Molecular sensors enable eukaryotes to recognize microbial pathogens and their products, thus operating as major players in the protective mechanisms of the innate immune response. In addition to microbial pathogens, innate molecular sensors recognize signals from damaged tissues. The response of innate molecular sensors is typically immediate but short-lived. However, excessive activation and/or engagement of […]
“Western cultures have generally regarded bats with superstition and fear; but in China, expressed in art and handicrafts, the bat has achieved respectability as a symbol of happiness and good luck. Too often, popular misconceptions have labeled bats as “dirty,” “disease carriers,” or “blood suckers,” an unenviable—and unjust—reputation to be sure. In reality, the more than 1,300 bat species […]
A few days ago, results from the landmark NASA’s “Twin Study” were published in the scientific journal Science (April 12, 2019). The study was carried out in 2015/2016 to understand the health impact of long-duration spaceflight, and centered around astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly, who are identical twins. One of the twins, Scott Kelly, was […]