Biology

Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant uses toxic nerve agent in nectar to trap prey

Nepenthes khasiana uses nerve toxin-laced nectar and slippery sugars to trap and digest insect prey.

New immunotherapy approach boosts anti-tumor immune response by targeting glycan checkpoints

Researchers developed AbLecs to block glycan immune checkpoints, boosting immune attack on tumors and expanding immunotherapy options.

MIT spinout Kano Therapeutics innovates safer DNA tools for gene therapy

Kano Therapeutics produces circular single-stranded DNA to make gene therapies safer and more effective, aiming to enable broader treatment options.

Why is my dog like this? Current DNA tests won’t explain it to you.

A study found no significant link between dog genetics and behavioral traits, challenging the accuracy of popular genetic tests.

How many spiders and pseudoscorpions does it take to make one of the world’s greatest taxonomists?

Dr. Mark Harvey has described over 1,000 new species, primarily arachnids, marking a significant achievement in taxonomy. His work is vital for conservation efforts.

Botanists decode secret life of rare plants to ensure reintroduction success

Botanists are uncovering methods to reintroduce rare plants to prevent extinction. This work is crucial as nearly half of flowering plants face threats.

Game of tiny thrones: Parasitic ants grab power by turning workers against their queen

Some parasitic ant queens have evolved to infiltrate other colonies and induce worker ants to kill their own queen. This behavior highlights a unique form of manipulation in the animal kingdom.

Sea anemones and hermit crabs form a mutualistic relationship in Japan

Researchers in Japan have identified a new species of sea anemone that forms a mutualistic relationship with hermit crabs, enhancing both species' survival.

How Your Brain Creates ‘Aha’ Moments and Why They Stick

Researchers discovered the neural mechanisms behind 'aha' moments, revealing how insights enhance memory retention. This understanding could improve educational strategies and cognitive therapies.

A New Startup Wants to Edit Human Embryos
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Manhattan Genomics has emerged, aiming to edit human embryos to eliminate genetic diseases, reigniting ethical concerns over gene editing. This matters as it raises questions about the implications of heritable genetic modifications.

The nature extinction crisis is mirrored by one in our own bodies. Both have huge implications for health

Research shows that the decline in biodiversity affects human health by reducing beneficial microbes in our bodies. This connection highlights the urgent need to protect natural ecosystems.

First documented case of plant smelling like an ant to attract pollinators

Scientists documented a plant that mimics the smell of injured ants to attract pollinators, revealing new insights into floral deception. This discovery matters as it expands our understanding of plant-pollinator interactions and evolutionary...