Study identifies key protein in progression of glioblastoma, a type of brain tumor

In experiments conducted at the University of São Paulo, tumor stem cells became less able to proliferate and invade tissues when the production of the prion protein was blocked by gene editing; the results suggest that the molecule could be a therapeutic target.

Leafcutter ants recognize and fight pathogen even 30 days after initial contamination, study shows

Center for Research on Biodiversity Dynamics and Climate Change

Characteristics of social immune memory were observed in colonies of Atta sexdens exposed to four different pathogenic fungi. The insects increased their cleaning behavior one week and one month after initial contact, but not after 60 days.

Brazilian technology measures intracranial pressure more accurately and non-invasively

Innovation created by healthtech supported by FAPESP showed the lowest estimation error among all non-invasive methods already available in the world.

Center for Metropolitan Studies launches Interactive Mapping Platform

Center for Metropolitan Studies

Tool allows users to produce their own maps of urban space using textual data, photos and videos.

Chitosan, a natural antimicrobial, has the potential to replace sulfuric acid in ethanol production

The Federal University of São Carlos has developed a process that uses sugarcane molasses as a substrate in one of the stages of the chitosan production process. The polymer can also be used to control agricultural pests and to produce biofilms and drug-carrying capsules.

Childhood brain disorders can lead to adult psychiatric disorders

Brazilian researchers have conducted a comprehensive study of the effects of seizures during development. The findings could lead to new treatments for autism, attention deficit disorder, schizophrenia and epilepsy.

Propolis extract shows antiviral activity against Zika, Chikungunya and Mayaro

Center for Research on Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling

Research conducted at the Butantan Institute seeks to identify a compound that can be used in both the prevention and treatment of arboviruses.

Cell phone application helps rehabilitate stroke survivors

Assistive technology developed at the University of São Paulo helps patients with reduced muscle strength or unilateral paralysis perform daily activities and regain lost body awareness.

Study points the way to developing the Amazon bioeconomy

Experimentalist governance, which learns from practice itself, and valuing local communities and traditional knowledge are the strengths of the project, which reconciles environmental conservation with job creation and income generation.

Studies describe the toxic effects of metals on marine organisms

Center for Research and Development of Functional Materials

In three recent articles, scientists associated with the Center for Development of Functional Materials warn of the synergistic effect of substances when mixed together.

First coronavirus similar to MERS is found in bats in South America

Detected in the state of Ceará, Brazil, the novel coronavirus has similarities with the coronavirus that causes Middle East respiratory syndrome, first identified in 2012. Experiments to find out whether it can infect humans are set to take place during 2025.

‘Cloud machine’: emissions from the Amazon Rainforest and electrical discharges create rain particles

Study published in Nature reveals mechanism by which isoprene, a gas emitted by vegetation, produces large quantities of aerosols responsible for forming condensation nuclei; process may have an influence on global climate.

Study conducted at University of São Paulo evaluates parent-mediated therapy for autistic children

Already provided by the UK’s National Health Service, the approach, called PACT, aims to improve communication and interaction by focusing on the child’s interests.

Brazilian project aims to develop battery that could last up to a hundred years

Technology being developed with support from FAPESP allows the device to produce more electric current and could be useful in the automotive, aerospace and marine sectors.

Method enables monitoring of hydrogen production in reactors

Center for Carbon Research in Tropical Agriculture

Innovative approach developed by research groups in Brazil has already been patented by the National Institute of Private Property.

Added sugar and salt are the ‘villains’ in the relationship between dietary patterns and stomach cancer

Researchers used an innovative approach and analyzed data from a large sample involving residents of four state capitals in different regions of Brazil; study contributes to preventive strategies for this type of tumor.

Test identifies prior infection by zika virus and all four dengue virus serotypes

The method developed at the University of São Paulo detects and distinguishes between antibodies induced by the pathogens in blood samples. The strategy can be used to orient public policy in health and to evaluate the efficacy of dengue vaccines.

Consumption of omega-3 weakens insulin resistance in non-obese rats, study shows

Fish oil supplementation altered the profile of defense cells, which switched from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory state, reversing a condition similar to type 2 diabetes.

Mutualistic interaction between caterpillars and ants is highly specific, study shows

Caterpillars secrete a sugary liquid that assures recognition and protection from predators by a certain ant species, but protection became attack when the pairings were switched in an experiment.

Software uses blockchain-like technology to manage innovation

System developed by FAPESP-backed startup allows expectations and intellectual property to be managed while ensuring legal certainty.

Spending more than 3 hours a day sedentary worsens teens’ mental health

The conclusion comes from a study that analyzed data from more than 3,600 adolescents aged 14 to 17. Moderate screen time spent on educational activities was associated with less psychological distress.

Tests on sunglasses show deficiencies in protection against ultraviolet rays

A study conducted at the University of São Paulo analyzed the effectiveness of 12 models and showed that only one met the safety limits set by an international organization.

Center aims to improve quality of life in the Amazon with digital technologies for the açaí and honey chains

The Agrotechnological District of Breves, in the Brazilian state of Pará, was created as part of Semear Digital, a Science Center for Development led by EMBRAPA Digital Agriculture and supported by FAPESP.

Researchers advocate ‘rewriting’ of textbooks on electron transport chain in mitochondria

Center for Research on Redox Processes in Biomedicine

A paper by scientists affiliated with the University of São Paulo highlights new discoveries regarding the mechanisms of oxidative phosphorylation involved in ATP production.

Consumption of fruit, coffee, chocolate and wine reduces risk of metabolic syndrome by up to 23%

Food Research Center

The world’s largest study of the impact of dietary polyphenol intake on the risk of cardiometabolic problems tracked more than 6,000 Brazilians for eight years.