Largest protein in nature discovered in algae toxin

A cell of Prymnesium parvum, or golden algae, in which the world's largest known protein was discovered

Scientists have discovered the largest known protein in biology. Given the fun name of PKZILLA-1, the protein was found in algae cells and helps them make toxins that are responsible for mass killings of fish.

Continue Reading

Category: Biology, Science

Tags: , , , , ,

Continue reading Largest protein in nature discovered in algae toxin

Reusable ‘waffle stacks’ pull toxic ‘forever chemicals’ from water

Scientists in the UK have developed a new method for removing toxic “forever chemicals” from wastewater. Specially treated, 3D-printed ceramic lattices can remove up to 75% of the chemicals from polluted water in three hours – and the structures get be… Continue reading Reusable ‘waffle stacks’ pull toxic ‘forever chemicals’ from water

100% of toxic “forever chemicals” break down overnight in new reaction

Scientists in Japan have developed a new method for breaking down toxic “forever chemicals” quickly and at room temperature. The technique broke down 100% of certain types of these pollutants overnight, recovering some useful components for reuse.Conti… Continue reading 100% of toxic “forever chemicals” break down overnight in new reaction

Toxic arsenic and lead found to be common in tampons

It’s estimated that, in the US, between 52% and 82% of people who menstruate use tampons. To avoid health risks, especially given the high potential for vaginal absorption, it’s imperative that any harmful chemicals present in tampons are identified.Co… Continue reading Toxic arsenic and lead found to be common in tampons

Sex toys exposed as an overlooked source of microplastics, study finds

A study has found that sex toys are an overlooked source of microplastics and phthalates, both of which can be toxic. Given their intimate use, the researchers say their findings highlight the need for greater regulation of the sex toy industry to ensu… Continue reading Sex toys exposed as an overlooked source of microplastics, study finds

Drug found to reverse mitochondria malfunction & mitigate heart failure

Researchers have discovered a previously unknown pathological cellular mechanism underpinning heart failure, which currently has no cure, and identified a drug that can reverse the damaging malfunction. The findings open the door to a novel interventio… Continue reading Drug found to reverse mitochondria malfunction & mitigate heart failure

Paper straws not so eco-friendly, 90% contain toxic “forever chemicals”

A new European study has found that 90% of so-called eco-friendly paper straws contain “forever chemicals,” compounds that don’t – or barely – break down and can accumulate in our bodies, leading to health problems. The findings are consistent with res… Continue reading Paper straws not so eco-friendly, 90% contain toxic “forever chemicals”

This inexpensive cup zaps pathogens to purify poor-quality water

While “don’t mess with Texas” may have originated as a littering campaign catchphrase, scientists from the southern state have aimed that mantra at waterborne bacteria, creating a powered drinking cup that kills pathogens that cross its energy-efficien… Continue reading This inexpensive cup zaps pathogens to purify poor-quality water

Caterpillar toxin could ‘punch holes’ in cancer cells for future therapies

From penicillin to rapamycin, the route to discovering remarkable medicines has often been a fortuitous one. Now, researchers are hoping that another surprise find, once again linked to bacteria, can be harnessed for its medical potential and even be u… Continue reading Caterpillar toxin could ‘punch holes’ in cancer cells for future therapies

mRNA Trojan Horse tricks cancer into making toxins to kill itself

Scientists have developed and tested a new potential treatment for cancer that works in a similar way to the COVID-19 vaccines. The technique involves delivering mRNA molecules to cancer cells and tricking them into producing toxic proteins that kill t… Continue reading mRNA Trojan Horse tricks cancer into making toxins to kill itself