Behind the Paper
The real stories behind the latest research papers, from conception to publication, the highs and the lows
Digestive and molecular adaptations for extreme blood glucose regulation in nectar and fruit bats (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae)
We discovered the duodenum is a crucial blood glucose regulator in the evolution of high-sugar diets. The adaptations result in blood glucose levels >750 mg/dL, the highest recorded in mammals. This indicates new possibilities to improve glycemic control in the human diabetes epidemic.
Jumping genes spark bacterial evolution
Transposable elements have been widely described to be crucial for eukaryotic evolution, from plant and animal colouration to mammalian lactation and pregnancy. However, their role in bacterial evolution is still puzzling.
