Impact stories are a short format we use to provide an overview of the research process from results and outputs, to outcomes and impact. These are constructed to swiftly communicate the significance of projects we have chosen to highlight.
Discovering Blautia's role in maintaining intestinal health
Researchers at Umeå University made a breakthrough discovery regarding gut health in collaboration with researchers in Germany and Finland. They found that the bacterium Blautia plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal mucus barrier in individuals consuming a low-fibre Western diet.
This finding was detailed in a study published by the team, showcasing the protective effects of Blautia against gut barrier degradation. The study received attention from the medical community, facilitating further research into dietary recommendations and treatments for gut-related diseases.
This adds to the evicence base of dietary guidelines, emphasising the importance of dietary fibres and beneficial gut bacteria, to enhance gut health and prevent diseases like ulcerative colitis.
Nordic research shapes European guidelines on rheumatoid arthritis treatment
Researchers led by Merete Lund Hetland at the University of Copenhagen conducted the world's largest trial of its kind, the NordStar project, to determine the most effective initial treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, comparing three biological drugs and one conventional medicine.
Their findings, which showed high remission rates with the biological treatments, were published in the British Medical Journal, and incorporated into European guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. This research received international acclaim, influencing the standard of care provided to patients across Europe.
By demonstrating the effectiveness of certain biological drugs, the study has paved the way for more informed treatment decisions that could significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life, thus advancing treatment protocols.
Reducing water usage and preventing weight loss in salmon
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, spearheaded by Professor Oskar Modin in collaboration with Tampere University and the Danish Technology Institute, have been tackling the persistent problem of poor taste and odour in salmon from land-based aquaculture systems, which is often described tasting like "muddy soil".
The team identified specific bacteria responsible for these undesirable flavours and explored innovative bioelectrochemical systems to eliminate odour-causing compounds. Additionally, they initiated the development of a sensor capable of detecting taste and odour compounds directly in the water. This research garnered attention from industry partners and has potential implications for more sustainable aquaculture practices.
Implementing these new technologies could improve fish farming by reducing water usage and preventing the weight loss in salmon during detox periods, thereby making the industry more environmentally friendly and economically viable.
Pioneering sustainable textiles in the Nordic region
Nordic researchers, led by Jaana Vapaavuori from Aalto University, have developed innovative prototypes for sustainable textiles using materials like lupin yarn and potato starch.
These results were showcased in a series of exhibitions across the Nordic region and a major conference in London. The exhibitions not only demonstrated the potential of these eco-friendly materials to the public and industry stakeholders but also influenced educational practices, as showcased by the inclusion of these materials in needlework curriculums in Finnish schools.
This project contributes to reducing the environmental impact of the global textile industry, aligning with the European Commission’s new sustainability criteria, while paving the way for a more sustainable textile production paradigm.
How mathematical modelling can guide public health decisions
Nordic researchers, led by Professor Tom Britton from Stockholm University, utilised mathematical modelling to analyse the spread of diseases during pandemics, identifying the most significant sources of infection spread.
Their findings were documented and shared with public health officials and policymakers. This research influenced public health policies, particularly advising against crowded environments like public transport and workplaces during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a result, more targeted measures can be implemented to control crowd sizes in these areas, effectively reducing the rate of infection spread and informing future pandemic management strategies.