Structural alignment in fibrous tissues like myocardium and tendons is a key biomarker of physiological integrity and pathological remodeling. However, conventional imaging relies on staining. Researchers in Korea developed mid-infrared dichroism-sensitive photoacoustic microscopy, a label-free imaging modality that integrates molecular specificity with polarization sensitivity. It quantitatively maps protein content and extracellular matrix alignment in engineered heart tissues, enabling objective assessment of structural integrity and fibrosis without staining. This technique advances histopathology and regenerative medicine.

Researchers have discovered 195 genomic regions jointly associated with schizophrenia and osteoporosis-related traits, mapping to 1376 protein-coding genes involved in metabolism and anatomical development.

Dr. Noritaka Ichinohe discusses three decades of translational neuroscience in a new Genomic Press Interview. His work links primate models to human autism subtypes. The findings reshape global approaches to precision psychiatry.

A rare genetic variant found in families affected by schizophrenia completely abolishes the function of TAAR1, an emerging drug target for psychiatric disorders. The C182F mutation causes a 40% reduction in receptor surface expression and total loss of response to therapeutic compounds in laboratory studies.

A mini-review in Brain Medicine examines the distinct and often opposing roles of AMPKα1 and AMPKα2 isoforms in Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology. The synthesis reveals that these two variants of the cellular energy sensor AMPK may contribute to cognitive decline through separate molecular pathways, potentially explaining decades of contradictory findings about AMPK's role in neurodegeneration.

A research team from the Kunming Institute of Zoology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has demonstrated for the first time in non-human primates that auditory stimulation at 40-Hz significantly elevates β-amyloid levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of aged rhesus monkeys, with this effect persisting for over five weeks.

Organised by the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre, the results of the annual selection for the ‘Top 10 Innovation & Technology News in Hong Kong 2025’, have recently been announced. The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is pleased to report that three of its groundbreaking research projects have made it onto this prestigious list, leading among all local institutions. These selected projects in the fields of medical health and astronomical sciences highlight HKU's strong capabilities in advanced translational research and technology transfer. The university aims to address global challenges and deliver impactful real-world solutions, all while striving to benefit society and support sustainable development.