate the melting of ice sheets caused by global warming.One of the many effects of global warming is sea-level rise due to…

Hokkaido University researchers have developed a groundbreaking method to repurpose plastic waste by using it to initiate radical chain reactions for detoxifying hazardous chemicals. This approach, which enhances safety and efficiency while addressing the environmental issue of plastic waste, paves the way for sustainable and economically attractive chemical processes. Artistic depiction of extremely reactive molecules called radicals being generated from plastic fibers. Credit: Koji Kubota and Hajime ItoScientists use…

Hokkaido University researchers have pioneered a domino reaction in redox chemistry by creating a molecule that undergoes structural changes to facilitate sequential reactions. This breakthrough could impact future developments in nano-technology, renewable energy batteries, and materials with adjustable electronic properties.For the first time, scientists have succeeded in transmitting an effect known as a domino reaction using redox chemistry.Domino reactions occur when the transformation of one chemical group…

Depiction of europium complexes changing structure upon interacting with a tumor cell. Credit: Mengfei Wang, et al. Scientific Reports. January 22, 2024A water-soluble, luminescent europium complex enables evaluation of malignancy grade in model glioma tumor cells.An important part of choosing the most suitable cancer therapy is understanding the malignancy of the tumor; however, current methods for evaluating brain tumor malignancy are invasive and have a high risk of complications.Collaborative research led by Professor…

A new mesophilic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterial species, Hydrogenimonas cancrithermarum, was discovered at a deep-sea hydrothermal vent, enhancing our understanding of bacterial evolution and diversity. This breakthrough demonstrates the importance of microbial cultivation in complementing genomic studies, offering new insights into the adaptation and evolution of deep-sea bacteria. The image above depicts the deep-sea hydrothermal vent site known as ‘Crab Spa’ on the East Pacific Rise. Credit: Photo courtesy of Stefan…