John Travis

All Stories by John Travis

  1. Fly Genome Creates a Buzz

    Scientists try to make sense of an insect's myriad genes.

  2. Debate over Alzheimer’s enzyme flares up

    Scientists continue to tussle over the identity of an enzyme implicated in Alzheimer's disease.

  3. Pelvic infection tied to bacterial gene

    A newly discovered gene may explain why some gonorrheal infections turn even more serious.

  4. Bacteria, this spud’s for you

    A compound in potato extracts stops bacteria from sticking to their targeted cells.

  5. Viruses that slay bacteria draw new interest

    Bacteriophages, viruses that kill bacteria, may be able to cure seafood poisoning, decontaminate poultry, and tackle anthrax.

  6. RNA and DNA help cells switch class

    Immune cells may tailor their genetic blueprint for antibodies through unusual RNA-DNA structures.

  7. Molecule sparks origin-of-life debate

    The first genetic material may have been a molecule called peptide nucleic acid, or PNA.

  8. Pen-shaped device purifies water

    A battery-powered instrument the size and shape of a pen can quickly disinfect contaminated drinking water.

  9. Bacteria give carpet a nasty smell

    A compound produced by bacteria may be responsible for the "cat urine" smell of some new carpeting.

  10. Popularity of germ fighter raises concern

    The growing use of the antiseptic triclosan in products ranging from mouthwash to cutting boards and hunting clothes may create bacteria resistant to antibiotic drugs.

  11. Earth

    Hunting Prehistoric Hurricanes

    Storm-tossed sand offers a record of ancient cyclones.

  12. Humans

    Motor City hosts top science fair winners

    The 2000 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair winners were announced in Detroit.