Chemistry

Cryopreservation is a technique that has transformed the way we handle and store biological materials. It plays a pivotal role in the preservation of medicines, vaccines, and other biological entities, ensuring that they remain effective when needed. This technique is particularly crucial for materials like vaccines, fertility treatments, blood donations, and cancer therapies, which often

Biological systems have long inspired researchers in various scientific fields due to their remarkable ability to produce materials that exhibit both strength and resilience. The unique structures found in nature, such as those in sea sponges, illustrate this concept perfectly. These organisms grow by layering different materials, strategically integrating stiff and soft components. This not

Have you ever experienced the frustration of assembling a piece of furniture from IKEA, only to wish that the components could magically join together? This concept of effortless assembly is paralleled in the realm of biology, where self-assembly plays a critical role in the formation of various complex structures. From proteins and cell membranes to

Chirality plays a crucial role in the interaction of molecules, particularly in how they respond to light and electrical currents. This fascinating property, often likened to the distinction between left and right hands, gives rise to molecules that, despite being composed of the same atoms, can yield entirely different physical properties. Understanding chirality is paramount

The quest for high-performance catalysts has always been a central pursuit in the fields of chemistry and materials science, especially regarding energy conversion technologies like water splitting. The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a pivotal role in these processes. Traditionally, noble metals such as iridium have been utilized for their outstanding catalytic properties, but their

Researchers at McGill University have made a groundbreaking advancement in the fight against climate change by utilizing sunlight to convert two of the most detrimental greenhouse gases—methane and carbon dioxide—into useful chemicals. This innovative research opens up avenues for reducing industrial emissions while simultaneously providing sustainable alternatives to traditional manufacturing processes. Hui Su, a Postdoctoral

The field of forensic science is consistently evolving, demonstrating remarkable adaptability in enhancing investigative techniques. A groundbreaking study emerging from the Department of Forensic Medicine at Aarhus University has validated an innovative approach to fingerprint analysis through the use of chemical imaging. This study is noteworthy, being the first to employ such sophisticated methods on

The quest for sustainable energy solutions is becoming increasingly urgent. As population growth, industrial activities, and urbanization generate more waste, the challenge lies not only in how we manage this waste but also in how we can convert it into valuable resources. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) stand out as an innovative technological approach, where ordinary

Aluminum oxide, known scientifically as Al2O3, has intrigued scientists and engineers for decades. This versatile compound, commonly recognized as alumina, corundum, sapphire, or even ruby, serves critical roles across various industries. Its remarkable insulating properties enable applications in electronics, catalysis, and ceramics, making it a pivotal material in modern technology. However, understanding the surface characteristics

Recent research has cast a spotlight on high entropy oxides, a category of materials that have gained traction due to their diverse electrochemical properties and potential applications in modern electronics. These materials are distinguished by their complex composition, typically involving multiple transition metal oxides combined in varying ratios. As scientists delve deeper into understanding these

For decades, biological chemistry research has concentrated primarily on the apparent mechanisms that sustain life—folding proteins, genetic activity, and electrical signaling pathways. These aspects have attracted considerable attention because they directly correlate with diseases when irregularities occur. This focus has yielded significant insights into cellular biology and disease mechanisms but may have neglected another crucial

Liquid crystals are more than mere components confined to our electronic devices. They are intricate fluids that play a pivotal role in various technologies ranging from cell phone screens to medical imaging devices. Recent research from the lab of Professor Chinedum Osuji at the University of Pennsylvania lifts the veil on a new dimension of

Proteins are fundamental to all biological processes, playing critical roles in growth, metabolism, and various cellular functions. Each protein’s structure directly influences its functionality, a concept that is vital in biochemistry. If the structure of a protein is altered, even slightly, it can lead to dysfunction and potentially serious health issues. Despite this general rule,

The intersection of DNA and protein science represents a pivotal frontier in biomedical research, allowing scientists to leverage the unique properties of both to design innovative therapeutic agents. Recent breakthroughs have illuminated a pathway towards creating biohybrid molecules – entities that marry the specificity of nucleic acids with the diverse functionality of proteins. By tapping

Hydrogen, the simplest and lightest element in the periodic table, has long been viewed as a key player in the world’s energy transition, particularly as a clean and sustainable fuel. Within hydrogen, its isotopes—protium, deuterium, and tritium—possess distinct characteristics and applications that significantly enhance their value. Protium (hydrogen-1) is the most abundant isotope and is