Science News for July 8, 2023

Li Yuan 's group from Northwest A&F University has made progress in the study of watermelon haploid induction

Li Yuan's team from Northwest A&F University has made progress in developing a watermelon haploid induction system. They successfully induced haploid plants in multiple watermelon genotypes using the ClDMP3 mutation, with rates reaching up to 1.12%. This breakthrough holds immense potential for advancing watermelon breeding.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2023

From bad to worse: h=How micro- and meso-plastics collect heavy metals

Researchers found that micro- and meso-plastics accumulate heavy metals, with copper and chromium being prominent contaminants. The study reveals how surface features like holes, biofilms, and mineral crystals facilitate the collection of pollutants on plastic particles.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·DateJul 8, 2023

Pediatric hepatoblastoma model hints at DNA damage repair pathway for novel therapeutics

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital created a more accurate hepatoblastoma model to improve therapies, focusing on DNA damage repair pathways. The model identified potential targets and validated the effectiveness of PRKDC inhibition when combined with doxorubicin, enhancing treatment efficacy.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2023