In a first, gene editing has been carried out in cockroaches
Since its invention, CRISPR-Cas9 has been hailed as the answer to many of our genetic worries. The gene-editing tool has made strides in many areas of research and treatment of diseases, including sickle cell anemia, high cholesterol levels, and the rare eye disease Leber congenital Read More...
Floating ants may inspire the future of robotics and adaptive materials
Ants are extremely adaptable creatures. The little critters are one of the strongest animals in relation to their size, being able to carry 50 times their own body weight. They are also the longest living insect, with some species living for around 30 years. However, the teamwork these tiny animals Read More...
These insect-sized robots tap nature's wisdom for more efficient flight
Humans are constantly looking at ways to level up our mechanical friends, robots. Teaching them how to sort through recyclables, hike, reproduce independently, and the biggest challenge of all, opening doors. Scientists are teaming together with computer algorithms and advanced mechanics to create Read More...
Insects to become a common food item on European menus
When it comes to food, in Western societies insects don’t necessarily bear the most savory connotations. But in Europe, such perceptions may soon become a thing of the past as the EU’s Food Safety Authority is expected to make insects a common dish choice on restaurant menus. Within weeks the Read More...
The filmmaker who became fascinated by an insect
The Magicicada is a sneaky insect that plagues North America once every seventeen years by crawling out of the ground by the millions. The insect is from the same family as the hemiptera, which includes plant lice– not exactly our favorite houseguests and reason enough not to give them much Read More...