News for Curious Minds
Age-appropriate news rewritten just for you
Poles of bacteria imaged in fine detail for the first time
The poles, or ends, of rod-shaped bacteria have been imaged at molecular resolution for the first time in a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.
New approach boosts plastic-eating enzyme's activity nearly tenfold
Researchers from King's College London and Rutgers University in New Jersey created a modified enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions) that breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic 10 times quicker, using 10 times less enzyme.
Financial institutions tout sustainability while still funding high-carbon projects, review finds
A review published in the International Journal of Managerial and Financial Accounting on the subject of greenwashing in financial services has found that financial institutions often claim environmental responsibility while continuing to finance high-carbon projects.
Protein-building RNA molecules reveal possible remnants of an ancestral genetic code
The genetic code determines the correspondence between genetic instructions and amino acids—the building blocks that form proteins.
Webb's controversial 'little red dots' may finally have an explanation
Astronomers may have solved one of the biggest mysteries uncovered by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), using sophisticated simulations to show that enigmatic objects known as "little red dots" (LRDs) are likely the birthplaces of the first supermassive black holes.
Protein tails help shape mosquito cell-to-cell channels
Cells share small molecules with their neighbors through tiny tunnels made of proteins arranged in a ring.
Two new howler monkey species discovered in the Amazon after 85 years
Genetic research has uncovered two previously unknown species of howler monkey living in the Amazon rainforest, confirming the world's largest tropical forest is more biodiverse than scientists thought.
Archives reveal how climate memories may reset with each generation
The collective memory of floods and droughts influences where people settle, how they build and how they prepare for the next climatic extreme.
Alzheimer’s may have early warning signs outside the brain
A surprising discovery suggests that some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may begin outside the brain.
After 40 years, CERN finds evidence of a one-in-10-billion particle decay
CERN scientists have finally found evidence of a particle decay so rare that it happens only once in roughly 10 billion decays, ending a search spanning more than 40 years.
Scientists finally discover why we learn to love bitter coffee
Scientists have uncovered a hidden gut-to-brain dopamine pathway that helps explain why bitter coffee and other initially unpleasant flavors can become favorites over time.
Common supplement could help fight psoriasis, scientists discover
Scientists have discovered that pantethine, a readily available vitamin B5 derivative, can calm overactive immune cells and may help fight psoriasis.
When your gut bacteria run out of fiber, they may start eating your gut lining
Scientists have discovered that gut bacteria can feed on the protective mucus lining your intestines, producing potentially harmful compounds, but fiber helps keep this activity in check.
A quantum breakthrough makes light behave like both a solid and a liquid
Scientists have observed a bizarre quantum state of matter that combines the structure of a crystal with the frictionless flow of a liquid, all at room temperature.
Scientists discover a surprising link between acorns and lyme disease
After more than 35 years of research, scientists have uncovered surprising clues about what really drives Lyme disease risk.
Caltech robot makes history by building a structure in space
For the first time, a robot has autonomously built part of a structure in space, demonstrating a breakthrough that could fundamentally change space exploration.
NASA reveals bold new plan to return astronauts to the Moon in 2028
NASA has revealed an accelerated plan to land astronauts on the Moon in 2028, with SpaceX and Blue Origin developing competing lunar landers and a crucial orbital test scheduled for 2027.
Common osteoporosis drugs linked to 24% lower dementia risk in major study
A massive study of more than 120,000 older adults suggests that common osteoporosis drugs may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by up to 24%.
DNA on the Shroud of Turin reveals centuries of hidden secrets
The Shroud of Turin, one of history's most mysterious religious artifacts, is yielding surprising new clues through DNA analysis.
A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes
Scientists have discovered that a buildup of a protein called Miro1 may be a hidden driver of insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes, with preclinical experiments showing that removing it restores the muscles’ response to insulin.
Hidden climate superpower: Why some ocean “snow” carries six times more carbon
Scientists have discovered that the stickiness of underwater “marine snow” plays a surprisingly important role in how much carbon reaches the deep ocean.
Scientists discover stunning new Amazon fish that may already be endangered
Researchers have discovered a stunning new species of tiny orange-patterned fish in the Brazilian Amazon, but its survival may already be at risk.
An ancient ocean full of giant predators reveals a surprising twist in evolution
A remarkable fossil discovery in Colombia is challenging how scientists understand major evolutionary changes in Earth's history.
Einstein's equations reveal how gravity could break, reconnect, and release energy
More than a century after Einstein revolutionized our understanding of gravity, scientists have uncovered a surprising new phenomenon hidden within his equations.
A nuclear blast could save Earth from an asteroid, but there's a catch
A nuclear explosion might save Earth from a deadly asteroid, but new research suggests that hitting the wrong side could make the difference between success and disaster.
Ancient Siberian tomb reveals surprising secrets of cannabis use 2,800 years ago
Scientists investigating a 2,800-year-old Siberian tomb discovered roughly 1,000 cannabis seeds and chemical evidence suggesting ancient Scythians used the plant for its intoxicating effects.
Scientists squeeze record-breaking X-ray power into an incredibly tiny spot
Scientists have created record-breaking X-ray flashes lasting just 300 attoseconds, concentrating enormous power into an incredibly tiny spot.
Stronger flu shot linked to nearly 55% lower Alzheimer's risk
A surprising new study suggests that a stronger flu shot could offer older adults significantly greater protection against Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists discover a hidden warning sign of cannabis addiction
A study of more than 17,700 US adults found that people who use cannabis in multiple forms have dramatically higher rates of daily consumption and addiction symptoms than those who stick primarily to one method.
Mysterious gas leaks suggest Mars may still be volcanically alive
Mysterious gas emissions and fresh volcanic fissures suggest that Mars may not be geologically dead after all, with hot magma potentially still active deep underground.
A hidden limit of space and time could unlock electronics 100,000 times faster
Scientists have discovered a surprising quantum limit that prevents electrons from being tracked with unlimited precision in both space and time.
Drinking 2–3 cups of coffee a day linked to dramatically lower dementia risk
Drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily was linked to a dramatically lower risk of dementia and better cognitive functioning in a study spanning up to 43 years.
Human bodies produce 2 billion metric tons of CO2 a year just by staying alive
Humans collectively produce more than 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually just by turning food into energy, a 74% increase over three decades largely driven by population growth.
Scientists discover Europe's ancient forests were nothing like we imagined
Scientists have uncovered evidence that Europe was dominated for more than 20 million years by open woodlands, colorful meadows, and large grazing animals, not the dense forests long considered its natural state.
Scientists just found dinosaur blood that survived 115 million years
Scientists have discovered chemically confirmed traces of ancient blood inside 115-million-year-old dinosaur bones, challenging assumptions about how long biological molecules can survive.
Major trial challenges how doctors decide who really needs statins
A study of nearly 5,800 adults found that heart scans measuring calcium buildup in the arteries led to the same observed rate of major cardiovascular events as traditional risk assessments, despite recommending statins to far fewer patients.
Five-inch-long beetle larvae are quietly destroying blueberry roots
Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots.
Don't miss: Meteor showers, fireballs, and a supermoon light up November's night sky
November's night sky is packed with celestial wonders, from bright meteor fireballs and a close pairing of Mars and Jupiter to a spectacular supermoon.
NASA’s Swift telescope falls to Earth after nearly 22 years in space
After nearly 22 years of exploring the universe’s most violent explosions, NASA’s Swift Observatory has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere over Indonesia.
For decades, we were told to avoid full-fat dairy. New research says otherwise
Full-fat dairy may not be the health villain it has long been portrayed as, according to a new study finding that three daily servings did not worsen weight, cholesterol, or insulin resistance over 12 weeks.
Poles of bacteria imaged in fine detail for the first time
The poles, or ends, of rod-shaped bacteria have been imaged at molecular resolution for the first time in a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.
New approach boosts plastic-eating enzyme's activity nearly tenfold
Researchers from King's College London and Rutgers University in New Jersey created a modified enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions) that breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic 10 times quicker, using 10 times less enzyme.
Financial institutions tout sustainability while still funding high-carbon projects, review finds
A review published in the International Journal of Managerial and Financial Accounting on the subject of greenwashing in financial services has found that financial institutions often claim environmental responsibility while continuing to finance high-carbon projects.
Protein-building RNA molecules reveal possible remnants of an ancestral genetic code
The genetic code determines the correspondence between genetic instructions and amino acids—the building blocks that form proteins.
Webb's controversial 'little red dots' may finally have an explanation
Astronomers may have solved one of the biggest mysteries uncovered by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), using sophisticated simulations to show that enigmatic objects known as "little red dots" (LRDs) are likely the birthplaces of the first supermassive black holes.
Protein tails help shape mosquito cell-to-cell channels
Cells share small molecules with their neighbors through tiny tunnels made of proteins arranged in a ring.
Two new howler monkey species discovered in the Amazon after 85 years
Genetic research has uncovered two previously unknown species of howler monkey living in the Amazon rainforest, confirming the world's largest tropical forest is more biodiverse than scientists thought.
Archives reveal how climate memories may reset with each generation
The collective memory of floods and droughts influences where people settle, how they build and how they prepare for the next climatic extreme.
Alzheimer’s may have early warning signs outside the brain
A surprising discovery suggests that some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may begin outside the brain.
After 40 years, CERN finds evidence of a one-in-10-billion particle decay
CERN scientists have finally found evidence of a particle decay so rare that it happens only once in roughly 10 billion decays, ending a search spanning more than 40 years.
Scientists finally discover why we learn to love bitter coffee
Scientists have uncovered a hidden gut-to-brain dopamine pathway that helps explain why bitter coffee and other initially unpleasant flavors can become favorites over time.
Common supplement could help fight psoriasis, scientists discover
Scientists have discovered that pantethine, a readily available vitamin B5 derivative, can calm overactive immune cells and may help fight psoriasis.
When your gut bacteria run out of fiber, they may start eating your gut lining
Scientists have discovered that gut bacteria can feed on the protective mucus lining your intestines, producing potentially harmful compounds, but fiber helps keep this activity in check.
A quantum breakthrough makes light behave like both a solid and a liquid
Scientists have observed a bizarre quantum state of matter that combines the structure of a crystal with the frictionless flow of a liquid, all at room temperature.
Scientists discover a surprising link between acorns and lyme disease
After more than 35 years of research, scientists have uncovered surprising clues about what really drives Lyme disease risk.
Caltech robot makes history by building a structure in space
For the first time, a robot has autonomously built part of a structure in space, demonstrating a breakthrough that could fundamentally change space exploration.
NASA reveals bold new plan to return astronauts to the Moon in 2028
NASA has revealed an accelerated plan to land astronauts on the Moon in 2028, with SpaceX and Blue Origin developing competing lunar landers and a crucial orbital test scheduled for 2027.
Common osteoporosis drugs linked to 24% lower dementia risk in major study
A massive study of more than 120,000 older adults suggests that common osteoporosis drugs may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by up to 24%.
DNA on the Shroud of Turin reveals centuries of hidden secrets
The Shroud of Turin, one of history's most mysterious religious artifacts, is yielding surprising new clues through DNA analysis.
A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes
Scientists have discovered that a buildup of a protein called Miro1 may be a hidden driver of insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes, with preclinical experiments showing that removing it restores the muscles’ response to insulin.
Hidden climate superpower: Why some ocean “snow” carries six times more carbon
Scientists have discovered that the stickiness of underwater “marine snow” plays a surprisingly important role in how much carbon reaches the deep ocean.
Scientists discover stunning new Amazon fish that may already be endangered
Researchers have discovered a stunning new species of tiny orange-patterned fish in the Brazilian Amazon, but its survival may already be at risk.
An ancient ocean full of giant predators reveals a surprising twist in evolution
A remarkable fossil discovery in Colombia is challenging how scientists understand major evolutionary changes in Earth's history.
Einstein's equations reveal how gravity could break, reconnect, and release energy
More than a century after Einstein revolutionized our understanding of gravity, scientists have uncovered a surprising new phenomenon hidden within his equations.
A nuclear blast could save Earth from an asteroid, but there's a catch
A nuclear explosion might save Earth from a deadly asteroid, but new research suggests that hitting the wrong side could make the difference between success and disaster.
Ancient Siberian tomb reveals surprising secrets of cannabis use 2,800 years ago
Scientists investigating a 2,800-year-old Siberian tomb discovered roughly 1,000 cannabis seeds and chemical evidence suggesting ancient Scythians used the plant for its intoxicating effects.
Scientists squeeze record-breaking X-ray power into an incredibly tiny spot
Scientists have created record-breaking X-ray flashes lasting just 300 attoseconds, concentrating enormous power into an incredibly tiny spot.
Stronger flu shot linked to nearly 55% lower Alzheimer's risk
A surprising new study suggests that a stronger flu shot could offer older adults significantly greater protection against Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists discover a hidden warning sign of cannabis addiction
A study of more than 17,700 US adults found that people who use cannabis in multiple forms have dramatically higher rates of daily consumption and addiction symptoms than those who stick primarily to one method.
Mysterious gas leaks suggest Mars may still be volcanically alive
Mysterious gas emissions and fresh volcanic fissures suggest that Mars may not be geologically dead after all, with hot magma potentially still active deep underground.
A hidden limit of space and time could unlock electronics 100,000 times faster
Scientists have discovered a surprising quantum limit that prevents electrons from being tracked with unlimited precision in both space and time.
Drinking 2–3 cups of coffee a day linked to dramatically lower dementia risk
Drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily was linked to a dramatically lower risk of dementia and better cognitive functioning in a study spanning up to 43 years.
Human bodies produce 2 billion metric tons of CO2 a year just by staying alive
Humans collectively produce more than 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually just by turning food into energy, a 74% increase over three decades largely driven by population growth.
Scientists discover Europe's ancient forests were nothing like we imagined
Scientists have uncovered evidence that Europe was dominated for more than 20 million years by open woodlands, colorful meadows, and large grazing animals, not the dense forests long considered its natural state.
Scientists just found dinosaur blood that survived 115 million years
Scientists have discovered chemically confirmed traces of ancient blood inside 115-million-year-old dinosaur bones, challenging assumptions about how long biological molecules can survive.
Major trial challenges how doctors decide who really needs statins
A study of nearly 5,800 adults found that heart scans measuring calcium buildup in the arteries led to the same observed rate of major cardiovascular events as traditional risk assessments, despite recommending statins to far fewer patients.
Five-inch-long beetle larvae are quietly destroying blueberry roots
Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots.
Don't miss: Meteor showers, fireballs, and a supermoon light up November's night sky
November's night sky is packed with celestial wonders, from bright meteor fireballs and a close pairing of Mars and Jupiter to a spectacular supermoon.
NASA’s Swift telescope falls to Earth after nearly 22 years in space
After nearly 22 years of exploring the universe’s most violent explosions, NASA’s Swift Observatory has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere over Indonesia.
For decades, we were told to avoid full-fat dairy. New research says otherwise
Full-fat dairy may not be the health villain it has long been portrayed as, according to a new study finding that three daily servings did not worsen weight, cholesterol, or insulin resistance over 12 weeks.
Poles of bacteria imaged in fine detail for the first time
The poles, or ends, of rod-shaped bacteria have been imaged at molecular resolution for the first time in a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.
New approach boosts plastic-eating enzyme's activity nearly tenfold
Researchers from King's College London and Rutgers University in New Jersey created a modified enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions) that breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic 10 times quicker, using 10 times less enzyme.
Financial institutions tout sustainability while still funding high-carbon projects, review finds
A review published in the International Journal of Managerial and Financial Accounting on the subject of greenwashing in financial services has found that financial institutions often claim environmental responsibility while continuing to finance high-carbon projects.
Protein-building RNA molecules reveal possible remnants of an ancestral genetic code
The genetic code determines the correspondence between genetic instructions and amino acids—the building blocks that form proteins.
Webb's controversial 'little red dots' may finally have an explanation
Astronomers may have solved one of the biggest mysteries uncovered by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), using sophisticated simulations to show that enigmatic objects known as "little red dots" (LRDs) are likely the birthplaces of the first supermassive black holes.
Protein tails help shape mosquito cell-to-cell channels
Cells share small molecules with their neighbors through tiny tunnels made of proteins arranged in a ring.
Two new howler monkey species discovered in the Amazon after 85 years
Genetic research has uncovered two previously unknown species of howler monkey living in the Amazon rainforest, confirming the world's largest tropical forest is more biodiverse than scientists thought.
Archives reveal how climate memories may reset with each generation
The collective memory of floods and droughts influences where people settle, how they build and how they prepare for the next climatic extreme.
Alzheimer’s may have early warning signs outside the brain
A surprising discovery suggests that some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may begin outside the brain.
After 40 years, CERN finds evidence of a one-in-10-billion particle decay
CERN scientists have finally found evidence of a particle decay so rare that it happens only once in roughly 10 billion decays, ending a search spanning more than 40 years.
Scientists finally discover why we learn to love bitter coffee
Scientists have uncovered a hidden gut-to-brain dopamine pathway that helps explain why bitter coffee and other initially unpleasant flavors can become favorites over time.
Common supplement could help fight psoriasis, scientists discover
Scientists have discovered that pantethine, a readily available vitamin B5 derivative, can calm overactive immune cells and may help fight psoriasis.
When your gut bacteria run out of fiber, they may start eating your gut lining
Scientists have discovered that gut bacteria can feed on the protective mucus lining your intestines, producing potentially harmful compounds, but fiber helps keep this activity in check.
A quantum breakthrough makes light behave like both a solid and a liquid
Scientists have observed a bizarre quantum state of matter that combines the structure of a crystal with the frictionless flow of a liquid, all at room temperature.
Scientists discover a surprising link between acorns and lyme disease
After more than 35 years of research, scientists have uncovered surprising clues about what really drives Lyme disease risk.
Caltech robot makes history by building a structure in space
For the first time, a robot has autonomously built part of a structure in space, demonstrating a breakthrough that could fundamentally change space exploration.
NASA reveals bold new plan to return astronauts to the Moon in 2028
NASA has revealed an accelerated plan to land astronauts on the Moon in 2028, with SpaceX and Blue Origin developing competing lunar landers and a crucial orbital test scheduled for 2027.
Common osteoporosis drugs linked to 24% lower dementia risk in major study
A massive study of more than 120,000 older adults suggests that common osteoporosis drugs may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by up to 24%.
DNA on the Shroud of Turin reveals centuries of hidden secrets
The Shroud of Turin, one of history's most mysterious religious artifacts, is yielding surprising new clues through DNA analysis.
A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes
Scientists have discovered that a buildup of a protein called Miro1 may be a hidden driver of insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes, with preclinical experiments showing that removing it restores the muscles’ response to insulin.
Hidden climate superpower: Why some ocean “snow” carries six times more carbon
Scientists have discovered that the stickiness of underwater “marine snow” plays a surprisingly important role in how much carbon reaches the deep ocean.
Scientists discover stunning new Amazon fish that may already be endangered
Researchers have discovered a stunning new species of tiny orange-patterned fish in the Brazilian Amazon, but its survival may already be at risk.
An ancient ocean full of giant predators reveals a surprising twist in evolution
A remarkable fossil discovery in Colombia is challenging how scientists understand major evolutionary changes in Earth's history.
Einstein's equations reveal how gravity could break, reconnect, and release energy
More than a century after Einstein revolutionized our understanding of gravity, scientists have uncovered a surprising new phenomenon hidden within his equations.
A nuclear blast could save Earth from an asteroid, but there's a catch
A nuclear explosion might save Earth from a deadly asteroid, but new research suggests that hitting the wrong side could make the difference between success and disaster.
Ancient Siberian tomb reveals surprising secrets of cannabis use 2,800 years ago
Scientists investigating a 2,800-year-old Siberian tomb discovered roughly 1,000 cannabis seeds and chemical evidence suggesting ancient Scythians used the plant for its intoxicating effects.
Scientists squeeze record-breaking X-ray power into an incredibly tiny spot
Scientists have created record-breaking X-ray flashes lasting just 300 attoseconds, concentrating enormous power into an incredibly tiny spot.
Stronger flu shot linked to nearly 55% lower Alzheimer's risk
A surprising new study suggests that a stronger flu shot could offer older adults significantly greater protection against Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists discover a hidden warning sign of cannabis addiction
A study of more than 17,700 US adults found that people who use cannabis in multiple forms have dramatically higher rates of daily consumption and addiction symptoms than those who stick primarily to one method.
Mysterious gas leaks suggest Mars may still be volcanically alive
Mysterious gas emissions and fresh volcanic fissures suggest that Mars may not be geologically dead after all, with hot magma potentially still active deep underground.
A hidden limit of space and time could unlock electronics 100,000 times faster
Scientists have discovered a surprising quantum limit that prevents electrons from being tracked with unlimited precision in both space and time.
Drinking 2–3 cups of coffee a day linked to dramatically lower dementia risk
Drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily was linked to a dramatically lower risk of dementia and better cognitive functioning in a study spanning up to 43 years.
Human bodies produce 2 billion metric tons of CO2 a year just by staying alive
Humans collectively produce more than 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually just by turning food into energy, a 74% increase over three decades largely driven by population growth.
Scientists discover Europe's ancient forests were nothing like we imagined
Scientists have uncovered evidence that Europe was dominated for more than 20 million years by open woodlands, colorful meadows, and large grazing animals, not the dense forests long considered its natural state.
Scientists just found dinosaur blood that survived 115 million years
Scientists have discovered chemically confirmed traces of ancient blood inside 115-million-year-old dinosaur bones, challenging assumptions about how long biological molecules can survive.
Major trial challenges how doctors decide who really needs statins
A study of nearly 5,800 adults found that heart scans measuring calcium buildup in the arteries led to the same observed rate of major cardiovascular events as traditional risk assessments, despite recommending statins to far fewer patients.
Five-inch-long beetle larvae are quietly destroying blueberry roots
Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots.
Don't miss: Meteor showers, fireballs, and a supermoon light up November's night sky
November's night sky is packed with celestial wonders, from bright meteor fireballs and a close pairing of Mars and Jupiter to a spectacular supermoon.
NASA’s Swift telescope falls to Earth after nearly 22 years in space
After nearly 22 years of exploring the universe’s most violent explosions, NASA’s Swift Observatory has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere over Indonesia.
For decades, we were told to avoid full-fat dairy. New research says otherwise
Full-fat dairy may not be the health villain it has long been portrayed as, according to a new study finding that three daily servings did not worsen weight, cholesterol, or insulin resistance over 12 weeks.
Poles of bacteria imaged in fine detail for the first time
The poles, or ends, of rod-shaped bacteria have been imaged at molecular resolution for the first time in a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.
New approach boosts plastic-eating enzyme's activity nearly tenfold
Researchers from King's College London and Rutgers University in New Jersey created a modified enzyme (a protein that speeds up chemical reactions) that breaks down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic 10 times quicker, using 10 times less enzyme.
Financial institutions tout sustainability while still funding high-carbon projects, review finds
A review published in the International Journal of Managerial and Financial Accounting on the subject of greenwashing in financial services has found that financial institutions often claim environmental responsibility while continuing to finance high-carbon projects.
Protein-building RNA molecules reveal possible remnants of an ancestral genetic code
The genetic code determines the correspondence between genetic instructions and amino acids—the building blocks that form proteins.
Webb's controversial 'little red dots' may finally have an explanation
Astronomers may have solved one of the biggest mysteries uncovered by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), using sophisticated simulations to show that enigmatic objects known as "little red dots" (LRDs) are likely the birthplaces of the first supermassive black holes.
Protein tails help shape mosquito cell-to-cell channels
Cells share small molecules with their neighbors through tiny tunnels made of proteins arranged in a ring.
Two new howler monkey species discovered in the Amazon after 85 years
Genetic research has uncovered two previously unknown species of howler monkey living in the Amazon rainforest, confirming the world's largest tropical forest is more biodiverse than scientists thought.
Archives reveal how climate memories may reset with each generation
The collective memory of floods and droughts influences where people settle, how they build and how they prepare for the next climatic extreme.
Alzheimer’s may have early warning signs outside the brain
A surprising discovery suggests that some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may begin outside the brain.
After 40 years, CERN finds evidence of a one-in-10-billion particle decay
CERN scientists have finally found evidence of a particle decay so rare that it happens only once in roughly 10 billion decays, ending a search spanning more than 40 years.
Scientists finally discover why we learn to love bitter coffee
Scientists have uncovered a hidden gut-to-brain dopamine pathway that helps explain why bitter coffee and other initially unpleasant flavors can become favorites over time.
Common supplement could help fight psoriasis, scientists discover
Scientists have discovered that pantethine, a readily available vitamin B5 derivative, can calm overactive immune cells and may help fight psoriasis.
When your gut bacteria run out of fiber, they may start eating your gut lining
Scientists have discovered that gut bacteria can feed on the protective mucus lining your intestines, producing potentially harmful compounds, but fiber helps keep this activity in check.
A quantum breakthrough makes light behave like both a solid and a liquid
Scientists have observed a bizarre quantum state of matter that combines the structure of a crystal with the frictionless flow of a liquid, all at room temperature.
Scientists discover a surprising link between acorns and lyme disease
After more than 35 years of research, scientists have uncovered surprising clues about what really drives Lyme disease risk.
Caltech robot makes history by building a structure in space
For the first time, a robot has autonomously built part of a structure in space, demonstrating a breakthrough that could fundamentally change space exploration.
NASA reveals bold new plan to return astronauts to the Moon in 2028
NASA has revealed an accelerated plan to land astronauts on the Moon in 2028, with SpaceX and Blue Origin developing competing lunar landers and a crucial orbital test scheduled for 2027.
Common osteoporosis drugs linked to 24% lower dementia risk in major study
A massive study of more than 120,000 older adults suggests that common osteoporosis drugs may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by up to 24%.
DNA on the Shroud of Turin reveals centuries of hidden secrets
The Shroud of Turin, one of history's most mysterious religious artifacts, is yielding surprising new clues through DNA analysis.
A little-known protein could be a major culprit in type 2 diabetes
Scientists have discovered that a buildup of a protein called Miro1 may be a hidden driver of insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetes, with preclinical experiments showing that removing it restores the muscles’ response to insulin.
Hidden climate superpower: Why some ocean “snow” carries six times more carbon
Scientists have discovered that the stickiness of underwater “marine snow” plays a surprisingly important role in how much carbon reaches the deep ocean.
Scientists discover stunning new Amazon fish that may already be endangered
Researchers have discovered a stunning new species of tiny orange-patterned fish in the Brazilian Amazon, but its survival may already be at risk.
An ancient ocean full of giant predators reveals a surprising twist in evolution
A remarkable fossil discovery in Colombia is challenging how scientists understand major evolutionary changes in Earth's history.
Einstein's equations reveal how gravity could break, reconnect, and release energy
More than a century after Einstein revolutionized our understanding of gravity, scientists have uncovered a surprising new phenomenon hidden within his equations.
A nuclear blast could save Earth from an asteroid, but there's a catch
A nuclear explosion might save Earth from a deadly asteroid, but new research suggests that hitting the wrong side could make the difference between success and disaster.
Ancient Siberian tomb reveals surprising secrets of cannabis use 2,800 years ago
Scientists investigating a 2,800-year-old Siberian tomb discovered roughly 1,000 cannabis seeds and chemical evidence suggesting ancient Scythians used the plant for its intoxicating effects.
Scientists squeeze record-breaking X-ray power into an incredibly tiny spot
Scientists have created record-breaking X-ray flashes lasting just 300 attoseconds, concentrating enormous power into an incredibly tiny spot.
Stronger flu shot linked to nearly 55% lower Alzheimer's risk
A surprising new study suggests that a stronger flu shot could offer older adults significantly greater protection against Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists discover a hidden warning sign of cannabis addiction
A study of more than 17,700 US adults found that people who use cannabis in multiple forms have dramatically higher rates of daily consumption and addiction symptoms than those who stick primarily to one method.
Mysterious gas leaks suggest Mars may still be volcanically alive
Mysterious gas emissions and fresh volcanic fissures suggest that Mars may not be geologically dead after all, with hot magma potentially still active deep underground.
A hidden limit of space and time could unlock electronics 100,000 times faster
Scientists have discovered a surprising quantum limit that prevents electrons from being tracked with unlimited precision in both space and time.
Drinking 2–3 cups of coffee a day linked to dramatically lower dementia risk
Drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily was linked to a dramatically lower risk of dementia and better cognitive functioning in a study spanning up to 43 years.
Human bodies produce 2 billion metric tons of CO2 a year just by staying alive
Humans collectively produce more than 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually just by turning food into energy, a 74% increase over three decades largely driven by population growth.
Scientists discover Europe's ancient forests were nothing like we imagined
Scientists have uncovered evidence that Europe was dominated for more than 20 million years by open woodlands, colorful meadows, and large grazing animals, not the dense forests long considered its natural state.
Scientists just found dinosaur blood that survived 115 million years
Scientists have discovered chemically confirmed traces of ancient blood inside 115-million-year-old dinosaur bones, challenging assumptions about how long biological molecules can survive.
Major trial challenges how doctors decide who really needs statins
A study of nearly 5,800 adults found that heart scans measuring calcium buildup in the arteries led to the same observed rate of major cardiovascular events as traditional risk assessments, despite recommending statins to far fewer patients.
Five-inch-long beetle larvae are quietly destroying blueberry roots
Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots.
Don't miss: Meteor showers, fireballs, and a supermoon light up November's night sky
November's night sky is packed with celestial wonders, from bright meteor fireballs and a close pairing of Mars and Jupiter to a spectacular supermoon.
NASA’s Swift telescope falls to Earth after nearly 22 years in space
After nearly 22 years of exploring the universe’s most violent explosions, NASA’s Swift Observatory has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere over Indonesia.
For decades, we were told to avoid full-fat dairy. New research says otherwise
Full-fat dairy may not be the health villain it has long been portrayed as, according to a new study finding that three daily servings did not worsen weight, cholesterol, or insulin resistance over 12 weeks.