Tweaks to our diets could be one of the most effective ways of preventing disease in Europe’s ageing population. In 2021, more than one fifth of the EU population was aged 65 and over. Current demographic trends suggest there will be 130 million Europeans over the age of 65 by 2050. By 2040, according … Read more
For thousands of years, silk has been treasured for its qualities as a beautiful material for elegant garments. But scientists are harnessing the less obvious qualities of silk to develop versatile replacement parts for human eyes and knees. The first word that comes to mind when you think of silk is probably not “strength”, … Read more
The in-built process of maintaining the health of our cells by recycling dead or toxic material plays a key role in our health overall. Known as autophagy, researchers are now keen to know if boosting the natural process may hold off the debilitating diseases of old age. By intervening in the processes that make … Read more
Non-invasive diagnostics such as light scanners and swabs are increasingly used to diagnose illness in people. Now EU-backed scientists are trying to extend the techniques to the treatment of pets. There are an estimated 90 million dogs living as pets in European households. Having a dog in the family can make people more physically active. … Read more
Food systems are highly complex and interconnected. If our grocery stores and kitchens are to have a future with packed shelves, we need to be able to make our food systems sustainable. Horizon magazine reached out to food system experts with five essential questions. The growing global population, reducing rural poverty, protecting the environment, … Read more
EU scientists are tapping into the virtual world of video games, VR (virtual reality) and smartphone apps to build better self-control in addiction recovery. © Halfpoint, Shutterstock Researchers developing treatments for addiction are turning to virtual reality and gaming to help patients overcome their lack of impulse control and decrease the relapse rates. … Read more