Humans
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Health & Medicine
The weight-loss drug Wegovy may also help treat addiction
Recent studies in mice and rats suggest that semaglutide drugs, like Wegovy, can curb some addictions. Several human trials are underway.
- Neuroscience
Three ways of rejuvenating aging brains may work via the same protein
Three brain rejuvenation methods may exert their effects through the same molecule, at least partly, which could lead to therapies for cognitive decline.
- Health & Medicine
Mexican virologist Susana López Charretón uncovered rotaviruses’ secrets
Knowledge of the complex dance between virus and host cell has led to the development of life-saving vaccines.
- Health & Medicine
What we still don’t know about Wegovy’s effect on strokes and heart attacks
A clinical trial suggests that semaglutide, a drug used to treat obesity and diabetes, may protect cardiovascular health in a broad group of people.
- Health & Medicine
What to know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people
Data on the FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine are promising. Questions about safety and how it might be used in conjunction with another new RSV shot remain.
- Psychology
An apology to Indigenous communities sparks a mental health rethink
The leading U.S. psychological association pledged to embrace Indigenous approaches to healing, which requires rethinking how to address mental health.
- Genetics
The Y chromosome’s genetic puzzle is finally complete
New analyses of the human Y chromosome reveal millions of new bases and different locations for the same gene in different people.
- Archaeology
Pre-Inca people stomped salutes to their thunder god on a special dance floor
Excavation of a drumlike platform in the Andes turned up a structure seemingly designed to absorb shocks and emit resonant sounds when stomped upon.
- Health & Medicine
Health risks can persist at least 2 years after COVID-19, new data suggest
U.S. veterans who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 remain at higher risk for many long COVID conditions, from heart disease to gastrointestinal issues.
- Health & Medicine
What should we expect from the coronavirus this fall?
The virus may be reaching a phase of baseline circulation, says epidemiologist Aubree Gordon. But it’s unclear what will happen in the next few months.
- Genetics
A new look at Ötzi the Iceman’s DNA reveals new ancestry and other surprises
Ötzi had genetic variants for male-pattern baldness and dark skin, and he also had an unusual amount of early farmer ancestry, a new DNA analysis finds.
- Physics
How to run a marathon in under two hours
Running between other people reduces air resistance. A new study identifies optimal positioning of such drafting formations. Watch out, marathon records.
