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Taming the “bad” oxygen

Researchers at ISTA have discovered a way to tune singlet oxygen, a highly reactive ROS that causes cell damage and degrades batteries. By controlling the pH inside mitochondria, they can produce more 'good' triplet oxygen and reduce the production of 'bad' singlet oxygen.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Tapuy rice wine fermentation yields possible anti-aging superfood

Filipino researchers found a way to enhance tapuy lees for high polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, extending test animal lifespan and health. The study suggests repurposing tapuy lees as a health food to combat aging and oxidative stress-related diseases.

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalDiscover Food·DateMar 14, 2025

Mutations in the Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase 1 gene SOD1 can cause familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS) in a process that involves dissociation of the SOD1 dimer

A novel cyclic thiosulfinate cross-linker has favorable drug-like properties and can stabilize the SOD1 dimer in vivo, indicating potential therapeutic benefits for fALS. This study uses a mouse model to evaluate protein cross-linking as a strategy to treat SOD1 variants associated with familial ALS.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 30, 2024

New study: deep sea sensor reveals that corals produce reactive oxygen species

A new study published in PNAS Nexus reveals that deep-sea corals and sponges produce the ROS superoxide, a highly reactive compound with previously unknown effects on ocean life and chemistry. The researchers used a one-of-a-kind deep-sea chemiluminescent sensor to detect superoxide in water closely surrounding corals.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2023

Potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer identified

A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalCancer Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Brain support cells transfer their mitochondria to fight free radicals

Researchers found that astrocytes can transfer their mitochondria to damaged neurons after a brain hemorrhage, stimulating the production of an enzyme that neutralizes free radicals. This treatment showed improved neurological recovery in mice, but not if the mitochondria were without the protective enzyme Mn-SOD.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2022

Effects of 'Fenton-like' reactions of ferric oxalate on atmospheric oxidation processes and radiative forcing

Research investigates ferric oxalate's role in atmospheric oxidation, revealing its contribution to the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) and affecting radiative forcing. The study highlights the significance of superoxide radicals in oxidizing organic compounds.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 11, 2021

Charcoal a weapon to fight superoxide-induced disease, injury

Researchers have discovered that charcoal nanoparticles can effectively combat damaging levels of superoxides, which are toxic at high concentrations. The nanozymes could aid in the treatment of COVID-19 patients by reducing radical oxygen ions produced in response to an injury or stroke.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJul 1, 2020
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.

The lower mantle can be oxidized in the presence of water

Research finds that ferropericlase transforms into superoxide when exposed to water at deep lower mantle conditions. The discovery suggests the lower mantle is locally oxidized where water is present, contrary to previous theories.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 22, 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.

A toxic chemical in marine ecosystems turns out to play a beneficial role

Researchers discovered that reactive oxygen species, once thought to cause cellular damage, actually protect phytoplankton cells from overproducing a compound used for photosynthesis. This finding challenges conventional wisdom and may have implications for understanding ocean resilience to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 22, 2019

Delaying ALS onset in mice

Researchers discovered that overexpressing macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in mice with SOD1 mutations slows down disease progression and extends lifespan. MIF may play a potential therapeutic role in ALS treatment.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

A step closer to identifying cause of a blinding disease

A recent study led by McGill University researchers offers a crucial step in unlocking the mystery of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy's cause. The team found that superoxide spreading among cells connecting the eye to the brain is likely the cause of the disorder.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 23, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Can chocolate, tea, coffee and zinc help make you more healthy?

Researchers discovered that zinc can activate a molecule helping to shield against oxidative stress, which contributes to aging and illnesses. Zinc combined with polyphenols in foods like coffee, tea, and chocolate may provide natural protection.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 2, 2018

Cells agree: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger

Research led by Salk Institute scientist Gerald Shadel found that short-term stress can trigger sustained production of antioxidants and increase mitochondria efficiency, potentially extending lifespan. Cells exposed to brief stress showed higher antioxidant levels, more mitochondria, and less superoxide buildup than unstressed cells.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 16, 2018

Next-gen solar cells could be improved by atomic-scale redesign

New research reveals the mechanism behind perovskite solar cell breakdown in air, which causes significant degradation and reduces their efficiency. By understanding this process at an atomic scale, scientists have proposed possible solutions to engineer defects out of the material.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2017
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.

New studies take a second look at coral bleaching culprit

Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found that superoxide produced at coral surfaces may help corals resist bleaching. Contrary to previous findings, corals producing high concentrations of superoxide had greater resilience to bleaching than those with low production levels.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 7, 2016

Aging: Computer simulation finds dangerous molecule activity

Researchers used computer simulations to study the formation of superoxides, a type of free radical that can damage cells and contribute to aging. The study found that an oxygen molecule can penetrate specific locations in proteins, leading to the formation of superoxides.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 3, 2016

When the oxygen kills

Researchers identified a gene mutation increasing superoxide production, which damages DNA and cellular components. The study also shows the importance of understanding living systems and developing therapies for patients with related gene mutations.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016

Researchers prove surprising chemistry inside a potential breakthrough battery

A new prototype lithium-air battery has been shown to produce only lithium superoxide, not peroxide, as it discharges, offering high efficiency and good cycle life. This discovery was made using a state-of-the-art mass spectroscopy apparatus that measures electrochemical reaction products in situ during charging or discharge.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature·DateJan 20, 2016
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.

Superoxide gives lithium-air batteries a jolt

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a way to produce stable crystallized lithium superoxide, which can easily dissociate into lithium and oxygen. This breakthrough has the potential to create a new kind of battery with five times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 13, 2016

Nano-antioxidants prove their potential

Researchers have successfully tested nanoparticles that can quickly quench damaging superoxides, potentially protecting against further brain damage in traumatic injuries. The particles, known as PEG-HCCs, have shown an enormous capacity to neutralize thousands of reactive oxygen species molecules, restoring normal oxygen levels.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2015

Novel antioxidant makes old arteries seem young again, CU-Boulder study finds

A new study by CU-Boulder reveals that an antioxidant called MitoQ can reverse the negative effects of aging on arteries, improving vascular function and reducing the risk of heart disease. MitoQ targets mitochondria, specific cell structures responsible for oxidative stress, and restores endothelial function in old mice.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 5, 2014

Enzyme restores function with diabetic kidney disease

A new study reverses the prevailing theory on diabetic kidney disease, finding that elevated glucose levels do not cause the condition but rather suppressing mitochondrial activity. The researchers discovered that boosting beneficial AMPK activity through lifestyle changes or drug activation can reduce kidney disease severity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 25, 2013
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.

Protein tug of war points toward better therapies for cardiovascular disease

A new study suggests that increasing Hsp70 expression may help reduce excessive reactive oxygen species production, a key contributor to cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that Hsp90 inhibitors can increase Hsp70 levels, leading to decreased oxidative stress and improved blood vessel function.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateNov 15, 2012

Nanoparticles reboot blood flow in brain

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a nanoparticle that can restore balance to the brain's vascular system after an injury. The PEG-HCC nanoparticles immediately quench superoxide activity and allow the autoregulatory system to regain its balance, potentially treating mild brain trauma by preventing further damage.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 23, 2012
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.

New research provides new insight into age-related muscle decline

A study published in Genetics suggests that superoxides from the air can harm muscle tissue, leading to problems like aging and Parkinson's disease. Researchers found that introducing a mitochondrial enzyme helped protect muscle cells, increasing survival rates in fruit flies.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateSep 22, 2009

Toxic molecule may help birds 'see' north and south

Researchers found that superoxide plays a key role in bird migration by influencing the protein cryptochrome in their eyes. The molecule allows birds to 'see' Earth's magnetic field, enabling them to navigate. However, humans lack this ability due to evolutionary trade-offs between longevity and orientational ability

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 22, 2009

New study overturns orthodoxy on how macrophages kill bacteria

Researchers found that macrophages focus reactive oxygen species (ROS) on targets outside the cytoplasm to kill bacteria. The study shows that superoxide dismutases in bacterial periplasm protect bacteria from ROS, suggesting a new mechanism for macrophage-bacteria interaction.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 27, 2009

Antioxidants are unlikely to prevent aging, study suggests

Researchers question the long-held free radical theory of ageing, suggesting that oxidative stress is not a major cause of ageing. The study found no significant impact on lifespan when controlling superoxide levels in nematode worms.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 30, 2008
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.

Protein plays Jekyll and Hyde role in Lou Gehrig's disease

A Brandeis study finds that mutated protein superoxide dismutase leads to toxic levels of the protein in motor neurons, causing cell death in ALS patients. The research aims to develop drugs targeting key proteins to prevent aggregation and treat the disease.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 28, 2008

Freeze! Scientists film proteins at work by freezing them at different states

Researchers at ESRF successfully filmed an enzyme in action using cryogenic techniques, revealing intermediate states crucial to its function. The study contributes to understanding how the enzyme eliminates toxic molecules, offering hope for developing new drugs to combat neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 2007

Breakthrough offers new tool for studying degenerative disease

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new technique to visualize and measure superoxide in animal cells, offering a breakthrough in understanding degenerative diseases such as Lou Gehrig's Disease, heart disease, diabetes, and aging. The discovery could significantly speed up research on these conditions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2006

Antioxidant tempol prevents pre-eclampsia, decreases fetal mortality in mice

The study found that antioxidant therapy with tempol prevented the onset of high blood pressure, proteinuria, and placental abnormalities, improving birth weight and fetal growth. Tempol treatment also reduced fetal deaths by half and normalized placentas, suggesting a promising approach to treating pre-eclampsia.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 3, 2006
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

NC State researchers redesign life for Mars and beyond

Researchers at NC State have successfully transferred genes from a heat-tolerant sea microbe, Pyrococcus furiosus, into tobacco and Arabidopsis plants to enhance their resistance to extreme temperatures. The study's findings show promise for developing plants that can thrive in harsh conditions on Mars and other planets.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 25, 2005

Calorie restriction leads to some brain benefits but not others in mice

A study published in Neuroscience found that calorie restriction had mixed effects on the brains of mice, improving grip strength, coordination, and flexibility, but having no effect on cognitive performance. The researchers suggest that free radical damage may contribute to age-related cognitive impairments, which could be prevented o...

SourceWashU Medicine·DateOct 24, 2004

"Berry, berry, berry…good!"

Researchers found that chokeberry extract can protect coronary arteries from oxidant injury, while bilberry extract provides partial protection. The study suggests that individual components in berries may be responsible for their vascular effects.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 22, 2002
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Oxidative damage to eNOS by tissue peroxynitrite

Research reveals that peroxynitrite damages endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), promoting uncoupled catalysis and oxidative stress in vascular tissues. This damage can propagate to other susceptible enzymes, exacerbating inflammation and oxidative stress.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 13, 2002

Enzyme mimetic reduces joint disease in rheumatoid arthritis model

Researchers developed a superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic that substantially reduced cartilage and bone erosion, as well as chronic inflammation, in a standard animal model. The SOD mimetic also significantly reduced elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β.

SourceKupper Parker Communications·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateDec 6, 2001
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Enzyme mimetic compound could reduce complications of diabetes

Researchers have found that an enzyme mimetic compound significantly improves the functioning of blood vessels and nerves in diabetic animal studies, reducing vascular abnormalities and nerve damage. The study suggests a potentially significant new approach for treating and preventing complications associated with diabetes.

SourceKupper Parker Communications·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateAug 28, 2001

Proceedings of the National Academy of Science: animal study points to new method for halting life-threatening blood pressure decline during septis

Researchers have identified a new treatment approach that could reverse the dramatic blood pressure drop associated with septic shock by removing excess superoxide free radicals. The treatment, a MetaPhore SOD mimetic, restored norepinephrine's ability to constrict blood vessels and reversed hypotension in rat models of septic shock.

SourceKupper Parker Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2000