To better understand the dynamics and phase behaviour of protein mixtures under cell-like conditions, a research group from Lund investigated the crystalline proteins of the eye lens at the MLZ. Using neutrons, they showed that macroscopic properties can be predicted surprisingly well using simple mixing rules. The results provide new insights into age-related changes in the lens and open up perspectives for research into diseases such as Alzheimer’s or cataracts.

From 3 December to 4, 2025, the neutron community gathered for the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) User Meeting. Around 230 participants came together – once again in a year without neutrons from Garching, but with a palpable sense of solidarity and a focus on restarting the research neutron source.

Dendrites are considered the most dangerous destroyers of lithium batteries – tiny metal structures that can cause short circuits. A research team at TUM has now discovered that such structures can form not only at the electrodes but also in polymer-based electrolytes. This new finding is crucial for the stability of future solid-state batteries. MLZ postdoc Gilles Wittmann developed the miniature cell used to examine the battery under real-life operating conditions.