Chemistry
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Chemistry
How RNA got started
Scientists identify chemical reactions that could be responsible for the origin of life.
- Chemistry
Nonstick chemical pollutes water at notable levels
Residues of nonstick chemicals — from unknown sources — appear to be approaching concentrations associated with adverse effects in laboratory animals.
- Physics
Molecule turns red at breaking point
Materials made with a color-changing molecule may offer a red signal when under stress.
- Life
Function for green fluorescent protein
Scientists find that the glowing molecule also passes electrons, offering a new clue about the natural function of a protein that's become ubiquitous in molecular biology.
- Chemistry
Yeast bred to bear artificial vanilla
Researchers have co-opted fungi to produce the flavor more efficiently.
- Health & Medicine
Coming: Ersatz calorie restriction
Avocados may hold a key to longer, better health.
- Humans
In teeth, more cracks are better than one
Cracks in tooth enamel, called tufts, distribute force and shield a tooth from fracture, researchers report.
- Chemistry
Another type of traffic stress
Scientists find signs of DNA damage from air pollutants spewed by cars and trucks.
- Physics
Radioactive cigarettes
Polonium remains an underappreciated factor in the lung-cancer risk posed by cigarettes.
- Chemistry
Leaden blood hikes granny’s heart risks
Featured blog: Even low concentrations of lead circulating in blood may pose lethal heart risks, a new study finds.
- Chemistry
Bubbles turn on chemical catalysts
Mechanical force could help chemical compounds spur reactions when the time is right.
- Chemistry
Prions are common, at least in yeast
A new study of shape-shifting proteins in baker’s yeast reveals that prions are common and may help organisms survive in changing conditions.
