Researchers have discovered the molecular link between the cells in skin that sense itching and the nerve cells that relay the perception of that itch to the brain. Take that molecule away, and the itchy sensation vanishes. So far, the molecules, cells and circuitry in question have been identified in mice, but this…
When forests glow green in the night
There are certain times when the woods begin to glow. Sometimes they glow so much that people call the Park Service and ask them to send a hazmat team. What they're actually seeing is foxfire. And although we know how it happens, we don't know exactly why.
Do different kinds of alcohol get you different kinds of drunk?
When your friend gets tipsy and starts rambling about how tequila turns her into a savage party monster, and then your other friend vehemently calls bullshit, calmly put your hands up and say this: "Friends. Please. I got this." And then explain to them what I'm about to explain to you.
This chemical can turn you into Poison Ivy
One simple molecule, two carbon atoms, each attended by two hydrogen atoms, can make you all-powerful in the plant world. Apply it and flowers shrivel up fast, leaves yellow, and the entire plant dies off quickly — or grows even more enthusiastically. How can you get the power of life and death over plants?
Have you had your taste buds hijacked?
Ever bitten into something that you remember eating since childhood and noticing the taste is suddenly wrong? It could be your evolving taste, it could be a change in the recipe, or it could be dysgeusia.
How do you make eggs out of plants? (And why?)
As food science and our understanding plant proteins expands by leafs and stems, some food-thinking entrepreneurs are looking for ways to make our agricultural products safer, more environmentally sustainable, more humane, and yes, cheaper. Recently, I paid a visit to food science startup Hampton Creek Foods to learn…
Every human has a "breathprint" – what does yours say about you?
The chemical signature in your breath is unique to you, and may even be as distinctive as your fingerprint. In fact, researchers think your "breathprint" could soon be used to determine your true identity, or diagnose you with an illness.
How to murder someone with bananas. And also bees.
Ah, the things that science teaches us! It reveals the far reaches of the universe. It guides us toward a better understanding of ourselves and our history. And it lets you murder people with fruit, by turning into an apiary beast master.
