Science Discovery 2024: Mono Lake Creature Discovery and Plastic Waste Reduction Innovations
- September 18, 2024
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Advances in science shape the way we see the world and unravel the mysteries of life.
Scientists at the University of California identified a unique new form of life in Mono Lake that provides clues about how early organisms may have developed 650 million years ago.
At the same time, Korean researchers have worked out how to reprogramme bacteria so they make biodegradable plastics; a display of how biology may be just the tool we need to tackle some contemporary environmental issues.
These developments show how science paves the way for progress and is crucial to solving collective challenges.
New Creature Discovery
In this modern era, scientists are busy discovering new things; in this regard, University of California researchers have discovered a new creature in the waters of Mono Lake in eastern Nevada.
The creature's ability to assist in determining the genesis of species that existed 650 million years ago is one of the most significant discoveries made by science. This organism is referred to as a choanoflagellate.
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An organism that is unicellular (a creature with only one cell) but that can divide into many cells, just as animal embryos do. However, this creature is not a type of animal but belongs to a different group of all animals.
Experts say that choanoflagellates can play an important role in understanding the evolution of unicellular to multicellular life.
Reducing Plastic Pollution
On the other hand, scientists are doing new experiments to innovate things. In this regard, Korean researchers have made a biological change in bacteria called E. coli with the aim of producing biodegradable polymers, which can be used in biomedical applications.
Bioengineers around the world are trying to develop bacteria capable of producing plastics as an alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
However, in an effort to push boundaries, scientists are conducting new experiments. In order to produce biodegradable polymers that can be utilized in biomedical applications, Korean researchers have altered the biology of E. coli bacteria.
To replace plastics derived from petroleum, bioengineers worldwide are working to create bacteria that can produce polymers.
