When we think of crystals, our minds might conjure images of beautiful gemstones or artificial ones created in laboratories. Yet, surprisingly, a variety of living organisms—ranging from graceful fish to adaptable chameleons and industrious crabs—also produce crystals. However, whereas these organisms utilize crystals for beneficial purposes such as vision and camouflage, others like the character
Chemistry
Cholesterol is often vilified for its association with heart disease, yet it is an essential molecule that plays a pivotal role in the structural integrity and functionality of cell membranes. Recent research from Rice University, spearheaded by Professor Jason Hafner, sheds light on this complex molecule and its interactions within biomembranes. Published in the Journal
As society grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, the implications of rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels go beyond just environmental concerns. New research suggests that high atmospheric CO2 concentrations can lead to significant changes at the cellular level in humans. The interaction of CO2 with biological molecules is beginning to reveal a
Recent advancements in biochemistry have unveiled critical insights into the enzymatic processes that facilitate cancer growth, particularly involving serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT). A research team from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) employed neutron experiments to delve into the vital functions of this enzyme, a pivotal component in the metabolic pathways regulating cell
The pursuit of cleaner energy sources is at the forefront of addressing global climate change and fossil fuel dependency. Hydrogen gas, recognized for its potential as a carbon-free fuel, has emerged as a key player in the discussion surrounding sustainable energy solutions. Despite its status as the universe’s most abundant element, hydrogen primarily resides in
Water pollution poses significant global challenges, particularly from pharmaceuticals and personal care products. With several prescription drugs finding their way into municipal wastewater systems, the contaminants often escape conventional treatment methods, leading to adverse effects on wildlife and ecosystems. Recent research from Carnegie Mellon University has introduced an environmentally friendly solution to tackle the pressing
On a notable Wednesday in October 2024, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to three pioneering scientists whose work has far-reaching implications for the future of biochemistry and medicine. This accolade celebrated the achievements of Demis Hassabis and John Jumper from Google’s DeepMind lab, alongside biochemist David Baker. These scientists have made remarkable strides
The excitement built up from the pages of comic books and blockbuster movies has leaped from fiction to reality as researchers at Tufts University have developed pioneering web-slinging technology. Drawing inspiration from both nature and imagination, their groundbreaking study, published in Advanced Functional Materials, introduces a novel method for creating solidified silk fibers that have
Covalent bonds have long been considered the backbone of organic chemistry, facilitating the formation of various molecules essential for life. These bonds arise when atoms share pairs of electrons, effectively creating a stable chemical environment that underpins the diversity and complexity of organic compounds. However, a lesser-known concept proposed by Linus Pauling in 1931 suggested
The fashion industry is notorious for its massive contribution to waste, with millions of tons of textile waste ending up in landfills each year. Recent studies have revealed that Americans dispose of approximately 80 to 100 pounds of clothing per person annually, showcasing a stark need for innovative solutions to combat this crisis. An exciting
Alkanes, commonly found in natural resources such as fossil fuels, serve as the cornerstone of the chemical industry. Their stability, primarily attributed to robust carbon-carbon bonds, makes them both abundant and inert, leading to difficulties in their practical applications. For chemists, transforming these fundamental hydrocarbons into useful compounds for pharmaceuticals, plastics, solvents, and lubricants poses
In the quest for cleaner industrial processes, catalyst technologies are pivotal. Among these, zeolites stand out for their unique properties, particularly in combating harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from various industries. Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) have made significant strides in understanding how zeolites function at a molecular level to remove toxic NOx
Microbial life is ubiquitous, often showcasing its resilience through the formation of biofilms. These complex communities of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, can settle on various surfaces, creating a formidable shield that protects them from the external environment, including antimicrobial therapies. The challenge posed by biofilms is particularly pronounced in medical contexts, with research indicating
In the ever-evolving world of medicinal chemistry, the quest for efficient and cost-effective methods to produce biologically active compounds is a top priority. Recent work by Dr. Filippo Romiti and his team from the University of Texas at Dallas marks a significant step forward, introducing a groundbreaking chemical reaction aimed at selectively synthesizing mirror-image molecules—or
Recent advancements in chemistry have opened new frontiers in drug development, particularly through the exploration of metal complexes. A significant contribution comes from a research team led by Professor Jaeheung Cho at UNIST, who has meticulously examined the reaction mechanisms of cobalt(III)-based metal complexes with nitrile compounds. Their pivotal study, published in the Journal of