Self-disclosure is vital for communication. In the present century, various innovative forms of communication have emerged, including video-conferencing and embodied virtual reality (VR). In this context, researchers from Japan have recently demonstrated that embodied VR, especially with unrealistic avatars, facilitates the revelation of personal feelings. Moreover, female-to-female pairing had the highest self-disclosure score, underlining the role of gender.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized cancer treatment, but not all patients respond equally. Now, researchers from Japan have explored why two anti-PD-L1 antibodies, which target the same immune pathway, produce vastly different therapeutic outcomes in a mouse cancer model. They found that an immune mechanism known as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity can inadvertently destroy antitumor immune cells. These findings underscore the importance of selecting antibody drugs that minimize off-target effects to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that causes hallucinations, delusions, and social and cognitive impairment. Animal models are valuable for understanding the mechanisms underlying schizophrenia. However, conventional behavioral assessments are limited by the need for human intervention and external stimuli. Researchers from Fujita Health University, Japan, have established a semi-naturalistic platform using the automated ‘IntelliCage’ system for the comprehensive assessment of schizophrenia-like behaviors. The model can enhance translational research in psychiatric disorders and improve therapeutic development.

A new international study led by Kaunas University of Technology reveals that digital mental health start-ups reaching unicorn status tend to secure private funding early, prioritise simple, scalable services, and use subscription models –  while reliance on state funding may actually hinder growth. The research, based on 125 ventures (including 12 unicorns), suggests success stems from strategic, complementary choices rather than technological complexity alone. Researchers call for a shift in European investment policy to focus more on market relevance and user impact rather than deep tech or rigid scientific criteria.