Latest Science News
Scientists Discover Protein Preventing Uncontrolled Plant Cell Growth
Researchers at Rice University found that the protein PEX11 regulates peroxisome size in plant seedlings, preventing abnormal growth. Mutations caused peroxisomes to expand massively, and a yeast version restored balance, suggesting conservation across species. This mechanism may extend to human cells.
Moon to Occult Bright Star Regulus Tonight
On April 25, a 70% illuminated waxing gibbous moon will hide Regulus, Leo's brightest star, for up to an hour, visible from the middle Atlantic and southeast US. Disappearance is sudden; reappearance requires a telescope due to lunar glare. Detailed timings available for various locations.
World Malaria Day 2026: 'Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.'
WHO highlights rapid scientific progress with new vaccines, treatments, and tools making malaria elimination possible for the first time. The event on April 25 rallies global action to fund and protect lives toward a malaria-free future. Malaria control technologies are advancing faster than ever.
Sun Emits Two Strong X-Class Solar Flares
NASA reports an X2.4 flare peaking April 23 at 9:07 p.m. ET and an X2.5 flare on April 24 at 4:13 a.m. ET, captured by Solar Dynamics Observatory. These intense bursts can disrupt radio, power grids, navigation, and space assets. Flares pose risks to spacecraft and astronauts.
PEX11 Protein Controls Peroxisome Division in Seedlings
Before photosynthesis, plant seedlings rely on peroxisomes processing fatty acids; PEX11 ensures proper division and sizing. CRISPR edits revealed its role, with mutants showing oversized peroxisomes spanning entire cells. Ancient mechanism conserved from yeast to plants.
Regulus Occultation: Best Views from Eastern US
From New York City, Regulus approaches moon's dark limb closest at 9:04 p.m. EDT, missing by 30 arcseconds. Boston sees a slightly wider gap; visibility during evening twilight in Eastern time zone. IOTA provides predictions for 660 locations.
Malaria Science Accelerates with New Vaccines and Tools
Innovations in treatments and pioneering technologies offer real hope to end malaria. World Malaria Day emphasizes urgency as science outpaces the disease. Global funding needed to seize this moment.
Solar Flares' Impacts on Earth and Space
X-class flares, the most powerful, can affect communications, grids, and astronauts. Recent events from active sunspot region monitored by NASA. No specific radio blackouts reported yet.
CRISPR Reveals PEX11's Role in Plant Development
Tharp's thesis used CRISPR to disrupt PEX11 genes, confirming control over peroxisome growth from seed to seedling. Structures failed to shrink post-expansion in mutants. Highlights advances in gene editing.
Lunar Occultation Demonstrates Orbital Motion
Regulus 'pops' off suddenly behind moon, illustrating star's tiny size versus moon's orbit. Reemergence like a diamond on lunar horizon. Graphic tracks path from US cities.
NASA Monitors Solar Cycle 25 Activity
Ongoing solar flares part of heightened activity; observatory provides constant watch. Implications for space weather forecasting. Strength measured by class and number.
Peroxisomes Essential for Early Plant Photosynthesis
Seedlings depend on fatty acid breakdown in peroxisomes before green tissues form. PEX11 balances internal vesicles for proper function. Ties to broader cellular regulation.