For centuries, the human sense of smell has remained a mystery compared to our understanding of vision and hearing. While we can measure the wavelength of light for vision research or the frequency of sound for hearing research, there has been no reliable way to measure or predict the odor of a molecule based solely
Chemistry
In the complex world of cellular biology, adaptation is key. Cells must constantly adjust their protein balance in response to various stimuli, such as changes in iron levels or the presence of infections. To facilitate this process, cells employ a remarkable mechanism: the tagging of proteins for destruction through the attachment of a small protein
Ferrocene, an emergent organic-metal hybrid compound, has revolutionized the field of organometallic chemistry since its accidental discovery. Its unique structure, consisting of an iron atom sandwiched between two pentagonal organic rings, offers remarkable redox-responsive properties. By altering the conditions of their redox environment, ferrocene-based compounds can switch between different oxidation states, enabling controlled electron transfers
The quest for renewable energy sources has led researchers to explore new materials in order to improve the efficiency and stability of solar cells. One particular material that has gained attention in recent years is α-formamidinium lead iodide, also known as α-FAPbI3. However, despite its impressive conversion efficiency and desirable energy gap, α-FAPbI3 has the
Have you ever accidentally ruined a recipe in the kitchen by adding salt instead of sugar? It’s a common mistake due to their similar appearance. Similarly, in chemistry labs, reliance on the naked eye for quick assessments of reactions can be unreliable and limited. To address this issue, researchers at the Institute of Chemical Reaction
N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have garnered significant attention in the field of stable chemical modification of metallic surfaces. These small, reactive ring molecules exhibit strong bonding capabilities with metallic surfaces, making them ideal for various applications. Recent research conducted at the University of Münster in Germany has uncovered a remarkable property of certain NHC derivatives –
Lignocellulosic biomass is a valuable renewable feedstock for second-generation biomanufacturing. However, the efficient co-fermentation of mixed glucose and xylose in lignocellulosic hydrolysates presents a major challenge due to limited xylose assimilation and the glucose repression effect. In a recent study published in Nature Chemical Biology, a research group led by Prof. Zhou Yongjin from the
Propylene oxide (PO) is a highly valuable chemical intermediate used in a wide range of industries. The traditional methods of producing PO have several drawbacks, including high cost and limited reserves of the noble metal catalysts used. In light of this, a research team led by Prof. Chen Xinqing from the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute
In the field of bioactivity, near-infrared II (NIRII) fluorophores have faced limitations due to a lack of free electrons, resulting in insufficient fluorescence and catalytic activities. To tackle this challenge, a research team from Tianjin University China, encompassing expertise in translational medicine, neural engineering, physics, and materials, led by Huizhen Ma, has made significant progress.
In a groundbreaking development, Chenfeng Ke, an incoming associate professor of chemistry in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, has pioneered a revolutionary design for tough and stretchable hydrogels. The innovative material, referred to as crystalline-domain reinforced slide-ring hydrogels (CrysDoS-gels), combines flexibility with remarkable durability. The key to its success lies in
In a groundbreaking study, a team of scientists from the University of Colorado at Boulder have developed a novel photomechanical material that has the ability to convert light energy into mechanical work without the need for heat or electricity. This technological advancement opens up a world of possibilities for energy-efficient, wireless, and remotely controlled systems
Food waste is a global problem that contributes to environmental damage and greenhouse gas emissions. In an effort to address this issue, scientists from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a groundbreaking technique to convert kale waste into usable ingredients for health and personal care products. By utilizing naturally-derived natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES),
In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences have made a significant discovery that could have significant implications for mammalian gut health. By utilizing a biochemometric approach that combines chemistry and biology data, the team identified a compound in white button mushrooms with the potential to activate a protective biological response.
Rutgers University scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of medical coatings. They have successfully devised a highly accurate method for creating coatings of biologically active materials for a variety of medical products. This revolutionary technique has the potential to revolutionize transdermal medication, offering shot-free vaccinations and other advanced treatments. The findings of
The growing concerns over unsustainable fishing practices and the environmental impact of aquaculture have led to a demand for plant-based seafood alternatives. While meat alternatives are abundant in the market, there is a lack of options when it comes to plant-based seafoods. In response to this, researchers have developed a new approach to create desirable