NASA-funded astrobiology research has changed the fundamental knowledge about what comprises all known life on Earth. Researchers conducting tests in the harsh environment of Mono Lake in California have discovered the first known microorganism on Earth able to thrive and reproduce using the toxic chemical arsenic. The microorganism substitutes arsenic for phosphorus in its cell components.
Harvesting the Harvest Genome (via Discovermagazine.com)
This year when we sit down to our Thanksgiving feasts, we can do more than just salivate. As we enjoy our turkey, we can appreciate not just its juicy flesh and crisp skin, but marvel at its remarkable genome, with its 80 chromosomes (humans have 46) and strange, disease-causing mutations. A draft of the genetic sequence of this holiday bird was released in September, and it’s not alone: Many other foods that will grace our harvest tables have also had their ingredients sequenced. Here, a guide to the DNA of your Turkey Day dinner.
Neil deGrasse Tyson might just be reason enough to set up a Twitter account if you don’t already have one. Best science Twitter account around. Go read!
Posted in links
