Latest science news in Biology & Nature
An experimental new method to study disease, including COVID-19
Yale Cancer Center (YCC) scientists have developed a new cell screening method for agents that alter biologic functions. This approach uses thousands of artificial proteins called "traptamers" and may help...
Four experts investigate how the 5G coronavirus conspiracy theory began
In times of crisis, conspiracy theories can spread as fast as a virus.
Researchers discover skyrmions can split like biological cells
Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's Ames Laboratory have discovered that skyrmions— a type of quasiparticle with properties that could lead to the next generation of data storage and...
Why it's so critical to continuously monitor and manage plant diseases
Most of us understand the critical importance of monitoring the spread of diseases. And it is as important for plant diseases as it is for humans.
New plant gene editing approach improves speed, scalability and heritability
Breeding plants for specific characteristics goes back thousands of years. For most of that time, the process has been slow and tied to the agricultural cycle. Farmers identified plants with...
Newly synthesized fungal compound can switch on a self-destruct button for cancer
Cancers cells use a special technique to propagate: They delete their "programmed death" gene through mutation, and seemingly "forget" to die when their lifetime is over, and continue to grow...
Editorial: America's pandemic response is as racist as its policing
It was no surprise that Black people, Latinos and other communities of color were being disproportionately affected by COVID-19 even before data made it crystal clear.
Human embryo-like model created from human stem cells
Scientists from the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with the Hubrecht Institute in The Netherlands, have developed a new model to study an early stage of human development, using human...
Viewing dopamine receptors in their native habitat
Dopamine, a chemical that sends messages between different parts of the brain and body, plays a key role in a variety of diseases and behaviors by interacting with receptors on...
Crop pathogens 'remarkably adaptable'
Pathogens that attack agricultural crops show remarkable adaptability to new climates and new plant hosts, new research shows.
Could we run out of sand? Scientists adjust how grains are measured
Humans see sand as an infinite resource. We are astounded to discover there are more stars in the universe than grains of sand on our beaches.
Effects of potassium fertilization in pear trees
The amount of exchangeable potassium (K) contained in native soil does not always meet the necessary nutrient demand for a pear tree, which makes the use of K based fertilizer...
2020 MLB Draft: Detroit Tigers take Arizona State's Spencer Torkelson at No. 1
As MLB and the MLB Players Association continue negotiations to resume this season, the Detroit Tigers selected Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson with the first pick in the 2020...
Gyms, museums, hotels, day camps, arena sports can reopen in L.A. County on Friday
L.A. County announced that gyms, pro-league arenas, day camps, museums, galleries, zoos, aquariums, campgrounds, outdoor recreational areas and hotels will be allowed to reopen Friday.
New study finds surface disturbance can limit mule deer migration
A new study shows that surface disturbance from energy development can hinder mule deer migrations when it exceeds 3 percent.
Researchers light cells using nanosheets for cancer treatment
Scientists in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Texas A&M University are developing new ways to advance the field of regenerative medicine and cancer treatment. They are developing a 2-D...
New study of endangered pacific pocket mice provides valuable genetic insights
In breeding programs aimed at conserving animals from small or isolated populations, scientists must balance the competing needs of adding genetic diversity and avoiding the introduction of harmful genes. This...
Roadkill study identifies animals most at risk in Europe
Around 194 million birds and 29 million mammals are thought to be killed each year on European roads, according to a new study that has ranked the most vulnerable species.An...
Population ecology: Origins of genetic variability in seals
A new study shows that fluctuations in population sizes in the past have had a significant effect on contemporary seal populations, and estimates the risk of genetic impoverishment in the...
A rare heart bone is discovered in chimpanzees
Experts have discovered that some chimpanzees have a bone in their heart, which could be vital in managing their health and conservation.
Simulations on biologically relevant time scales
Researchers deliver new insights into molecular mechanisms relevant for drug development.
Newsom says no turning back on reopening plans, even as coronavirus cases climb
The governor says California is "in a substantially different place than we were 90 days."
Ancient enzymes can contribute to greener chemistry
A research team has resurrected several billion-year-old enzymes and reprogrammed them to catalyze completely different chemical reactions than their modern versions can manage. The method can be used to develop...
Intracellular biopsy technique for fast microRNAs profiling in living cells
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are gaining more attention in studies of human diseases such as cancer, because changes in miRNA expression are frequently associated with abnormal cellular functions. To achieve fast and...
Passing challenging introductory chemistry course gives biggest boost to underrepresented students
Studies have shown that students from certain backgrounds are less likely than their peers to complete an undergraduate degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics—or STEM. These groups are low-income...
The Huntington Library to reopen most of its gardens starting July 1
Museum members can visit starting June 17 and the general public on July 1. Museum galleries are expected to re-open in the fall.
Origins of genetic variability in seals
A new study led by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet (LMU) in Munich researchers shows that fluctuations in population sizes in the past have had a significant effect on contemporary seal populations, and estimates...
Study on shorebirds suggests that when conserving species, not all land is equal
Researchers may have solved the long-standing puzzle of why migratory shorebirds around the world are plummeting several times faster than coastal ecosystems are being developed. They discovered that shorebirds overwhelmingly...