Breakthrough Nitrogen Insertion Method Revolutionizes Drug Development

Hello and welcome to our January 20th edition. The STEAM Digest is a curated newsletter that brings you the latest news in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

In today’s edition:

• Science - Breakthrough Nitrogen Insertion Method Revolutionizes Drug Development, and more.

• Materials - Sustainable Synthesis of Ibuprofen Co-Crystals Achieved at Kilogram Scale, and more.

• Biotechnology - Acoustic Whirlpools Aid in Advanced Diagnostic Test Development.

• Engineering & Technology - Self-Powered Freezing Droplet Ejection Mechanism Inspired by Nature, and more.

• Astronomy & Space - Astronomers Discover a New Compact Galaxy Group CGG-z4, and more.

• Health & Medicine - Fat Inside Muscles Linked to Higher Heart Disease Risk, and more.

• Neuroscience - Genipin from Gardenias Promotes Nerve Regeneration and Offers Hope for Rare Genetic Disorder, and more.

• Environment - Biodiversity Loss and Environmental Destruction Drive Disease Emergence, and more.

• Nature - Study Reveals "Contagious Urination" in Chimpanzees with Links to Social Dynamics.

Until Tomorrow,

~The STEAM Digest

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SCIENCE

Breakthrough Nitrogen Insertion Method Revolutionizes Drug Development: Researchers have developed a groundbreaking technique to add a single nitrogen atom to molecules, transforming existing compounds into new pharmacophores for drug discovery. The study uses sulfenylnitrene, a short-lived chemical, to perform "skeletal editing," a process inspired by Nobel laureate Sir Derek Barton. This method is additive-free, metal-free, and compatible with various functional groups, overcoming limitations of previous approaches. It allows researchers to modify existing drug molecules, enhancing their biological and pharmacological properties while reducing development costs. With 85% of FDA-approved drugs containing nitrogen, this innovation has significant potential for treating diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. By simplifying drug production and enabling large-scale synthesis, the technique could make medications more affordable, improving global health care access and reducing costs for vulnerable populations.

New Research Reveals RNA, Not DNA, as Key Trigger for Sunburn Response: A groundbreaking study from the University of Copenhagen and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, challenges traditional understanding of sunburn. Researchers found that RNA damage, not DNA, initiates the skin's acute response to UV radiation, leading to inflammation and cell death. The study revealed that a protein called ZAK-alpha orchestrates a "ribotoxic stress response," a surveillance system that detects RNA damage and triggers inflammatory signaling. This discovery marks a paradigm shift, suggesting the skin’s defense mechanisms against UV radiation are faster and more efficient due to RNA’s transient nature. The findings could pave the way for new treatments for sun-related skin conditions and other inflammatory diseases. Researchers emphasize the need to rethink current knowledge and rewrite textbooks on UV-induced skin damage.

Amplified Biosensor Technology Detects Contaminants and Health Markers at Low Concentrations: Northwestern researchers have enhanced the sensitivity of their biosensing platform, ROSALIND, making it capable of detecting and measuring extremely low concentrations of contaminants and health markers. By integrating genetic circuitry to amplify weak signals, the system is now 10 times more sensitive than previous versions. Originally designed to detect multiple contaminants in water, ROSALIND can now identify nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, as well as bacteria, at levels useful for environmental monitoring and disease detection. This advancement leverages cell-free synthetic biology and a biochemical "recycling" trick, enabling more sensitive and versatile applications in public health, food quality, and agriculture. ROSALIND's latest iteration, already deployed for field studies like lead detection in drinking water, offers a generalizable approach to quickly develop new sensors for actionable detection levels

MATERIALS

Sustainable Synthesis of Ibuprofen Co-Crystals Achieved at Kilogram Scale: Researchers have successfully produced over 3 kilograms of ibuprofen-nicotinamide co-crystals using drum mills, marking a breakthrough in sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing. This formulation enhances ibuprofen's solubility, bioavailability, and stability. The mechanochemical process, which avoids large volumes of solvents, achieved a 99% yield in just 90 minutes using liquid-assisted grinding (LAG). Part of the IMPACTIVE project, this study demonstrates the potential of drum mills for large-scale eco-friendly synthesis, with higher energy efficiency and minimal metal contamination compared to traditional methods. This advancement could pave the way for greener industrial-scale pharmaceutical production.

Biomimetic Teak-Like Coating Technology Enhances High-Temperature Protection: Researchers have developed an innovative coating method inspired by the structure of teak wood, using plasma spraying-physical vapor deposition with alternating vapor/liquid phase deposition. By precisely controlling arc current and employing heat treatment, the process optimizes the composition, structure, and nanoscale dimensions of SiO₂-based coatings. This results in a multi-layered, biomimetic structure that enhances mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The study, led by Dr. Guifang Han of Shandong University, mimics teak's natural durability and strength, offering improved environmental barrier coatings for high-temperature applications, such as gas turbine engines. Future research will focus on systematically evaluating the coatings' performance and advancing their commercialization for practical use.

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Acoustic Whirlpools Aid in Advanced Diagnostic Test Development: Researchers at Duke University have developed acoustic whirlpools to purify biomedical samples efficiently. These whirlpools use specific vibration wavelengths to trap larger bioparticles like cells and bacteria, while allowing smaller particles like antibodies and viruses to flow through biosensing chambers. This innovation represents the first step in a new single-chip diagnostic prototype capable of detecting viral RNA and a broad range of antibodies, potentially improving diagnostic capabilities for future pandemics.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Self-Powered Freezing Droplet Ejection Mechanism Inspired by Nature: Researchers have developed a groundbreaking self-powered mechanism for ejecting freezing water droplets. Inspired by a fungus capable of shooting its spores, the team designed a structured elastic surface (SES) with spring-like pillars and wetting contrast. The SES converts the volume expansion energy of freezing droplets into kinetic energy, allowing droplets to shoot away without external energy input. This innovation could prevent ice accretion on surfaces like aircraft, wind blades, and cables, offering a cost-efficient and scalable anti-icing solution. The findings also have potential applications in energy harvesting and soft robotics.

New Method Converts Plastic Waste into Aviation Fuel Additive: A study published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering outlines a cost-effective method to produce ethylbenzene, a key aromatic hydrocarbon for sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), from waste polystyrene. Ethylbenzene enhances fuel system compatibility by lubricating parts and swelling seals, essential for aircraft safety. Researchers at the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center used thermal pyrolysis to convert polystyrene, commonly disposed of in landfills, into a styrene-rich liquid, followed by hydrogenation and distillation to produce 90% pure ethylbenzene. Preliminary findings show that polystyrene-derived ethylbenzene reduces carbon emissions by 50%-60% compared to fossil-fuel-based ethylbenzene and costs less to produce. This breakthrough could significantly boost SAF production, aligning with U.S. climate goals to replace fossil fuels in aviation with sustainable alternatives by 2050.

Empa Develops Biodegradable Fungal Battery for Sustainable Power: Empa researchers have created a 3D-printed, biodegradable fungal battery capable of powering sensors in agriculture or remote research. The microbial fuel cell uses two types of fungi: yeast at the anode releases electrons, while a white rot fungus at the cathode captures them using a special enzyme. The battery, made of cellulose-based ink, is entirely non-toxic, and the fungi contribute to its eventual self-decomposition after use. This breakthrough offers a sustainable alternative to traditional batteries, with potential for further enhancement and exploration of fungi's material science applications.

Breakthrough Additive Improves Lithium-Sulfur Battery Performance: Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new additive for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, addressing challenges like short lifespan and instability caused by polysulfide shuttling. The additive, a Lewis acid, forms a protective film on battery electrodes, suppressing the shuttle effect and enhancing ion transport. This innovation significantly reduces sulfur dissolution and improves reaction uniformity, as confirmed using advanced X-ray techniques. Li-S batteries offer higher energy density and lower costs than lithium-ion batteries, and this breakthrough moves them closer to commercial viability by improving performance and stability.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

Astronomers Discover a New Compact Galaxy Group CGG-z4: An international team of astronomers has discovered a new compact galaxy group, CGG-z4, using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in the COSMOS field. Located at a redshift of approximately 4.3, CGG-z4 consists of 13 galaxies and has a stellar mass of 100 billion solar masses and a dark matter halo mass exceeding one trillion solar masses. The group hosts two optically dark star-forming galaxies, CGG-z4.a and CGG-z4.b, with high star formation rates and short gas depletion times, suggesting they are transitioning toward a quiescent phase. The findings indicate that CGG-z4 is likely a protocluster in the process of forming a massive galaxy cluster, expected to evolve into a structure similar to the Virgo or Coma cluster over the next 10 billion years. Follow-up observations are needed to refine the membership and characteristics of this group.

Deep-Sea Foraminifera Thrive in Dark, Oxygen-Free Environments via Chemoautotrophy: A new study by researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) reveals that a species of foraminifera thrives in deep-sea, oxygen-free environments using chemoautotrophy—a process that enables it to derive energy from inorganic sources like sulfide. The study used in situ techniques at a depth of 570 meters off the California coast to preserve and analyze the organisms' metabolic pathways and carbon sources. These single-celled eukaryotes, known for their long evolutionary history and kleptoplasty (stealing chloroplasts despite no sunlight exposure), provide insights into early Earth's conditions and the evolution of life. The findings have implications for understanding extreme habitats, potential extraterrestrial life, and the accuracy of climate and geochemical records derived from foraminifera fossils. This work was supported by NASA, reflecting its relevance to astrobiology.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Fat Inside Muscles Linked to Higher Heart Disease Risk: A study reveals that people with higher levels of fat stored inside their muscles (intermuscular fat) face a greater risk of heart attack, heart failure, or death, regardless of their body mass index (BMI). Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital used advanced imaging to measure fat and muscle composition in 669 patients and tracked their health outcomes over six years. They found that for every 1% increase in fatty muscle fraction, the risk of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) rose by 2%, and the risk of serious heart disease increased by 7%. Unlike subcutaneous fat, intermuscular fat may contribute to inflammation and metabolic issues that damage blood vessels and the heart. These findings challenge the reliance on BMI as a sole predictor of heart disease and highlight the need for personalized risk assessments. Further research is underway to explore how treatments like exercise, nutrition, and weight-loss therapies affect intermuscular fat and heart health.

World's Smallest Multifunctional Biomedical Robot Developed for Precise Medical Applications: Researchers have created the world’s smallest multifunctional biomedical robot, measuring just 0.95 mm—60% smaller than existing models. The robot integrates advanced imaging, high-precision motion, and multifunctional capabilities such as sampling, drug delivery, and laser ablation, enabling applications in hard-to-reach areas like lung bronchi and oviducts. The robot features an optical fiber array for imaging, a hollow skeleton for structural support, a custom treatment tool, and a magnetic spray-coated skin for precise control and reduced friction. Tested on in vitro and ex vivo models, it demonstrated smooth navigation, high imaging performance, and effective treatment capabilities. This breakthrough holds significant potential for minimally invasive procedures, reducing recovery times and infection risks. Future plans include optimizing its design for clinical use and conducting in vivo trials to ensure safety and reliability in medical applications.

Key Regulator of Parkinson’s Disease Gene LRRK2 Identified, Paving Way for New Treatments: Researchers have identified a key regulator, CalDAG-GEFI (CDGI), that controls the GTPase function of the LRRK2 gene, the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s Disease. The study demonstrates how this regulator switches LRRK2’s GTPase activity on or off, a critical function in the disease’s progression. Previous research by Xiong’s team showed that overactive ATIC enzymes instruct LRRK2 to produce excessive dardarin protein, contributing to Parkinson’s. While much of the research has focused on the kinase domain of LRRK2 due to its druggability, the GTPase domain has been harder to target. The discovery of CDGI provides a pathway to selectively inhibit LRRK2 overactivity and slow disease progression. Using cell and mouse models, the team is now working with external collaborators to develop small molecules capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier for targeted treatments. Human studies are the next step in advancing this breakthrough toward clinical applications.

NEUROSCIENCE

Genipin from Gardenias Promotes Nerve Regeneration and Offers Hope for Rare Genetic Disorder: A compound derived from the gardenia plant, genipin, has shown potential in promoting nerve regeneration and treating familial dysautonomia, a rare genetic disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. In lab studies and animal models, genipin restored proper development of sensory neurons, prevented early degeneration, and enhanced axon regeneration. This groundbreaking research, led by Dr. Kenyi Saito-Diaz at the University of Georgia and collaborators across multiple institutions, highlights genipin’s therapeutic potential for nerve-related conditions. Genipin is derived from Gardenia jasminoides, a plant historically valued for medicinal and dye applications. Its ability to promote extracellular matrix cross-linking is thought to underpin its nerve-regenerative properties. While further research is needed, genipin offers hope not only for familial dysautonomia patients but also for addressing broader nerve damage and peripheral neuropathies.

Psychological Profiles Linked to Brain Aging and Dementia Risk: A study reveals that psychological traits significantly influence brain aging and dementia risk. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 participants and identified three psychological profiles linked to different cognitive and mental health outcomes. One profile, marked by high neuroticism and low openness and purpose in life, showed the greatest cognitive decline and brain aging. Another profile, characterized by high worry and brooding, was associated with poor mental health and sleep quality. The third, more balanced profile, featuring high extraversion, self-reflection, and purpose, was linked to the best cognitive outcomes. The findings emphasize the importance of psychological factors in aging-related brain health and the need for tailored interventions to reduce dementia risk.

A "Periodic Table" for Psychiatric Disorders Maps Schizophrenia to Specific Brain Cell Types: Stanford Medicine researchers, in collaboration with other institutions, have created a framework resembling a "periodic table" for brain cell types, linking psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia to specific brain regions and cell types. The study combines genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and a brain cell atlas, identifying 109 cell types potentially involved in schizophrenia, with 10 types showing the strongest associations. Key findings include cell types in the cerebral cortex that regulate excitatory activity and have been linked to cortical shrinkage in schizophrenia, and previously unexplored cells in the retrosplenial cortex, which is linked to self-perception. Additional cells in the amygdala, hippocampus, and thalamus, known for fear and memory processing, also showed strong associations. This roadmap offers new drug targets, deepens understanding of schizophrenia's biology, and advances personalized medicine. Researchers aim to expand the model to other psychiatric disorders, accelerating the development of precise treatments within the next six to seven years.

ENVIRONMENT

Biodiversity Loss and Environmental Destruction Drive Disease Emergence: A new study links biodiversity loss, environmental destruction, and the rise of pandemics, highlighting how human activities create conditions for infectious diseases to emerge. Researchers emphasize that pathogens adapt to ecological changes, increasing disease spillovers from animals to humans. The study reviews historical pandemics and identifies strategies to prevent future outbreaks. Key recommendations include improving disease surveillance, regulating live-animal markets, protecting wildlife, and adopting sustainable farming practices. While the "One Health" approach integrates human, animal, and environmental health, challenges like high costs and lack of global consensus hinder implementation. The research stresses the need for multifaceted solutions to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and emerging diseases simultaneously.

Deep Earth Imaging Reveals Ongoing Lithospheric Foundering Beneath the Sierra Nevada: Researchers have uncovered new evidence of lithospheric foundering beneath California's Sierra Nevada, a process where denser lithospheric material sinks into the mantle. Using seismic wave analysis and earthquake data from the ComCat catalog, they identified deep seismic activity at unusual depths (40 km or more) in the central Sierra. Their finding revealed a distinct mantle layer beneath the southern Sierra, gradually diminishing further north, consistent with the hypothesis that lithospheric foundering began millions of years ago and may be progressing northward. The study also supports previous observations of a gradient Moho and a cold mantle anomaly under the nearby Great Valley, indicative of dense, sinking lithosphere. This research sheds light on differentiation processes within Earth's crust and the dynamics of lithospheric evolution.

EPA Warns of PFAS Risks from Sewer Sludge Used as Fertilizer: The U.S. EPA has released a draft risk assessment warning that sewer sludge used as fertilizer may expose farmers and nearby residents to toxic PFAS chemicals, known for their persistence and links to health issues like cancer and immune suppression. Prolonged use of PFAS-contaminated sludge can affect farm products, such as milk and eggs, but the EPA notes that sludge is used on less than 1% of U.S. farmland. The agency plans to set limits on industrial PFAS discharges and collaborate with stakeholders to address contamination while calling for further research on sludge incineration risks.

NATURE

Study Reveals "Contagious Urination" in Chimpanzees with Links to Social Dynamics: A study reports the first observation of "contagious urination" in chimpanzees, where individuals are more likely to urinate after seeing others do so. Researchers at Kyoto University documented over 1,300 urination events among 20 chimpanzees at Japan's Kumamoto Sanctuary, finding significant synchronization of urination influenced by physical proximity and social rank. Lower-ranking individuals were more likely to follow others' urination, suggesting social hierarchy impacts the behavior. The phenomenon, likened to contagious yawning, may serve roles in group cohesion, coordination, or social bonding. This discovery provides insights into the evolutionary roots of social behaviors and prompts further investigation into its mechanisms and presence in other species.