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Nanotechnology may lead to more energy-efficient electronics

[27 Jan 2012] Carbon nanotubes and graphene consist of just a couple of layers of carbon atoms, but they are lighter than aluminium, stronger than steel and can bend like spring-coils. Physicist Niklas Lindahl at the University of Gothenburg has been studying the unique properties of the materials, which in future may result in improved electronics and light, strong material.

Two new departments at University of Gothenburg

[1 Jan 2012] On 1 January two new departments were formed following the merger of some existing departments at University of Gothenburg.

A new method for testing allergenic substances without experimental animals

[13 Dec 2011] Contact allergy affects around 20% of the population in the western world. Scientists are working intensively to develop alternative test methods that do not require animal testing. A research group at the University of Gothenburg has now developed a unique test method that enables graded results to be obtained using cultured skin cells.

Climate sensitivity greater than previously believed

[12 Dec 2011] Many of the particles in the atmosphere are produced by the natural world, and it is possible that plants have in recent decades reduced the effects of the greenhouse gases to which human activity has given rise. One consequence of this is that the climate may be more sensitive to emissions caused by human activity than we have previously believed. Scientists at the University of Gothenburg have collected new data that may lead to better climate models.

Interactions between substances determine allergenic potential

[7 Dec 2011] Scientists at the University of Gothenburg have used advanced light microscopy to show that a substance can be differently absorbed by the skin, depending on what it is mixed with. This may determine whether it causes contact allergy or not.

Life on Kosterhavet's seabed analysed

[6 Dec 2011] Kosterhavet National Park was created to provide a haven for both protected species and nature lovers. Now researchers at the University of Gothenburg have analysed species living on the seabed (benthic species) in the marine national park to determine which marine areas require special protection.

Cobblestones hoodwink innate immunity

[21 Nov 2011] Coating the surface of an implant such as a new hip or pacemaker with nanosized metallic particles reduces the risk of rejection, and researchers at the University of Gothenburg can now explain why: they fool the innate immune system. The results are presented in the International Journal of Nanomedicine.

Buoys provide new environmental monitoring system along Swedish coast

[17 Nov 2011] With a new system of monitoring buoys along the entire coast of Sweden, researchers will be better able to study climate change. The project, funded by the Swedish Research Council, is led by Gothenburg University in a collaboration involving five Swedish marine organizations.

The interplay of dancing electrons

[15 Nov 2011] Negative ions play an important role in everything from how our bodies function to the structure of the universe. Scientists from the University of Gothenburg have now developed a new method that makes it possible to study how the electrons in negative ions interact in, which is important in, for example, superconductors and in radiocarbon dating.

Live longer with fewer calories

[26 Oct 2011] By consuming fewer calories, ageing can be slowed down and the development of age-related diseases such as cancer and type 2 diabetes can be delayed. The earlier calorie intake is reduced, the greater the effect. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have now identified one of the enzymes that hold the key to the ageing process.

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