Volunteer Day: Strengthening bonds between UCLA and the L.A. community
On the last Saturday in September, 1,300 UCLA volunteers turned out for the 17th annual Volunteer Day, participating in service projects across Los Angeles, which ranged from preparing meals for unhoused individuals to restoring military grave markers. Chancellor Julio Frenk urged participants to forge meaningful connections with the local community, and volunteers contributed at 45 sites. Since its founding in 2009, the UCLA Volunteer Center has rallied nearly 60,000 volunteers, delivering approximately 367,000 hours of service, valued at $9.5 million.
Video: Bruins spread their light during UCLA Volunteer Day
New freshmen and transfer students join continuing undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and community members to engage in various community service projects in Los Angeles.
UCLA alumnus wins 2025 Nobel Prize
Immunologist Frederick “Fred” Ramsdell, who earned his doctorate in microbiology and immunology from UCLA in 1987, was awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine for his groundbreaking work on the human immune system. His research, conducted alongside Mary Brunkow and Shimon Sakaguchi, established the foundation for the field of peripheral immune tolerance and spurred more than 200 clinical trials aimed at advancing therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Thanks to his contributions, scientists are developing better treatments for autoimmune diseases, improving organ transplant success and creating new cancer therapies helping millions of people around the world.
UCLA has a strong legacy in producing Nobel laureates, with Ramsdell being the ninth UCLA alum to achieve this honor. In addition to these distinguished alumni, eight UCLA faculty have received the Nobel Prize.
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New insights into epilepsy
UCLA researchers discovered that gene variants causing developmental and epileptic encephalopathy type 13 (DEE-13) lead to heightened seizure activity in one part of the brain and disrupt memory functions in another. This research demonstrates why treatments focusing solely on controlling seizures may not address other serious issues, including learning difficulties and behavioral problems, that many children with epilepsy face. By creating a new brain model to study these effects, the researchers hope to develop better treatments that can target the full range of symptoms associated with epilepsy and similar conditions.
UCLA equips community college students with in-demand skills
The Semiconductor Microelectronics Training Program at UCLA, offered by the California NanoSystems Institute and the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering, trains community college students in essential skills for careers in the growing microelectronics industry. Featuring six microcredential modules on topics such as lithography and integrated circuit design, the program connects students with industry professionals, provides professional development workshops, and offers internships at facilities such as the UCLA Nanofabrication Lab, supporting workforce development across the state.
How mosquito-borne viruses breach the brain’s defenses
UCLA scientists have made a significant discovery about how certain mosquito-borne viruses, particularly the Sindbis virus, can circumvent the brain's defenses. Their research revealed that these viruses penetrate the blood-brain barrier by targeting one or two specific proteins located on the cells that make up this protective barrier. The groundbreaking study utilizes a stem cell-based model of the human blood-brain barrier, providing a powerful tool to explore the interactions between various pathogens and the brain’s defense mechanisms. The findings not only highlight potential targets for the development of new vaccines and antiviral treatments but also underscore the urgent need to investigate other related viruses.
Mitochondrial secrets revealed
Mitochondria, known as the powerhouse of the cell, provide almost all of our body's energy and play crucial roles in cellular signaling and eliminating damaged cells, which can help prevent cancer. Recent studies led by UCLA researchers have uncovered new insights into how mitochondria split, a process vital for maintaining energy balance in our bodies. The researchers discovered that this splitting happens in two stages, involving a specific protein that first constricts and then disassembles, ultimately leading to fission. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for serious health issues such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases by addressing the imbalances in mitochondrial function.
Why some women experience morning sickness during pregnancy
A UCLA study reveals that morning sickness symptoms, such as nausea and food aversions, are linked to the body's complex immune response during early pregnancy. Researchers found that these symptoms help pregnant women avoid potentially harmful foods while protecting both the mother and the fetus from infections. Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the study analyzed blood samples and questionnaires from women in Southern California. The findings suggest that these symptoms indicate a healthy immune response rather than a sign of problems.
UCLA engineers pioneer sustainable AI imaging
UCLA’s Samueli School of Engineering has developed a groundbreaking light-based technology for generating images, drastically reducing energy consumption compared to traditional AI systems. Unlike conventional methods that require hundreds of steps, this system produces high-quality images in a single step and includes security features to prevent unauthorized copying. This innovation holds promise for applications in biomedical imaging, diagnostics, immersive media, and on device computing.
Weakness persists in U.S. and California economies
The UCLA Anderson Forecast's third quarterly economic report of 2025 highlights significant changes in the U.S. economy, including a decline in payroll employment, rising inflation, and a shift in Federal Reserve policy towards prioritizing employment. This suggests the risk of rising layoffs and could signal a recession, as the report anticipates a "stagflation-lite" period where inflation and unemployment remain moderately elevated. In California, economic conditions continue to weaken, with job losses and an unemployment rate above 5%. According to the Forecast, the state faces an employment contraction through 2025, but a resurgence in tech, manufacturing, and construction is expected post-2026.
Responding to the modern “kindness deficit”
In 2019, UCLA launched the Bedari Kindness Institute with the support of Jennifer and Matthew Harris to study kindness from diverse perspectives, including psychology and sociology. David N. Myers became director of the institute in 2024, integrating the Initiative to Study Hate and
Dialogue across Difference Initiative to address social issues related to kindness and hate. Myers emphasizes building collaboration to tackle pressing societal challenges. His approach focuses on translating research findings into practical applications that promote understanding and connection. The ultimate goal is a more compassionate community.
Mental health care needs differ within LGBT community
A recent study from the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research reveals significant mental health challenges among LGBT adults in California, showing that 64% of transgender adults and 55% of bisexual adults have seriously considered suicide, compared to 48% for all LGBT individuals – and compared to just 17% among heterosexuals. Additionally, 65% of LGBT adults reported needing mental health care in the past year, more than double the percentage for non-LGBT adults. The study highlights the necessity for improved mental health policies and services focused on transgender and bisexual populations to address the stigma, discrimination, and psychological distress they often face. With nearly half of LGBT adults experiencing moderate to serious psychological distress, these findings
serve as a call for better data collection and screening practices to ensure these communities receive the care they require.
The struggle for healthy housing
In his new book Homesick
, UCLA professor Nicholas Shapiro examines the lasting effects of Hurricane Katrina, especially from the harmful chemicals found in FEMA trailers given to survivors. These trailers contained high levels of formaldehyde and were resold as permanent housing, exposing many people to dangerous toxins and creating a significant public health crisis. Shapiro’s book chronicles his extended look at the crisis and its aftermath – 15 years of traveling extensively to connect with affected communities and investigate how these issues reflect broader problems in American housing practices. He sounds an urgent call for accountability and improved housing regulations to ensure that homes are safe, while also finding hope in communities that are working together to secure affordable and
healthier living conditions.
UCLA launches Department of Labor Studies
UCLA has elevated its Labor Studies program to a full academic department, becoming the first of its kind in the University of California system. The new Department of Labor Studies focuses on educating future leaders on labor and social justice issues and expanding its course offerings, including a master’s degree program. Founded in the early 2000s, the program has trained numerous undergraduates while collaborating with community organizations. The department's establishment enhances UCLA's commitment to service and research within Los Angeles and legitimizes labor studies as a credible academic field.
Mapping deportations and the evolution of U.S. immigration policy
The UCLA School of Law's Center for Immigration Law and Policy (CILP) has launched Mapping Deportations, a website tracking every deportation order issued by the federal government since 1895. In partnership with the Million Dollar Hoods project, the site illustrates the relationship between U.S. immigration law and national demographic changes. The immigration mapping project is the latest initiative of CILP, which was founded in 2020 to expand the law school's role as a national leader in immigration law and policy through innovative research.
Joy at the ballpark: Dodgers honor pediatric cancer survivors and patients
Cannon Van Daele, a 17-year-old pitcher from J Serra High School, attended Major League Baseball’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Night after being diagnosed with cancer in May 2024. Along with other pediatric oncology patients, he participated in pre-game activities and received a visit from Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who signed autographs. The event aimed to celebrate young cancer patients and provide them with a memorable experience, highlighting the ongoing support from UCLA Health in their treatment journeys.
UCLA researchers reveal how fat tissue cells influence risk of obesity
UCLA researchers have developed the first detailed map showing how DNA is organized and regulated in different types of human fat cells. Their study reveals that many genetic factors linked to belly fat, which can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, are found in specific regions of fat cells. Co-authors Zeyuan (Johnson) Chen and Sankha Subhra Das clarify how these cell types influence obesity. Future research will explore whether changing these genetic markers can alter fat cell behavior, potentially paving the way for more personalized treatments for cardiometabolic diseases based on an individual’s genetic makeup.
More children are being shot at home, UCLA study finds
Recent UCLA-led research reveals that nearly 25% of child and adolescent firearm homicide victims were killed in their homes between 2020 and 2021, with a significant portion involving parents as assailants. The study, published in JAMA Surgery, highlights that rates of in-home firearm homicides have more than doubled since 2010, and those homicides were often linked to intimate partner violence and child abuse. It suggests that Extreme Risk Protection Orders and policies addressing family-related violence may be more effective than traditional safe storage methods in preventing these tragedies.
Supporting Communities: UCLA's Impact
Discover how UCLA's students, staff, and faculty are enhancing the well-being of Greater Los Angeles through UCLA Community Partnerships.
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT UCLA Stunt Ranch Reserveoffers a unique setting for outdoor education, field research, and outreach events. The 310-acre reserve, located in the Santa Monica Mountains, is rich in biodiversity and comprises a variety of ecosystems. Additionally, evidence of extensive early human habitation has been recovered at Stunt Ranch, and the reserve is recognized as archeologically significant land.
