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Our annual summer quiz takes you on a grand tour of research and campus life at UZH. We hope you enjoy it and wish you a relaxing summer break. We’ll be back in August to keep you informed and inspired.

Most influenza viruses enter human or animal cells through specific pathways on the cells’ surface. UZH researchers have now discovered that certain human flu viruses and avian flu viruses can also use a second entry pathway to infect cells.

Linguistic diversity thrives best in biodiverse environments – such as a tropical rainforest. For the survival of the many small language communities in these areas, isolation is key. Linguist Balthasar Bickel explains the interesting parallels between biodiversity and linguistic diversity.

A new study shows that about two percent of the population develop autoantibodies against type 1 interferons, mostly later in life. This makes individuals more susceptible to viral diseases like COVID-19.

According to evolutionary biologist Andreas Wagner, nature tirelessly produces new variations, many of which are not utilized. But when environmental conditions change, these dormant new talents spring into action.

This year’s awards from the Swiss 3R Competence Centre all go to UZH scientists whose research contributes to replacing, reducing and refining animal experiments.