DNA, a molecule known for its genetic role, can also be a powerful tool in creating new materials for various applications. Recent research led by Chad Mirkin at Northwestern University has demonstrated how manipulating DNA chemistry can lead to the creation of unique materials useful in medicine and the life sciences. This study, published in
Chemistry
The behavior of water molecules at an interface with air has always been a topic of interest and significance in the scientific community. Water is known for its anomalous properties, such as having higher freezing and boiling points than expected, and being less dense as a solid compared to its liquid form. These properties are
A recent study conducted by a team of chemists at the University of Bremen in Germany has brought about a significant breakthrough in the field of nitrene research. Nitrenes, which are known for their fast reaction times, have posed a challenge for chemists due to their short-lived nature. However, this team of researchers has developed
In a groundbreaking research collaboration between the University of Leiden, the Netherlands, and the John Innes Centre, UK, a project aimed at repurposing existing drugs for their potential as antibiotics has identified a highly promising candidate with a unique mechanism for killing drug-resistant bacteria. Initially developed for cancer therapies, a chemical library of 352 small
Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are a crucial family of receptors that play a vital role in regulating hormone secretion and inhibiting tumor growth. Among the five subtypes, SSTR5 is highly expressed in the pituitary gland and controls the release of important hormones. A study published in PNAS by a research team from the Shanghai Institute of
Shooting a movie in a laboratory setting presents unique challenges, especially when the “actors” are molecules that are invisible to the naked eye. Professor Emiliano Cortés, an expert in Experimental Physics and Energy Conversion, highlights the difficulty of capturing the reactions of these molecules, comparing it to filming tiny lava flows during a volcanic eruption.
Organ preservation has long been hindered by cryogenic damage, which poses challenges to advancements in transplantation and medical treatments. The formation of ice crystals during freezing can lead to irreversible damage and organ failure, limiting the success of organ transplants. However, a new study led by researchers from the Hebrew University, in collaboration with other
Tungsten pentaboride, WB5-x, has recently gained attention as a potential catalyst due to its unique properties. A group of researchers led by Professor Alexander Kvashnin has conducted a study on the stable surfaces of the WB5-x crystal and discovered that it offers several advantages over traditional catalysts. This article delves into the findings of the
In a groundbreaking study by the National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS) in Japan, researchers have developed a novel approach to the reduction of esters using light as an energy source. Traditionally, the process of ester reduction has been costly and harmful to the environment, requiring excess amounts of highly reactive metal reductants. However, with
The production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a crucial process in the industrial sector, often requiring energy-intensive methods and the use of costly catalysts. However, researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a groundbreaking approach to this process by harnessing the power of artificial photosynthesis. This innovative method involves the use of
Vitamin B6 is crucial for brain metabolism and plays a significant role in maintaining optimal brain function. Research has shown that a low level of vitamin B6 can have negative effects on brain performance, leading to impaired memory, learning abilities, and even mental illnesses such as depression. Despite the importance of vitamin B6, the exact
Stainless steel is a favorite among cooks due to its durability, rust resistance, and ability to heat evenly when cooking. The secret to stainless steel’s popularity lies in the metal chromium, which reacts with oxygen in the air to create a protective coating that safeguards the steel underneath. This characteristic makes stainless steel an ideal
California is rapidly moving towards renewable energy sources, but the intermittent nature of solar and wind power poses challenges for the electric grid. The reliance on natural gas to balance out these fluctuations is unsustainable in the long run. As a solution, researchers at Stanford are exploring liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) as a potential
Hydrogen has long been considered a promising fuel for reducing greenhouse gases, particularly when produced through the splitting of water molecules using renewable energy sources. However, this process is far from simple due to the complex chemistry involved. The key to efficiently breaking water into hydrogen and oxygen lies in the use of catalysts, which
Split ends are a common hair concern that many people face. While it may seem like a superficial issue, the science behind split ends is complex and not well understood. A team at Trinity College Dublin led by Professor David Taylor has taken on the challenge of investigating this knotty problem. Professor Taylor, known for