In a groundbreaking study published in *Nature Communications*, researchers at Leiden University led by Ph.D. candidate Samuel Schwab have significantly broadened the understanding of histones—proteins that organize and compact DNA. Contrary to the long-held belief that histones were primarily confined to eukaryotic organisms, evidence has now emerged revealing that even simple single-celled organisms, specifically archaea
Chemistry
The phenomenon of crystallization is prevalent across various species, showcasing a stunning diversity in both form and function. From the vibrant scales of fishes to the complex camouflage of chameleons, creatures have evolved fascinating ways to utilize crystals for various survival strategies. In contrast to the dubious crystal manufacturing of Walter White from the cult
Recent advancements in our understanding of the molecular dynamics of cholesterol have emerged from a study conducted by researchers at Rice University, led by Jason Hafner. Published in the Journal of Physical Chemistry, this research represents a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to decipher the complexities of cell membranes and their associated receptors. As
The increasing concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in our atmosphere poses far-reaching consequences, not only for the climate but also for biological processes at the cellular level. Emerging research has illuminated how CO2 can interact with essential biochemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), leading to the formation of a potent oxidant known as peroxymonocarbonate.
Cancer therapy has long challenged researchers due to the complex nature of cellular metabolism and the stealthy mechanisms that cancer cells employ to proliferate. Recent advancements at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have illuminated the role of an essential enzyme, serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT), in this process. This development may pave the
The quest for sustainable and clean energy sources is more pressing than ever in light of climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels. Among the various alternatives, hydrogen stands out due to its high energy density and its status as a carbon-free fuel. Despite being the most ubiquitous element in the universe, hydrogen rarely
Environmental pollution from pharmaceuticals poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and, by extension, human health. Over the years, numerous studies have revealed the alarming presence of various drugs in natural water bodies. These pharmaceuticals frequently enter the environment through human excretion or improper disposal, often evading the purification processes of conventional wastewater treatment facilities.
On October 9, 2023, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to an impressive trio of researchers whose innovative work has unveiled significant aspects of protein science. Demis Hassabis and John Jumper from Google DeepMind harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to predict protein structures with remarkable accuracy, while biochemist David Baker focused on the
Throughout history, imaginative tales and superhero narratives have sparked visions of fantastical technologies that seamlessly blend the lines between reality and fiction. The image of a web-slinging hero like Spider-Man effortlessly navigating cityscapes has captured the hearts of countless young minds eager to explore the potential of science. Researchers at Tufts University have embraced this
Covalent bonds serve as the backbone of organic chemistry, where atoms unite through the sharing of electron pairs. Traditionally, this sharing has been characterized by the pair of electrons forming stable interactions between two participating atoms. The concept, while established, has over time evolved, especially with pioneering insights from Linus Pauling in 1931, who speculated
As environmental concerns continue to grow, finding innovative solutions to reduce textile waste is becoming increasingly urgent. With consumers discarding around 80 to 100 pounds of clothing each year in the United States, researchers are taking significant strides toward sustainable practices in the fashion industry. One such initiative led by Juan Hinestroza and his team
In the realm of organic chemistry, the activation of alkanes has long posed a significant challenge for researchers and industries alike. Alkanes, which constitute a substantial portion of fossil fuels and serve as the building blocks in the synthesis of various chemicals, including plastics and solvents, exhibit remarkable stability due to their robust carbon-carbon bonds.
The escalating concerns surrounding environmental degradation have intensified the focus on emissions from industrial processes, particularly nitrogen oxides (NOx), which include nitric oxide (NO) and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases not only pose significant health risks to humans but also contribute to broader ecological issues such as acid rain and climate change. The urgency of
Biofilms present a significant challenge within various fields such as medicine and industry. These microbial communities are formed when bacteria and other microorganisms adhere to both living and non-living surfaces, creating complex structures that can literally entrap them. Formed primarily by bacteria, biofilms can include fungal elements and are known to pose substantial health risks
Plastic pollution has become a defining problem of our era, with staggering production rates exceeding 368 million metric tons annually. Alarmingly, more than 13 million metric tons of this plastic are infiltrating our soils, posing a dire threat not only to terrestrial ecosystems but also to the wildlife inhabiting them. Among the various forms of