Precise electrical stimulation is essential for modern neural interfaces, but unwanted current spread often activates off-target cells and limits resolution. 

Scientists from the Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA) developed a liquid-repellent particle coating that allows pico- and nanoliter liquid droplets to be handled like dry powder, enabling precise control of ultra-small liquid volumes in microfluidics applications.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15) in prostate cancer (PCa), examining its complex influence on tumor metabolism, chemoresistance, and bone metastasis. GDF15 is identified as a critical driver of PCa progression and cancer cachexia, offering diagnostic potential as a biomarker, especially when combined with PSA. The review highlights promising ongoing clinical trials involving monoclonal antibodies (e.g., AV-380, NGM120, Visugromab) that target GDF15 signaling, marking it as a significant therapeutic opportunity for novel PCa therapie

Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science (CSRS) in Japan recently examined how different kinds of pesticides and fertilizers affect mandarin oranges across Japan. Analysis showed that while reducing pesticides enhanced the diversity of microbes in the soil, it also led to an increase in fruit disease caused by leaf pathogens. The real-world data from commercial farms thus indicate a trade-off above ground with potential ecological benefits below ground. The study offers important insights for the advancement of sustainable agricultural technologies and future policy development.

Accurate detection of ethanol at extremely low concentrations is essential for applications ranging from industrial safety to health monitoring, yet existing sensors often struggle to balance sensitivity, selectivity, and power efficiency. 

Detecting complex chemical odors and gas mixtures is essential for environmental safety, healthcare, and food quality control, yet traditional gas sensors often struggle with limited selectivity, sensor drift, and slow response.

Researchers in China comprehensively identified 54 AhPR10 genes in cultivated peanut, phylogenetically classified into eight distinct subgroups with supported gene structure and motif conservation. Segmental duplication was identified as the primary driver for the expansion of the AhPR10 gene family, as revealed by chromosomal distribution and synteny analysis. The recombinant AhPR10-33 protein demonstrated significant antifungal activity by inhibiting Aspergillus flavus mycelial growth in vitro, highlighting its potential role in pathogen resistance.