#Science179
How Kidneys Heal Themselves After an Injury
Scientists at Tulane University discovered how kidneys rebuild their immune defenses after an injury. Their findings could help doctors create better treatments for kidney damage in the future.
Photo by Robina Weermeijer, Unsplash
Nanotech biosensors for early disease diagnosis
At the 75th Lindau Meeting, South African scientist Jaymi Leigh January presented nanotechnology-based biosensors that detect tiny disease biomarkers for tuberculosis, cancer and viral conditions. She aims to develop affordable, portable diagnostics suited to local health needs in South Africa.
MRI and AI measure fluid flow in the brain
Researchers combined MRI scans with physics-informed AI to estimate slow fluid flow in the brain’s glymphatic system, which helps clear waste and is linked to Alzheimer’s. The team trained AI on dye videos and collected animal baseline data.
Early eukaryotes lived on ancient seafloor
Researchers studied microfossils from the McArthur and Birrindudu basins in Northern Territory, Australia, dated 1.75–1.4 billion years ago. The fossils occur mainly in oxygenated seafloor sediments, suggesting early eukaryotes needed oxygen and lived on the seafloor.
Eclipse project increased people’s connection to science
A public participatory science project linked to the 2024 total solar eclipse showed that witnessing awe-inspiring events can raise people’s sense of science identity and belonging. Volunteers recorded animal behaviour and completed surveys.