New Issue: A Cellular Revolution

Delve into the adolescent mind, space junk, Alzheimer's and more! New Issue: February 2025 Read the Issue Dear Friend of Scientific American,  I'm excited to share our February issue with you, particularly the cover story on fantastical blobs. In this feature, science writer Philip Ball describes the cutting-edge research on teensy blobs called biomolecular condensates that are taking over cellular biology. These specks of protein and RNA play crucial roles in cells, from holding together damaged DNA strands, to keeping cells at optimal temperatures, to helping to regulate genes. When the condensates malfunction, however, the result can lead to neurodegenerative diseases. One such disease, Alzheimer's is having a big moment. Genetics counselor Laura Hercher walks us through new blood tests that reveal telltale biomarkers of Alzheimer's long before the onset of cognitive symptoms. With these tests, doctors could diagnose someone with "pre-Alzheimer's." Hercher reveals the good and bad of such an advance.   Exciting research reveals a simple way to boost teenagers' brain development: Encourage them to ponder deep questions and what's beyond the here and now. This transcendent thinking helps develop coordination between brain circuits and improve life satisfaction.   Senior editor Clara Moskowitz delivers a tour of colorful images from the James Webb Space Telescope showing Earth's closest supernova remnant called Cassiopeia A. One image shows a bizarre-looking bubble now dubbed the "Green Monster." Humans today carry a genetic fingerprint from the interbreeding of early Homo sapiens and Neandertals. Those Neandertal genes, researchers have found, impact some brain structures in humans today and our propensity for certain neurodevelopmental and psychological conditions. Author Douglas Fox digs into an innovative idea for stemming the climate emergency. Enhanced rock weathering entails spreading crushed rock across agricultural fields to suck CO2 from the air. But it also requires a mountain of mining. Space environmentalist Moriba Jah tells us that the amount of space junk in Earth's orbit is rising dangerously fast. If we don't act soon, Jah says, space will become unusable. The answer could be to abide by the same "reduce, reuse and recycle" mantra we follow on Earth. I hope the February issue of Scientific American sparks something magical in you. Get 90 days for $1 to start reading now! Best wishes,  Jeanna Bryner  Acting Editor in Chief   Issue Highlights Mysterious Blobs Found inside Cells Are Rewriting the Story of How Life Works Tiny specks called biomolecular condensates are leading to a new understanding of the cell. Controversial New Guidelines Would Diagnose Alzheimer's before Symptoms Appear According to expert recommendations, the diagnosis of Alzheimer's can proceed by detecting the disease's underlying biology—even before the onset of cognitive decline. Transcendent Thinking May Boost Teen Brains A style of teaching that gets adolescents to reflect beyond the here and now may help their brain grow in ways that enhance life. JWST Photos Reveal Bizarre Physics of Supernova Explosions The best view yet of the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant reveals new secrets. Neandertal DNA and the Human Mind DNA inherited from Neandertals may influence modern human cognition. Crushed Rocks Could Be the Next Climate Solution Spreading crushed stone across farm fields could inexpensively pull CO2 from the air while also increasing yields. But it would require a mountain of mining. Read the Issue Get 90 days of digital access for $1! To view this email as a web page, go here.  You received this email because you opted-in to receive email from Scientific American or you have registered for an account with Scientific American.  To ensure delivery please add news@scientificamerican.com to your address book.  Unsubscribe Email Preferences Privacy Policy Contact Us