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Pigs open doors to free companions in a possible show of empathy

14 July 2023

An experiment in which pigs showed an inclination to help other group members suggests they have an altruistic streak – but selfish motivations can’t be ruled out

Rare embryo mutations may increase risk of developing schizophrenia

6 July 2023

We know that genetic factors play the largest role in the risk of developing schizophrenia, but few of the genes involved have been identified. Now researchers have found relevant mutations that occur in embryos

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 06: Joggers move along the Milsons Point boardwalk at sunrise on October 06, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. The NSW government has outlined a roadmap for easing COVID-19 restrictions once the state reaches its 70% double vaccination target - which is expected to be achieved this week. From Monday 11 October restrictions will ease for those who are fully vaccinated, with up to five visitors permitted in a home, and up to 20 people allowed to gather outdoors. Gyms, indoor recreation and sporting facilities able to reopen while retail and hospitality can also reopen subject to density limits. Schools will begin to reopen from 18 October. The 5km rule will be lifted, but residents of Greater Sydney will not be allowed to travel into regional areas until the state reaches 80% double dose vaccinations. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

Early risers may be genetically less likely to get depression symptoms

6 July 2023

People who are genetically more likely to be active in the morning have a lower risk of experiencing symptoms of depression than those who are in their element in the evenings

Wim Hof in icy water at an event to increase awareness of climate change in Hong Kong in 2010

Wim Hof's cold therapy for good health lacks robust evidence

28 June 2023

Also known as The Iceman, Wim Hof's claims that his breathing and cold exposure methods will "keep your body and mind in its optimal natural state" lack good scientific evidence

A scanning electron micrograph of blood from someone with iron deficiency anaemia, showing irregularly-shaped, small red blood cells

Almost 40 per cent of US girls and young women have low iron levels

27 June 2023

Rising rates of vegetarianism and veganism may be causing iron deficiency, a condition that also commonly occurs due to heavy periods

Eating at night could boost your muscles and help you run for longer

26 June 2023

A study in mice has shown that eating during what would normally be a resting period helps build muscle fibres needed for endurance running, though this has yet to be confirmed in humans

Could your gut bacteria influence how intelligent you are?

10 June 2023

People who are genetically predisposed to have higher levels of Fusicatenibacter bacteria scored better on verbal and mathematical tests, while those with more Oxalobacter scored lower

Bowhead whales may resist cancer thanks to superior DNA repair ability

22 May 2023

The cells of bowhead whales seem to be better at repairing DNA than those of humans or mice, and this may explain why they live to over 200 with low rates of cancer

CRISPR-edited cells could help people survive chronic heart failure

20 May 2023

Injecting gene-edited heart cells into rats with damaged hearts kept more of them alive and had them exercising for longer – and tests in humans could start in 2025