Researchers at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, have discovered that in zebrafish, decreased levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid cue the retina, the light-sensing tissue in the back of the eye, to produce stem cells. The finding sheds light on how the zebrafish regenerates its retina after injury and informs efforts to restore vision in people who are blind.
Category: Vanderbilt University
Rogue cosmic rays are causing havoc with our smartphones and other electronics
Under Earth’s protective magnetic field, we don’t usually need to worry too much about the health effects of cosmic radiation – although it’s something that’s known to impact astronauts in space , and even passengers travelling in airplanes . But the same can’t be said for our technological systems – fierce solar storms can wreak havoc on Earth’s communication networks , and new research shows that even ordinary levels of cosmic radiation can have a disruptive effect on our personal devices.