Chemistry

As we confront the pressing environmental crises of our time, the concept of waste takes on a new dimension. Rather than viewing waste solely as an issue that needs addressing, we now stand on the brink of a remarkable transformation—one where waste is reimagined as a resource. The advent of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) exemplifies

Aluminum oxide, often referred to as alumina, has long been recognized for its versatile applications across numerous scientific fields, from electronics to catalysis. The unique structural characteristics of aluminum oxide, especially its interface with other materials, have made it a subject of intensive research. However, the internal and surface atom arrangement within this material has

Recent research has unveiled a fascinating aspect of high entropy oxides—materials that exhibit considerable promise in the realm of electronic devices. As conveyed in a study published in the esteemed Journal of the American Chemical Society, it becomes clear that the synthesis methods employed play a crucial role in determining the material’s structural and functional

In the realm of biological chemistry, traditional research has predominantly zoned in on well-established cellular components that are the cornerstone of life, such as proteins, genes, and signaling pathways. However, a fascinating area is beginning to emerge, stirring interest among scientists: biological condensates. These intriguing structures, which function similarly to oil droplets in water, form

Liquid crystals have infiltrated various aspects of modern technology, becoming integral to devices such as smartphones, gaming consoles, dashboard displays in vehicles, and a myriad of medical instruments. Their extraordinary ability to respond to electric currents allows them to produce an array of colors, a phenomenon attributed to their unique molecular structure. When subjected to

Proteins are the building blocks of life, intricately involved in myriad biological processes, from cellular growth to complex metabolic pathways. Among these, the protein myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase (MIPS) has garnered significant attention due to its pivotal role in inositol production, a compound crucial for various physiological functions. Recent groundbreaking research conducted by an interdisciplinary team from

The frontier of biotechnology has recently advanced dramatically with the integration of biohybrid molecules, specifically combining the properties of DNA and proteins. These hybrids hold the potential for significant therapeutic applications, particularly in the realm of precision medicine. A recent study published in *Nature Chemical Biology* highlights a breakthrough achievement—this innovation does not merely build

As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, hydrogen stands out as one of the most promising candidates due to its abundance and versatility. The lightest and most abundant element, hydrogen has gained recognition for its potential role in the energy transition, especially in establishing cleaner energy alternatives to fossil fuels.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have unveiled a sophisticated artificial motor that operates on a supramolecular scale. This miniature wind-up motor, composed of specially designed peptide ribbons, is capable of remarkable mechanical movement, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive motion at such a microscopic level. Unlike traditional

Oysters have long been celebrated for their culinary appeal, but recent scientific explorations are unveiling their potential as a source for revolutionary adhesive technologies. The freshwater oyster species Etheria elliptica, endemic to African rivers and lakes, has drawn the attention of researchers interested in developing eco-friendly adhesives. A study utilizing advanced techniques at the Canadian

The recent collaboration between Dr. Albert Solé-Daura and Prof. Feliu Maseras has significantly advanced our understanding of energy transfer (EnT) processes in photocatalysis by reapplying the well-established Marcus theory. Originally conceived to model single-electron transfer kinetics, the Marcus theory has now been extended to estimate free-energy barriers that govern EnT events. This innovative approach opens

Samarium (Sm), a rare earth element, has emerged as a pivotal player in the realm of organic chemistry, primarily due to its ability to undergo single-electron transfer reductions through its divalent compounds. Among its various forms, samarium iodide (SmI2) stands out for its moderate stability and effectiveness under relatively mild conditions, notably at room temperature.

In a groundbreaking study published in *Nature Communications*, a team of researchers led by Samuel Schwab at the Leiden Institute of Chemistry has reshaped our understanding of histones in single-celled organisms such as bacteria and archaea. For ages, the academic consensus suggested that histones—proteins crucial for DNA structure—were exclusive to more complex organisms. However, recent

Fish, chameleons, crabs, and even fictional characters like Walter White from “Breaking Bad” share an intriguing commonality—the ability to create crystals. While Walter White’s crystal-making venture revolves around illicit drug manufacturing, the crystals formed by fish and other animals serve essential biological functions such as communication, camouflage, and thermal regulation. A recent study from the

Cholesterol, often vilified in discussions of heart health, serves essential functions within the realm of cellular biology. A recent investigation led by Jason Hafner at Rice University has illuminated cholesterol’s intricate role in the architecture of cell membranes. This study, which has been published in the prestigious Journal of Physical Chemistry, seeks to demystify how