Hebrew University updates

The Balbiani Body: Cracking the Secret of Embryonic Beginnings

The Balbiani Body: Cracking the Secret of Embryonic Beginnings

9 January, 2025

Researchers have uncovered how egg cells prepare for the creation of life. Their work reveals the secrets of the Balbiani body, a remarkable structure that organizes essential molecules to guide early embryonic development. Using zebrafish models and cutting-edge imaging, the team discovered how this structure transforms from liquid droplets into a stable core, laying the groundwork for life itself. This discovery sheds light on the extraordinary precision of nature’s reproductive process. 


 

Centennial Celebration of the Institute of Jewish Studies at Hebrew University: International Conference on "Jewish Studies Between the Past and the Future"

Centennial Celebration of the Institute of Jewish Studies at Hebrew University: International Conference on "Jewish Studies Between the Past and the Future"

8 January, 2025

This January 7-9, 2025, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is hosting an international conference celebrating 100 years since the establishment of its Institute of Jewish Studies. The conference, titled “Jewish Studies Between the Past and the Future,” will bring together leading scholars, policymakers, and public figures to reflect on a century of achievements and envision the future of Jewish Studies.


 

Crafting the Perfect Bite of Meat

Crafting the Perfect Bite of Meat

8 January, 2025

Israeli and Palestinian engineers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem develop novel metamaterials for the cost-effective injection molding of whole cuts of meat. 


 

Small Milk Fat Globules Promote Good Bacteria, Study Reveals

Small Milk Fat Globules Promote Good Bacteria, Study Reveals

6 January, 2025

A study reveals that the structure of milk fat globules, rather than their chemical composition, plays a key role in their interactions with bacteria. Small globules promote the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bacillus subtilis, while larger ones trigger biofilm formation, a behavior linked to bacterial adaptation. These findings demonstrate milk’s natural protective mechanisms and highlight its potential to support gut health, offering significant implications for dairy science and nutrition.


 

The Hidden Connection Between Herpes and Alzheimer’s

The Hidden Connection Between Herpes and Alzheimer’s

6 January, 2025

A new study has uncovered a surprising link between Alzheimer’s disease and Herpes Simplex Virus-1 (HSV-1). Researchers found HSV-1 proteins embedded in Alzheimer’s brains, revealing how the virus is inhibited by tau protein—a key player in the disease. These insights could pave the way for innovative treatments targeting viral activity and the brain’s immune response to slow or even stop Alzheimer’s progression.


 

Hebrew University Community Holds Rally to Call for the  Immediate Release of Hostages in Gaza

Hebrew University Community Holds Rally to Call for the Immediate Release of Hostages in Gaza

2 January, 2025

 

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem held a rally at its Mount Scopus campus, urging for the immediate release of 100 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Yesterday, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem paused its activities to hold a rally at the Mount Scopus campus, demanding the immediate release of the 100 hostages still being held by Hamas in Gaza. Among the speakers was Prof. Jonathan Dekel-Chen, whose son Sagui, a 36-year-old father of three young daughters, has been held captive for over 450 days.