Industry News
2019 Nobel Prize winners announced
The 2019 Nobel Prizes acknowledge scientists whose discoveries have opened up possibilities for humankind that were previously unfathomable. [ + ]
Blood test to detect multiple types of cancer
In contrast to liquid biopsies, which detect genetic mutations or other cancer-related alterations in DNA, the technology focuses on modifications to DNA known as methyl groups. [ + ]
Optical imager to help diagnose dry eye disease
The Tear Film Imager can be used in an ophthalmology or optometry setting to image the tear film and distinguish its inner layers with nanometre resolution. [ + ]
Early gluten intake linked to type 1 diabetes risk
Researchers have shown that a child's intake of gluten at age 18 months is associated with a 46% increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes for each extra 10 g of gluten consumed per day. [ + ]
New antibiotic candidates for fighting superbugs
The novel small molecules are said to be different to existing antibiotics, demonstrating more effective inhibition of bacterial growth — with no toxicity to human cells. [ + ]
AI helps predict the effect of antidepressants
Imaging the brain's activity in various states is important to get a more accurate picture of how depression manifests in a particular patient. [ + ]
The missing link between chronic pain and depression
Scientists have identified the brain mechanism linking chronic pain and depression in rats — a breakthrough that could potentially lead to new treatments for both conditions. [ + ]
Gold Coast Biobank officially opened at Griffith University
The Gold Coast Biobank has accumulated over 10,000 biospecimens that are available for research purposes. [ + ]
Dual-action drug target for Alzheimer's discovered
Researchers have discovered a potential drug target for Alzheimer's disease — an enzyme which has effects on both the immune and nervous systems. [ + ]
'Trojan horse' approach to antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Researchers have found that a deadly, antibiotic-resistant bacterium can be sterilised by hijacking its haem acquisition system, which is essential for its survival. [ + ]
Blood test set to reduce late detection of lung cancer
Oncimmune's EarlyCDT Lung test has been found to reduce the incidence of patients with late-stage lung cancer at diagnosis, compared with standard clinical diagnosis. [ + ]
Aus institutions awarded for improving gender equity
Thirteen Australian institutions have received Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Awards as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative. [ + ]
Herpes vaccine proves effective in rodents
Tested on both mice and guinea pigs, the immunisation was found to lead to mostly sterilising immunity from the virus — the strongest type of immunity. [ + ]
$150m investment in Aus businesses to support NASA
The investment will see the Australian Space Agency foster the new ideas and high-tech skilled jobs that should make Australian businesses a partner of choice to fit out NASA missions. [ + ]
A new way to test for drug‑resistant infections
The method could lead to clinicians being able to rapidly detect whether an infection is treatable with common antibiotics, reserving stronger alternatives for the patients that need them most. [ + ]