Research

The protein SNAP-tag is a powerful tool for labeling proteins with synthetic fluorophores for bioimaging. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg have engineered a much improved version named SNAP-tag2 as well as optimized substrates for faster labeling in live cells. The protein SNAP-tag is a powerful tool for labeling proteins […]

Researchers from Heidelberg and Edinburgh identify a mechanism that balances the genetic disparity between sex chromosomes Birds have developed a unique evolutionary solution to ensure the survival of males – a powerful microRNA. This tiny gene allows male embryos to survive despite a genetic imbalance between the sexes by balancing the activity of the sex […]

Scientists build molecular recording tool The ability of protein kinases to transfer a phosphate group to target proteins plays an important role in many cellular processes. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg have now developed a novel molecular tool that can monitor these kinase activities both spatially and temporally. This […]

Cancer does not develop overnight. It can take decades for cancer-promoting changes in the genome to eventually lead to the formation of a malignant tumor. Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have now developed a method that allows for the first time to reconstruct the temporal development—the evolution—of cancerous cells from a single […]

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, and early detection is important for better treatment. This study looked at small RNA molecules in the blood to see if they could help identify early signs of Alzheimer’s, especially in people with high levels of amyloid, a key Alzheimer’s marker. Researchers analyzed blood samples from […]

The EIT Health Catapult 9th Edition competition winners were announced on 17 June at HLTH Europe 2025, the conference where global expertise meets local insight to address Europe’s unique healthcare challenges and opportunities. Previous edition winners and finalists have attracted significant interest from leading Life Sciences and HealthTech companies. EIT Health celebrated the next wave of health […]

New meta-analysis uses machine learning tools to explore links between the gut microbiome and Parkinson’s disease Summary  Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and common neurodegenerative condition, typically characterised by involuntary shaking, stiffness, and slow movement. Beyond these motor symptoms, individuals often experience a range of non-motor issues, including significant gut problems such as constipation, inflammation, […]

THE EUROPEAN RESEARCH COUNCIL FINANCES GROUNDBREAKING PROJECTS WITH ERC ADVANCED GRANTS Five scientists from Heidelberg University are each receiving valuable funding from the European Research Council (ERC), an ERC Advanced Grant. These grants are intended for top-flight researchers who are pursuing groundbreaking projects with their work. Two of the grants go to Prof. Dr Loredana […]

Computer scientist Annika Reinke from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) has been awarded the Hector Foundation Prize 2025, endowed with €10,000, for her outstanding work in the field of AI-supported medical image analysis. She received the award for the project Metrics Reloaded, which can significantly improve the quality and reliability of AI-supported image analysis.  […]