Neurosciences: a Protein Optimizes the Synaptic Signal

Published:24.02.11 — EPFL researchers have made a step forward in understanding signal transmission in neuronal networks, thanks to new methods to molecularly influence the nerve terminal. Their innovative approach has been described in two consecutive articles in Neuron and may lead to new research methods for the neurosciences.

Decoding the liver's biological clock

Published:23.02.11 — A team of EPFL scientists has been able to observe the role of a circadian clock in controlling liver function for the first time, thanks to an ultra-high throughput DNA sequencing technique.

Japan Impact 2011: get to know Japan!

Published:23.02.11 — The third Japan Impact event will take place on the campus of EPFL and will offer to inquiring minds, as well as connoisseurs, a week-end of broadened awareness and discovery of different facets of Japan. We interviewed François Facchin, the communications person for Japan Impact.

Turbulent plasma tamed by mathematics

Published:22.02.11 — A team from EPFL is successfully reviewing existing models describing plasma, this very high temperature ion-and-electron soup. Tested using simulations, this revision paves the way for a better understanding of the design of nuclear fusion reactors, such as ITER.

Reprogrammed stem cells hit a roadblock

Published:21.02.11 — Is there a future for stem cell therapies that don’t use embryonic stem cells? An international study involving EPFL has raised doubts, by showing that “reprogramming” adult stem cells leads to genetic aberrations.

At AAAS 2011: Taking Brain-Computer Interfaces to the Next Phase

Published:17.02.11 — Brain-machine interfaces make gains by learning about their users, letting them rest, and allowing for multitasking.

A breakthrough in our understanding of ionic liquids

Published:17.02.11 — Electrolytes are usually conducting media, in which charged ions move freely in a solvent. Now an experiment led by Professor Jacques-E. Moser has revealed a new mechanism for electrical conduction in ionic liquid electrolytes.