Biosensor identifies protein linked to depression and schizophrenia in saliva
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Updates every hour. Last Updated: 8-Jan-2026 16:12 ET (8-Jan-2026 21:12 GMT/UTC)
Freiburg chemist Dr Tobias Schnitzer receives €1.5 million from the Vector Foundation to develop sustainable amidation reactions.
These reactions do not require toxic reagents and are highly energy-efficient. Schnitzer also relies on Artificial Intelligence in his research.
Amidations play a major role in the chemical industry. The new process could make an important contribution to more environmentally friendly production.
Researchers have made a significant advance toward the goal of using bacteria – rather than fossil fuels – to produce ethylene, a key chemical in the production of many plastics. In a new study, scientists identified the enzyme that certain bacteria use to break down organic sulfur compounds to create ethylene. They also, for the first time, were able to extract the enzyme from bacteria to study its function and structure.
Reusable menstrual cups reduce waste and are more cost-effective than single-use pads and tampons. But some people avoid the cups because they require thorough cleaning and are sometimes messy to empty. To solve these problems, researchers coated a commercially available silicone cup in silicone oil and created a plant-based, absorbent tablet. These design adjustments could make menstrual cups safer and easier to use, according to a study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.