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Researchers from HU uncover genetic causes and modifiable risks in a study involving more than 56,000 participants. Visualisation of the so-called brain age gap (BAG) - i.e. the difference between a person's actual age (chronological age) and the biological age of the brain, which can be determined using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans.

From computer chips to quantum dots-technological platforms such as these were only made possible thanks to a detailed understanding of the used solid-state materials, such as silicon or more complex semiconductor materials. This understanding also includes being able to identify and control irregularities in the crystal lattice of such materials.

Researchers working within the Cluster of Excellence "Unifying Systems in Catalysis (UniSysCat)," have uncovered how bacteria use two nickel-containing enzymes to convert the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide CO2 into energy-rich organic compounds In two studies that have just been published in the journal Nature Catalysis , the research teams show how the two nickel-containing enzymes carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH) and acetyl-CoA synthase (ACS) transform CO2 into activated acetic acid.

HU researchers develop light-driven nano-motor and use it to produce ring-shaped molecules that are intertwined like links in a chain. Berlin, July 31, 2025 - Threads and ropes are ideal for braiding, knotting and weaving. In chemistry, on the other hand, such processing of molecular strands is an almost impossible challenge.

Free-living fish groups recognize dangers faster and react more accurately the larger they are. Berlin, July 31, 2025 When a bird of prey attacks, every second counts for fish: dive or stay? The wrong decision can be fatal - either because it comes too late or because a threat is mistaken for a harmless noise.

Researchers from Humboldt-Universität develop light-powered nano-motor and use it to create ring-shaped molecules that are intertwined like links in a chain. Berlin 31 July, 2025. Threads or ropes can easily be used for braiding, knotting, and weaving. In chemistry, however, processing molecular strands in this way is an almost impossible task.

Researchers at Humboldt-Universität develop unusual strategy to increase battery performance. Led Nicola Pinna and Patrícia Russo from the Department of Chemistry at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU), scientists have succeeded in disrupting the atomic order of batteries in a targeted manner. The result: high-performance anodes for lithium and sodium-ion batteries with exceptional high charging speed and stability - a decisive step towards safer and longer-lasting energy storage systems.

This is what the structure of a bacterial flagellum looks like: the long thread, called the filament (pink); the cap (orange), which helps assemble the thread; other components include the hook (blue) and the junction between hook and filament (yellow and green). Photo: Prof. Marc Erhardt An international research team led by scientists at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU) has resolved the complete structure of the bacterial flagellum.

From the biophysical properties of individual cells to the movement of the entire body, a study at Humboldt-Universität explains how jellyfish control their locomotion. Aquatic animals need tightly choreographed movements to efficiently navigate through open waters. Jellyfish, which swim forward by contracting and ejecting water with their bell-shaped body, must also respond to sensory stimuli on their outer skin to initiate hunting or escape.

International team calculates observable quantities such as scattering angle and emitted energy with unrivalled precision. Black holes are unique objects in our universe. They curve space and time in a way that prevents light from escaping their immediate surroundings. When two black holes approach each other, they spiral around each other for billions of years.

Research team develops model to analyse consensus building in groups and provides valuable insights for the development of AI and robotic systems. When groups make decisions - be it people agreeing on an idea, robots coordinating their tasks or fish determining their swimming direction - not every individual has the same influence.

Scientists refute study results from 2023 and call for further research into triggers for insect extinction. The insect population in German nature reserves has been declining for decades. A study conducted by the University of Würzburg in 2023 identified weather conditions as the main cause of insect mortality.

In early March, representatives of the global community will gather in the Indian capital, New Delhi, to promote the development towards a sustainable world: no poverty, no hunger, health and well-being. However, according to the latest United Nations progress report, the world is falling behind in the fight against hunger.

Quantum chemical calculations by HU enable the development of new porous materials distinct by a high adsorption capacity for CO2. Climate experts agree: To tackle the climate crisis, we will not only need to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions but also directly filter the harmful gas from air and exhaust gases.

Most of us probably assume that romantic relationships are more important for women than for men. In any case, romantic relationships are a much more popular topic in women's magazines than in magazines aimed at men. And in films, single women tend to be portrayed as pitiful and seem to be more motivated to fall in love than single men.

International research team describes for the first time the structure and function of the Zorya system, a highly specialized antiviral protection mechanism against bacteria. Bacteria are constantly infected by viruses, so-called phages, which use the bacteria as host cells. However, in the course of evolution, bacteria have developed a variety of strategies to protect themselves from these attacks.

International research team describes for the first time the structure and function of the Zorya system, a highly specialised antiviral protection mechanism of bacteria.

Innovative research approach enables the development of new materials and applications in technology and medicine. Researchers at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, led Nicola Pinna, have made a groundbreaking advancement in nanotechnology, successfully extending the well-known Stöber method to synthesize amorphous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and coordination polymers (CPs).

Study provides new insights into the gravitational interactions between colliding black holes and answers to fundamental questions in physics. Under the leadership of Jan Plefka from the Department of Physics at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU), an international team has described the dynamics of colliding black holes with unprecedented mathematical precision.

An international team of researchers visualises atomic interactions in the protein structure called photosystem II and thus uncovers fundamental biochemical processes. Using cryo-electron microscopy a team of scientists from Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU), the Swedish universities of Umeå and Uppsala and the University of Potsdam has succeeded in visualising atomic structures at an unprecedented resolution at the nanometre level underlying the process of photosynthesis.