Latest Science News
Breakthrough Enables Real-Time Observation of Plants Breathing
University of Illinois researchers developed 'Stomata In-Sight,' a system to watch stomata movements while measuring gas exchange under controlled conditions. This tool simulates real-world environments to study water-efficient crops amid droughts. It could identify genetic traits for smarter plants using less water.
2026 Declared Year of Quantum Security by The Quantum Insider
Following 2025's quantum awareness year, 2026 focuses on post-quantum cryptography and protecting quantum IP. Initiative launches January 12 in Washington, D.C., with federal agencies like FBI and NIST. It addresses security for global quantum investments amid deployment phase.
NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission Officially Canceled
Congress supports Trump administration's decision to kill the project, leaving Perseverance rover's rock cores in limbo. Samples include potential biosignatures like 'leopard spots' from Jezero Crater, key for life detection.
Cancellation may free funds for Venus and Uranus missions but risks U.S. leadership as China advances.
Researchers Call for Clinical Trial Design Overhaul in 2026
Experts urge shift from reductionist approaches to holistic trials targeting disease root causes like neuroinflammation. Emphasis on adaptive designs, smaller precise cohorts, and upstream biology for neurodegeneration and longevity.
Industry leaders highlight gene therapy and cell treatments as promising for true cures.
50 Cell and Gene Therapy Leaders Ranked for 2026
Drug Discovery Trends lists top players amid challenges like declining revenues for Luxturna and Hemgenix. Highlights clinical-stage firms like Sana Biotechnology and platforms like Obsidian Therapeutics.
Notes uncertainties such as partnerships ending and clinical holds.
BADASS Rocket Completes Testing for Black Aurora Study
NASA's sounding rocket mission tested instruments at Goddard for February 2026 launch from Alaska. BADASS will probe 'black auroras'—dark patches in visible auroras—by surveying upward-escaping electrons.
Aims to explain formation of these features within auroral displays.
New Research Links DNA Repair, COPD, and Lung Cancer Overlap
Dr. Sears' team explores how DNA repair deficiencies and smoke exposure contribute to both diseases. Findings show immune responses differ by exposure patterns, with persistent lung changes.
Seeks better models reflecting real-world overlap for personalized prevention and treatment.
TRPM5 Protein 'Control Switch' Discovery Paves Way for Diabetes Drugs
Northwestern University scientists identified a hidden switch in TRPM5, regulating taste, blood sugar, and gut health. This could enable new therapies targeting blood glucose control mechanisms.
World-Renowned Immunologist Joins Leading Research Institution
Distinguished scientist known for discovering first T-cell receptor genes joins to advance pathogen recognition studies. T-cell receptors enable lymphocytes to detect viruses and foreign invaders.
Shift to Root-Cause Treatments in Medical Science for 2026
Industry pushes beyond symptom management toward gene therapy and biology-correcting drugs. Examples include neuroinflammation-targeted Alzheimer's trials and menopause therapies showing broad benefits.
Calls for interconnected trial designs mirroring human biology complexity.