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From scents to defense: Decoding the genetic drivers of plant terpenes

Researchers analyzed 222 terpene synthase genes in 24 angiosperm species, revealing how specific subfamilies drove the production of diverse terpenes. This study highlights the evolutionary foundation of terpene diversity and its role in plant adaptability and ecological success.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 18, 2025
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.

University of Konstanz secures two ERC starting grants

Researchers at the University of Konstanz are developing new methods to modify natural substances using enzymes, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals. Meanwhile, ecologist Catalina Chaparro-Pedraza is studying how organisms adapt to environmental changes and their impact on ecological resilience.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateSep 4, 2025

Cannabis terpenes offer potential new way to treat fibromyalgia pain

Research at the University of Arizona Health Sciences found that certain terpenes in Cannabis sativa are effective at relieving post-surgical and fibromyalgia pain in preclinical models. Terpenes have been shown to provide significant pain relief in mouse models, with geraniol providing the most significant level of pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalPharmacological Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 12, 2025

A breakthrough in chiral capsule tools for advanced optical technologies

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo create terpene-based chiral capsules that facilitate the easy preparation of well-defined host–guest composites with tunable chiroptical properties. The resulting composites can be used in water without organic solvents, paving the way for advances in cutting-edge optical technologies.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2024
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.

Study shows Cannabis terpenes may relieve chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain

Researchers found that five cannabis terpenes reduced chronic neuropathic pain levels comparable to morphine. The combination of terpenes and morphine enhanced pain relief without negative side effects. Terpenes offer an alternative to opioids for pain management with a better side effect profile.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalPain·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024

An adjuvant made in yeast could lower vaccine cost and boost availability

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have successfully produced the QS-21 adjuvant in yeast, which is currently extracted from tree bark. The production process is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for lowering vaccine costs and increasing availability.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024

New approach in the synthesis of complex natural substances

Researchers at University of Basel have developed a new method to synthesize complex natural substances like terpenes, which can be used as the basis for new medications. The approach allows for controlled molecular structure and targeted changes to improve properties, paving the way for the development of new therapeutic agents.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 2, 2024

Cannabis users appear to be relying less on conventional sleep aids

A recent study found that most cannabis users (80%) have stopped using over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids and instead prefer inhaling high-THC cannabis to help with falling asleep. The study also showed that cannabis users experienced fewer headaches, nausea, and dry mouth compared to traditional sleep aids.

SourceWashington State University·JournalExploration of Medicine·DateNov 13, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Rosé renaissance: Spanish study uncorks ultrasound for superior wine quality

Researchers from Spain used high-power ultrasound technology to treat Monastrell grapes, resulting in improved color and sensory profile of the rosé. The study found that sonication enhanced the extraction of volatile compounds, such as terpenes, which improve aroma.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023

SRI seeks to learn how insects speak through smells

Researchers at SRI International have identified genes that enable insects to produce terpenes, a key component of their chemical communication. This breakthrough provides a roadmap for understanding how these chemicals are used and could lead to new ways to protect crops and prevent insect-borne diseases.

SourceSRI International·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023

Leipzig researchers develop efficient process for chemical terpene synthesis

A team of scientists developed a simplified and efficient method for artificial production of terpenes, using fluorinated alcohol catalyst solutions. This approach allows targeted production of natural substances from simple starting materials, offering potential applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Enhancing organic solar cells’ green glow

A team of researchers at KAUST has developed a new method to replace toxic chlorinated solvents with plant-derived alternatives in organic solar cell manufacture. The study reveals that terpene-based solvents can be used without affecting the light-capturing performance of the cells, resulting in an 85% lower carbon footprint.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 15, 2022

Zapping orange peel oil into new, pleasant aroma compounds

Scientists have developed a sustainable method to create valuable aroma compound mixtures from limonene, the main compound in orange peel oil. The process generates an amber-colored liquid with a pleasant odor and 17 different compounds with fruity, herbal, citrus, and resinous notes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 1, 2022

What's in your weed? Study suggests current labeling system doesn't tell you much

A new study of nearly 90,000 cannabis samples across six states found that the current labeling system does not consistently align with the observed chemical diversity of products. The researchers are now calling for a more comprehensive labeling system akin to food's nutrition facts panel.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 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.

RUDN University chemists created anti-hantavirus drugs 5 times more efficient than existing drugs

Researchers at RUDN University have synthesized a new class of compounds that inhibit the replication of the deadly Hantaan virus, which causes acute haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The resulting substances are 5 times more effective than existing antiviral drugs and show promise for treatment development.

SourceRUDN University·JournalBioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateJun 7, 2021

Additives result in higher toxins for vape users, Portland State study finds

A Portland State University study found that vape additives, particularly terpenes, can form more toxins than the main psychoactive chemical THC when inhaled. The researchers discovered that vendors were adding up to 30% more terpenes to their products, which can impact flavor and smell but also pose health risks.

SourcePortland State University·JournalACS Omega·DateNov 26, 2019
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.

The frostier the flower, the more potent the cannabis

A new study reveals that stalked glandular trichomes in cannabis flowers are the richest source of THC- and CBD-forming metabolites and fragrance-giving terpenes. The findings provide insight into how these trichomes make and store valuable products.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateOct 28, 2019
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.

Mite genomes reveal 'mighty surprising' fragrant and colorful secrets

Scientists discover functional genes for producing terpenes and carotenoids in mites, which could lead to new ways of controlling chigger bites and potentially treating scrub typhus. Ancient horizontal gene transfer from soil bacteria and fungi is found to be responsible for these genetic surprises.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalGigaScience·DateNov 19, 2018

Next-gen insect repellents to combat mosquito-borne diseases (video)

Researchers have developed a new class of mosquito repellents based on naturally occurring compounds that are effective in repelling mosquitoes. The compounds mimic the mechanism of nature, which could provide additional protection against mosquitoes, while having fewer environmental side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2018

New approach to terpene syntheses

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed a novel synthesis method for terpenes that uses molecular capsules to mimic nature. The method significantly reduces the number of steps and improves yield in the synthesis process.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJul 30, 2018

The world's most spoken language is...'Terpene'

Researchers from the Netherlands Institute of Ecology discovered that micro-organisms, including bacteria and fungi, use terpenes to hold conversations. Terpenes are the most popular chemical medium for communication on the planet.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2017

Researchers identify genes that give cannabis its flavor

Researchers have identified approximately 30 terpene synthase genes that contribute to diverse flavors in cannabis. These genes play a role in producing natural products like limonene, myrcene, and pinene, which are responsible for the plant's characteristic aromas.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 29, 2017
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.

Researchers identify genes for 'Help me!' aromas from corn

A team of scientists has identified three new enzymes responsible for terpene production in corn, which attracts parasitic wasps that consume caterpillars. This discovery could lead to the development of more caterpillar-resistant corn varieties.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 25, 2016

Puzzle maker: Building a chemical from the ground up

Researchers at Caltech develop efficient synthesis route for ryanodol, a key intermediate on the path to producing the insecticide ryanodine. The new method reduces reaction steps by five, enabling faster production of the molecule. This breakthrough also opens up possibilities for studying biological function and developing new drugs.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 25, 2016
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.

Unexpected enzyme may resurrect roses' fading scents

Researchers have identified an unexpected enzyme, RhNUDX1, that plays a key role in producing rose fragrances. By investigating the genes of two rose cultivars, they found that this enzyme generates the fragrant monoterpene geraniol.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

Malaria-infected cells produce odors attractive to mosquitoes

Research finds that malaria-infected cells produce specific terpenes attractive to mosquitoes, which can be detected in breath or sweat. This discovery may lead to new diagnostic tests and improve malaria control by understanding mosquito attraction.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMar 24, 2015

Citrus scent inhibits liver cancer

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that terpenes in citrus scents can inhibit liver cancer cell growth. The study discovered the signalling pathway used by (-)-citronellal and citronellol, two terpenes with anti-cancer properties.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalArchives of Biochemistry and Biophysics·DateJan 19, 2015

Bacteria could be rich source for making terpenes

New research at Brown University reveals that bacteria have the genetic capacity to produce terpenes, with 262 gene sequences found to code for enzymes responsible. The team used these enzymes to isolate 13 previously unknown bacterial terpenes, providing a new paradigm for discovering natural products.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2014

Clean smell doesn't always mean clean air

A Drexel University researcher studied indoor aerosol spikes caused by cleaning products and air fresheners, revealing the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) due to limonene reactions. The study suggests a significant impact on indoor air quality, warranting further public health research.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 29, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

On the scent of a wine's bouquet

Scientists have identified two enzymes responsible for the formation of terpenes, which contribute to a wine's bouquet. The study could lead to the development of new grape varieties with improved aromas.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 2, 2014

Steroids that only nature could make on a large scale -- Until now

Researchers achieved a feat in synthetic chemistry by inventing a method to synthesize polyhydroxylated steroids, used in heart-failure medications and other drugs. The new strategy enables rapid modifications of hydroxylated steroids, which could help pharmaceutical chemists tweak natural toxins like ouabain.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 3, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New chemistry technique from the Scripps Research Institute reproduces nature's elusive complexity

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute developed a new technique to synthesize complex terpenes, a crucial step towards cheaper and fully synthetic cancer drugs like Taxol. The breakthrough mimics a natural biochemical phenomenon that allows cells to make these compounds, overcoming significant challenges in organic chemistry.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 23, 2012

JBEI identify new advanced biofuel as an alternative to diesel fuel

Researchers at JBEI have identified a potential new advanced biofuel, bisabolane, that could replace diesel fuel with lower freezing and cloud points. The biofuel was produced using synthetic biology tools and engineered microbes to create a precursor, bisabolene.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2011

Nature reaches for the high-hanging fruit

Scientists applied theoretical morphology techniques to study terpenes in plants, discovering a disparity between predicted and actual abundances. They found that nature favors rarer, harder-to-synthesize forms of these chemicals, which could lead to new effective drugs.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 16, 2011

MSU discoveries upend traditional thinking about how plants make certain compounds

Michigan State University researchers identify two new genes and two new enzymes in tomato plants that produce monoterpenes, a compound responsible for the plant's distinctive smell. The discovery challenges traditional understanding of how plants make monoterpenes, opening up new avenues for protecting plants from pests.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2009
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.

Ginkgo SRMs: Tools for product analysis/quality

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a suite of Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) for ginkgo biloba, enabling the validation of analytical methods and support measurements associated with clinical trials or product label claims. The SRMs can also be used by dietary supplement manufacturers to improve p...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2007

Many cleaners, air fresheners may pose health risks when used indoors

A University of California, Berkeley study found that certain household products emit toxic compounds when used indoors, exceeding regulatory guidelines. The research measured pollutants from cleaning agents and air fresheners under typical indoor use conditions, highlighting the need to address chronic exposure to these substances.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateMay 24, 2006
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New possibilities to fight pests with biological means

Scientists identified a gene TPS10 that produces a specific scent attracting parasitic wasps to damaged corn plants. The wasps needed an initial exposure to both the scent and the caterpillar to react properly.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2006