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Microbes Gained Photosynthesis Superpowers From a ‘Proton Pump’

July 5, 2023

New research reveals how marine microbes use an extra membrane that once had digestive functions to boost their yield from photosynthesis.

The Key to Species Diversity May Be in Their Similarities

June 26, 2023

New modeling work suggests why nature is more diverse than niche-based ecological theory predicts.

How the Brain Protects Itself From Blood-Borne Threats

June 20, 2023

To buffer the brain against menaces in the blood, a dynamic, multi-tiered system of protection is built into the brain’s blood vessels.

‘Embryo Models’ Challenge Legal, Ethical and Biological Concepts

June 13, 2023

With embryolike constructs built entirely from stem cells, researchers can revolutionize our understanding of development. But how close to an embryo is too close?

Q&A

An Explorer of Abyssal Depths Looks to Oceans on Other Worlds

June 7, 2023

The marine geochemist Chris German brings decades of experience studying seafloor hydrothermal vents to NASA’s preparations for visits to other ocean worlds in our solar system.

What Is the Nature of Consciousness?

May 31, 2023

Consciousness, our experience of being in the world, is one of the mind’s greatest mysteries, but as the neuroscientist Anil Seth explains to Steven Strogatz, research is making progress in understanding this elusive phenomenon.

How 3D Changes in the Genome Turned Sharks Into Skates

May 30, 2023

Changes in the 3D structure of their genome gave skates and rays their distinctive winglike fins and pancake flatness.

Is It Real or Imagined? How Your Brain Tells the Difference.

May 24, 2023

New experiments show that the brain distinguishes between perceived and imagined mental images by checking whether they cross a “reality threshold.”

Memories Help Brains Recognize New Events Worth Remembering

May 17, 2023

Memories may affect how well the brain will learn about future events by shifting our perceptions of the world.

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