Scientific Discoveries in Alzheimer’s, Cancer, AI, Astronomy, Engineering, and More

Columbia News is celebrating 11 scientific discoveries that took place this year, some of which were supported by vital federal research funding. As Columbia University continues to engage with the U.S. government regarding its longstanding partnership on advancing critical research that has led to breakthroughs over the last 80 years in nuclear science, national defense, quantum computing, and neuroscience, among other areas, we're excited to highlight some of those advances in such areas as cancer care, brain and tissue imaging, and Alzheimer’s research. Discoveries like these are made possible in part because of the long, productive relationship between Columbia's research community and the federal government.

Scientists Develop First Broad Antivenom to Counter Snakebites

Scientists on a team co-led by Columbia Professor Peter Kwong have developed the first broad-spectrum antivenom that neutralizes the neurotoxins in 19 of the world’s deadliest snakes.

Columbia Engineering Launches the Columbia Fusion Research Center

The new center will help address global energy challenges, contribute to sustainable climate solutions, and create a new industry and associated employment.

New Research Lays Groundwork for Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease

A new study by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and the Columbia Butler Aging Center suggests that risk factors and biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s disease are associated with cognition much earlier in life than previously recognized. The study highlights significant associations between cognition and Alzheimer’s disease risk factors as young as ages 24 to 44.

Researchers Discover Why Plastic Sheds Dangerous Fragments

A new study led by Columbia Engineering Professor Sanat Kumar found that the unique construction that makes plastic so useful also makes it prone to forming hazardous micro- and nanoscopic shards.

New AI Predicts Inner Workings of Cells

Using a new artificial intelligence method, researchers at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons can accurately predict the activity of genes within any human cell, essentially revealing the cell’s inner mechanisms. The system could transform the way scientists work to understand everything from cancer to genetic diseases.

Delivering Gene Therapy to the Lung Using Nanoparticles

Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic, a pioneering biomedical engineer at Columbia University, is developing new devices and nanoparticles to improve the delivery of gene therapies to the lung and bring new treatments to patients with cystic fibrosis and other lung diseases.   

Scientists Map Tongue’s Sweet Sensor, May Lead to New Ways to Curb Sugar Cravings

Columbia scientists have mapped the 3D structure of the human sweet taste receptor, which could lead to the discovery of new regulators of the receptor that would significantly alter our attraction to and appetite for sugar.

New Study Shows That Birds Form Bonds That Look a Lot Like Friendship

A new study of African starlings draws on data gathered over 20 years and proves that the birds demonstrate “reciprocity,” helping each other with the expectation that the favor will eventually be returned. “Starling societies are not just simple families, they’re much more complex, containing a mixture of related and unrelated individuals that live together, much in the way that humans do,” Professor Dustin Rubenstein said.

A Cosmic Explosion Forged Heavy Elements Like Gold and Platinum

New research shows that a 2004 gamma-ray burst produced huge amounts of heavy elements including gold and platinum, exceeding the mass of the planet Mars. The event released more energy in half a second than our Sun produces in a quarter of a million years. 

A Pivotal Discovery in Cancer Immunotherapy

An interdisciplinary team discovered that boosting a patient's immune environment before treatment improves outcomes when treating acute myeloid leukemia. 

3D Imaging Just Got Easier

A team of researchers led by Columbia biologist Raju Tomer has developed a powerful, affordable, and user-friendly microscope that could dramatically increase the number of scientists around the world who are able to conduct cutting-edge biomedical research. 

Learn more about how Columbia alumni, faculty, staff, and students have made major contributions to science, technology, the arts, our city, our nation, and the world.