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News Archive - Mario Aguilera

Eject! Bacteria Discovered with the Ability to Jettison Cells as a Survival Mechanism

July 7, 2026

Researchers have observed a cell ejection phenomenon in communities of bacteria (biofilms), similar to how jellyfish eject stingers. Biofilms eject cells to ensure the community survives in new colonies. They leveraged the discovery as a possible new way to eliminate antibiotic-tolerant bacteria.

Neurobiologists Improve Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease with Targeted Brain Stimulation in Mice

July 1, 2026

Many details behind Huntington’s disease, a devastating brain disorder, have not been clearly understood. Researchers have now identified neurons involved in the disease’s progression. They used a light-based technique to activate these neurons and improve the debilitating deficits of the condition.

UC San Diego Researchers Uncover Precision Medicine Strategy for Rare Inherited Muscle Disorders

July 1, 2026

Researchers have revealed the structures underlying a family of debilitating genetic disorders. They discovered how genetic mutations disrupt communication links between nerves and muscles. The findings open pathways for developing customized medicines tailored to each patient’s genetic mutations.

Researchers Offer New Insights on Cells that Build Protective Brain Barriers

June 16, 2026

UC San Diego biologists have uncovered new details about barrier-forming cells that protect and nourish the brain. Their findings focused on senescent cells, which traditionally have been labelled as “zombie” cells, and their formative role in the developing brain and beyond.

Nobel Laureate and UC San Diego Alum to Discuss the Future of American Science at Public Forum

May 21, 2026

On June 11, Nobel Laureate Ramsdell will join School of Biological Sciences Dean Kit Pogliano for a discussion on the nation’s scientific enterprise and its foundation that has delivered bold breakthroughs and transformed lives through research and innovation.

New Grant Targets Viral Toxins that Exacerbate Viral Diseases

May 1, 2026

Coefficient Giving has awarded a grant for a study on how viruses may have evolved a process that enables them to disseminate, promoting disease development and spread. The grant will support research on viral toxins that are used to compromise integrity of cellular barriers, promoting virus spread.

Researchers Uncover Strategy to Help Exhausted Immune Cells Fight Tumors

April 30, 2026

UC San Diego biologists have identified a way to reinvigorate immune system cells, which can become exhausted after fighting disease. They found that protein recycling malfunctions after a cell burns out. Restoring a proper recycling system allows T cells to regain their cancer-fighting functions.

Meet the Grad Student Who Launched an App That Relays Disease-Carrying Insect Risks

April 23, 2026

Biological Sciences graduate student Ellie Fausett took an unusual path to her new passion project: Masterminding a new app that brings safety-minded people together with resources to keep them safe outdoors. Learn about her journey and the tool that’s helping people navigate insect disease risks.

Neurobiologists Hack Brain Circuits Tied to Placebo Pain Relief

April 16, 2026

Scientists have identified the brain circuits tied to placebo pain relief. Researchers have known that placebo effects can be a powerful treatment, yet the underlying neurological mechanisms have not been well understood. They also found that placebo effects extend to multiple forms of pain.
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