Researchers have discovered that neurons in a locust brain can recognize and distinguish among multiple forever chemicals, known as PFAS. These substances break down very slowly and persist in water, soil, and living organisms. They are used in many everyday products, which makes environmental contamination a serious and widespread concern.
Usually, detecting these chemicals requires expensive laboratory instruments that are difficult to use in the field. Scientists wanted to see if insects could help, so they recorded neural activity from a locust brain while exposing the insects to different PFAS gases. The experiments showed that each chemical created a unique pattern of neural activity. This biological fingerprint allowed the insects to tell the chemicals apart, even at very low concentrations.
This strong reaction surprised the team because these human-made chemicals have only existed for decades. As a next step, researchers are testing water samples collected in Michigan to see if the method works outside the laboratory. Ultimately, they hope to develop portable biological sensors that can quickly screen for pollution directly in the field.
Difficult words
- substance — a particular kind of material with uniform propertiessubstances
- persist — to continue to exist over a long period of time
- contamination — the process of making something dirty or poisonous
- instrument — a tool or device used for delicate or scientific workinstruments
- concentration — the amount of a substance in a given space or liquidconcentrations
- portable — easy to carry or move around from place to place
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think using insects for pollution testing could change environmental research?
- Why is it difficult to detect PFAS chemicals using traditional methods?
- What are some ways people can reduce their daily exposure to harmful substances?
Related articles
Wildfire smoke in late pregnancy linked to higher autism risk
A study of more than 200,000 births in Southern California found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester was associated with higher autism diagnoses by age five. Researchers say the results are not conclusive and need more study.
Demand for clean-energy minerals harms poor regions
A UN report warns that rising global demand for minerals for clean energy is causing environmental damage, water loss and health harms in poorer mining regions, while richer countries gain most benefits. The report urges reforms to protect water and people.