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Newly discovered target for genital herpes vaccine
Genital herpes is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and is one of the most common viral infections in the world. The HSV-2 virus establishes a lifelong infection by entering nerve cells, where it is lying dormant for a long time and be reactivated at a later time. Many of those who carry the virus do not experience any noticeable symptoms, while others have recurring problems with, for example, tenderness, burning, blisters and ulcers.
Bomb the Arctic, dam the Mediterranean and build a second moon: five outlandish plans to remodel our climate | Geoengineering | The Guardian
Bomb the Arctic, dam the Mediterranean and build a second moon: five outlandish plans to remodel our climate Humans have long sought to geoengineer the Earth’s environment.
Not everyone has equal access to pain rehabilitation
Chronic pain can affect work, everyday life, and quality of life. The study is based on 39,346 patients who were referred to specialized pain care in Sweden between 2009 and 2016. Nearly half of these patients (49.8 percent) were assessed as able to participate in a rehabilitation program. The study identifies several factors that appear to influence which patients gain access to specialized pain rehabilitation.
New robot without rigid parts moves like an inchworm
The robot is about 3 centimetres long and imitates the motion of an inchworm. Photo: Hari Prakash Thanabalan Soft robotics is a field of research that uses soft materials to mimic properties found in nature, such as those of a worm or a muscle. This can overcome the limitations of traditional robots. One method involves alternating layers of carbon electrodes with a polymer material . When a weak voltage is applied to the carbon surfaces, the polymer expands, much like a flexing muscle.
Two University of Gothenburg researchers awarded major European research grants
Mitochondria are the cell’s powerhouses, generating the energy required for our organs and tissues to function. To do so, they depend on their own DNA. Despite decades of research, scientists still do not fully understand how this DNA is regulated, replicated, and protected. “What excites me most is that we finally have the tools to address questions that have remained unanswered for decades.
Estonia-Swedish grammar challenges established theories
Cottage in the village of Hullo on Vormsi Island in western Estonia. The settlement was established in the 13th century, and for most of its history Hullo was inhabited by Estonian Swedes. The Estonian Swedish pronunciation of the village's name is Holo. During the Second World War, almost the entire population of Vormsi, including the residents of Hullo, was evacuated to Sweden.
AI speed up the use of optical tweezers
By teaching an AI to use optical tweezers, researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers University of Technology, have sped up the analysis of life’s smallest components. The AI platform captures particles, takes measurements and loads new samples, all without human intervention.
Antonelli appointed to the Crown Princess’s Professorship
Professor of Biodiversity Alexandre Antonelli is returning to the University of Gothenburg after being selected from a shortlist of highly qualified candidates for the newly established Crown Princess Victoria Professorship in Biodiversity.
Diabetes is associated with tooth and implant loss
Diabetes is associated with complications in multiple organs, including the oral cavity. As a group, persons with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk for oral diseases. This thesis is based on a comprehensive dataset from seven Swedish registers covering a long time period, with a high degree of completeness. The thesis was presented by dentist Anna Trullenque Eriksson, who specializes in periodontology.
Horses unaffected by petting in children’s zoo
People and organisations that keep animals must take the animals’ welfare into account. For zoos that work to conserve species and breeds and wish to promote biodiversity, it is crucial to understand how visitors affect the animals in the zoo. “Although a great deal can be gleaned from the animals’ behaviour, there is still some uncertainty about how they feel in the company of humans.
New report shows normalisation of sexual harassment in the Swedish workplace
Does the workplace’s failure to address and stop unwanted behaviour contribute to a normalisation where harassment and discrimination are seen as part of an employee’s expected daily life? Some of the findings from this year’s Harassment Barometer: Legislation and employers neither identify nor prevent the problems to a sufficient extent. The culture of silence is the best evidence of organisations’ inability to address vulnerability. Individual victims are left to bear their vulnerability alone.
Spring storms are becoming more common in Europe
In the northern hemisphere, storm seasons follow a seasonal cycle. Storms are weakest and least frequent in summer, and most intense in winter. As a result of global warming, storm patterns and their course have changed, and several studies have indicated that winter storms appear to be occurring more frequently and with even greater intensity. Less Arctic sea ice “One factor that may be contributing to the formation of more storms is the reduction in Arctic sea ice.
Disgust may contribute to improper waste disposal
Previous research has mainly explained littering through social norms — people do what others do. However, studies also show that people’s behavior in public environments is shaped not only by rules and norms but also by emotions and sensory impressions. “If a waste disposal room is dirty and unpleasant, it does not always help that there are functioning systems for recycling and waste management.
Antibiotics for common sore throats have very limited effect on Strep spread
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common bacterium that can cause invasive GAS infection (iGAS) if the bacteria enter, for example, the blood or lungs. The condition is potentially life-threatening and relatively uncommon, but its incidence has increased in recent years in several countries. Since uncomplicated sore throats can sometimes develop into iGAS, or infect others in the community, early antibiotic treatment is often debated as part of preventive measures.
How AI can become more transparent and reliable
Today's AI assistants are based on large language models that generate responses from statistical patterns in text. However, these systems can also "hallucinate" and produce information that appears credible but is in fact incorrect. One high-profile example occurred recently when Sweden's Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch shared a quotation that an AI had falsely claimed to have found in two separate sources, when in reality the quotation had been fabricated.
Weight loss increases ability to manage household
The research, published in the journal BMC Medicine, is based on data from the SOS (Swedish Obese Subjects) study at the University of Gothenburg, the world’s most comprehensive study on the long-term effects of bariatric surgery compared to conventional obesity treatment. Previous research has shown that bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
Lifestyle can protect childhood cancer survivors
Photo: iStock Healthy lifestyles can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications in childhood cancer survivors. These are the findings of two new international studies. Aron Onerup Adjunct Senior Lecturer Children who survive cancer are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic health problems later in life - often as a result of the treatment that saved their lives.
Good Vitamin D status among most young children in Sweden
This study is the first to offer an in-depth analysis of vitamin D intake and status among infants in Sweden following an expansion of mandatory vitamin D fortification in 2018. The initiative focused on certain food groups and the aim was to ensure that more people attain sufficient vitamin D through their diet. The study included children aged 18 months (1,074 individuals) and four years (746 individuals) whose data were obtained from the survey “Riksmaten småbarn”, covering 2021-2024.
Breakthrough for seaweed farming in the Baltic Sea
“This is an important step towards sustainable aquaculture in the Baltic Sea,” says Sophie Steinhagen, researcher at the Department of Marine Sciences at the University of Gothenburg. Interest in macroalgae cultivation is growing rapidly because seaweeds can be used for food, animal feed and biomaterials. However, many species currently cultivated require saltier waters than those found in the Baltic Sea. Gutweed (Ulva intestinalis) is different.
Good managers can be as important as the entire team
The study “How Do You Identify a Good Manager”, was published in The Quarterly Journal of Economics in May. The experiment was conducted at the Essex University Economics Lab in the United Kingdom. A total of 555 people took part, and each manager was randomly assigned to several different teams. In total, the experiment included 728 groups.
Clues to lower cancer risk after bariatric surgery
Photo: iStock Substantial and sustained weight-loss has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and cancer-related death, mainly in women. Two new studies now provide clues to why the risk is reduced – and suggest that gender, metabolism and genetics may play a crucial role. The studies are based on the long-term Swedish Obese Subjects study (SOS Study) that investigates the effects of weight-loss surgery.
Gestational diabetes increases risk of type 2 diabetes – even at normal weight
Gestational diabetes is a special type of diabetes that can affect pregnant women. The condition is defined as elevated blood sugar levels, without previously known diabetes. Treatment involves self-monitoring of blood sugar, advice on lifestyle habits and, if necessary, medication. Identifying gestational diabetes is important because the disease increases the risk of complications such as preeclampsia, the need for a cesarean section and high birth weight for the baby.
West Sweden aligns efforts to strengthen Swedish life science
On 19 May, Region Västra Götaland and Business Region Göteborg gathered key stakeholders from industry, academia and the public sector at the Regional Headquarters to sign a joint letter of intent. Jenny Nyström, Dean of the Sahlgrenska Academy, and Malin Broberg, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gothenburg, are part of newly formed The Council for Life Science in West Sweden.
Work capacity can signal risk in the workplace
Research on mental health problems in the workplace has long focused on what happens after people go on sick leave. This doctoral thesis instead focuses on what happens before. “We wanted to understand what characterizes people who remain in work and whether it is possible to identify modifiable factors at an early stage,” says Agneta Blomberg, who recently defended her PhD at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.
Obesity is leveling off in rich countries – but not in poor
The analysis is based on over four decades of health data from 200 countries and territories between 1980 and 2024. The study was led by Imperial College London. Co-authors include Annika Rosengren, professor of medicine, and Jenny Kindblom, professor and obesity researcher at the University of Gothenburg. The results give a more positive picture of the trend than previous reports.
Top rating for the Social Work Programme at the University of Gothenburg
The Swedish Higher Education Authority has evaluated all 19 social work programmes offered by Swedish universities and colleges. Eight of them received the rating high quality, including the University of Gothenburg. "I am very pleased with the positive assessment. This is clear recognition of the strong and long-term work carried out by teachers and staff at the Department of Social Work", says Carl Dahlström, Dean at the Faculty of Social Sciences.
Geologists in films are good guys but often die
Volcanologist Erik Sturkell, in the characteristic plaid shirt, has together with three colleagues documented the contributions of geologists to the silver screen. Photo: Malin Arnesson It all began with a perfectly ordinary chat over coffee among four researchers. How many films featuring geologists can we think of? Quite quickly, the colleagues were able to come up with about ten films. But then the scientific mind of one of them sprang into action.
New Master’s Programme Will Prepare Students for a Career in the EU
The new master’s programme will begin in January 2027 and will be hosted by the Department of Political Science. Both the one-year format and the broad eligibility requirements are deliberate choices intended to make the programme accessible to more people. A bachelor’s degree, regardless of subject area, is sufficient to apply, and the programme will be taught in English.
Learning management system Canvas closed
The University of Gothenburg currently does not know whether any of its information has been leaked, but has decided to keep Canvas completely closed to reduce risks. Students and staff are urged to remain extra vigilant. For example, phishing attempts may increase if email addresses have been exposed. The attacks are having a major impact on operations, and the university is working intensively to find alternative ways of operating while Canvas must remain closed.
Make A Difference With TIME BUSINESS NEWS
By Time Business News Staff | Technology | Last Modified on 2026-05-05 A Word document can look polished on your screen and still open differently for someone else. The most common way to create a PDF from Word is to convert the file into a fixed-layout document before sending it. A PDF reduces formatting surprises because the pages, margins, images, and text positions are locked for viewing. The relief is knowing the file will open the same way for everyone.
Gut microbiota plays a role in metabolic health after bariatric surgery
Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes, but patient outcomes vary widely. The current study, published in Nature Metabolism, suggests that the variations are partly explained by differences in how the composition of gut bacteria changes after surgery.
Political scientist Lena Wängnerud awarded the Riksdag Medal
The Speaker will present this year’s medals at a ceremony in the Riksdag on 2 June 2026. The Riksdag Medal was established in 2010 to thank departing Members of Parliament for their contributions to the Riksdag. Following new legislation that entered into force at the turn of 2021–2022, individuals other than Members of Parliament may also receive the medal for particularly meritorious or exceptionally meritorious contributions.
New handbook to prepare us for the next pandemic
A mathematical model is a simplification of reality that can help us navigate a complex world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, mathematical models were used to simulate the spread of the virus, predict healthcare needs and assess the impact of various measures – from lockdowns to handwashing routines and face coverings.
Better chances of preventing seizures in preeclampsia
Photo: iStock Breadcrumb Home News and events Find news Better chances of preventing seizures in preeclampsia Ten newly identified symptoms may indicate an increased risk of seizures (eclampsia) in pregnant women with preeclampsia. The findings could help reduce illness and death during pregnancy worldwide. The work was led by researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, the University of Melbourne in Australia and Stellenbosch University in South Africa.
Risk of celiac disease is not a reason to avoid antibiotics
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder with increasing awareness and diagnosis, not least among children and young people. Exposure to antibiotics – particularly at a young age – has been reported as a contributing factor for future celiac disease, but the picture is not clear-cut.
New funding opportunities for journals, conferences and research networks
The Swedish Secretariat for Gender Research at the University of Gothenburg contributes research-based knowledge on conditions for a free knowledge society, a fair working life and an equal Nordic region. Commissioned by the Swedish Government and the Nordic Council of Ministers, among others, the Secretariat's activities often involve collaboration with researchers and other stakeholders at national, Nordic and international levels.
Fracture risk assessment becomes more accurate
A widely used tool, FRAX, estimates the 10-year risk of osteoporotic fractures. The Swedish model is still based on data from the 1990s, despite substantial changes in both fracture incidence and population demographics since then. In a new study, researchers at the University of Gothenburg analyzed registry data covering the entire Swedish population aged 40 and older between 2005 and 2021. A changing risk profile “We see that the actual fracture risk in Sweden has declined.
Emperors in the Holy Roman Empire traveled domestically for political purposes
The Holy Roman Empire was founded in 962, when the German king Otto I was crowned emperor. The empire, which primarily encompassed present-day Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, and parts of Italy, played an important role in European politics during the Middle Ages and the early modern period before being dissolved in 1806. Unlike modern states, the Holy Roman Empire was not a unified nation but consisted of many self-governing principalities.
Early immune responses linked to protective HIV antibodies
Street scene from South Africa. The country has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world, highlighting the ongoing need for research, prevention efforts, and the development of effective treatments and vaccines. Photo: iStock Breadcrumb Home News and events Find news Early immune responses linked to protective HIV antibodies Some people living with HIV develop antibodies capable of neutralizing many different strains of the virus.
Municipalities paint a rosier economic picture in election years
In the run-up to elections, the tone of Swedish municipalities' annual reports becomes more positive, regardless of the actual state of the economy. A new study from the University of Gothenburg shows that political pressure can influence how financial results are presented in writing. The researchers examined the relationship between the language used in annual reports and municipalities’ financial performance.
Karl Dyall joins the Academy of Music and Drama
Karl Dyall has been a leading figure in the Swedish performing arts scene since the 1980s, and is widely regarded as one of the key individuals responsible for popularising street dance in Sweden. He has enjoyed a successful career in dance, choreography, singing and acting, and has received numerous awards for his work in musicals and stage productions. He has received several Guldmasken awards, the equivalent of the Guldbagge in Swedish private theatre.
AI must outperform physicians
In spring 2025, a survey was sent to 1,000 randomly selected people across Sweden, half of them physicians. It was completed by 45 percent of the physicians and 31 percent of the general public. Participants were asked to assess different healthcare scenarios and indicate to what extent it is acceptable for an AI system to miss or misjudge a case, compared with the current level of accuracy in healthcare.
New laser method gives insight into radioactive atomic nuclei
Shapes of an atomic nucleus. The nucleus is always prolate-shaped for fermium-255, but it can vary, for the same element, depending on how many neutrons the nucleus has. Photo: Mitzi Urquiza Breadcrumb Home News and events Find news New laser method gives insight into radioactive atomic nuclei By directing pulses of laser light at atoms, researchers can study how radioactive elements decay in a matter of seconds.
AI identifies early risk patterns for skin cancer
Photo: iStock Healthcare registry data can show early risk patterns for melanoma skin cancer, according to a study from the University of Gothenburg. Using AI, it is possible to identify small groups within the population that have a significantly higher risk of developing melanoma within five years. The study was based on registry data that is routinely collected on the whole of Sweden’s adult population. The analyzed data included age, sex, diagnoses, use of medications and socioeconomic status.
Painkillers prevent pain responses in Norway lobsters
Norway, New Zealand and Austria have banned the boiling of live crustaceans on ethical grounds, and similar legislation is now being proposed in the United Kingdom. The fishing industry is therefore investigating whether electric shocks could be used to stun the animals before cooking. Painful electric shocks However, more research is needed into how crustaceans react to pain in order to develop the most humane slaughter method.
High societal costs linked to extremely preterm birth
Being born before 24 weeks usually means that the child needs help with breathing, maintaining body temperature, and receiving nutrition. Care is provided in neonatal units and may continue for weeks or months. This concerns only a small number of children each year – just a fraction of the approximately 115,000 children born in Sweden annually.
DNA evidence of a Stone Age population collapse in France
Kristian Kristiansen, professor i arkeologi. Photo: Johan Wingborg – By joining forces of experts from a wide variety of disciplines, we can now begin to understand what happened during one of the most dramatic transitions in European prehistory, says Kristian Kristiansen, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Gothenburg and one of the researchers behind the study.
Immune cells in the nose slow influenza virus
Today’s influenza vaccines are given as injections in the arm and mainly stimulate immune responses in the blood. At the same time, researchers are working to develop influenza vaccines that can be administered through the nose—an effort this study helps inform. The goal is to strengthen the body’s defenses where the virus first encounters the immune system.
Increasing wildfires a threat to new species
The ongoing climate change will lead to more wildfires. And this is increasing the vulnerability of thousands of plants, animals and fungi. Photo: Tongxin Hu Wildfires are becoming more frequent and are ravaging new parts of the world due to global warming. A study led by researchers from the University of Gothenburg shows that this change is increasing the vulnerability of thousands of plants, animals and fungi. As global temperatures rise, the incidence of wildfires is increasing in many regions.
Report Highlights Gender Perspectives in Societal Transformation
Watch the webcast from the launch on 10 March at Folkets hus in Umeå – link in the related material at the bottom of the page. The ongoing social transformation in Norrbotten, Västerbotten, Västernorrland and Jämtland is driving innovation and regional development – but also poses major challenges. The knowledge overview Jämställd samhällsomvandling? Genusperspektiv på hållbart arbetsliv i Norrbotten, Västerbotten, Västernorrland och Jämtland (Gender-equal social transformation?
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