Hebrew University updates

Hidden Pocket in Human Bitter Taste Receptor Discovered

Hidden Pocket in Human Bitter Taste Receptor Discovered

25 November, 2024

 “Tasting Upside-Down - An Unusual Sensing Mechanism was Found in Human Bitter Sensing” A new study revealed that some bitter molecules target their sensor through binding simultaneously at two distinct locations, one outside the cell, and the other inside it. This discovery is fascinating because bitter taste receptors are expressed in extra-oral tissues and the new study shows the potential of our cells to sense not only external but also internal signals, opening up new possibilities for drug design, including asthma and inflammation.


 

Empowering People, Saving the Planet: A Case for Direct Democracy

Empowering People, Saving the Planet: A Case for Direct Democracy

18 November, 2024

A new study explores the relationship between democratic attributes and greenhouse gas emissions, using data from over 150 countries over the recent three decades. The findings reveal that Direct Popular Voting is the most effective democratic feature in reducing emissions, while Civil Society Participation also plays a significant role. The research highlights the complex interplay between democracy, economic development, and environmental outcomes, offering insights for designing climate policies that balance democratic principles and sustainability goals.

New Resource Maps Gene-Disease Links Across Common Conditions, Paving the Way for Personalized Medicine

New Resource Maps Gene-Disease Links Across Common Conditions, Paving the Way for Personalized Medicine

17 November, 2024

A new study introduces the Proteome-Wide Association Study Hub, an innovative and powerful tool designed to explore gene-disease connections across ninety-nine common diseases. Leveraging machine learning and statistical models, the platform (PWAS Hub) identifies genes linked to specific conditions, with separate analyses for male and female subjects as well as inheritance patterns. This accessible resource is set to advance personalized medicine by providing valuable genetic insights to clinicians, researchers, and the public.

Electric Field Signals Reveal Early Warnings for Extreme Weather, Study Reveals

Electric Field Signals Reveal Early Warnings for Extreme Weather, Study Reveals

14 November, 2024

New study reveals how monitoring atmospheric electric fields can enhance the prediction of severe weather events. The researchers found significant electric field changes during heavy precipitation by analyzing data from southern Israel. These findings suggest that electric field measurements can serve as early indicators for extreme weather, offering vital nowcasting capabilities, particularly in regions prone to flash floods and sudden shifts in weather.


 

12,000-Year-Old Spindle Whorls Uncovered in the Jordan Valley

12,000-Year-Old Spindle Whorls Uncovered in the Jordan Valley

13 November, 2024

A new study by researchers from Hebrew University has identified 12,000 years old spindle whorls — early tools used to spin fibers into yarn. This discovery, recovered from the Nahal-Ein Gev II dig site in northern Israel, provides the earliest evidence of wheeled rotational technology in the Levant, offering insights into the technological advancements of the Natufian culture during the important transition to an agricultural lifestyle.