A research team at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin has developed a test that can determine a person’s chronotype based on their hair roots. It is intended to lay the foundation for circadian medicine – that is, medicine that is more closely aligned with the human body’s internal clock. Applied to approximately 4,000 people, the new method also reveals that women and men differ slightly in their biological rhythms, and that lifestyle has a greater influence than previously assumed. The results have now been published in the journal PNAS*.

Researchers at Aarhus University report a proof-of-concept DNA needle inspired by bacteriophages that can deliver molecules directly into cells and help them remain active. In laboratory experiments, the structure avoided endosomal trapping, a major limitation in current delivery methods. The approach may support future development of RNA-based therapies and treatments for rare genetic disorders.

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) has emerged as a critical player in both neurological and peripheral diseases. In a comprehensive review, researchers from Sichuan University examine the diverse cellular functions of LRRK2, its pathogenic mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and other disorders, and recent advances in LRRK2-targeted therapies. The review highlights how LRRK2 mutations disrupt intracellular signaling, mitochondrial function, and lysosomal homeostasis, while also exploring the therapeutic potential of LRRK2 kinase inhibitors currently under clinical development.

The China–Italy Laboratory Medicine Collaboration Meeting at Ruijin Hospital focused on strengthening international cooperation in academic publishing, research, and education. Key discussions included transforming LabMed Discovery into a more proactive platform through expert forums and expanding collaboration in AI applications in laboratory medicine.

 

The meeting also highlighted successful student exchange programs and plans for future exchanges, workshops, and lectures. Overall, it established clear next steps to deepen collaboration, enhance the journal’s global influence, and build a stronger international network.

Professor Sergio Bernardini’s visit to the LabMed Discovery editorial office highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen international academic publishing collaboration. Discussions focused on enhancing the journal’s global influence, expanding international editorial networks, and promoting high-quality scientific content.

 

The visit reinforced the role of LabMed Discovery as a bridge for global knowledge exchange and marked continued progress in China–Italy cooperation in laboratory medicine and academic publishing.

Older adults in India have almost 12% higher risk of depression when their adult children are unemployed. A new study from Umeå University shows that unemployment among younger generations increases the risk of poor mental health among parents, particularly in a society where many older adults are both economically and socially dependent on their children.

A systematic analysis published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts establishes functionalized microalgae as emerging composite bioproducts with transformative potential across diagnostics, therapy, and theranostics. The review categorizes physical, chemical, biotechnological, and hybrid functionalization approaches while critically addressing immunogenicity, long-term biosafety, and clinical translation challenges essential for advancing these sustainable biomaterials from laboratory innovation to patient care.