At first glance, it might seem peculiar to associate fish, crabs, chameleons, and the notorious Walter White from the television series “Breaking Bad.” However, a common thread ties these seemingly disparate entities together: the remarkable ability to produce crystals. While Walter White’s creations are infamous for their illicit nature, the crystals formed by creatures like
Chemistry
Cholesterol is often demonized in popular discourse, yet it plays an intricate and indispensable role within the architecture of cell membranes. A recent investigation spearheaded by researchers at Rice University, under the guidance of Professor Jason Hafner, has provided fresh insights into the molecular dynamics of cholesterol within biomembranes. This study, featured in the Journal
As global awareness of climate change escalates, the conversation often gravitates toward the environmental consequences of rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. However, a recent study unveils that the ramifications of elevated CO2 extend beyond climate disruption, impacting our cellular physiology. Research conducted under the guidance of Professor Ohara Augusto at the University of São Paulo
Recent neutron experiments have unveiled critical insights into the enzymatic mechanisms that play a pivotal role in cancer metabolism. Conducted at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), these studies spotlight serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT), an enzyme crucial for cell division. Utilizing neutron diffraction techniques at the Spallation Neutron Source and the High Flux
As the global push towards sustainable energy sources intensifies, hydrogen gas emerges as a frontrunner for a greener future. Renowned for its high energy density and environmentally friendly profile—producing only water when burned—hydrogen offers a sustainable solution to today’s pressing energy challenges. Despite its abundance in the universe, primarily as part of chemical compounds like
As global populations grow and urbanization accelerates, the demand for safe, clean water becomes more critical than ever. Traditional wastewater treatment systems are often ill-equipped to handle the complex array of contaminants present in municipal effluents, particularly pharmaceutical micropollutants. Studies reveal that as many as 4,000 different pharmaceuticals can be found in our water systems,
The recent awarding of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry has marked a significant milestone in the field of molecular biology, spotlighting groundbreaking work on proteins, the essential components of life. The distinction was granted to three trailblazing scientists: Demis Hassabis and John Jumper from Google’s DeepMind lab, along with the biochemist David Baker. Their combined
For many children, the delight of fantasizing about superpowers, such as shooting webs like Spider-Man, plays a significant role in their formative years. Those vivid daydreams, once confined to comic books and cinematic adventures, might soon take on new dimensions thanks to groundbreaking research at Tufts University. This scholarship has paved the way for an
Covalent bonds are fundamental to the structure of organic compounds, enabling atoms to interconnect by sharing electrons. Traditionally, these bonds involve pairs of electrons and are crucial in forming stable molecular structures. Linus Pauling, a luminary in chemistry, posited in 1931 that single-electron covalent bonds—bonds formed by only one unpaired electron—might exist. However, he cautioned
Textile waste has become a pressing environmental issue, with millions of tons of clothing discarded each year. As fashion trends rapidly evolve, the lifespan of garments continues to shorten, leading to significant waste generation. Innovative solutions are needed not only to reduce this waste but also to reimagine how we can extend the utility of
In a remarkable advancement for organic chemistry, researchers at Hokkaido University, Japan, have unveiled a groundbreaking method for activating alkanes, which have long been seen as challenging, yet crucial components in the chemical industry. The publishing of their research in the prestigious journal *Science* marks a transformative leap in how these prevalent compounds can be
Biofilms, composed of clusters of microorganisms including bacteria and fungi, form protective layers on various surfaces—be it medical devices, human tissue, or industrial pipes. These dense congregations create a significant hurdle in medical treatments, particularly for chronic wounds where antibiotic treatments often fall short. The organisms within biofilms are typically in a dormant state, rendering
Industrial processes are integral to modern economies, yet they often come at a significant environmental cost. Among the numerous pollutants generated, nitrogen oxides (NOx)—a collective term encompassing nitric oxide (NO) and nitrous oxide (N2O)—stand out due to their detrimental effects on both human health and the environment. Nitric oxide is notorious for contributing to respiratory
Plastic pollution presents an ever-growing challenge for the environment, with statistics demonstrating its alarming reach. Each year, the world produces over 368 million metric tons of plastics, out of which a staggering 13 million metric tons find their way into soils and ecosystems. This plastic which pervades both land and sea poses significant threats to
The pharmaceutical industry has long grappled with the challenges posed by the enantiomers of organic compounds—molecules that are mirror images of one another. While these enantiomers, or “mirror molecules,” possess the same chemical properties, their activities within biological systems can diverge significantly. This divergence has profound implications for drug efficacy and safety, with one enantiomer