10 selected Research Luxembourg results – February 2025

10 March 2025

This article was originally in French and German on science.lu 

Type 2 diabetes is linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease

Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg

Diabetes and Parkinson’s: What is the connection between these two diseases? A research team from LCSB has demonstrated that insulin resistance (an early stage of type 2 diabetes) predisposes individuals to Parkinson’s disease.

To study the pathological changes caused by insulin resistance in the human midbrain (a region of the brain), the researchers used midbrain organoids derived from healthy individuals. (Organoids are 3D cellular structures that mimic the architecture and function of the entire organ.) They exposed these organoids to either a high concentration of insulin—promoting insulin resistance—or a normal concentration. The researchers found that insulin resistance impairs the proper functioning of organoids. Furthermore, insulin-resistant organoids show reduced neuronal activity and a lower number of dopamine-releasing neurons.

An increasing body of evidence suggests that type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. These findings highlight the importance of addressing insulin resistance early on to prevent Parkinson’s disease at an early stage.

To the publication

In Luxembourg, women earn slightly more than men on average

Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER)

A new article from LISER explores the evolution of the Luxembourg labor market and existing wage differences.

The gender pay gap in Luxembourg is the smallest in Europe and even slightly negative (-0.7%), meaning that, on average, women earn slightly more per hour than men. However, this varies by age and professional category. While the overall percentage of women in the workforce increased from 36.2% in 1994 to 40.7% in 2022, disparities persist across different job categories. Women remain underrepresented in traditionally manual sectors such as construction and manufacturing. In contrast, sectors like education, healthcare, and social work have a higher percentage of female workers.

To the publication

Alzheimer’s Disease: Molecular Differences Between Men and Women

Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg

A new study from LCSB highlights the molecular differences between men and women with Alzheimer’s disease.

By studying various types of brain cells from men and women affected by the disease, researchers found sex-dependent cellular changes. According to the press release, male patients’ brains showed pronounced changes in cell death signaling, while female patients’ brains exhibited altered calcium signaling—a key process in brain function and memory.

The research team conducted in-depth analyses on more than 2.3 million brain cells, including neurons and different types of glial cells, from individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and healthy donors who had donated their brains for research after death. They focused particularly on the prefrontal cortex, a key region responsible for decision-making and memory retrieval.

This study suggests new targets for personalized therapeutic approaches.

To the press release | To the publication

Population Diversity Boosts Economic Growth

University of Luxembourg

A recent study from the Faculty of Law, Economics, and Finance (FDEF) explores the link between population diversity and economic growth. Areas with higher diversity experience greater innovation, a larger pool of ideas, and a wider range of skills in the workforce, all of which contribute to economic success.

As part of his research, Dr. Sintos examined how differences in ethnicity, language, religion, and place of birth influence economic dynamics by conducting a meta-analysis—a statistical approach that combines results from multiple studies to draw stronger conclusions from available data. Notably, diversity related to place of birth and genetic background has significant positive effects on economic output.

These findings are particularly relevant for a country like Luxembourg, which has an exceptionally diverse population in all respects.

To the press release | To the publication

A New System Helps Satellites Meet in Space

Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT), University of Luxembourg

How can the connection between two satellites in space be optimized? To address this challenge, researchers at SnT have developed a dual-camera system that combines visual and thermal imaging. Space rendezvous are particularly important for repairing spacecraft and removing debris.

In space, a target initially appears as a distant bright spot. As satellites get closer, tracking becomes more difficult due to rapid changes in the sun’s position in orbit, creating extreme variations between light and shadow. These missions are therefore rare and complex. By using a dual-camera system along with artificial intelligence, the researchers have found a way to make orbital rendezvous safer—thermal cameras allow objects to be detected even in low-light conditions.

Their research achieved three key objectives: improving the detection of space objects, enhancing tracking accuracy, and integrating data from both types of cameras.

To the press release

An Innovative Coating Protects the Condition of Concrete Infrastructure

University of Luxembourg

How can the stability of concrete bridges and buildings be monitored? A team from the University of Luxembourg and the Technical University of Darmstadt has developed cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers, similar to a paint coating, that change color based on the condition of the material.

These elastomers could be used to track the gradual growth of cracks, detecting them at a very early stage to prevent potentially serious consequences. A color change indicates the area where the material is deteriorating. While initially designed for concrete surfaces, this technology could also be easily applied to the metallic surfaces of moving vehicles, such as airplanes, ships, trains, and cars. Researchers are also exploring ways to minimize its environmental impact.

This research could significantly enhance infrastructure safety—especially for bridges and dams—while being more cost-effective than current solutions.

To the press release | To the publication

The Role of Microglia in Alzheimer’s Disease Becomes Clearer

Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) / Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) / Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS) / University of Luxembourg

The role of glial cells in Alzheimer’s disease is receiving increasing attention. Microglia, the immune cells of the central nervous system, help maintain the brain’s metabolic balance. In Alzheimer’s disease, microglia form cellular aggregates that promote disease progression.

To better understand the role of microglial subtypes, researchers conducted a comprehensive mapping of their morphological and molecular signatures, as well as their microenvironment, using post-mortem samples from Alzheimer’s patients and healthy controls. Their findings provide new insights into microglia, particularly their interactions with astrocytes (a type of brain cell) and infiltrating immune cells. The study also sheds light on the mechanisms behind the deterioration of certain brain regions in Alzheimer’s disease.

These results could contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting glial cells to slow down neurodegenerative processes.

To the publication

Miro1: A New Protein Linked to Parkinson’s Disease

Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg

A newly identified protein has been associated with the development of Parkinson’s disease. Miro1, encoded by the RHOT1 gene, is essential for maintaining balance in mitochondria—the energy powerhouses of cells. Miro1 also interacts with other proteins that play a key role in Parkinson’s disease.

In this new study, researchers at LCSB investigated a specific mutation of Miro1 and its role in various cellular activities and pathways related to neurodegeneration. Parkinson’s disease is genetically very heterogeneous, meaning that numerous genetic mutations contribute to its development. RHOT1 has been identified as one of the genes with the highest number of rare genetic variants in people with Parkinson’s disease.

This study further supports the theory that mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the main drivers of neurodegeneration.

To the press release | To the publication

Two New Springtail Species Discovered in Crete

National Museum of Natural History (MNHN)

A team of researchers, including David Porco from MNHN, has discovered two new species of springtails in Crete. These species have adapted to dry soils and a hot climate, which is remarkable since springtails are typically found in moist environments such as forest litter, mosses, and marshes.

Springtails play a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter and the recycling of nutrients in the soil, contributing to humus formation. They are considered bioindicators of soil quality, as their presence and diversity reflect the health of ecosystems. Some species can survive in extreme environments, including high altitudes, polar regions, and underground habitats, making them fascinating subjects of research.

According to the researchers, DNA analysis confirmed their classification as new species by identifying them as distinct genetic entities.

To the publication

Trust in Democracy Declining in Luxembourg

University of Luxembourg

Only 68% of Luxembourgish citizens trust representative democracy in the Grand Duchy, down from 90% in 2004. These alarming findings come from the Polindex 2024 survey, which was presented on Tuesday at the Chamber of Deputies.

A total of 1,558 citizens responded to the questionnaire, prepared by the Chair of Parliamentary Studies. The results indicate that 77% of Luxembourgish citizens are satisfied with how democracy functions, 74% are interested in politics, and they are not drawn to far-right ideologies. Social media is the primary source of information for young people, with 60% of 18–24-year-olds relying on it. Meanwhile, political parties, television, and the press inspire more distrust than confidence.

A particularly notable finding is that 35% of 18–24-year-olds did not clearly answer “yes” when asked whether democracy is the best form of government for the country. Additionally, 33% of citizens are inclined toward a political system that prioritizes efficiency over democracy.

To the press release | To the publication

Author: Diane Bertel

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