Chemistry

Biodegradable electronics have revolutionized the medical field by providing a way for devices like drug delivery systems, pacemakers, and neural implants to safely degrade once they are no longer needed in the body. However, the challenge lies in controlling the dissolve rate of these devices to ensure that they remain functional for the necessary period.

When we think of fossil fuels, we often envision a source of energy that is detrimental to the environment due to the carbon dioxide emissions produced during the combustion process. However, what if we could reverse this reaction and convert CO2 back into a synthetic fuel? This concept is at the heart of the Joint

The interaction between bodily carbohydrates, known as glycans, and key enzymes has been found to play a significant role in the development of various diseases. Research has shown that malfunctions in the attachment of glycans to proteins and lipids can lead to a heightened risk of conditions ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s. A recent study,

Calcite is a mineral that holds significant importance due to its widespread presence in nature and its unique properties. When studied under a microscope, calcite appears as a rhombohedral crystal, shaped like a distorted cube. This mineral is a vital component of rocks like limestone and marble, making it essential for various industries. Understanding the

In a recent study published in Nature Sustainability, a team of researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) achieved a significant breakthrough in the development of anion exchange membranes (AEMs). Led by Prof. Xu Tongwen and Ge Xiaolin, the researchers designed a novel spiro-branched polymeric membrane that demonstrated exceptional performance in

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has long been the standard method for testing asbestos in various samples, but it is expensive and requires highly trained staff. Recently, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have found that scanning electron microscopy (SEM) could be a viable alternative that is more cost-effective and convenient. This

When it comes to food safety, one of the biggest challenges faced by the industry is the detection of harmful pathogens. With the increasing globalization of food production and distribution, the risk of contamination is always present. The complex nature of these pathogens, their ability to thrive in different environments, and the presence of non-pathogenic

Hydrocarbazole is a crucial compound in organic chemistry, serving as a building block for various biologically active compounds, including pesticides such as strychnine and anticancer drugs such as vinblastine and minovincine. Consequently, the development of synthesis methods for these compounds is a crucial research topic that has garnered significant interest in pharmacological research. A research

The study published in Science Advances by Northwestern investigators, led by Professor Chad Mirkin, sheds light on the promising advancements in manipulating DNA chemistry to create new materials for medical and life sciences applications. The team’s experimental demonstration showcases how strategic design and preparation of DNA systems can lead to structures with varying shapes, flexibilities,

Water, a simple molecule with profound complexities, continues to intrigue scientists with its unique properties. One such property is the behavior of water molecules at an interface with air, where they lose their energy in a rather fascinating manner. Researchers at RIKEN have delved deep into this phenomenon to gain a better understanding of the

Chemistry has always been a field that requires precision and control over reactions. However, with the development of a new type of nitrene by a team of chemists at the University of Bremen, in Germany, the possibilities for slow reactions lasting up to three days have opened up new doors. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionize

In a collaborative research project between the University of Leiden and the John Innes Centre, a unique approach to developing antibiotics has yielded a highly promising candidate for combating drug-resistant bacteria. The project involved screening a library of 352 small molecules, some of which are currently used in cancer therapies, to test their antimicrobial properties

Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are an essential family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) responsible for controlling hormone secretion and preventing tumor growth. Within the five subtypes of SSTRs, SSTR5 plays a critical role in regulating the release of hormones like adrenocorticotropic hormone, prolactin, and growth hormone, particularly in the pituitary gland. A recent study published in

Capturing the interactions of molecules on camera is no easy feat, especially when the actors are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye. This challenge was met by Prof. Emiliano Cortés and his team at LMU, who embarked on a groundbreaking journey to film the synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Despite two decades of

Organ preservation has long been plagued by the detrimental effects of cryogenic damage. The formation of ice crystals during freezing has been a significant barrier to effective organ preservation, leading to irreversible damage and organ failure. This issue has posed challenges to advancements in transplantation and medical treatments, impacting the success rates of organ transplants