Scientists develop purification process to recover recombinant gelatin from transgenic corn, addressing concerns over infectious agents and traceability. The method uses chromatographic and filtration techniques to achieve high purity, opening up new possibilities for plant-based protein production.
A chemist warns that the skin-care industry is skipping out on science, potentially providing consumers with less effective products. The industry often focuses on replicating existing formulas rather than applying sound science to improve products, according to Stig E. Friberg, Ph.D.
Researchers found that chlorogenic acid lactones, present in light to medium roast brews, are the dominant source of bitterness. Phenylindanes, derived from lactones, are found at higher levels in dark-roasted coffee and exhibit a more lingering, harsh taste.
A laboratory study found that cranberry compounds can sensitize human ovarian cancer cells resistant to platinum drugs, potentially improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The active compounds, called 'A-type' proanthocyanidins, appear to bind and block tumor promoter proteins in ovarian cancer cells.
Researchers have created a biological detergent that can be turned on and off depending on its application, offering potential solutions for improving laundry efficiency and reducing irritation in eye care products. The 'switchable' detergent has broad applications across various industries, including personal care and oil extraction.
A new sewage screening test has been developed to track community-wide drug abuse trends, providing a fast, reliable, and inexpensive way to estimate illicit drug use. The method analyzes drug residues and metabolites in urine flushed into municipal sewage treatment plants.
A new study involving 100,000 U.S. women found no association between acrylamide intake and breast cancer risk, contradicting prior animal studies. Researchers estimated daily acrylamide intake and tracked incidence of breast cancer over 20 years, concluding that levels in foods are unlikely to cause cancer.
A symposium exploring acrylamide's health effects and ways to reduce its content in food will be held. Experts from around the world will provide new insights into the compound and its biological effects.
A new study suggests that infection with human adenovirus-36 (Ad-36) may contribute to the development of obesity in some individuals. The virus transforms adult stem cells into fat cells, leading to increased fat accumulation.
Research reveals that estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus serve as a master switch to control food intake, energy expenditure, and body fat distribution. The study shows that when these receptors are destroyed, animals immediately begin to eat more, burn less energy, and gain weight.
A new analysis has identified cancer-causing compounds, air pollutants, and other substances of concern in the production of carbon nanotubes. Researchers are working with industry partners to develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing methods and filter systems to minimize hazardous by-products.
Renowned chemists and inventors to share revolutionary research developments in nanotech, biotech, and beyond. The symposium will focus on commercializing new technologies that promise to improve human health and productivity.
Researchers used computer analysis to identify potential new antibiotics, such as lovastatin and gentisic acid, which show promise against emerging bacterial threats. The approach could save time and lives during outbreaks or bioterrorism attacks.
A study published by the American Chemical Society found a link between feline hyperthyroidism and exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from flame retardants in furniture, pet food, and household dust. PBDE levels were three times higher in hyperthyroid cats than in younger cats.
Twenty-two researchers honored for developing new antipsychotic medication, cost-effective polyester production process, iron-overload treatment, corn-based products, and innovative packaging solutions. The ACS awards recognize industrial chemists whose work has led to significant improvements in human welfare and progress.
New discoveries in ACS Chemical Biology highlight the potential for snail toxins to lead to new drugs, as well as strategies to minimize the side effects of COX inhibitors. The journal also explores how sex hormones activate cell signaling pathways, and helper peptides influence calcium channel opening.
Recent studies from ACS Chemical Biology reveal new insights into how cells die when chemicals bind to DNA, fast ways to create novel molecules, thyroid hormone regulation, and the regulation of attaching proteins to membranes. The journal provides a platform for exploring cellular function from both chemical and biological perspectives.
Researchers have discovered a tool for rapid drug discovery by combining molecular fragments, allowing for more specific targeting of cancer cells. Additionally, two new peptides enable the labeling of proteins, enabling further study and modification.
The journal ACS Chemical Biology explores recent discoveries in cellular function, including the inhibition of new blood vessel formation using an antifungal drug. Nanoparticles are also shown to enhance the delivery of short interfering RNAs to cells, potentially aiding clinical applications.
The journal reveals how changing protein charges enables cell membrane passage and introduces an enzyme's role in synthesizing antibiotics against resistant bacteria. Additionally, researchers develop artificial methods to induce keratinocytes' differentiation, providing insight into diseases like psoriasis and basal cell carcinoma.
A symposium explores the evolution of low energy nuclear reactions, with researchers presenting findings that suggest these phenomena have evolved and are supported by repeatable experimental data. Evidence includes excess heat generation, documented nuclear reaction products, and detection of high-energy atomic particles.
Breakthroughs in environmental science and technology are showcased in the ACS News Service Weekly PressPac. Researchers have discovered a sugar-based solution to reduce chromium toxicity in industrial waste, while gold and silver nanoparticles offer an antidote to fuel cell poisoning. Meanwhile, scientists in protective clothing techn...
Scientists have developed 'smart' sunglasses featuring electrochromic polymers that change colors in response to an electric current, offering a wide range of color options. The prototype shades are powered by a tiny battery and resemble regular sunglasses with a button-activated color-changing feature.
Scientists have identified a potential new approach to raising HDL cholesterol levels, using a previously tested B-vitamin called niacin. The goal is to develop drugs with improved efficacy and tolerability compared to current statins.
A new synthetic molecule has been developed to deliver an imaging enhancer to cholesterol-filled cells, improving detection by 79 percent. The technique allows physicians to diagnose unstable plaques and identify high-risk patients for early treatment.
Researchers at the University of Guadalajara have developed a natural drug carrier derived from tequila that shows promise in targeting colon diseases. The microspheres, made from fructans, can protect drugs from stomach acid and improve their effectiveness.
Researchers at the American Chemical Society's 233rd national meeting presented breakthroughs in sustainability, including the development of molecular-scale 'scissors' that can manipulate molecules using light. Additionally, a new biofuel cell produces electricity from hydrogen in air, paving the way for clean energy solutions.
Scientists have developed a new type of environmentally friendly plastic that breaks down in seawater, reducing the need for storage on ships. The biodegradable plastics could replace conventional plastics used in various applications at sea, including stretch wrap, food containers, and eating utensils.
Scientists found that brief high-level exposures to nitrogen dioxide can cause rapid lung injury, including breathing rate inhibition, lung edema, and acute lung damage. Researchers studied laboratory rats exposed to varying concentrations of the toxic gas for five minutes, revealing significant health risks.
Researchers have developed a new contrast agent that selectively targets and highlights malignant micro-calcifications in the breast, while ignoring similar calcifications found in benign breast conditions. This technique has the potential to improve breast cancer diagnosis by reducing false positives and increasing detection rates.
Researchers found that longer baking times and higher temperatures can increase antioxidant levels in whole wheat pizza dough by up to 82%. Longer fermentation times also boosted antioxidant levels, with some increases reaching 100%.
A pioneering biofuel cell has been developed that can generate electricity from low levels of hydrogen in air, offering an inexpensive and renewable alternative to platinum-based fuel cells. The cell uses enzymes from naturally occurring bacteria and can power electronic devices with minimal power requirements.
A new diagnostic test, dubbed the 'dipstick,' can rapidly detect chemicals formed by disease-causing bacteria in food products, with a 90% accuracy rate. The test could help avoid illnesses and deaths caused by food poisoning, which affects millions annually.
Researchers at Iowa State University identified four chemicals in ladybugs that cause a foul smell, which can lead to 'ladybug taint' in wine. These compounds, including a new one not previously reported in ladybugs, are potent odor-producing molecules also found in other animals and plants.
Researchers will present on alternative energy sources, genetically-engineered crops, and new water purification processes. The symposium aims to address the world's growing demand for clean water and explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
Researchers discovered compounds in black raspberries, blueberries, grape seeds, high-fiber foods, and apple juice that show promise for preventing cancer. Studies found significant reductions in tumors of the esophagus, colon, skin, and prostate cancers.
Researchers have developed a fuel cell battery that runs on virtually any sugar source, offering a potential replacement for lithium ion batteries in portable electronics. The biodegradable battery has the longest-lasting and most powerful sugar-based design to date, with promising results from testing with various sugar sources.
A study by Rutgers University and the US Department of Agriculture found that pterostilbene, a potent antioxidant in blueberries, reduced pre-cancerous lesions in rats with colon cancer by 57%. The compound also inhibited inflammation and cell proliferation.
Scientists have developed a pair of molecular-scale scissors that can be manipulated by light, allowing for precise control over proteins and biological molecules. The technology has the potential to revolutionize gene manipulation and drug delivery, with practical applications still several years away.
George M. Whitesides, a renowned Harvard chemist, has been awarded the Priestley Medal for his distinguished service to chemistry over 40 years. His groundbreaking research in diverse areas such as NMR, materials science, and nanotechnology has laid the groundwork for advances in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and medical diagnostics.
Stuart F. Brown, a Fortune magazine writer, has won the 2007 James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public. The award recognizes his ability to convey complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner.
The American Chemical Society journal ACS Chemical Biology explores the latest research in cellular function from both chemical and biological perspectives. Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for cancer by linking proteins to activate the immune system. Additionally, scientists have found that certain bacteria can in...
A. Paul Alivisatos, co-editor of Nano Letters, wins the Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award for his contributions to materials research and development of functional semiconducting nanocrystals, also known as quantum dots.
The journal reviews new techniques and tools for chemical biologists to study biomolecules in action, including advances in fluorescence that allow precise observation of cells. Researchers can use these tools to probe the internal workings of cells and develop new therapies.
Recent studies have made significant advancements in understanding HIV, bacterial quorum sensing, and cancer treatment. Researchers have discovered innovative strategies to combat HIV resistance and develop novel genetic circuits for industrial applications.
Research by Jon Nelson suggests that smaller snowflakes may be less unique than previously thought, with tiny temperature changes influencing their diversity. The study of snowflakes has also shed light on their role in global climate change and ozone depletion, revealing a complex chemistry behind these winter wonders.
The American Chemical Society's Environmental Science & Technology journal highlights emerging contaminants such as nanoparticles, which can damage DNA, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which accumulate in aquatic food chains. These substances can have severe consequences for human health and the environment.
A new edible coating composed of apple puree and oregano oil has shown promise in killing deadly E. coli bacteria while providing flavor enhancement to food. The coating's effectiveness was demonstrated through laboratory studies, which found it to be more concentrated and longer-lasting than conventional produce washes.
The median salary for chemists has increased to $86,900, with bachelor's degrees earning $67,200 and Ph.D.'s earning $96,000. The chemistry workforce is becoming more diverse, with female graduates receiving a higher percentage of B.S. chemistry degrees.
Breakthroughs in protein interaction studies, antibiotic development, and signaling G Proteins are highlighted in ACS Chemical Biology. Researchers have also found a small molecule that controls thyroid hormone receptor activity.