Chemistry

Researchers at Kyushu University have developed an innovative device that can efficiently convert complex polysaccharides into simple monosaccharides through the use of a catalyst and microwave-assisted flow reactions. This breakthrough technique combines cutting-edge science and engineering to address one of the significant challenges in the field of biomass conversion. The device employs a continuous-flow hydrolysis … Read more

In a groundbreaking achievement, a combined team of chemists and nano-scientists from Cornell University has developed an innovative wireless microelectronic device powered by light that can convert a standard well plate into an array of small electrochemical reactors. This advancement, which holds significant promise for the future of organic chemistry, is described in their recent … Read more

Israeli and Palestinian engineers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have made groundbreaking strides in sustainable food production by using advanced metamaterials to replicate the texture and structure of whole cuts of meat. Published in Nature Communications, this innovative work demonstrates how materials science can transform alternative protein manufacturing, moving beyond the limitations of 3D … Read more

When a spider spins its web, something extraordinary unfolds. The silk that begins as a liquid quickly transforms into a solid form that, weight for weight, is stronger than steel. This remarkable process occurs at room temperature and involves biodegradable, environmentally friendly polymers. Spiders accomplish this without industrial-scale machinery or harmful chemicals, a feat that … Read more

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma have made an exciting advancement that could revolutionize drug discovery and development. The breakthrough centers around a novel technique for adding a single nitrogen atom to bioactive molecules, unlocking a wide array of new possibilities in medicinal chemistry. Published in the renowned journal Science, the research is already attracting … Read more

Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” have garnered widespread attention for their persistent nature and ability to resist environmental degradation. These substances have become a pressing concern for both environmental health and human biology because they accumulate in water, soil, and living tissues, including the human brain. What makes PFAS especially … Read more

Just like your body relies on its skeleton for support and resilience, each cell in your body has its own internal framework called the cytoskeleton. This cellular skeleton not only provides structural integrity but also plays a vital role in cell division, shape maintenance, and response to mechanical forces. To delve deeper into how real … Read more

Over the past two decades, large-scale genetic studies have made tremendous strides in identifying genetic variants linked to a wide array of human traits and diseases. These efforts have resulted in the identification of tens of thousands of DNA variants associated with thousands of diseases, allowing researchers to develop a deeper understanding of the genetic … Read more

In recent years, concerns over the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in human tissues have escalated, with mounting evidence suggesting potential risks to human health. A comprehensive study led by Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University in China, titled “Mapping micro(nano)plastics in various organ systems: Their emerging links to human diseases?” has shed light on … Read more

Microorganisms have been using hydrogen as a source of energy for billions of years, utilizing specialized enzymes known as hydrogenases. These enzymes play a crucial role in hydrogen metabolism by catalyzing the conversion of hydrogen molecules into protons and electrons. Hydrogenases are made up of metal-containing catalytic centers, and understanding the detailed mechanism by which … Read more