IN THE LAB
These Butterflies See The World In 15 Shades Of Photoreceptors
Common Bluebottle butterflies have at least 15 different classes of photoreceptors, or light-detecting cells, in their eyes; no other insect has more than nine.
A Potential Biomarker For The Early Detection Of Ebola
Researchers have found an microRNA-like fragment that is detectable in infected patients but not during recovery—suggesting that it could serve as a biomarker for the disease.
Breast Cancer Cells Accumulate Epigenetic Changes Over Time
Researchers have found that healthy tissue samples taken from women with breast cancer are already ‘marked’ as being susceptible to turning cancerous.
Treating Childhood Leukemia With Fewer Side Effects
Screening for variations in the NUDT15 gene could help reduce the dangerous side effects of a commonly used leukemia drug.
MERS Adapts By Weakening During Outbreaks
To survive in nature and live together with its host during an outbreak, the MERS virus develops mutations that 'weaken' its effects.
Snake Venom May Hold Key To Alzheimer’s Treatment
A molecule found in pit viper venom activates enzymes that break down amyloid plaques in the brain, which are commonly associated with Alzheimer's.
New Bird Lineage From Early Cretaceous Period Found
A specimen named Chongmingia zhengi, recently found in China, sheds light on the early evolution of birds.
Penguin Feathers Inspire Ice-Proof Material
By mimicking the hierarchical microstructure of penguin feathers, researchers have developed an ice-proof insulating material.
Reducing Nerve Pain With Less Risk Of Addiction
Researchers have discovered that blocking a specific molecule helps reduce pain caused by nerve damage, or sciatica, in mice.
