Why do deep-sea microbes have such small appetites?
The deep sea is one of Earth’s largest reservoirs of carbon, yet microbes don’t consume very much of it. Researchers showed that this is…
Category: Big Questions
Editing genes to fight prion disease
Scientists used a newly developed gene-editing technique to create RNA strands that block the production of misfolded proteins, known as…
Unzipping bamboo to make better plastics
Scientists developed a recyclable plastic from bamboo that is stronger and more biodegradable than conventional petroleum-based products.
Dental floss delivers vaccines through the gums
Scientists triggered a strong immune response in mice by using vaccine-coated dental floss to access their leaky gums.
Gases power diverse microbial life in caves
Researchers found that cave-dwelling microbes use atmospheric trace gases like methane and carbon monoxide as sources of energy and carbon.
Bacteria join forces with viruses to fight cancer
Researchers infected bacteria with cancer-fighting viruses to help treat cancer. Their new treatment was 100% successful in shrinking tumors…
Is the most profitable fertilizer level also safe for the environment?
Researchers in the midwestern US measured how much nitrogen corn plants used versus how much remained in the soil, to help farmers maximize…
Fungi could reshape the next generation of smart materials
Scientists dispersed living fungal fibers into mixtures that can act as self-stabilizing emulsifiers, tunable films, and fast-responding…
Removing this gene improves Alzheimer’s in mice
Scientists deleted a gene linked to Alzheimer’s disease in mice, which reduced protein buildup and cognitive decline.
Spacecraft microbes “sleep” to survive sterilization
Researchers discovered a bacterium in NASA’s spacecraft assembly facilities that can enter a hibernation state to survive planetary…