https://ki.se RSS News Listing https://news.ki.se/progress-in-stem-cell-therapy-for-type-1-diabetes Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed an improved method for creating insulin-producing cells from human stem cells. The results, published in Stem Cell Reports, demonstrate that these cells effectively regulate blood sugar levels in laboratory tests and can reverse diabetes in mice. Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:00:08 +0200 https://news.ki.se/rapid-sequencing-method-offers-same-day-detection-of-antibiotic-resistance Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a rapid and cost efficient sequencing method that can identify antibiotic resistance within the same working day. The technique, called s5PSeq, measures how bacterial ribosomes respond within minutes after exposure to an antibiotic, offering a molecular readout of growth instead of waiting for traditional cultures. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:49:55 +0100 https://news.ki.se/method-reveals-how-proteins-read-rna-messages Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a technique that shows how proteins interact with RNA, the molecule that carries genetic instructions inside our cells. The study, published in Nucleic Acids Research, offers new insight into an important layer of gene regulation that can lead to better understanding of disease mechanisms. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:44:33 +0100 https://news.ki.se/anna-dimberg-awarded-the-medicine-doctor-axel-hirsch-prize-2026 Professor Anna Dimberg at Uppsala University is awarded the prize for her outstanding discoveries of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) in brain tumors and their pivotal role in activating an effective immune response against cancer. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:55:27 +0100 https://news.ki.se/in-memory-of-professor-tore-midtvedt Professor Tore Midtvedt, Oslo, passed away on December 2nd at the age of 91. He is mourned by his wife Kari, his sons Karsten, Per and Öyvind with their families, as well as a large circle of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:13:30 +0100 https://news.ki.se/novo-nordisk-foundation-grant-for-ki-researcher-in-type-2-diabetes Amir Ata Saei, assistant professor at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology has been awarded the Novo Nordisk Foundation Excellence Emerging Investigator Grant within Endocrinology and Metabolism 2025. Fri, 23 May 2025 15:23:15 +0200 https://news.ki.se/how-mini-organs-can-answer-difficult-research-questions Researchers are getting better at growing miniature organs and embryos in test tubes or on chips. This creates new opportunities for answering research questions while reducing the need for animal testing in some cases. Fri, 23 May 2025 15:14:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-study-unveils-how-cells-adapt-to-poor-nutrition A study from Karolinska Institutet reveals how cells adapt to nutrient scarcity by altering their genetic instructions. This discovery, published in Molecular Cell, sheds light on cellular stress responses and opens up new medical treatments. Thu, 15 May 2025 18:00:08 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-mechanism-for-how-cells-handle-stress-discovered In a study published in Nature, researchers at Karolinska Institutet and SciLifeLab, among others, have identified a new mechanism for how cells deal with stress. This could have implications for treating certain hereditary, neurodegenerative diseases, but may also be relevant for future cancer treatment. Thu, 27 Mar 2025 16:00:10 +0100 https://news.ki.se/patricia-colque-has-passed-away Patricia Colque, a long-time co-worker at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet, passed away earlier this week at the age of 77 years. Thu, 30 Jan 2025 13:54:29 +0100 https://news.ki.se/t-cells-sent-into-space-in-unique-experiment On 26 November an experiment in a sounding rocket was launched at Esrange Space Center in Kiruna, Sweden by a research group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC) at Karolinska Institutet. The researchers aims to collect data for a study that examines how a type of immune cell, T cells, are affected by lack of gravity, called microgravity. Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:01:37 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-method-for-deep-plasma-proteome-profiling In a recent study published in Nature Communications, scientists at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet, in collaboration with Michigan State University, have introduced an innovative approach to improve plasma proteome profiling. The method enables the detection of low-abundance proteins in plasma. Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:40:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/the-nobel-prize-in-physiology-or-medicine-a-groundbreaking-discovery-that-has-finally-been-rewarded Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun share this year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. They are being awarded for their discovery of microRNAs, which play a crucial role in the development of complex organisms. Research is underway at Karolinska Institutet on how these small molecules can be applied clinically. Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:10:14 +0200 https://news.ki.se/studying-the-molecular-processes-of-cell-division Errors during cell division can lead to conditions such as cancer and infertility. Jan Ellenberg studies the molecular processes of cell division in order that these diseases can eventually be prevented and treated. Meet one of the new professors of Karolinska Institutet who will participate in this year's installation ceremony at Aula Medica on 3 October. Tue, 17 Sep 2024 09:00:16 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-knowledge-about-cell-receptors-paves-the-way-for-new-drugs-against-intestinal-tumours A new study from Karolinska Institutet published in Nature Communications provides valuable insights into the activation of receptors on the cell surface. The knowledge opens up for new targeted therapies and drugs against intestinal tumours, among other things. Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:31:25 +0200 https://news.ki.se/jan-ellenberg-appointed-director-for-scilifelab The SciLifeLab board has appointed Professor Jan Ellenberg as the new director. Alongside this role, Professor Ellenberg will also be appointed as a professor at Karolinska Institutet and affiliated professor at Stockholm University and KTH (Royal Institute of Technology). He succeeds Professor Olli Kallioniemi, who has served as SciLifeLab director since 2015. Fri, 07 Jun 2024 09:00:16 +0200 https://news.ki.se/findings-reveals-gut-microbes-arsenal-against-pathogens A study conducted by researcher Juan Du's research group at the Karolinska Institutet sheds light on the capabilities of our gut microbes and their metabolites. The findings reveal potent inhibitory effects on the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and suggest interactions and signaling between gut microbes and pathogens. Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:19:14 +0200 https://news.ki.se/advanced-cell-atlas-opens-new-doors-in-biomedical-research Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a web-based platform that provides a whole new insight into the human body at the cellular level. The aim is to create an invaluable resource for researchers worldwide to increase knowledge about human health and disease. The study is published in Genome Biology. Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:40:18 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-discovery-reveals-how-the-egg-controls-sperm-entry After the egg has been fertilized by a sperm, the surrounding egg coat tightens, mechanically preventing the entry of additional sperm and the ensuing death of the embryo. This is according to a new study led by researchers at Karolinska Institutet and published in the journal Cell. The work also explains how mutations in egg coat proteins can cause female infertility and may eventually lead to new contraceptive methods. Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:00:08 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-technique-developed-for-targeted-protein-degradation A new publication in Nature Communications from researchers at Karolinska Institutet solves a long-standing problem by establishing a system that allows site-specific protein degradation within mitochondria, the cellular hubs for energy production and metabolism. Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:13:58 +0100 https://news.ki.se/the-hilpda-protein-a-potential-biomarker-for-new-treatment-options-in-aggressive-kidney-cancer A new study from Karolinska Institutet discovered that blocking the MYC tumor protein in kidney cancer cells leads to an increase in fat droplets, which are associated with tumor growth. The study provides crucial knowledge for identifying new therapeutic targets for treating this aggressive form of cancer. Mon, 19 Feb 2024 13:47:53 +0100 https://news.ki.se/lisa-westerberg-appointed-professor Lisa Westerberg has been appointed Professor of Experimental Immunology at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology from 1 January 2024. Mon, 22 Jan 2024 10:50:26 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-study-reveals-unexpected-consequences-of-crispr-cas9-gene-editing A new study by Claudia Kutter’s research group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC) has identified potential pitfalls in the use of the gene editing technique CRISPR-Cas9, a gene scissors that is used for cancer treatments. Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:36:26 +0100 https://news.ki.se/the-consolidator-grant-from-the-swedish-research-council-awarded-to-georgios-sotiriou The Consolidator Grant within Medicine and Health from the Swedish Research Council has been awarded to Georgios Sotiriou at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet. The project aims to develop a holistic therapy of chronic wounds using nanoengineered solutions. Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:17:06 +0100 https://news.ki.se/over-49-million-sek-from-the-swedish-research-council-to-researchers-at-mtc In the Swedish Research Council's (VR) latest call for medicine and health 2023, research grants of 49 645 000 SEK were distributed to 11 researchers at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, for the years 2023-2028. Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:12:59 +0100 https://news.ki.se/cell-atlases-of-the-human-brain-presented-in-science In two parallel projects, researchers at Karolinska Institutet have been involved in creating the most comprehensive atlases of human brain cells to date. The two studies, which are published in Science, provide clues on different brain diseases and give hope for medical advancements in the future, such as new cancer drugs. Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:00:06 +0200 https://news.ki.se/can-mrna-technology-disrupt-conventional-approaches-for-discovering-and-validating-in-vivo-new-therapeutic-targets Cardiogenic growth factors play important roles in heart development and in a new study published in the scientific paper Nature Communications from researchers at Karolinska Institutet shows how stem cell therapeutics and mRNA technology are beginning to converge offering major improvements in vascularization, survival, expansion, differentiation, and ultimately the function of human stem cell grafts. Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:16:02 +0200 https://news.ki.se/grant-awarded-to-susanne-nylen-group-for-research-on-skin-related-neglected-tropical-diseases Susanne Nylén at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at KI, is leading a project that has been awarded a four-year grant from the Dutch foundation Dioraphte for research on the pathogenesis of post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) and leprosy. The total amount awarded is 850 000 euros. Fri, 18 Aug 2023 09:27:10 +0200 https://news.ki.se/study-finds-a-new-biomarker-that-can-effect-therapy-for-the-treatment-of-various-cancers KI researcher Yihai Cao and his research group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, have defined a new biomarker for predicting drug resistance of antiangiogenic therapy for the treatment of various cancers. The study is published in PNAS. Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:21:24 +0200 https://news.ki.se/progenitor-cells-offer-great-hope-for-heart-failure-patients The 5D Heart Patch Project, led by Prof Kenneth Chien, has identified human ventricular progenitor (HVP) cells that can create self-assembling heart grafts in vivo. The research has the potential to offer hope to millions of people suffering from heart failure. Fri, 21 Apr 2023 10:51:10 +0200 https://news.ki.se/first-detailed-description-of-helicobacter-infected-individuals The first detailed description of the microbiota and immune cells among asymptomatic Helicobacter pylori-infected individuals has been published by researchers at Karolinska Institutet. The results of the study will be instrumental to understand the complex microbiome and immunity network and provide new insights for asymptomatic Helicobacter pylori infection. Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:03:12 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-publication-on-how-genes-can-affect-antibodies-against-sars-cov-2 PhD student Pradeepa Pushparaj, in Gunilla Karlsson Hedestam’s group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, is the first author of a study recently published in Immunity. The study explains how antibody genes can influence the ability to make neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Fri, 03 Feb 2023 09:44:22 +0100 https://news.ki.se/two-ki-researchers-awarded-erc-consolidator-grants Two KI researchers – Simon Elsässer and Magda Bienko – have been awarded 2022 European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grants totaling four million euro (nearly 45 million Swedish kronor). The funds will support two ambitious basic research projects that aim to further our understanding of the complex nature of our cells. Tue, 31 Jan 2023 12:11:36 +0100 https://news.ki.se/cellular-messengers-improve-cancer-therapy Nano-sized membrane bubbles known as extracellular vesicles activate the immune system in mice and seem to render their tumours sensitive to a type of immunotherapy drug called a checkpoint inhibitor. This is according to a new study published in Cancer Immunology Research by researchers at Karolinska Institutet. Thu, 22 Dec 2022 15:00:06 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-study-found-that-the-gene-scissor-leads-to-unexpected-genomic-changes The widely used gene scissor (CRISPR/Cas) can modify the genetic content in cells to study the molecular roles of genes and has gained great clinical relevance in gene therapy to treat genetic diseases. A new study performed by Claudia Kutter’s research group at the Department of Microbiology, Cell, and Tumor Biology at Karolinska Institutet, found that the gene scissor leads to unexpected genomic changes. Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:14:50 +0100 https://news.ki.se/swiss-grant-to-research-about-colorectal-cancer Sylvain Peuget, assistant professor at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet and his team has received 250,000 USD from the Swiss Bridge Foundation. The grant is aimed for continued research to investigate what role that certain bacteria in our intestinal flora play in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. Tue, 01 Nov 2022 16:20:28 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-studies-shows-that-brown-fat-can-be-increased-by-stimulation-of-stem-cell-differentiation-in-the-adult-body Professor Yihai Cao, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell biology, is the corresponding author of a study recently published in PNAS, explaining how brown adipose tissue (BAT) can be increased in the adult human body. Wed, 28 Sep 2022 18:02:37 +0200 https://news.ki.se/article-provides-evidence-that-energy-metabolism-and-biofilm-formation-regulation-are-intertwined-in-bacteria In a recently published article in the journal Trends in Microbiology, author Alberto J. Martin-Rodriguez, Senior Research Specialist at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet, explains how he found that distinct bacterial strains selectively use respiration for surface colonization. Tue, 06 Sep 2022 15:01:07 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-publication-oxygen-responses-of-t-cells-alter-protection-against-tuberculosis In a new publication in Nature communications, Martin Rottenberg and Ruining Liu, professor and PhD student at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, explains how T cell protection against Tuberculosis is controlled by their oxygen responses. Tue, 06 Sep 2022 11:53:19 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-study-cold-can-help-fight-cancer-growth New research from Yihai Cao research group at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, MTC, shows that the so-called brown fat in the human body seems to be able to prevent cancer tumors from growing. The result is published by Nature and has been widely disseminated in the media lately. Wed, 17 Aug 2022 15:49:57 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-microchip-with-specifications-for-screening-and-high-resolution-imaging In a study recently published in Cell Reports Methods, co- authors Björn Önfelt, Niklas Sandström and Valentina Carannante, researchers at SciLifeLab and the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet, describes a new miniaturized method for high-content screening combined with high-resolution imaging, all in the same microchip. Mon, 18 Jul 2022 17:00:04 +0200 https://news.ki.se/a-molecule-from-ancient-bacteria-like-cells-may-shed-new-light-on-sexual-reproduction A study from Karolinska Institutet, among others, presents the theory that egg-sperm fusion, a crucial feature of sexual reproduction in plants and animals, may have originated from an ancient form of genetic exchange that involved the fusion of bacteria-like microorganisms called archaea. The results, published in Nature Communications, may open an entirely new perspective on the evolution of sex. Tue, 12 Jul 2022 17:43:10 +0200 https://news.ki.se/unique-insight-into-the-inner-workings-of-our-cellular-powerplants Using advanced microscopy techniques, researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University have visualized in unprecedented detail the machinery that the cells’ powerhouses, the mitochondria, use to form their proteins. The results, which are published in Nature, raise hopes of more specific antibiotics and new cancer drugs in the future. Wed, 08 Jun 2022 17:00:05 +0200 https://news.ki.se/epigenetic-regulator-controlling-the-very-first-cell-fate-decision-in-human-embryonic-development-identified Researchers from Karolinska Institutet identify an epigenetic regulator controlling the very first cell type specification in the human embryo. The study is published in Nature Cell Biology. Wed, 01 Jun 2022 17:41:26 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-cell-therapy-approach-to-regenerate-cardiac-tissue-following-a-heart-attack Researchers at Karolinska Institutet, Germany’s Technical University of Munich (TUM) and AstraZeneca, among others, have identified a unique therapeutic approach with the potential to restore heart function following a heart attack. The new findings rely on so-called human ventricular progenitor (HVP) cells to promote novel heart tissue and reduce scarring after injury. This pre-clinical study is published in the journal Nature Cell Biology. Thu, 12 May 2022 17:01:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/evolution-caught-in-action Primary cilia are signaling structures projecting off cell surfaces like antennae. In humans, many different cell types are ciliated. The molecular underpinnings of making and maintaining ciliary identities and functional specializations often are crucial for cell functionality. Recently, researchers have found how the main ciliogenic transcription factor protein controlling overall cilia biology can switch to control ciliary specializations and thereby alters cell behavioral output. Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:19:24 +0200 https://news.ki.se/ben-murrell-awarded-the-svedberg-prize-2022 The Svedberg prize 2022 is awarded to Ben Murrell, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, for his work characterizing antibody responses to viruses, especially the virus SARS-CoV-2. Mon, 28 Mar 2022 08:26:25 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-study-shows-how-cells-sense-their-microenvironment A new study by researchers at Karolinska Institutet shows that the local activity of the signaling molecule Rac1 controls cycles of microscopic protrusions and retractions of the cell membrane. The cell uses these cycles to sense its surroundings, which among other things affects the cell's ability to move. Understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control cell movements, can help us to develop better diagnostics and treatment of various diseases such as cancer. Thu, 24 Mar 2022 08:45:32 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-publication-enterobacteria-impair-host-p53-tumor-suppressor-activity-through-mrna-destabilization The Selivanova's group at MTC recently established a multidisciplinary collaboration together with Dr. Marie-Stéphanie Aschtgen, microbiologist in the Henriques-Normark groups (also at MTC) to study the interplay between bacteria and cancer, focusing on how specific bacterial systems influence host tumor supressors. Together they recently got their first collaborative paper accepted in Oncogene, entitled "Enterobacteria impair host p53 tumor suppressor activity through mRNA destabilization". Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:51:56 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-study-reveals-how-the-lungs-immune-cells-develop-after-birth From our first breath, our lungs are exposed to microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses. Thanks to immune cells in the lungs, so-called macrophages, we are protected from most infections at an early age. In a new study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, researchers from Karolinska Institutet show how lung macrophages develop; new findings that can help to reduce organ damage and that are significant for the continued development of important lung disease treatments. Wed, 12 Jan 2022 16:00:07 +0100 https://news.ki.se/gold-based-cancer-therapy-could-face-competition-from-other-substances The gold complex auranofin has traditionally been used for treating rheumatism but is also being evaluated as a treatment for certain forms of cancer. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden now show that other molecules that inhibit the same biological system have a more specific effect than auranofin and therefore may have greater potential as cancer therapies. The results have been published in the journal Redox Biology. Mon, 22 Nov 2021 13:28:07 +0100 https://news.ki.se/detailed-analysis-of-the-brain-region-that-controls-our-movements Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have participated in a large international research project that has identified all cell types in the motor cortex, the part of the brain that controls movement. The research has resulted in a detailed cell atlas presented in a large special package of scientific articles in Nature today. The long-term goal of the collaboration is to create a cell atlas of the whole brain in order to increase knowledge of brain diseases and contribute to better treatments. Wed, 06 Oct 2021 17:00:05 +0200 https://news.ki.se/tiny-bubbles-can-be-future-treatment-for-inflammation Scientists hope that tiny sacs of material excreted by cells – so-called extracellular vesicles – can be used to deliver drugs inside the body. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet now show that these nano-bubbles can transport protein drugs that reduce inflammation caused by different diseases. The technique, which is presented in Nature Biomedical Engineering, shows promising results in animal models. Wed, 06 Oct 2021 17:00:04 +0200 https://news.ki.se/only-one-human-fat-cell-subtype-responds-to-insulin-stimulation It is well known that fat cells can influence our sensitivity to insulin. Now, researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have discovered that there are three different subtypes of mature fat cells in white adipose tissue and that it is only one of these, called AdipoPLIN, that responds to insulin. The findings may be relevant for future treatments of metabolic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes. Tue, 10 Aug 2021 17:00:05 +0200 https://news.ki.se/immune-cells-in-the-human-biliary-system-mapped Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have analysed and described in detail the immune cells residing in the human bile duct. The findings may pave the way for new treatment strategies against disorders of the bile duct, which are often linked to immunological processes. The study is published in the journal Science Translational Medicine. Wed, 23 Jun 2021 20:00:04 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-thesis-explores-the-role-of-oestrogens-and-antibiotics-on-cancer-development Hi there, Johanna Simin, PhD student in Clinical Epidemiology at the Centre for Translational Microbiome Research at Karolinska Institutet! You will defend your thesis entitled "The role of oestrogens and antibiotics on the development of cancer" on 1 June 2021. Can you tell us a little more? Wed, 05 May 2021 18:35:05 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-type-of-cell-contributes-to-increased-understanding-of-als The causes of the serious muscle disease ALS still remain unknown. Now, researchers at Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, among others, have examined a type of cell in the brain blood vessels that could explain the unpredictable disease origins and dynamics. The results indicate a hitherto unknown connection between the nervous and vascular systems. The study, published in Nature Medicine, has potential implications for earlier diagnoses and future treatments. Thu, 15 Apr 2021 17:00:07 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-insights-on-how-immune-cells-are-recruited-and-reprogrammed-to-drive-tumor-development Researchers at Karolinska Institutet show how a certain type of immune cells, macrophages, can be recruited into breast cancer tumors, where they are reprogrammed to support and drive tumor growth. In a study published in the scientific journal PNAS, they describe that low levels of the tumor suppressor protein TAp73 lead to hyperactivation of NFkB signaling and an inflammatory condition in breast cancer as well as secretion of molecules that recruit tumor-promoting macrophages into the tumor. Tue, 02 Mar 2021 09:36:17 +0100 https://news.ki.se/how-we-can-bypass-the-limitations-of-spiders We can produce spider silk fibers stronger than those created by the spiders themselves. This according to the Professors Jan Johansson (KI) and Anna Rising (KI and SLU). Mon, 22 Feb 2021 13:29:59 +0100 https://news.ki.se/novel-principle-for-cancer-treatment-shows-promising-effect Researchers at Karolinska Institutet report in the journal Nature that they have developed novel first-in-class inhibitors that compromise mitochondrial function in cancer cells. Treatment with the inhibitors stopped cancer cells from proliferating and reduced tumour growth in mice, without significantly affecting healthy cells. Wed, 16 Dec 2020 17:00:03 +0100 https://news.ki.se/findings-about-hair-like-structures-on-cells-inside-vessels-may-be-relevant-for-diabetes-treatment A new study from Karolinska Institutet and the Helmholtz Diabetes Research Center shows that primary cilia, hair-like protrusions on endothelial cells inside vessels, play an important role in the blood supply and delivery of glucose to the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreatic islets. The findings are published in eLife and may be relevant for transplantation therapies in diabetes, as formation of functional blood vessels is important for the treatment to be successful. Fri, 04 Dec 2020 10:23:12 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-analysis-method-can-lead-to-better-cancer-drugs While proteins on the surface of cells are the targets for most drugs, refined methods are needed to analyse how these membrane proteins are organised. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new DNA-based analytical method that could contribute to the development of future drugs for breast and other cancers. The study is published in Nature Nanotechnology. Mon, 02 Nov 2020 17:00:03 +0100 https://news.ki.se/georgios-sotiriou-receives-the-2020-smoluchowski-award Georgios Sotiriou, Researcher at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology receives the Smoluchowski award for his research contribution to the fields of aerosol science and technology. The award consists of a certification and a personal prize of 2.000 €. Mon, 12 Oct 2020 12:14:35 +0200 https://news.ki.se/federico-iovino-awarded-the-bjarne-ahlstrom-minnesfonds-pris-2020-for-research-in-clinical-neurology KI researcher Federico Iovino has been awarded the Bjarne Ahlström's Minnesfonds pris 2020 (Bjarne Ahlström’s Memorial Fund Prize 2020) for his research in Clinical Neurology and on the study of inflammatory mechanisms that affect the function of the central or peripheral nervous system. The prize which consists of SEK 1000,000 is awarded annually and is distributed partly as an individual prize of SEK 50,000, partly as a research grant of SEK 950,000. Tue, 22 Sep 2020 15:19:22 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-insights-into-the-immune-systems-role-in-severe-covid-19 By conducting advanced analyses of immune system activation in patients with severe COVID-19, researchers at Karolinska Institutet have managed to identify several cell types that play a key part in the immune response to the new coronavirus and the hyperinflammation seen in severe cases of the disease. The results are published in the scientific journal Cell Reports Medicine. Fri, 07 Aug 2020 17:16:51 +0200 https://news.ki.se/study-gives-insights-into-how-human-fat-cells-are-affected-by-age Knowledge of how human fat tissue is affected by age has long been defined by numerous mouse-based studies. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have now, for the first time, been able to conduct a prospective study on humans that provides novel insights into how our fat cells reduce lipid metabolism with age. The study is published in the journal Cell Metabolism. Thu, 25 Jun 2020 17:02:10 +0200 https://news.ki.se/lack-of-mitochondria-causes-severe-disease-in-children Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that excessive degradation of the power plants of our cells plays an important role in the onset of mitochondrial disease in children. These inherited metabolic disorders can have severe consequences such as brain dysfunction and neurological impairment. The study is published in EMBO Molecular Medicine. Thu, 11 Jun 2020 12:00:06 +0200 https://news.ki.se/hit-to-lead-studies-on-a-novel-series-of-small-molecule-inhibitors-of-dhodh The enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), an essential component for the de novo pyrimidine ribonucleotide biosynthesis, has reemerged in the last few years as a target for the development of small molecules with anticancer and antiviral activity. Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:03:05 +0200 https://news.ki.se/inflammation-makes-suppressive-lymphocytes-switch-role-to-support-autoimmunity Researchers from Karolinska Institutet in collaboration with a lab in San Antonio USA, have uncovered how a specific population of lymphocytes promotes autoimmune disease by giving up their regulatory role in the immune system. The newly discovered mechanism is published in PNAS from research led by Dr. Saikiran Sedimbi and Prof. Mikael Karlsson. Fri, 17 Apr 2020 08:29:14 +0200 https://news.ki.se/hiv-1-mimics-an-enhancer-to-maintain-activation-potential-but-avoid-detection When Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) infects a cell, the virus often becomes invisible to both the immune system and drugs. Now research from Karolinska Institutet shows that the integrated virus mimics a specific chromatin structure that lets the virus sequence remain accessible while preventing production of new viruses. Fri, 31 Jan 2020 00:01:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-discovery-on-the-activity-and-function-of-mait-cells-during-acute-hiv-infection In a new study published in Nature Communications, researchers at Karolinska Institutet show that MAIT cells (mucosa-associated invariant T cells), part of the human immune system, respond with dynamic activity and reprogramming of gene expression during the initial phase of HIV infection. The study fills a knowledge gap, as previously there has been a lack of awareness of the function of MAIT cells during this particular phase. Tue, 14 Jan 2020 11:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/cbt-for-social-anxiety-may-have-a-protective-effect-on-cells Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for patients with social anxiety not only helps to reduce anxiety levels but also seems to protect against accelerated cellular ageing, a study involving researchers at Karolinska Institutet published in the journal Translational Psychiatry reports. Thu, 19 Dec 2019 06:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/researchers-support-new-strategies-for-hiv-control The search for a cure to AIDS has partly focused on ways to eradicate infected cells. Now, new research from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and the University of Pennsylvania in the U.S. shows that this approach may not be necessary for a functional cure. In a study focusing on a subset of HIV-positive individuals who can live with the virus without needing treatment, the researchers found that these people’s lymphocytes suppress the virus but do not kill off infected cells. Wed, 18 Dec 2019 20:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/free-tool-simplifies-cancer-research Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new method for identifying which proteins are affected by specific drugs. The tool and the results it has already generated have been made freely available online. The method is described in the scientific journal Nature Communications. Mon, 16 Dec 2019 11:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-principle-for-activation-of-cancer-genes-discovered Researchers have long known that some genes can cause cancer when overactive, but exactly what happens inside the cell nucleus when the cancer grows has so far remained enigmatic. Now, researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have found a new mechanism that renders one canonical driver of cancer overactive. The findings, published in Nature Genetics, create conditions for brand new strategies to fight cancer. Fri, 29 Nov 2019 09:57:04 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-study-shows-why-people-gain-weight-as-they-get-older Many people struggle to keep their weight in check as they get older. Now new research at Karolinska Institutet has uncovered why that is: Lipid turnover in the fat tissue decreases during ageing and makes it easier to gain weight, even if we don’t eat more or exercise less than before. The study is published in the journal Nature Medicine. Mon, 09 Sep 2019 18:35:30 +0200 https://news.ki.se/circadian-biology-a-critical-factor-for-improving-drug-efficacy Circadian biology is becoming a critical factor for improving drug efficacy and diminishing drug toxicity. Wed, 07 Aug 2019 08:45:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/drug-administration-at-the-appropriate-time-of-the-day-could-prove-more-efficient-in-the-treatment-against-hearing-loss Dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, may be more effective in protecting the auditory system when delivered during the active phase. A novel study shows how the time of the day impacts on the treatment outcome. The study is published in Current Biology and has been conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institutet. Mon, 29 Jul 2019 11:28:18 +0200 https://news.ki.se/a-new-way-of-finding-compounds-that-prevent-ageing Tue, 09 Apr 2019 17:00:01 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-cell-structure-discovered-by-ki-researchers Tue, 23 Oct 2018 08:33:44 +0200 https://news.ki.se/red-blood-cells-cause-cardiovascular-injury-in-type-2-diabetes Mon, 06 Aug 2018 20:05:22 +0200 https://news.ki.se/study-shows-how-muscles-regulate-their-oxygen-consumption Tue, 03 Apr 2018 18:00:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/250000-developmental-cells-sequenced Researchers from the global Human Cell Atlas Consortium report that they have sequenced a quarter of a million separate cells that are of importance for early development of organs such as the liver, skin and kidneys. Sten Linnarsson at Karolinska Institutet is participating in the project. Thu, 08 Mar 2018 15:59:06 +0100 https://news.ki.se/promising-therapeutic-approach-for-spinal-cord-injuries Thu, 01 Mar 2018 18:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-cell-model-could-lead-to-treatments-for-neurological-diseases Researchers from Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a new cell model for human brain helper cells known as astrocytes. The model could potentially be used in large-scale drug screening in the search for treatments for neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The research is published in the scientific journal Stem Cell Reports. Fri, 16 Feb 2018 09:02:08 +0100 https://news.ki.se/atlas-of-brain-blood-vessels-provides-fresh-clues-to-brain-diseases Wed, 14 Feb 2018 19:00:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/graphene-oxide-is-sensed-by-specialised-immune-cells Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:04:16 +0100 https://news.ki.se/flying-membrane-protein-aids-cancer-drug-design Thu, 18 Jan 2018 18:00:44 +0100 https://news.ki.se/lennart-nilsson-award-is-awarded-to-xiaowei-zhuang Thu, 29 Jun 2017 14:50:28 +0200 https://news.ki.se/the-presence-of-the-protein-kif1bb-can-play-a-central-role-for-the-outcome-of-a-neuroblastoma-diagnosis A high percentage of KIF1Bβ means a greater chance of the tumour spontaneously regressing and disappearing. These are the results of a study by Karolinska Institutet (KI) and the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research Ltd. The study is to be published in the scientific journal Genes and Development. Thu, 22 Jun 2017 12:14:31 +0200 https://news.ki.se/how-our-cells-use-mothers-and-fathers-genes Tue, 27 Sep 2016 14:53:41 +0200 https://news.ki.se/ki-scientists-present-new-research-on-childhood-neuroblastoma Tue, 12 Jul 2016 09:41:26 +0200 https://news.ki.se/cancer-can-be-combated-with-reprogrammed-macrophage-cells Thu, 19 May 2016 18:00:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-finding-on-the-formation-of-fat-tissue-in-man Thu, 16 Jul 2015 18:00:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-insights-into-dna-parasites-and-genomic-stability Mon, 04 May 2015 17:10:00 +0200 https://news.ki.se/new-role-for-methionine-in-protecting-cells-from-oxidative-stress Reduction systems and protection of cells against oxidative stress are processes not entirely dependent on the electron carrier NADPH as generally believed. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Montana State University have now demonstrated how mice that are incapable of using the primary NADPH-dependent systems in their livers cope perfectly, as long as they get the amino acid methionine via their food. This discovery is published in the journal Nature Communications. Fri, 20 Mar 2015 11:05:45 +0100 https://news.ki.se/new-brain-mapping-reveals-unknown-cell-types Fri, 20 Feb 2015 08:10:00 +0100 https://news.ki.se/cell-dysfunction-linked-to-obesity-and-metabolic-disorders Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200