Li sweat sensor
Researchers have invented a tiny fingertip sensor capable of measuring lithium levels in sweat in as little as 30 seconds, according to research presented at the Fall 2022 meeting of the American Chemical Society.
Simpler peptide synthesis
Australian researchers have developed a new way to synthesise bicyclic peptides, which they claim is more reliable and more accessible than current methods. It could help future research into drug treatments for a range of diseases, including cancer and viral and bacterial infections.
Sweeter polymers
Plant based sugars are increasingly of interest as feedstocks to make greener, better performing plastics – including a polymer filler derived from sugar beet. Lou Reade reports
Antibody for malaria
A monoclonal antibody administered under the skin of healthy adults protected them against malaria in a small study carried out in the US. The researchers are hopeful that injecting antibodies into people may not only stop infection but also limit transfer of the parasite to others, via mosquitoes.
Biotech burnout
The US biotech sector has seen major upheaval and contraction over the first half of 2022, which is only just beginning to reverse. The pace and the numbers of employees affected over such a short period has been described as unprecedented by many observers.
Edible wind turbine
A new composite resin for making wind turbine blades can be recycled into new blades, countertops, vehicle parts and even confectionary, researchers reported at the ACS Fall 2022 meeting in Chicago. Most old turbine blades currently end up in landfill, although some progress has been made in recycling them into lower value materials.
Drug for lupus
Researchers have revealed a new experimental medicine that could offer hope for sufferers of the autoimmune disease lupus. Affecting 5m people worldwide, symptoms include rashes, fatigue and organ deterioration that can lead to death. While there is no cure, current treatments can help disease management.
Solid refrigerant
A prototype air conditioner that uses solid materials instead of hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants promises a new direction in environmentally friendly cooling.
REFLEX recycling in Africa
Chemicals giant Dow Chemical announced in June 2022 the expansion of its plastic waste management and recycling initiative, Project REFLEX, in Egypt and Guinea after a successful pilot phase in Nigeria. The move should aid Africa’s goal of diverting at least 50% of the waste generated in the continent towards reuse, recycling and recovery by 2030.