A new way to measure biodiversity based on species’ unique traits shows ‘living fossil’ species do evolve.

A 3D model developed by West Virginia University neuroscientists shows how implantable stimulators – the same kind used to treat chronic pain – can target neurons that control specific muscles to provide rehabilitation for people with neurological disorders such as stroke and spinal cord injuries.

Researchers from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT) have developed a minimally invasive method to deliver 3D-printed scaffolds using amphiphilic dynamic thermoset polyurethane (DTPU). Published in Nature Communications, the study showcases a shape memory polyurethane system compatible with 4D printing, enabling scaffolds to be compactly delivered and autonomously morph in vivo. This innovative approach reduces surgical injury and holds significant potential for treating tissue defects in biomedical applications.

The continuous advancement of single-cell technologies promises to further enhance our understanding of liver biology. Emerging techniques, such as single-cell multiomics and spatially resolved transcriptomics, offer even greater resolution and integration of cellular data. These advancements are expected to drive the development of more precise and personalized therapeutic strategies for liver diseases.

The fungus Talaromyces verruculosus can produce the chemical erythro-isocitric acid, which has received little attention on the market to date, directly from cheap plant waste and thus make it interesting for industrial utilization. Using the natural abilities of the non-genetically modified fungus, a research team from Jena has discovered a method for the efficient conversion of cellulose into a form of isocitric acid. The new production method could significantly simplify the previously complex and multi-stage process for obtaining platform chemicals from cellulose by requiring only a single bioprocess. Thanks to the new cost-effective method, the rarely utilized sister molecule of the intensively used citric acid can benefit a sustainable circular economy – provided there is a market for it. The study was published by a research team from the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI) in the journal ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering.

Analyzing DNA is routine in health care, but some genetic samples come from wilder places. Argonne National Laboratory’s Environmental Sample Preparation and Sequencing Facility has the skills to study nature’s weirdest, rarest genetic material.

A study published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts reveals that living mycelium composites, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional construction materials, can discern different weights through unique patterns of electrical activity. This discovery by researchers at the University of the West of England and the Institute for Plant Molecular and Cell Biology in Spain introduces the potential for these biomaterials to be used as sensors in sustainable construction.

The Longevity & Aging Series launched its second season with a premiere episode featuring Dr. Irina Conboy and Xiaoyue (Serafina) Mei from the University of California, Berkeley.