IN THE LAB
Why The Tobacco Plant Gave Up Its Immune System
A mutation in the Rdr1 gene has left Nicotiana benthamiana plants with a weakened immune system but also helped to ensure their survival in harsh climates.
Targeting p62 As A Possible Toxoplasma Vaccine
Scientists have discovered that the autophagy receptor p62 plays a key role in activating the killer T cells during infection with T. gondii.
Teasing Out Protein Folding With Tiny Tweezers
Scientists were able to observe the folding and unfolding of a single membrane protein using magnetic tweezers.
Add Graphene For Super Sensitive Magnetoresistance Sensing
A graphene-based magnetoresistance sensor has proven to be 200 times more sensitive than commercially available ones made of silicon or indium antimonide.
Wider Wavelengths For Perovskite Solar Cells
By mixing two distinct cation-based perovskite materials, scientists were able to generate a high quality perovskite material capable of absorbing longer wavelengths of light.
Solving The REM Sleep Mystery
Using genetic tools to manipulate activity of a specific class of neurons in the brain, neuroscientists have identified the neural circuit involved in REM sleep.
Gene Editing Plants Without DNA
Researchers have developed a method to edit the genome of plants without the introduction of foreign DNA, possibly circumventing objections to genetically modified organisms.
A Flexible Robot To Clean Thin Pipes
Scientists have created a mobile device made out of three rubber tubes that can move effectively along the axis of thin pipes.
Silicone Sponges Effectively Separate Oil From Water
By incorporating silane molecules in to silicone sponges, scientists were able to create highly efficient sponges that can mop up oil-based products mixed in water.
