Every protein goes through a life cycle, from birth to death. This is managed by the protein homeostasis system, which keeps proteins stable even when conditions change. But how does this system adapt to different stresses? Scientists used bacteria called Caulobacter crescentus to find out. They
In November 2024, Rutgers University-New Brunswick hosted the fall meeting of the Theobald Smith Society. Eighty-six members from New Jersey attended, including students, teachers, and professionals from government and industry. This event showcased the wide range of research done by members of the
Gammaherpesviruses are known for causing cancer and lifelong infections in humans. Unfortunately, there are no approved vaccines for major types like Epstein-Barr virus or Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus. Scientists often use a virus called murine gammaherpesvirus-68 (MHV68) to study these infections in
Ever wondered how scientists keep an eye on cellular interactions? One fascinating approach involves using live cells as tiny detectors. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a serious role in cancer development, so tracking its activity is crucial. Traditional lab methods have drawbacks, but now, the
Invasive snails, like the freshwater snail, have made a big impact on food, the environment, and even our health. But they don't get the attention they deserve. Scientists wanted to know the best way to study viruses in snails. So, they compared two methods: whirling them really fast in either cesiu
When plants get attacked by bugs, they release special smells called herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs). Scientists wanted to know if these smells help or hurt certain insect larvae. Using two kinds of moth pests, the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and the tobacco cutworm (S. litura),
In late November 2024, scientists made an exciting yet concerning discovery near Keelung Port, northern Taiwan. Two adult specimens of gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) were found at a depth of roughly 20 meters. This is the first time this Mediterranean fish has been spotted in the northwestern Pa
NASA is rethinking its strategy for bringing Martian samples back to Earth. The Perseverance rover has been collecting samples since 2021, which could help scientists understand if life existed on Mars. The original plan was too expensive and time-consuming, so NASA has come up with two new strategi
Rocket Lab has expressed disappointment with NASA's decision to prolong studies on the Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission. The company has proposed a cheaper and faster approach using its technologies. NASA is currently examining two new architectures for MSR, one involving a sky crane landing system
NASA has big plans to return to the Moon by 2026 with its Artemis II mission. But before that, they’re sending two missions to the lunar south pole to search for resources. One of these missions is Lunar Trailblazer, a satellite that's going to study water on the Moon. Scientists think there might b
