The three-dimensional shape of a protein can be used to resolve deep, ancient evolutionary relationships in the tree of life, according to a study in Nature Communications. It is the first time researchers use data from protein shapes and combine it with data from genomic sequences to improve the reliability of evolutionary trees, a critical resource used by the scientific community for understanding the history of life, monitor the spread of pathogens or create new treatments for disease.  Crucially, the approach works even with the predicted structures of proteins that have never been experimentally determined. The findings open the door to using the massive amount of structural data being generated by tools like AlphaFold 2 and help open new windows into the ancient history of life on Earth.

In a world increasingly marked by human impacts and wars, a novel conservation strategy is emerging that fosters cooperation among neighbouring countries while enhancing ecosystem and wildlife connectivity. UniboMagazine discussed this initiative with Roberto Cazzolla Gatti, a professor in the Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences at the University of Bologna

The fight against cancer often begins with uncovering hidden players, and this study reveals one such key player: an unexpected class of abbreviated N-glycans. These molecules, upregulated in cancer cells, are excreted through a surprising mechanism—lysosomal exocytosis. Even more fascinating is the intricate relationship between lysosomal exocytosis and focal adhesions, structures critical for cell anchoring and communication. By decoding how focal adhesions regulate lysosomal exocytosis, researchers are opening new doors to understanding cancer cell adhesion and migration and exploring innovative therapies targeting these molecular interactions.

Urban infrastructure, such as stormwater management ponds (SWMPs), have the potential to be rehabilitated and provide critical freshwater habitat in urbanized watersheds if designed adequately. We tracked different native fish species using passive integrated transponder technology to assess the level of connectivity between a rehabilitated SWMP and a river. We found a high degree of connectivity between the two habitats, even during challenging environmental conditions such as high water temperatures and abundant submerged vegetation.

A USC study reveals how decades of policy missteps fueled today’s housing crisis, pushing the dream of homeownership out of reach for millions, including the largest generation in U.S. history: millennials.