Karolinska Institutet

Research on how microbes may prevent allergies shows mixed results. Studies comparing wild and laboratory mice found that exposure to diverse microbes doesn’t always reduce allergic reactions, challenging the notion that microbial exposure is universally beneficial in allergy prevention. Credit: SciTechDaily.comThe notion that some level of microbial exposure might reduce our risk of developing allergies has arisen over the last few decades and has been termed the hygiene hypothesis. Now, an article published in Science…

Karolinska Institutet’s groundbreaking research using DNA origami reveals a novel way of activating the Notch cell receptor with a protein, Jag1, providing new insights into serious diseases and developmental processes. Credit: SciTechDaily.comResearchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have used DNA origami, the art of folding DNA into desired structures, to show how an important cell receptor can be activated in a previously unknown way. The result opens new avenues for understanding how the Notch signaling pathway…

A new study reveals that VEGF-C-producing tumor-associated macrophages in breast cancer paradoxically reduce lung metastasis and increase lymph node metastasis, offering new insights for breast cancer treatment strategies. Credit: SciTechDaily.comRecent research highlights the dual role of VEGF-C-producing macrophages in breast tumors, potentially guiding metastasis to less harmful areas, opening new avenues for targeted cancer therapies.A new study from Karolinska Institutet published in Cell reports shows that…

New findings indicate that isotopic effects in biochemical reactions are far greater than previously believed, leading to a need for recalibration in molecular dynamics simulations. Credit: SciTechDaily.comIn a recently published study, researchers at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics (MBB) at Karolinska Institutet have questioned the old paradigm surrounding isotopes of light elements—carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. These isotopes have now emerged as more powerful than once…

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Danderyd Hospital found that the updated COVID-19 vaccine, targeting Omicron variants, significantly boosts antibody levels against various SARS-CoV-2 strains. This discovery, part of the COMMUNITY study, indicates enhanced protection against new mutations, emphasizing the vaccine’s importance for high-risk groups.A new study reveals the updated COVID-19 vaccine’s strong response against Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants, suggesting broad protection and highlighting its…

Research from Karolinska Institutet shows that gender differences in psychological aspects continue to exist in more developed countries, with some disparities increasing and others decreasing. This study highlights the complexity of gender dynamics in relation to societal progress and living standards.A recent study reveals that improved living conditions in countries lead to evolving, yet persistent, psychological gender differences, challenging traditional views on the equality paradox.Psychological gender differences…

Scientists have discovered that CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing can cause leukemia-derived cancer cells to eliminate important genes under stress. This overlooked phenomenon affects gene regulation and has significant implications for cancer treatment and research, highlighting the need for careful use of gene editing technologies.New research reveals that CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing can unintentionally lead cancer cells to remove crucial genes, impacting cancer research and treatment strategies.A new study by Claudia Kutter’s…