New computer simulation could light the way to safer cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals
New psychoactive substances, originally developed as potential analgesics but abandoned due to adverse side effects, may still have pharmaceutical value if researchers could nail down the causes of those side effects. A new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign used deep learning and large-scale computer simulations to identify structural differences in synthetic cannabinoid molecules that cause them to bind to human brain receptors differently from classical cannabinoids.
Study explores the use of dance as a form of protest, resistance in Iran
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Young women in postrevolutionary Iran used audacious acts of public dance, particularly during the past decade, to resist unjust gender-based laws and cultural norms that disenfranchise women, a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign sociology scholar says in a digital ethnographic study. After all, every social movement begins in moving bodies; it is through […]
What are the new guidelines for infant hepatitis B vaccination?
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — On Dec. 5, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention voted to discontinue its decades-long recommendation for universal vaccination against hepatitis B beginning at birth. Public health expert and infectious disease physician Janet A. Jokela is the senior associate dean for engagement and a clinical […]
Biomarkers found linking ER-positive breast cancer with neighborhood deprivation
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Scientists have long known that Black women with estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer and those who live in disadvantaged neighborhoods often have more aggressive forms of the disease and poorer survival rates. However, the underlying factors that link these outcomes with women’s living environments have remained unclear. Scientists at the University of Illinois […]
Study finds that tweaked synthetic polymers boost conductivity
A new study marks a significant step forward in positioning synthetic polymers as an alternative for expensive, unsustainable minerals used in the manufacture of devices such as conductors, transistors and diodes.
Illinoisans to explore their African roots at free event
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois residents of African descent are invited to learn more about their heritage by engaging with the Illinois Family Roots Pilot Program. This community-based project uses DNA testing and genealogical research to help residents discover and reconnect with their African heritage. The IFRPP is one component of The African Kinship Reunion. The […]
Many displaced girls in Uganda trapped in cycles of sexual, physical violence
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Nearly 36% of forcibly displaced adolescent girls and young women living in urban informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda, reported that their first sexual experience was nonconsensual — which, for many, marked the beginning of a cycle of sexual and physical violence perpetrated by their intimate partners or other people, a recent study […]
Historic Native American robes — the subject of an Illinois-led project — to be displayed at Versailles exhibition
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Stunning robes created more than 300 years ago by Inohka, or “Illinois people” — Native American tribes whose homelands include Illinois — will be on public display at a special exhibition at the Palace of Versailles in France that opens this month. The exhibition will include one of the most famous existing […]
Twelve Illinois scientists rank among the world’s most influential
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Twelve scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have been named to the 2025 Clarivate Analytics Highly Cited Researchers list. The list recognizes researchers and social scientists who have demonstrated exceptional influence, as reflected through their publication of multiple papers frequently cited by their peers during the last decade. The highly cited […]
Study shows new hope for commercially attractive lithium extraction from spent batteries
A new study shows that lithium — a critical element used in rechargeable batteries and susceptible to supply chain disruption — can be recovered from battery waste using an electrochemically driven recovery process. The method has been tested on commonly used types of lithium-containing batteries and demonstrates economic viability with the potential to simplify operations, minimize costs and increase the sustainability and attractiveness of the recovery process for commercial use.
Behind the Scenes
A place for artistic expression at SPEAK Café
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Sharing things with strangers can sometimes be easier than sharing with a friend. That thought comes alive for me the evening I attend the SPEAK Café, a space full of song, poetry, art and expression. Hosted by local artist Shaya Robinson, the open-mic event takes place in the Rest Lab 8: Greenspace […]
Building a living laboratory on a lake
DECATUR, Ill. – After more than a year of planning, our team is finally ready to launch a new phase of research. We’ve designed and built two small “islands” of wetland plants that will float on Lake Decatur. These living laboratories will help us investigate how floating wetlands may affect nutrient levels and sediment dynamics […]
Explore More Stories
Not sure where to start? Choose a topic below.