📰 Nature News · 90
United KingdomThe latest benefit of obesity drugs: boosting testosterone and sperm quality
A preliminary study suggests that GLP-1 medications, used to treat obesity, may improve sperm quality in men by increasing or stabilizing testosterone levels. The findings were presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting and are based on a systematic review of five randomized controlled trials. More research is needed to confirm these results.
Stem cells banish severe autoimmune disease for 15 years
A man and a woman with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), a rare and severe autoimmune disease, have remained in remission for over 15 years following a stem-cell transplant. The treatment, described in a study published in Med, suggests potential for further clinical trials. Both patients experienced significant improvements in their health, allowing them to resume normal lives. Scientists note that while the treatment does not constitute a definitive cure, it has effectively managed the disease's effects over a prolonged period.
Author Correction: Autophagic cell death restricts chromosomal instability during replicative crisis
This article is an author correction for a previously published study in Nature regarding autophagic cell death restricting chromosomal instability during replicative crisis. The correction addresses errors in the 'Antibodies' and 'Plasmids and transductions' sections of the original publication. The authors have provided the correct details for the P16 antibody and the wild-type mCherry–EGFP–LC3B plasmid.
El Niño has arrived – and will spike the price of these ‘big shop’ essentials
An upcoming El Niño weather pattern is expected to cause droughts and crop failures globally, potentially leading to increased prices for certain food items in the UK, including rice, chocolate, fruits, coffee, and tea. The UN has issued warnings about the impact of this phenomenon, which is anticipated to raise global temperatures and intensify extreme weather conditions. Countries such as India, Australia, and parts of Africa are expected to face significant agricultural challenges, increasing the risk of higher food prices. Experts recommend that UK food suppliers diversify their supply-ch铇
Brexit tore apart European science — now the research rifts are healing
Ten years after the UK voted to leave the EU, there are signs that the research relationship between the two regions is improving. Key developments include the UK's rejoining of the Erasmus+ program in 2027 and the recovery of UK funding from the Horizon Europe program since the country reassociated with it in 2024. UK participation in EU research projects declined during the post-Brexit period but has increased since 2024. The new Labour government is working to fulfill its promise to strengthen ties with the EU, including 'reset' talks initiated in May 2023 aimed at addressing science andmob
Daily briefing: The brain builds a sentence neuron by neuron
Researchers have tracked the electrical activity of individual brain cells during conversation in real time. In another study, scientists transplanted 'organizer' cells from comb jellies into sea anemones, resulting in the development of a second body axis in the anemones. This suggests that the emergence of organizing activity was a key step in animal evolution.
Daily briefing: The proteins that protect us from deadly mutations
This article discusses recent scientific findings about proteins that buffer the effects of harmful mutations, which could lead to new treatments for diseases like cancer. It also covers unrelated topics such as goats' ability to recognize human voices and a dispute over an ocean observatory project in the U.S. Additionally, it highlights climate challenges in Asia, including extreme weather events and rising sea levels, citing the 'State of the Climate in Asia' report. The piece also mentions a proposal by Palau to regulate nicotine similarly to narcotics under international law.
It slices! It dices! Sashimi-Bot handles seafood with ease
Researchers have developed a robotic system called 'Sashimi-Bot' capable of autonomously cutting and arranging raw fish fillets, such as salmon loins. The robot uses three arms: one to stabilize the fish, one to slice it, and one to arrange the sashimi on a platter using chopsticks. This advancement highlights progress in robotics applied to food preparation.
Cell transplant across the tree of life hints at how animals emerged
Researchers have successfully transplanted cells between embryos of two distantly related marine organisms—a comb jelly (Mnemiopsis leidyi) and a starlet sea anemone (Nematostella vectensis)—resulting in the development of additional anatomical structures such as mouths and pharynxes. This research builds upon historical experiments by embryologist Hilde Mangold, whose work in the 1920s revealed the role of an 'embryonic organizer' in guiding body-axis formation. The study, published in Nature, suggests that similar organizing mechanisms might exist across diverse branches of the animal family
Is AI ruining our skills? Early results are in — and they’re not good
The article discusses concerns among medical professionals and others about the potential for AI tools to cause 'deskilling'—a decline in human expertise due to over-reliance on technology. A study involving Polish physicians specializing in endoscopy found that their ability to detect pre-cancerous growths during colonoscopies declined after they became accustomed to using AI assistance. Similar worries are expressed by healthcare workers in the U.S., with surveys indicating high levels of concern about skill erosion. Experts suggest awareness of this issue could lead to greater reflection on
Clues to the sloth’s sloth found in its genome
A study published in Nature News reveals that the genome of the tree-sloth species Choloepus didactylus contains duplications of genes related to mitochondria, the cellular structures responsible for producing energy. This genetic feature may explain the sloth's extremely slow metabolism and lifestyle.
Starmer unveils £1.3bn investment from French and Indian firms into UK – with 1,400 jobs to be created
Sir Keir Starmer announced that French and Indian companies will invest £1.3 billion into UK clean energy and AI projects, creating over 1,400 jobs in cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham. The investment includes contributions from French private equity firm InfraVia (£1 billion), India’s Hexaware Technologies (£25 million), and Atri Energy Transition (£300 million). Starmer emphasized the importance of attracting global investors to the UK amid global uncertainties and highlighted efforts with G7 partners to stabilize energy markets.
Rock weathering can counteract river CO<sub>2</sub> emissions induced by permafrost thaw
The article discusses the role of river networks in the global carbon cycle, highlighting how they transport and process organic and inorganic carbon from terrestrial sources. It notes that rivers contribute significantly to carbon emissions, comparable to the net terrestrial carbon sink. The text also mentions ongoing research into how climate change affects interactions between biological and geological carbon sources and sinks.
Towards autonomous medical artificial intelligence agents
The article discusses the progress of large language models (LLMs) in healthcare, highlighting their capabilities in various medical tasks such as question-answering, reasoning, and diagnostic challenges. It also mentions real-world applications like decision-support tools for medical guidelines, data extraction from clinical notes, and generating clinical codes. The text emphasizes that while LLMs have made significant strides, their current narrow applications do not fully leverage their potential in complex clinical workflows. Effective clinical decision-making involves multiple steps, andL
Visualizing the impact of quenched disorder on 2D electron Wigner solids
The article discusses research on the impact of quenched disorder on two-dimensional electron Wigner solids. It provides information on data and code availability, along with references to several scientific studies related to the topic.
Cortical development dynamics across autism spectrum disorder mouse models
This research explores the cortical development dynamics in mouse models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using single-nucleus multi-omics sequencing. The study analyzed 251 samples from various developmental stages, sexes, and brain regions, aiming to understand how different genetic mutations contribute to similar ASD-related phenotypes.
Spatial distribution of the proteome in the human body and in cancers
This article discusses the spatial distribution of the proteome in the human body and in cancers, emphasizing the importance of understanding proteomic variation across different tissue types for advancing biological knowledge and therapeutic development. It highlights the limitations of transcriptomic data in predicting protein expression and describes the Human Protein Atlas (HPA), a resource that combines immunohistochemistry-based proteomic data from healthy and cancerous tissues.
Towards Conversational AI for Disease Management
This article discusses advancements in conversational AI for disease management using a large language model called AMIE. The system was tested against primary care physicians in a virtual OSCE study and showed non-inferior performance in management reasoning, with strengths in treatment precision and adherence to clinical guidelines. The researchers also introduced RxQA, a benchmark for evaluating medication reasoning based on national drug formularies.
A prototype differential atom interferometer for fundamental physics
This article discusses the development of a prototype differential atom interferometer aimed at exploring gravitational waves in an intermediate frequency range (10^-1 Hz to 10^1 Hz), which is currently unexplored by existing instruments like LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA. It highlights the potential for new discoveries in fundamental physics, astrophysics, and cosmology through such research.
A mosaic of whole-body representations on the human precentral gyrus
The article discusses research on the human precentral gyrus, focusing on the organization of the motor cortex. It references historical work by Penfield and colleagues who created the motor homunculus through electrical stimulation. The text highlights that while non-human primate studies suggest the motor cortex is more complex and intermixed than previously thought, human studies have been limited by lower-resolution methods such as electrocorticography and fMRI.
DNA from hunter-gatherer teeth reveals secrets of ancient plague
DNA extracted from the teeth of ancient hunter-gatherers has revealed evidence of deadly plague outbreaks approximately 5,500 years ago. The research, conducted by Macleod et al., suggests these outbreaks had significant impacts on early human populations. Additionally, the article mentions other scientific findings, including the transformation of Iron Age bones into tools, the discovery of a giant deep-sea crustacean, and advancements in dark-matter detection technology.
Molecular basis of polyadenylated RNA fate determination in the nucleus
This article discusses the molecular mechanisms involved in determining the fate of polyadenylated (pA+) RNA within the nucleus. It highlights the role of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) in generating both functional and non-functional RNA transcripts. Functional pA+ RNAs, such as protein-coding mRNAs, are exported to the cytoplasm, while non-functional transcripts are retained and degraded. The nucleoplasmic PAXT complex, composed of MTR4 and ZFC3H1, plays a key role in this degradation process. Additional interactions with PABPN1 and other RNP components may assist in directing transcript decay.
Analysis of 173,303 exomes and genomes in the Pakistan Genome Resource
The Pakistan Genome Resource (PGR) is a biobank containing genetic data from 173,303 individuals across 23 cities in Pakistan. The initiative aims to expand knowledge of human genetic diversity, particularly in South Asia, where representation in global genomic studies has been limited. The PGR builds upon earlier research such as the Pakistan Risk of Myocardial Infarction Study (PROMIS) and focuses on identifying genetic factors linked to disease, including cases of loss-of-function gene variants.
A blastoporal organizer in a ctenophore
This article discusses the discovery of an embryonic organizer in ctenophores, building upon historical research by Hilde Mangold and Hans Spemann on amphibian embryos. It highlights the transplantation experiments showing how the blastopore lip can induce a secondary body axis, and compares this phenomenon across different species including cnidarians like N. vectensis. The text notes the role of WNT–β-catenin signaling in organizing activity across various organisms.
Probing picometre-scale interlayer deformations via hyperbolic polaritons
This research article discusses the use of hyperbolic polaritons to probe picometre-scale interlayer deformations in van der Waals materials. The study explores how these deformations affect mechanical interlayer coupling and material properties. The research builds upon previous work in elastic strain engineering and pressure-tuned band structures in two-dimensional materials.
Revealing competitive interfacial reactions in high-energy Li–S batteries
This research article discusses the competitive interfacial reactions in high-energy lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. It explores the electrode-electrolyte interface, which plays a critical role in battery performance. The study provides insights into the mechanisms governing these reactions and their implications for improving battery efficiency and stability. The researchers reference several prior studies on Li-S batteries and related materials.
Fiery data hint that controlled forest fires benefit human health
A study analyzing wildfires in California suggests that controlled forest fires reduce exposure to air pollution from uncontrolled fires, potentially offering long-term health benefits. The research highlights satellite imagery showing that controlled burns, used to clear flammable debris, may protect both ecosystem and human health.
Optical metasurfaces for general vision processing on the edge
The article discusses recent advancements in optical metasurfaces for general vision processing on the edge. It references multiple scientific studies published in reputable journals such as Nature, Science Advances, and Nature Electronics, focusing on developments in photonics for artificial intelligence, neuromorphic computing, and meta-optic accelerators for object classification and machine vision.
Structure of the pre-initiation complex explains CMGE biogenesis
The article discusses the structure of the pre-initiation complex involved in DNA replication, focusing on the formation of the Cdc45-MCM-GINS (CMG) helicase. The process involves the loading of the MCM motor during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, followed by its activation during S phase through the recruitment of Cdc45 and the GINS complex. This activation is regulated by specific kinases such as DDK and CDK, while the checkpoint kinase Rad53 inhibits CMG assembly in response to DNA damage. The study also highlights the role of phosphorylation in modifying the MCM complex and the potential B
The brain region that could provide a cognitive ‘reservoir’ in old age
Research highlights that increased tissue volume in certain parts of the cerebellum is associated with higher cognitive test scores in older adults. The study suggests that the cerebellum ages unevenly, with some regions being more susceptible to tissue loss. Maintaining the volume of specific cerebellar areas is linked to better cognitive function in later life.
<i>CHPO</i> coordinates chilling recovery and nitrogen use in rice
This article provides information about the availability of various datasets related to the study of CHPO (Chilling Tolerance and Nitrogen Use in Rice). The data includes RNA-seq, DAP-seq, and CUT&Tag-seq data stored in the Genome Sequence Archive. Additional data such as CHPO sequence data, geographical distribution information, soil temperature data, and altitude data are also made available through several databases and resources.
A distant brown dwarf coplanar to a warm Jupiter and a hot super-Earth
The article discusses the discovery of a distant brown dwarf that shares an orbital plane with a warm Jupiter and a hot super-Earth. It references several scientific studies and papers related to exoplanets, including research on transiting exoplanets, stellar astrophysics models, and planetary formation theories.
Fast formation to reinforce lithium-rich cathodes
This research article discusses a new method for forming lithium-rich cathodes in lithium-ion batteries using fast formation processes, which could reduce production costs and improve battery performance. The study uses multiscale synchrotron-based techniques to analyze the role of residual lithium ions in structural evolution and cycling performance.
Optical fibre gripper for high-performance 3D micromanipulation
This research article introduces an optical fiber-based gripper designed for high-performance three-dimensional micromanipulation. The study addresses limitations of current technologies such as optical tweezers, which provide precise but low-force manipulation, and millimeter-scale mechanical tweezers, which lack precision. The proposed method integrates microgrippers directly into optical fibers, offering enhanced capabilities for manipulating small objects.
Confined migration induces non-lethal DNA damage in developing neurons
The article discusses how the migration of neurons during brain development involves significant physical challenges, as neurons must move through tightly packed environments. This process can lead to non-lethal DNA damage due to the mechanical stress involved. The study highlights that neurons have low levels of lamin A, which allows for greater nuclear flexibility but may increase vulnerability to DNA damage during migration. Similar phenomena have been observed in cancer and immune cells, where nuclear deformation can result in DNA damage and potentially influence cell behavior.
Mapping the neuronal building blocks of human language with language models
The article discusses recent advances in mapping the neuronal mechanisms underlying human language using language models. It highlights how linguistic studies and neuroimaging techniques have identified brain regions involved in speech production, sentence construction, and the processing of syntactic and semantic structures. The research suggests a broad network of cortical areas responsible for supporting human language.
Lethal plague outbreaks in Lake Baikal hunter-gatherers 5,500 years ago
A study published in Nature News examines evidence of lethal plague outbreaks among Lake Baikal hunter-gatherers approximately 5,500 years ago. Researchers analyzed ancient pathogen genomes to better understand the evolutionary history of infectious diseases, particularly focusing on Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for plague. The findings suggest that early strains of Y. pestis lacked certain genetic adaptations necessary for flea-mediated transmission and bubonic infection, raising questions about the transmission routes and severity of these ancient outbreaks. The research also探讨
Freezing brain damage in its tracks: cooling drugs limit stroke injury in mice
A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that a combination of two established drugs can reduce stroke-related brain damage in mice by inducing hypothermia. The treatment lowers metabolism and dilates blood vessels, potentially extending the time available for restoring blood flow after a stroke. Human trials showed the therapy was safe but ineffective at the tested doses.
A 98-qubit trapped-ion quantum computer with all-to-all connectivity
Researchers have developed a 98-qubit trapped-ion quantum computer with all-to-all connectivity, marking a significant advancement in quantum computing technology.
Emergent decadal predictability in Antarctic contribution to sea-level rise
The article discusses recent research on the Antarctic Ice Sheet's sensitivity to climate change, focusing on its historical, current, and projected future contributions to global sea-level rise. It references multiple scientific studies, including analyses of ice shelf collapses, mass balance assessments, and projections using the MICI mechanism. These studies highlight the potential for significant sea-level rise under various climate scenarios.
How do researchers choose what to work on?
The article discusses how researchers decide on their areas of study, featuring a scientist's experience shifting focus to address critical issues. It also touches on research related to preserving eggs.
Terms of endearment? Bias in first-name eponyms for species named after people
A study published in Nature examines the practice of naming species after individuals, highlighting potential biases in how men and women are honored through such names. The research suggests disparities exist in the representation of genders in species named after people.
The Haber–Bosch fertilizer production process should be taught through a social-ecological lens
A letter to Nature written by Jianjun Wu from the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China argues that the Haber-Bosch fertilizer production process should be taught using a social-ecological lens rather than focusing solely on efficiency measures such as green ammonia, precision agriculture, and strategic reserves. Wu responds to an earlier article by Meihua Yang and colleagues that emphasized the importance of treating fertilizer production as strategic infrastructure.
Tech titans are hacking their bodies for a longer life: is there science behind their methods?
Entrepreneur Bryan Johnson experimented with self-administered rapamycin injections in an attempt to extend his lifespan. After testing various dosages and schedules, he discontinued the treatment in 2024 due to side effects including skin infections, elevated glucose levels, abnormal blood lipid levels, and increased resting heart rate. Johnson, who previously sold his company Braintree to PayPal, is part of a group of tech entrepreneurs exploring biomedical interventions to prolong life.
Why Arctic sea ice loss could reshape the Gulf Stream's future
Researchers have studied how changing conditions in the Arctic Ocean, particularly related to sea ice loss, might affect the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which includes the Gulf Stream. The study, published in Ocean Science, examines the flow of water from the Atlantic into the Arctic and suggests that decreasing Arctic sea ice could influence ocean currents further south.
In the field — and in the lab — sometimes the simplest tool is best
David Thomas, an Arctic researcher at the University of Helsinki, uses everyday kitchen tools like soup ladles and strainers during fieldwork in extreme cold conditions. These tools help him collect and process samples of brine from sea ice, which is essential for studying the biogeochemistry of aquatic systems.
Daily briefing: Iron-Age human bones were made into tools before interment
Newly discovered Iron Age human remains in Scotland suggest that the individual's brain may have been removed and her bones modified into tools before being reassembled and buried. This discovery raises questions about how Iron Age Britons treated their dead, as few human remains from this period have survived. Additionally, four AI models failed to outperform leading mathematicians in solving complex mathematical problems.
Nanocrystal-tailored recombination for all-perovskite tandem solar modules
This research presents an advancement in the development of all-perovskite tandem solar modules. The study addresses limitations of traditional gold-based tunnel recombination junctions by introducing a solution-processed interconnecting layer made of surface-engineered indium oxide nanocrystals. The approach includes the use of a phosphonic acid additive to improve electronic contact and perovskite crystallization, leading to enhanced performance in large-area solar modules.
At-home brain implant gives man with motor neuron disease his daily life back
A brain-computer interface (BCI) has enabled Casey Harrell, a 48-year-old man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to communicate with others and use a computer at home. The device translates neural activity into text, allowing him to send messages, work, and maintain social connections. A study published in Nature Medicine analyzed Harrell's use of the BCI over nearly two years, describing it as the most extensive dataset and longest-running speech communication for someone with such an implant.
‘Every box has been opened’: London botanic gardens digitizes 7 million specimens
The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in London have completed the digitization of 7.4 million plant and fungi specimens, making them freely accessible online through their website and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. The project, costing £15 million and funded by the UK government, involved 100 staff members and 42 volunteers using four high-resolution cameras. Kew also released its 2026 State of the World’s Plants and Fungi report, emphasizing the role of digitization and AI in advancing botanical research.
How AI is revealing the secret lives of animals from hummingbirds to pumas
The article discusses how AI technology is being used to study the behavior and movements of various animal species, including hummingbirds and pumas, by analyzing GPS data and satellite imagery. It highlights the impact of wildfires on wildlife, using the 2020 Angeles National Forest fire as an example, and critiques the tendency to overlook the significance of non-human life in environmental discussions.
Why people should work together to shape the economy
The article discusses the growing economic inequality and the negative impacts of current economic systems, highlighting the disparity between the wealth of the ultra-rich and global food insecurity. It references data from Oxfam International regarding the flow of wealth from low- and middle-income countries to high-income nations. The text also critiques the prioritization of military spending and 'high-tech solutions' tied to ecological destruction, suggesting a need for a new economic model focused on the common good.
Burned as waste for years, this overlooked plant material is poised to reshape how nylon gets made
A new study published in Nature describes a method for converting lignin—a common byproduct of paper and biofuel production—into adipic acid, a key component in nylon manufacturing. This process combines techniques from oil refining with engineered microbes to achieve higher yields than previously possible. Lignin, currently mostly discarded or burned as waste, could offer a more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based methods of producing nylon.
Huge study hints at risks of switching from tobacco cigarettes to vapes
A large study involving over 4.5 million individuals suggests that using electronic cigarettes may increase lung cancer risk compared to quitting smoking entirely. The research highlights potential health concerns associated with vaping despite its role in helping some people quit traditional tobacco products.
An innovative technology boosts image quality for protein structures
Researchers have developed a new technology called a laser phase plate (LPP) that enhances the image quality of protein structures observed through cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). This advancement allows for better visualization of smaller proteins and simplifies experiments related to protein behavior within cells. The findings were published in Science and posted as a preprint on bioRxiv.
Briefing Chat: The epic journey of Stonehenge’s central stone
The article discusses recent scientific findings related to the origin and transportation of Stonehenge's Altar Stone, suggesting it may have been moved by a glacier. It also covers other science news, including discoveries from fossilized feces revealing DNA from an ancient ecosystem and research on ancient ground squirrels.
‘Student Geng’ ignites research-integrity scandal in China after calling out senior academics
A former PhD student known as 'Student Geng' has exposed potential data manipulation in research papers authored by five senior Chinese academics. These findings led to disciplinary actions against the researchers, including investigations and institutional inquiries. The revelations gained significant attention through a series of widely viewed videos posted on Chinese social media.
Why we seek to fly: Books in brief
This book review discusses two titles: 'A Giant Leap' by Robert Wachter, which examines the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, and 'Birds Up Close' by Lorna Gibson, an engineer who explores bird physiology through physics and engineering principles.
I advise the Vatican and the UN on AI — don’t dismiss the Pope’s message as theology
A theologian and ethicist advises that the Vatican and United Nations should take seriously the Pope's recent encyclical on artificial intelligence, which warns about the concentration of power in private hands and the risks posed by AI to democracy and employment.
Daily briefing: How Venus flytraps snap shut
This article discusses recent scientific findings about how Venus flytraps snap shut, explaining that they achieve this by rapidly softening cells on the outer surface of their hinged mouths. The study suggests that the arrival of prey might trigger the release of enzymes that weaken the cell walls. Additionally, the article touches on the integration of artificial intelligence in sports, specifically mentioning its use in analyzing player movements during the 2026 men's football World Cup.
Humans outperform AI at this highly rigorous mathematics test
In the First Proof project, four AI systems were tested on ten research-level mathematics problems. None of the AI models performed as well as top mathematicians, scoring only 6 out of 10 on average. The test was designed to meet three criteria: using research-level math problems, avoiding problems present in the AI's training data, and being formally graded by human mathematicians. The results were published on the First Proof website on 10 June. This follows recent advancements in AI, such as a chatbot solving an 80-year-old math problem.
World Cup: science must tackle footballers’ mental and physical health
Vincent Gouttebarge, former professional footballer and current medical director at FIFPRO, discusses the physical and mental health challenges faced by professional footballers. He highlights the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries and mental health issues among players, emphasizing that footballers are not 'superheroes' and require proper support. The discussion comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
My diverse academic background is affecting my PhD studies — what do I do?
A first-year PhD student in physical geography writes to Nature expressing frustration and confusion about transitioning into a new field after completing degrees in applied physics, materials physics and chemistry, and chemical engineering. The student feels fragmented and unsure of how to integrate their diverse academic background into their current research without straying from the core of physical geography.
Whale graveyard dating back five million years discovered
An enormous whale graveyard, approximately 1,200 km long and 7 km deep, has been discovered in the southeastern Indian Ocean. The site, located in the Diamantina fracture zone, contains fossils dating back up to 5.3 million years. Researchers from China, Italy, and New Zealand made the discovery during 32 dives, collecting samples from 485 whale-fossil sites. Among the findings is an extinct whale species, Pterocetus benguelae, and the fossilized skull of a five-meter-long Antarctic minke whale.
Revealed: how Venus flytraps snap shut with astonishing speed
Scientists have discovered that Venus flytraps achieve their rapid snapping motion by softening cells on the outer surface of their hinged leaves. This allows the leaves to change shape and close swiftly when triggered by prey. The findings were published in Science and described as 'breathtaking' by a biomechanics researcher.
Tool flags suspicious journals before researchers submit papers
An online tool called Journal Trends has been developed to help researchers identify potentially untrustworthy journals before submitting their work. The tool analyzes publishing patterns, such as sudden increases in paper numbers from specific countries, which may indicate poor peer review practices. The platform was created by Achal Agrawal, a data scientist and research-integrity advocate based in India. Researchers like René Aquarius have noted the increasing difficulty in assessing journal trustworthiness due to the rising number of journals.
This World Cup could be the most high-tech yet — the innovations to watch for
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the most technologically advanced edition of the tournament, featuring AI tools that track player movements and create digital avatars to assist referees in identifying illegal actions. The article discusses the integration of technology into football, referencing Franco Impellizzeri, a sports scientist and former Italian taekwondo athlete, who collaborates with football organizations like FIFA and elite clubs.
A prognostic human brain network for diffuse midline glioma
The article discusses research on diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs), particularly diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), which are among the most lethal cancers in children. The study highlights the challenges posed by the tumors' ability to infiltrate healthy brain tissue and their complex interactions with neural circuits through various signaling pathways. The research identifies mechanisms involving paracrine signaling and functional synapses between neurons and glioma cells, suggesting new avenues for understanding tumor progression.
Newly discovered whale graveyard dates back millions of years
Researchers have discovered a massive ancient whale graveyard, providing insights into deep-sea ecosystems and the historical presence of whales in the area. The findings are based on submarine dives and are detailed in a research article by Peng et al.
Amplified Arctic iceberg traffic reshapes benthic biodiversity
Recent studies show that anthropogenic warming and increased human activity are affecting the deep seafloor of the Arctic Ocean, altering benthic biodiversity. Factors include retreating sea ice leading to more algal blooms, increased industrial activity such as bottom trawling, and rising plastic pollution. Natural processes like iceberg transport of glacial debris also influence seafloor ecosystems.
Mutation-dependent responses to sleep and exercise in clonal haematopoiesis
The study investigates mutation-dependent responses to sleep and exercise in clonal haematopoiesis, analyzing how these factors influence the process. The research utilizes scRNA-seq data, UK Biobank, and All of Us data. Data availability details are provided, along with references to prior studies on clonal hematopoiesis and related topics.
A 5.3-million-year-old deep-sea whale necropolis in the Diamantina Zone
A study published in Nature News reports the discovery of a large whale necropolis in the Diamantina Zone of the southeastern Indian Ocean, containing both modern and ancient whale remains. The site includes five active whale-fall communities and 476 fossil cetaceans. Researchers found that these whale falls support unique ecosystems dominated by brittle stars, bone-boring worms, and chemosynthetic bivalves. Isotopic dating indicates that such whale falls have existed in the region for at least 5.3 million years, providing insights into the evolution of deep-sea ecosystems and cetaceans.
Measurement of reactor neutrino oscillation with the first JUNO data
This article discusses the measurement of reactor neutrino oscillation using the first data from the JUNO experiment. It outlines the availability of source data for specific figures and mentions that raw experimental data are not publicly accessible due to their complexity and volume. The article also notes that the JUNO Collaboration develops and maintains the code used for simulations and statistical analyses, though it is not publicly distributed. Several references are provided, including Nobel lectures and a review of particle physics.
A first-in-class pulsatile FXR agonist for bile-acid-related liver diseases
This research article discusses the development of a new class of pulsatile FXR agonists for treating bile-acid-related liver diseases. It provides details on the crystal structure of the FXR-linafexor complex and references transcriptomics data available through the National Genomics Data Center. The study builds on prior research into bile acids as natural ligands for nuclear receptors.
Mitochondria directly interact with the nuclear pore complex
Researchers have discovered that mitochondria directly interact with the nuclear pore complex, which could provide new insights into cellular communication and disease mechanisms. The study utilized various genomic and proteomic techniques, including RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, and proteomics data, along with CRISPR-edited cell lines and mouse models. The research also includes computational models for ATP diffusion and evolutionary analysis of the RANBP2 protein.
Light-induced quantum friction of carbon nanotubes in water
The article discusses light-induced quantum friction observed in carbon nanotubes submerged in water. It explains how quantum friction arises from interactions between the solvent's dipole modes and the electronic modes of materials like graphene, graphite, and carbon nanotubes. The study highlights experimental evidence showing increased friction when the surface response of the material aligns with the low-frequency spectrum of the solvent. Researchers used optical pump terahertz probe experiments to demonstrate faster cooling of hot electrons in graphene immersed in water, suggesting near-fi
In situ nanocrystal confinement for efficient blue perovskite LEDs
The article discusses recent scientific research on improving the efficiency of blue perovskite light-emitting diodes (LEDs). It references multiple studies published in academic journals such as Nature, Advanced Materials, and Nature Communications, focusing on techniques like nanocrystal confinement, distribution control, and ion-induced assembly to enhance performance metrics such as external quantum efficiency (EQE).
SIRT7 regulates dosage compensation and safeguards the female X chromosome
This research article discusses the role of SIRT7 in regulating dosage compensation and safeguarding the female X chromosome. The study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms involving SIRT7 and its implications for genetic regulation.
Gene ancestries reveal diverse microbial associations during eukaryogenesis
This article discusses recent research into eukaryogenesis, focusing on the role of gene transfers between different microbial lineages during the evolution of eukaryotic cells. It highlights the prevailing scientific consensus that involves an endosymbiotic relationship between an alphaproteobacterial endosymbiont and a host with an Asgard archaeal ancestry. The study also explores alternative models suggesting additional microbial partners or multiple interactions involving non-alphaproteobacterial symbionts. The article notes challenges in reconstructing ancient phylogenetic relationships.
Structural basis for chaperone-guided assembly of RNA-induced silencing complex
This article presents a scientific study detailing the structural basis for the chaperone-guided assembly of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). It describes the deposition of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures and maps into public databases such as the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and Electron Microscopy Data Bank (EMDB). The research focuses on the interaction between molecular chaperones like HSP90 and components of the RISC complex, including Ago2 and let-7a-1. The study builds upon previous work published in journals such as Molecular Cell and Nature Structural & Molecular生物学.
Two-component exciton condensates in an electron–hole bilayer
This research article discusses the discovery of two-component exciton condensates in an electron-hole bilayer system. The study provides datasets and code for analyzing the interacting boson model Hamiltonian, which was used to explore the properties of these condensates. The work builds on previous research into Bose-Einstein condensation and related phenomena in quantum systems.
A thalamus–brainstem attractor network drives history-biased decisions
A study published in Nature Neuroscience identifies a thalamus-brainstem attractor network responsible for history-biased decision-making. The research uses a spiking neural network model and experimental data to explore how past experiences influence current decisions. Data and code supporting the findings are publicly available.
Diverse binding poses of agonistic neurotoxins on human Na<sub>v</sub>1.6
This research article presents structural insights into the diverse binding poses of agonistic neurotoxins on the human voltage-gated sodium channel Na_v1.6. The study utilizes cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine the structures of Na_v1.6 in complex with three different neurotoxins: Cn2, ι-RXIA, and Pc1a. These findings contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying toxin-channel interactions, which could have implications for drug development targeting these channels.
Deep learning four decades of human migration
The article discusses the challenges of defining and tracking human migration, highlighting the limitations of current data collection methods such as the UN and World Bank's stock data, which provide snapshots rather than dynamic insights into migration patterns. Researchers are developing new methods to estimate migration flows over longer periods.
Building user-driven climate adaptation products
The article discusses the development of user-driven climate adaptation products, emphasizing the importance of involving end-users in the creation of climate services. It highlights research on demand-driven climate services, user-centered design approaches, and co-production methods to improve the usability and effectiveness of climate-related tools. Several academic references are provided, focusing on improving the relevance of climate data for practical applications.
Improved quantum processor logical error rates via correction and detection
Researchers have improved logical error rates in quantum processors through advanced error correction and detection techniques. The study presents experimental results and references prior work on fault-tolerant quantum computation.
Molecular glue degraders of HuR suppress BRAF-mutant colorectal cancer
This article discusses research on molecular glue degraders targeting HuR, an RNA-binding protein, as a potential therapy for BRAF-mutant colorectal cancer (CRC). The study highlights the challenges of treating this subtype of CRC, which is particularly aggressive and resistant to existing therapies such as BRAF inhibitors combined with anti-EGFR antibodies. The article explains the biological role of HuR in mRNA regulation and suggests that targeting it could offer new therapeutic avenues.
Giant crustacean of the deep sea steals a trick from bacteria
Researchers have discovered that giant deep-sea isopods, known as bathynomids, possess a bacterial gene that aids in regulating their metabolism, allowing them to survive for years without food in the cold ocean depths.
Whole-genome duplication shaped cell-type evolution in the vertebrate brain
The article discusses the role of whole-genome duplication (WGD) in shaping the evolution of cell types within the vertebrate brain. It outlines historical hypotheses such as the '2R hypothesis,' which suggests two rounds of WGD in early jawed vertebrates. The text explains that while WGD is one mechanism for gene duplication, it differs from smaller-scale duplications. Retained duplicated genes may either lose some functions (subfunctionalization) or gain new ones (neofunctionalization). These processes contribute to the formation of new gene regulatory networks, influencing tissue and organ,
Don’t compete, collaborate: why collective funding applications are the future
The article discusses the increasing competition among researchers for funding, driven by a growing scientific workforce, pressure to secure grants, and the use of AI tools that reduce proposal-writing time. It highlights the negative consequences of this hypercompetitive environment, such as wasted time on unsuccessful applications and a focus on trendy research areas at the expense of essential work like replication studies. The author advocates for a shift toward collaborative funding applications, presenting an example where 12 metascientists, including competitors, worked together to pool