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How cells fight infection from the inside

Scientists discovered a new way cells fight infection, using a method called antibody-directed xenophagy (ADX), which can digest bacteria and viruses inside infected cells. ADX is triggered by a protein called TRIM21, which flags invading pathogens for destruction.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Ribosomes in pairs

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research discovered that stressed animal cells, including neurons, assemble inactive ribosomes into tightly linked pairs, known as disomes. This novel mechanism relies on a specific piece of ribosomal RNA called an expansion segment to form a precise RNA-RNA interaction.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2026

UTA alum’s research offers hope for new treatments

Alec Whited's published study reveals a previously unknown cellular pathway that enhances waste removal, potentially treating autoimmune diseases and improving wound healing. The research, coauthored with a UTA doctoral student, was recently published in Genetics, a prestigious journal.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalGenetics·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 11, 2025

Mix insect, plant, and cultivated proteins for healthier, greener, tastier food, say experts

Researchers reveal how hybrid foods combining proteins from different sources could be part of the solution to reduce industrial animal use. By using combinations of different proteins, they found that hybrids can overcome many limitations of individual protein sources and create products that are more than the sum of their parts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Science·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 30, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study finds high protein diet improves birds' ability to tolerate infection

A high protein diet has been shown to improve birds' immune function and tolerance to infection by triggering the expression of immune-related genes. Birds fed a high protein diet were more resistant to infection and showed reduced symptoms compared to those fed a high lipid diet.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2025

Dinosaurs could hold key to cancer discoveries

Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University and Imperial College London used advanced paleoproteomic techniques to analyze dinosaur fossils, discovering red blood cell-like structures in a fossil. This finding raises the possibility that soft tissue and cellular components are more commonly preserved in ancient remains than previously th...

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2025

Estrogen-related receptors could be key to treating metabolic and muscular disorders

Estrogen-related receptors play a crucial role in regulating muscle cell metabolism and energy production. Researchers discovered that these receptors can increase mitochondrial numbers and enhance energetic output when muscles need more energy, making them a promising therapeutic target for metabolic disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Solar-powered animal cells

Scientists have successfully integrated chloroplasts from algae into hamster cells, allowing the cells to undergo photosynthesis and producing oxygen and energy. This breakthrough could lead to the development of artificial tissues that can grow in size without limitations due to low oxygen levels, paving the way for innovative biotech...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Japan Academy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Super-resolution microscopy harnesses digital display technology

Researchers developed a high-speed modulation system combining digital display with super-resolution imaging, significantly improving lateral and axial resolution. This enables detailed study of subcellular structures in animal cells and plant ultrastructures, paving the way for future biological discoveries.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateFeb 14, 2024

Big impacts from small changes in cell

Researchers at Göttingen and Warwick Universities studied the structure and mechanics of cytoskeletal networks composed of actin isoforms. The study found that gamma actin forms rigid networks near the cell apex, while beta actin preferentially forms parallel bundles with distinct organizational patterns.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Mitochondria power-supply failure may cause age-related cognitive impairment

Researchers at Salk Institute discover that dysfunctional mitochondria at synapses fail to meet energetic demand, supplying either too much or too little power and potentially causing working memory impairment with age. Adherence to the ultrastructural size principle is essential for avoiding cognitive decline in aging brains.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2023

NUS scientists develop novel technique to grow meat in the lab using magnetic field

Researchers at NUS have developed a method to produce cell-based meat using magnetic pulses, reducing reliance on animal products and increasing efficiency. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the food industry and improve regenerative medicine by stimulating the growth of healthy cells.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2022

How tardigrades bear dehydration

Researchers have identified proteins that form gel-like filaments to protect cells from mechanical stress during dehydration. These findings could lead to improvements in preserving cell materials and biomolecules in a dry state.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Bruin biophysicist’s research pushes forward development of cultured meat

Amy Rowat's research on cultured meat has made significant progress, with a new study showing the potential for efficient production methods. By using gelatin and food-grade enzymes to create edible microcarriers, Rowat's team is paving the way for lab-grown meat alternatives.

SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2022

New research on the emergence of the first complex cells challenges orthodoxy

A new study challenges a popular scenario explaining the origin of eukaryotes, suggesting that cells can grow to considerable volume without acquiring mitochondria. Researchers explore energy requirements and genome arrangement in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, revealing overlap between cell types rather than a hard boundary line.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2022

Researchers identify cells causing neuronal death in a mitochondrial disease animal model

In a new study, researchers found that microglia cells are responsible for neuronal death in a mitochondrial disease mouse model. Suppressing these cells with the drug Pexidartinib increased life expectancy and reduced motor problems. Further research is needed to understand the specific process by which microglia attack neurons.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGlia·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Genetic discovery could spell mosquitoes’ death knell

A UC Riverside genetic discovery found that mosquitoes lack the primary ecdysone transporter, allowing researchers to develop a mosquito-specific insecticide. This breakthrough could help control Zika, dengue, and other virus-carrying mosquitoes without harming beneficial insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2022

Jellyfish’s stinging cells hold clues to biodiversity

Researchers found that jellyfish's stinging cells evolved by repurposing a neuron inherited from a pre-cnidarian ancestor. This discovery provides insights into the emergence of new cell types and the evolution of biodiversity, suggesting that co-option of ancestral cell types was an important source for new cell functions.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Jiminy's wings turned out as fine as his conscience

A study by Kyoto University reveals that crickets' wings form from the lateral tergum of their wingless ancestors. The researchers used gene knockouts and microsurgery to identify key cell types involved in wing formation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2022

Bacteria-shredding insect wings inspire new antibacterial packaging

Scientists developed a natural antibacterial texture inspired by insect wings, killing up to 70% of bacteria. The innovation aims to reduce food waste, particularly in meat and dairy exports, and extend the shelf life of packaged food.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Following the inner compass: How birds find their ways to foreign lands

Researchers discovered that juvenile birds rely heavily on their in-built compass during the first migratory flight, bypassing easier coastal routes. The brain's head direction cells exhibit a preference for the north orientation, even when faced with unfamiliar environments, suggesting an innate ability to navigate.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

A neuron that tracks landmarks helps rats know where they are

Dartmouth researchers identified a new type of neuron in the rat brain that facilitates visual and spatial processing by tracking visual landmarks. The postrhinal cortex neurons can fire in two directions depending on the environment, allowing rats to estimate their direction.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2022

A biological paradox offers new insights into the mystery of cancer

Researchers analyzed the largest cross-species database to assess species-specific cancer mortality rates and found conclusive proof that cancer risk is largely independent of body mass and life expectancy. The study highlights potent mechanisms of cancer resistance in larger species, contradicting intuitive expectations.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 22, 2021

Stem-cell breakthrough could preserve diverse livestock breeds

A team of scientists led by Vimal Selvaraj has developed a way to preserve the genetic diversity of fast-disappearing native cattle breeds using stem cells. This technology could be used to clone extinct breeds or to produce animals with desirable traits, such as disease resistance and extreme weather tolerance.

SourceCornell University·JournalBiology Open·DateDec 8, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

How Hydra animals regenerate their own heads

Researchers have identified the specific genetic regulatory elements responsible for Hydra head regeneration, showing that dynamic chromatin remodeling and transcription factor motifs play a crucial role. This discovery sheds light on the complex developmental processes involved in this remarkable regenerative ability.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021

Peeking into a chrysalis, videos reveal growth of butterfly wing scales

Researchers at MIT observed the intricate choreography of butterfly scales forming during metamorphosis, revealing a shingle-like pattern and nanometer-high ridges. The findings could inform the design of new materials like iridescent windows and waterproof textiles.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2021

The genes behind the venom: New technique revolutionizes venom research

A groundbreaking technique allows researchers to study the unique venom production of a wide range of venomous animals, including scorpions, fish, and the platypus. This non-lethal approach provides new insights into how animals produce venom and opens up possibilities for discovering new drugs.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeCase study·DateNov 18, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Tufts receives $10 million grant to help develop cultivated meat

A team led by David Kaplan at Tufts University aims to produce an alternative food source using cell-grown meat, driving efforts to enhance food sustainability and nutrition. The five-year project will combine interdisciplinary teams to evaluate consumer acceptance, environmental impact, and economic viability.

SourceTufts University·DateNov 4, 2021

Cell “quakes” may help cells respond to the outside world

Researchers discovered that cytoquakes, rapid rearrangements of the cytoskeleton, occur due to slow buildup and sudden release of mechanical energy. These disturbances may aid cells in responding quickly to signals from their environment.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021

Wide heads help sperm swim together

Researchers used machine learning to discover that sperm with a wide head relative to length are more likely to clump together and swim collectively, a rare behavior that sometimes helps them reach an egg faster. The study provides a new method for understanding how form and function are related in cells with complex behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Cellular agriculture development has potential to change food industry, society

A new study assesses the potential trajectories of cellular agriculture, a technology that grows cultured meat, dairy, and egg products from animal cells and yeast. The research highlights the need for increased public investments in open-source research and education to ensure a just and equitable development of the sector.

SourcePenn State·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·DateAug 25, 2021

Comb construction in honey bees

Researchers analyzed over 19,000 comb cells built by 12 colonies and found that worker bees adapt their building behavior to overcome various challenges, such as merging unaligned cells. The study suggests that honeybees are skilled architects rather than automatons, capable of solving complex problems through creative solutions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2021

Rare genetic defect replicated in fish model

Researchers at Heidelberg University successfully introduced a rare genetic mutation into a fish model to study the causes of complex metabolic diseases. The study found that supplying fully functional ALG2 mRNA could reverse the genetic defect, allowing analysis of individual function areas of the enzyme.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 23, 2021

Rice fish model of a rare metabolic disorder

Scientists have developed a Japanese rice fish model to study congenital disorders of glycosylation, including ALG2-CDG. The model replicates symptoms such as neuronal problems and retinitis pigmentosa, and demonstrates that supplying fully-functional Alg2 can prevent defects.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 9, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Living foams

A team of researchers has developed a computational framework that captures cell interactions and their impact on embryonic tissue dynamics. They found that dynamic forces and tension fluctuations are responsible for the fluid state of tissues during development.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 12, 2021

Insight into the evolution of bones

Researchers have discovered fossilized samples of bony armor from ancient fish species, revealing a complex network of cavities and channels in the bones. The findings suggest that early vertebrates had internal structures similar to those found in modern vertebrates, with bone cells capable of dissolving and restoring bone minerals.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Good cop, bad cop

Researchers use zebrafish to study human cancer and discover that the innate immune system actively destroys cancer cells. However, tumor cells can adapt and evade immune detection through a process called 'Immunoediting', leading to immunotherapy resistance.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2021

UMass Amherst researchers gain insight into the biology of a deadly fungus

UMass Amherst researchers discovered that the actin networks of a deadly fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), play crucial roles in its pathogenicity. The study provides insights into the evolution of actin cytoskeleton and sheds light on the disease chytridiomycosis affecting amphibian populations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 8, 2021

In plants, channels set the rhythm

Researchers found that plants use rapid oscillations of stems and leaves due to wind to activate molecular switches, allowing them to respond to environmental changes. This discovery highlights the importance of plant sensitivity to mechanical signals, enabling them to prepare for storms.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

'Boss' genes could save human hearts - and the reef

Researchers have discovered rare decision-making genes that control cell responses, potentially helping to prevent diseases such as heart attacks and organ failure. This new knowledge can also be applied to understand how aquatic animals respond to global warming and improve human health, agriculture, ecology, and marine biology.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 13, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Consumers, quats and COVID-19: Are disinfectant products safe?

Quat-containing disinfectants have raised concerns over potential toxicity, with links to fertility and developmental problems found in animal and cell experiments. However, industry experts argue that skin irritation is the biggest concern, and typical exposures in people are unlikely to pose significant health risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 5, 2020