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2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: microRNA

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to both Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun due to their discovery of microRNA. MicroRNA is a class of naturally-occurring, non-coding RNA molecules that could be used in next generation treatments for various human diseases.

Anumeha Haldar | November 28th, 2024

NEW

2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: microRNA

Anumeha Haldar

November 28th, 2024

Inside the Spectrum: New Autism Treatments and Understanding

Curious about the latest breakthroughs in autism research? This article reveals cutting edge treatments–oxygen therapy and oxytocin–that are helping people on the autism spectrum connect, thrive, and manage daily challenges without losing what makes them unique. From new diagnostic tools to tailored therapies, discover how science is opening doors to a future where neurodiversity isn’t just understood but celebrated.

Ishwari Veerkar | November 7th, 2024

Your Brain and Sleep

As the new school year begins in the United States, so do the long nights and all-nighters. But what role does sleep play and how exactly does it impact our brains and bodies?

Subiksha Baskaran | September 6th, 2024

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a month dedicated to increasing understanding, supporting research, and helping those affected by this devastating illness. This article delves into what pediatric cancer is, the challenges young cancer patients face, and the significance of this month.

Faiza Shaik | September 4th, 2024

Music and Memory

Music and the brain have various connections from increased focus to intervention based therapy. New studies from the Georgia Institute of Technology show a clear link between music and memory as they look to research evidence for music based therapies in the future.

Sara Deo | September 2nd, 2024

The Future of Organ Transplants: Revolutionizing Medicine with 3D Bioprinting

Imagine a world where the waiting list for organ transplants is a thing of the past. This may sound like science fiction, but recent advances in medical technology are bringing us closer to this reality, offering new hope to millions of patients worldwide.

Ishwari Veerkar | August 28th, 2024

Plasma-based CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol

Recent research from the University of Liverpool has found a novel plasma-catalytic process for converting CO2 into methanol high conversion rate at room temperature, using a bimetallic Ni-Co catalyst. This advancement not only improves efficiency but also aligns with renewable energy initiatives, making the process economically viable for large-scale production.

Dhruhi Patel | August 26th, 2024

Internal Combustion Engine

Car engines are impressive feats of engineering, chemistry and physics, with more than 250 million highway transportation vehicles utilizing them in the USA.

Subiksha Baskaran | August 21st, 2024

Erythritol: A Sweet Illusion

Erythritol, a popular sugar alcohol found in many artificial sweeteners, hasbeen found in a recent study to be linked to dramatically increased blood levels and blood clotting. What does this mean for our health and what concerns does it raise?

Faiza Shaik | August 19th, 2024

FDA Approves First Epinephrine Nasal Spray

Up till now, epinephrine injections are the only known way to treat severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis. On August 9th, Neffy, made by ARS Pharmaceuticals, was approved by the FDA and is the first epinephrine nasal spray that can type 1 allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.

Anumeha Haldar | August 16th, 2024

Nirsevimab: A New Hope for RSV

Many might mistake a cough or a sneeze in the fall/winter as a common cold, but it could actually be a similar disease called RSV. While it has grown in popularity over the last few years, many such as infants and the elderly suffer from it severely, requiring hospitalization. A new vaccine, Nirsevmiab, shows great results at preventing the disease.

Sara Deo | August 14th, 2024

The Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Stomach and Brain Communicate

Ever felt those 'butterflies in your stomach' before a big test? That's not just a feeling—it's your gut and brain talking to each other! The gut, often called our 'second brain,' is home to millions of neurons and bacteria that do much more than digest your lunch.

Ishwari Veerkar | August 11th, 2024

OpgD Enzyme and Plant Disease

For decades, the Xanthomonas plant bacterium has wreaked havoc on crops but a promising new discovery has been made. A plant enzyme, OpgD, has been found to increase plant resistance to disease while dually preventing environmental contamination by chemical pesticides.

Dhruhi Patel | August 5th, 2024

PFA Skin Absorption

Known as 'forever chemicals', per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are ever-prevalent and have been linked to adverse health issues. Past studies and research have suggested skin absorption as a possible route of exposure, but were data sparse. However, recently, 17 PFAs that come in contact with skin were analyzed in a new study by Harrad, Oddný Ragnarsdóttir and Mohamed Abdallah.

Subiksha Baskaran | August 2nd, 2024

A New Era In Disease Prediction

Proteins, the building blocks of life, have their own signatures that identify certain things about our health. A recent study on proteomic signatures, published in Nature Medicine, has revealed new promises of a future where a simple blood test could help doctors predict and prevent over 60 common and rare diseases before they even occur.

Faiza Shaik | Jul 31st, 2024

FDA Approves Blood Test for CRC

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is a cancer that affects the colon or rectum, but is quite difficult to detect because symptoms are not as apparent. While regular screening is recommended, the discomfort associated with regular screening tests such as colonoscopies causes individuals to avoid screening methods. Despite being treatable in earlier stages, it is the second predominant cause of cancer-related deaths. In order to increase screening amongst individuals, Guardant Health has released a new blood test that can detect DNA fragments shed by cancer cells and polyps.

Anumeha Haldar | Jul 30th, 2024

Tzeild: Preventing Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition where the pancreas makes very little or no insulin. Recently, a preventative vaccine has emerged, created by Kevan Herold, MD. The medication formally known as teplizumab delays the onset of stage 3 of the condition by an average of 2 years and sometimes by more than a decade.

Sara Deo | Jul 26th, 2024

Breaking Down the Myths: Common Misconceptions About Vaccines

Vaccines have always been a beacon of hope in the realm of medicine, protecting us from diseases that once ravaged populations. Yet, despite their proven effectiveness, myths and misconceptions about vaccines continue to spread, often causing unnecessary fear and confusion.

Ishwari Veerkar | Jul 24, 2024

PFAS

Dive into the world of PFAS, the notorious 'forever chemicals' lurking in our water! 🧪 These stubborn compounds, found in everyday items like nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics, resist degradation due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. But there’s hope!

Dhruhi Patel | Jul 22nd, 2024

Chemical Efficiency: Hydrogen and Nitrite Discovery

A research team from the University Alliance Ruhr in Germany has found a technique that produces both Hydrogen and Nitrite from Ammonia. Originally two separate processes, the team displayed that they could be combined into a single process with higher efficiency and yield.

Subiksha Baskaran | Jul 19th, 2024

Hidden Talents

Discovering hidden talents isn't just for people—it happens with medications too! A groundbreaking study by Case Western Reserve University reveals that GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly used to manage Type 2 Diabetes, might also reduce the risk of certain obesity-related cancers.

Faiza Shaik | Jul 17th, 2024

Recent Gene Therapies for Sickle Cell Disease

Recently, the FDA approved two novel treatments for sickle cell disease. CASGEVY uses the revolutionary gene technology known as CRISPR while LYFGENIA uses viral vectors. Though these treatments have limitations, they are considered breakthroughs when taking into account the few options available to patients with sickle cell disease.

Anumeha Haldar | Jul 15th, 2024

CAR T-Cell Therapy: New Lupus Cure

Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disorder, has mistakenly caused the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues leading to serious inflammation. Enter CAR T-Cell Therapy, a groundbreaking treatment that can offer hope and a healthier future for lupus patients as it transforms lives.

Sara Deo | Jul 12th, 2024

Donanemab: A New Hope Against Alzheimers

You might be wondering, 'What’s Donanemab?' Well, it's a groundbreaking new drug that’s making waves in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Imagine a superhero for the brain – that’s Donanemab! So, what’s the big deal? It helps clear amyloid plaques in the brain, which are linked to Alzheimer's and this can slow down memory loss.

Ishwari Veerkar | Jul 8th, 2024