Singapore's national flower, Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, has had its entire genetic blueprint decoded, revealing natural products with antioxidant properties and distinctive colors. The study, published in Communications Biology, could lead to future research in gene and metabolite engineering, as well as the discovery of bioactive compounds for healthcare purposes. The collaboration between A\*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore and SingHealth Duke-NUS Institute of Biodiversity Medicine showcases the power of genetic sequencing technology in preserving and studying Singapore's plant biodiversity.

Have you ever wondered why a black eye turns blue, then green, then yellow, and finally brown before disappearing? It's all because of your hemoglobin, the compound in red blood cells that brings oxygen to your body. When you get hit, the blow crushes tiny blood vessels called capillaries, and red blood cells ooze out of the broken capillaries into the surrounding tissue. From the outside of your skin, this mass of cells looks bluish-black, which is where we get the term, "black and blue". Learning about hemoglobin and how it works in your body can be fascinating and practical knowledge that can help you understand how your body works. It's an example of how exploring academic topics through reading, reflection, and writing can inspire you to learn more about the world around you.

The human body is made up of trillions of cells, with each cell originating deep within our bones. The porous nature of bones allows for large and small blood vessels to enter, with the hollow core of most bones containing soft bone marrow. This marrow is essential, containing blood stem cells that constantly divide and differentiate into red and white blood cells and platelets, sending billions of new blood cells into circulation every day. Blood cancers often begin with genetic mutations in these stem cells, which can result in malignant blood cells. For patients with advanced blood cancers, the best chance for a cure is often an allogeneic bone marrow transplant. This procedure involves extracting blood stem cells from a donor and infusing them into the patient's body, leading to the regeneration of healthy blood cells. While bone marrow transplants come with risks, including graft-versus-host disease, it is crucial to find the best match possible for the recipient. Donor registries offer hope to those without a matched family member. Learning about the importance of bone marrow and stem cells can inspire students to explore the fascinating world of human biology and potentially make a difference in someone's life through donation.

Are you curious about the tiny viruses that inhabit your body? MIT Technology Review's biotech newsletter, The Checkup, explores the world of bacteriophages, or "phages" for short. These microscopic viruses have the potential to treat bacterial infections, but they've been largely abandoned in favor of antibiotics. With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, interest in phage therapy is making a comeback. Learn about the diversity and specificity of phages, and how they could be engineered to target specific bacteria. Discover the potential of phage therapy and the challenges that need to be overcome in this fascinating article.

Understanding the blueprint of life is essential to understanding how our bodies work. DNA, genes, and chromosomes are the building blocks that make up this blueprint. DNA is the most basic level and is made up of nucleotides arranged along a sugar backbone. Genes are long snippets of DNA that contain information about building proteins and are the most basic units of inheritance. Chromosomes are long strands of DNA wrapped around proteins called Histones and contain many genes. The body uses acetylation to control the production of proteins. Understanding these concepts can help you understand how traits are passed down and how the body makes an estimated one million proteins from only twenty thousand genes. Knowing the blueprint of life will help you understand how your body works and give you a foundation for further scientific exploration.

Silphion, a golden-flowered plant once prized by the Greeks and Romans for its medicinal and culinary uses, disappeared from the ancient world. But a professor in Turkey may have rediscovered the last holdouts of the plant, which was once valued as highly as gold. Ferula drudeana, a plant with similar characteristics, may be the modern-day version of silphion, with potential for medical breakthroughs. Explore the fascinating story of a plant that was the first recorded extinction and the search for its rediscovery.

The world is still facing daily COVID-19 infections and the threat of virus mutation, but it's not too late to change the game. A pandemic vaccine alliance, similar to NATO, could be the solution to overcome the "free-rider problem" in global health efforts and ensure the world's biological security.

Life Sciences is a fascinating field that encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, genetics, ecology, and more. If you're interested in studying the natural world and discovering new ways to improve human health and well-being, then a career in Life Sciences might be perfect for you! As a Life Scientist, you'll have the opportunity to explore the mysteries of the natural world, from the smallest organisms to the largest ecosystems. You'll work with cutting-edge technology and tools to conduct research, analyze data, and develop new theories and ideas. Whether you're studying the genetics of disease, the ecology of a particular ecosystem, or the behavior of animals in the wild, you'll be at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation. Some of the most exciting and meaningful aspects of a career in Life Sciences include the potential to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you might work on developing new treatments for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, or HIV/AIDS, or you might focus on finding ways to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity. You might also have the opportunity to work with communities around the world to promote sustainable agriculture, improve public health, or address other pressing global challenges. In terms of typical duties, Life Scientists might work in a variety of settings, from academic research labs to government agencies to private companies. Some Life Scientists specialize in particular areas, such as genetics, ecology, or microbiology, while others work across multiple disciplines. Some common tasks might include conducting experiments and collecting data, analyzing results, writing reports and papers, and presenting findings at conferences and other events. To pursue a career in Life Sciences, you'll typically need a strong background in science and math, as well as a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, biochemistry, or environmental science. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Biology, Environmental Science, and Biomedical Engineering. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Life Sciences might include a strong curiosity and passion for learning, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well both independently and as part of a team. You should also be comfortable working with technology and be able to communicate your findings clearly and effectively to others. Job prospects in Life Sciences are generally strong, with many opportunities for growth and advancement in a variety of fields. Some notable potential employers in the public sector include the National Institutes of Health, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the private sector, companies such as Pfizer, Merck, and Novartis are major players in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. And of course, there are countless academic institutions and research organizations around the world that offer exciting opportunities for Life Scientists to pursue their passions and make a real impact on the world around them.

Discover the secret behind Gram-negative bacteria's armor-like outer membrane! A new study led by Professor Colin Kleanthous at the University of Oxford sheds light on how bacteria like E. coli construct their outer membrane to resemble body armor, with implications for developing antibiotics.

Researchers have identified lipid differences in patients with alcohol-related liver disease that could lead to earlier detection and new treatments. Sphingomyelins were found to be significantly reduced in scarred liver tissue, potentially serving as a biomarker for ALD. Learn more about this breakthrough research and its implications for the diagnosis and treatment of ALD.

Have you ever wondered what happens to your blood after it's drawn at the doctor's office? Or how doctors diagnose illnesses and diseases? Enter the world of Medical Laboratory Science, where the magic happens behind the scenes. As a Medical Laboratory Scientist, your role is crucial in the healthcare industry. You'll use advanced laboratory techniques and equipment to analyze patient samples, such as blood, tissue, and bodily fluids, to help diagnose and treat diseases. You'll work with a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, to provide accurate and timely results that inform patient care. But what makes this career so appealing? For starters, it's a constantly evolving field. With new technologies and discoveries, you'll always be learning and adapting to stay at the forefront of your profession. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that your work directly impacts patient outcomes and helps save lives. In terms of duties, Medical Laboratory Scientists can specialize in a variety of areas, such as microbiology, hematology, or immunology. You may also work in related fields, such as research or public health. Typical tasks include analyzing samples, interpreting results, and communicating findings to healthcare providers. To become a Medical Laboratory Scientist, you'll need at least a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs include Biology, Chemistry, and Medical Technology. You'll also need to complete a clinical rotation and pass a certification exam. Helpful personal attributes for this career include attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. You'll also need strong communication skills to effectively communicate with healthcare providers and patients. Job prospects for Medical Laboratory Scientists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 11% from 2018 to 2028. You can find job opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, research labs, and government agencies. Notable employers include Mayo Clinic, Quest Diagnostics, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So if you're interested in a career that combines science, technology, and healthcare, consider exploring the world of Medical Laboratory Science. Who knows - you could be the next person to discover a life-saving breakthrough!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to hibernate like a bear? Well, what if we told you that human hibernation could be the key to long-distance space travel? In this fascinating article from BBC, explore the possibility of astronauts hibernating on their way to Mars, and the benefits it could have on their physical and mental health, as well as the overall mission. Discover how animals like bears and squirrels have already shown resistance to the harmful effects of space travel through hibernation, and how scientists are exploring ways to induce a torpor-like state in humans. Don't miss out on this intriguing read!

Stanford University researchers, in collaboration with other institutions, have developed a molecule that prevents the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from twisting and infecting cells, including those with new variants. This new type of antiviral therapeutic, called the longHR2\_42 inhibitor, may be delivered via inhaler to treat early infections and prevent severe illness. The team's detailed understanding of the twisted structure of the virus's spike protein allowed them to create a longer molecule that is more effective than previous attempts to block the virus. Their groundbreaking research may lead to a promising solution to combat COVID-19.

Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell and for good reason. These tiny organelles are responsible for producing the energy that our cells need to function. In this write-up, we'll explore the magic of mitochondria and why they are so important to our health and well-being. Did you know that mitochondria are sometimes referred to as the "second genome"? This is because they have their own DNA and can replicate independently of the cell's nucleus. This discovery, made by Dr. Douglas C. Wallace in the late 1970s, revolutionized our understanding of cellular biology. Another interesting fact about mitochondria is that they are thought to have originated from a symbiotic relationship between early cells and primitive bacteria. Over time, the two organisms evolved together to form the cells that make up our bodies today. This theory, known as the endosymbiotic theory, was first proposed by Dr. Lynn Margulis in the 1960s. So, what exactly do mitochondria do? Well, they are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through a process called cellular respiration. This energy is then used by our cells to carry out all of their functions, from moving and growing, to repairing and reproducing. It's important to note that our cells can't survive without energy, and without mitochondria, we wouldn't be able to produce enough energy to support our bodies. This is why mitochondria are so critical to our health and well-being. By learning more about the magic of mitochondria, you'll gain a deeper understanding of cellular biology and the role that these tiny organelles play in our lives. So, get reading, reflecting, and exploring!

Did you know that some viruses are actually good for you? Bacteriophages, or phages for short, are natural enemies of bacteria that can protect our health by killing germs that make us sick. Unlike antibiotics, phages are highly specific and won't harm the good microbes in our bodies. With the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections, pharmaceutical companies are giving phages a second look. In fact, a recent clinical trial showed that they work against antibiotic-resistant ear infections. Researchers are also using them to treat infected wounds in veterans and diabetics and to stop the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections. So, if you're interested in learning more about how these tiny viruses can help us fight disease, read on!

New research has identified gold-based compounds that could treat multidrug-resistant "superbugs", with some effectiveness against several bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat, and the development of new antibiotics has stalled. Gold metalloantibiotics, compounds with a gold ion at their core, could be a promising new approach. Dr. Sara M. Soto Gonzalez and colleagues studied the activity of 19 gold complexes against a range of multidrug-resistant bacteria isolated from patients. The gold compounds were effective against at least one bacterial species studied, with some displaying potent activity against several multidrug-resistant bacteria.

In just a few thousand years, northern Europeans evolved to digest milk, a feat that was once impossible for adult humans. Scientists now believe that exceptional stressors like famines and pathogens may have driven this genetic change, making the ability to digest milk extra valuable. This study, published in Nature and led by experts from the University of Bristol and University College London, sheds light on the evolution of lactose tolerance and rewrites the textbooks on why drinking milk was an advantage.

Learning about the chemistry of onions may not seem like the most exciting academic topic, but it can help you understand how things work in the world around you. When you chop an onion, you're changing its chemistry and releasing a gas that causes your eyes to water. You can slow down the onion's enzymes by storing it in the fridge or boiling it briefly, or you can wear goggles or sunglasses while cutting it. Scientists are even working on creating tear-free onions through genetic modification and traditional plant breeding. Learning about the chemistry of onions can help you appreciate the complexities of the natural world and give you practical skills for your everyday life.

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body. The drugs are delivered through pills and injections and are toxic to all cells in the body, including healthy ones. However, cancer cells are more susceptible to the effects of chemotherapy because they multiply rapidly. Chemotherapy drugs can damage hair follicles, cells of the mouth, gastrointestinal lining, reproductive system, and bone marrow, which can cause side effects such as hair loss, fatigue, infertility, nausea, and vomiting. Despite these side effects, chemotherapy has greatly improved the outlook for many cancer patients. Advances in treatment have led to up to 95% survival rates for testicular cancer and 60% remission rates for acute myeloid leukemia. Researchers are still developing more precise interventions to target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Learning about chemotherapy can help high school students understand the science behind cancer treatment and the importance of ongoing research to improve outcomes for patients.

Are you fascinated by the human body and how it works? Do you dream of becoming a doctor and making a difference in people's lives? Then pre-medicine might be the perfect field of study for you! Pre-medicine is a challenging and rewarding field that prepares students for medical school and a career in healthcare. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, from biology and chemistry to anatomy and physiology. Through this field of study, you will gain a deep understanding of the human body and the diseases that affect it. Research in pre-medicine is constantly evolving, with new innovations and breakthroughs being made all the time. For example, recent studies have shown that stem cell therapy may be a promising treatment for a variety of conditions, from heart disease to Parkinson's. Additionally, academic figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci have made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the area of infectious diseases. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules include biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. These foundational courses provide a strong basis for further specialization in areas such as neuroscience, pharmacology, or genetics. For example, you could become a specialist in neurology and work with patients who have disorders like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. The potential career paths for pre-med graduates are vast and varied. Many go on to become doctors, working in fields such as pediatrics, cardiology, or oncology. Others pursue careers in related fields, such as medical research or public health. Notable employers include world-renowned hospitals such as the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins, as well as organizations like the World Health Organization and Doctors Without Borders. To succeed in pre-medicine, it's important to have a strong work ethic, a passion for learning, and excellent communication skills. You should also have a keen interest in science and a desire to make a difference in people's lives. In conclusion, pre-medicine is an exciting and challenging field of study that offers a wealth of opportunities for those who are passionate about healthcare. With a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, you can specialize in a variety of areas and pursue a rewarding career in medicine or related fields. So if you're ready to make a difference in the world, consider studying pre-medicine and joining the ranks of healthcare professionals who are changing lives every day.