In August 2017, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) launched the Major Research Plan “Dynamic Modifications and Chemical Interventions of Biomacromolecules” (implementation period 2017–2025). Through interdisciplinary research that integrates chemistry, life sciences, medicine, mathematics, materials science, and information science, its aim is to develop specific labeling methods and detection techniques for dynamic chemical modifications of biomacromolecules, elucidate the recognition mechanisms and biological functions of dynamic modifications in the regulation of cellular traits, and discover potential drug targets and corresponding lead compounds related to dynamic biomacromolecular modifications. Since its establishment, this Major Research Plan has achieved significant progress and original results in many aspects such as the dynamic properties of biomacromolecular chemical modifications, regulatory mechanisms, and chemical interventions. Recently, members of the expert group, management group, and secretariat of the program collaborated to systematically review representative research achievements obtained since the program’s implementation, and jointly published a review article in CCS Chemistry. This review provides important references for promoting development in related frontier fields, as well as for the future trend of integration between chemistry, life sciences, and medicine.

Researchers at the Arkansas Center for Food Safety examined the efficacy of five commercially available hand sanitizers with different active ingredients to fill gaps in understanding of their efficacy. The evaluation of hand sanitizers with 30 volunteers revealed that those who rubbed their hands with sanitizer until it was dry saw a greater reduction of viruses than those who rubbed their hands the typical 10 seconds. Also, the study supported other research that found product formulation, rather than just active ingredient concentration, impacted product efficacy.

In collaboration with BioGipuzkoa and the Department of Public Health, the EHU has detected the presence of perfluoroalkylated and polyfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) in the plasma of minors in the Urola and Goierri districts. Although no immediate health risk has been detected, the study recommends closer monitoring to check exposure and its effects. It also warns that levels vary according to age, and is calling for current regulations to be updated.