Life
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Life
DNA doubled in conifer ancestors
The genomes of conifers — pine, cypress and yew trees — doubled twice in the distant past.
- Neuroscience
Taste is all in your head
By targeting certain nerve cells in a mouse’s brain, scientists made plain water turn bitter or sweet.
- Microbes
Gut microbes signal when dinner is done
Helpful E. coli bacteria that live in the guts of animals produce proteins that can decrease an animal’s appetite only 20 minutes after receiving nutrients
- Plants
Conifer ancestors had a double dose of DNA
The genomes of conifers — pine, cypress and yew trees — doubled twice in the distant past.
- Genetics
Mosquitoes engineered to zap ability to carry malaria
Researchers have created a gene drive that prevents mosquitoes from carrying malaria.
- Animals
Five species that show why ‘bird brain’ is a stupid phrase
Birds can use tools, make art and understand human language. Why do we assume they are stupid?
- Plants
Roses rigged with electrical circuitry
Bioelectric molecules can form wires and conduct electricity in cut roses, researchers find.
- Life
Many Amazon trees endangered
Large numbers of Amazon tree species are threatened by deforestation.
- Science & Society
Genetically modified salmon gets approval in U.S.
Fast-growing salmon become first genetically engineered animals approved for human consumption.
- Animals
How to see with eyes made of rock
Tiny mollusk eyes in chiton armor can pick up rough images.
- Animals
Adorable birds tap dance their way into the heart of a mate
Blue-capped cordon-bleu songbirds not only sing, but also tap dance to woo mates, study reveals.
- Health & Medicine
A good diet for you may be bad for me
Eating the same foods can produce very different reactions in people.
