The ability to turn experiences into memories allows us to learn from the past and use what we learned as a model to respond appropriately to new situations. For this reason, as the world around us changes, this memory model…

An increasing number of bacterial pathogens are resistant to antibiotics. And the most dangerous pathogens share a common feature: a double membrane that is difficult to penetrate. Even when antibiotic agents are able to…

Cells proliferate by dividing repeatedly. Each cell division produces two daughter cells, which must first grow to a certain size before they can divide, too. This requires an increased production of cell components,…

In all mammals, the reward system is a fundamental brain circuit that reinforces certain behaviours by providing the motivation necessary for their achievement. Search for food, learning or emotional behaviours are for…

Many bacteria adopt a fascinating defense strategy by forming communities on surfaces, known as biofilms. We encounter such biofilms in our daily lives, for example, as dental plaque in the mouth, slimy films on stones in…

Antibody-based therapies are used to treat numerous diseases, from cancer to rheumatic disorders and multiple sclerosis. Antibodies recognize and bind to very specific structures. This allows them to direct active substances…

Researchers led by Prof. Erik van Nimwegen at the Biozentrum, University of Basel have discovered a new mechanism in bacteria that controls their response to prevailing environmental conditions. They derived their theory…

Cell death is crucial for all organisms. Damaged cells or cells infected with viruses or bacteria eliminate themselves by starting a built-in “suicide” program, which prevents the development of tumors and the spread of…

Endurance training is beneficial. Regular workouts not only improve physical fitness and well-being, but also trigger profound muscle remodeling. This is reflected in typical training effects: muscles fatigue less quickly,…

The abundance and diversity of viruses on our planet is unimaginable. It is estimated that there are about a trillion virus particles on each grain of sand. Many viruses are still waiting to be discovered. The majority of…