Author: Andrew Rogers

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have successfully grown embryo-like structures in the lab that produced human blood cells, marking a major advance for regenerative medicine. The research, published this week, shows that stem cell–derived embryo models can naturally form early blood and heart tissues — without requiring eggs or sperm. “It was an exciting moment when the blood-red colour appeared in the dish – it was visible even to the naked eye,” said Dr Jitesh Neupane of Cambridge’s Gurdon Institute, who led the study. The team used human stem cells to replicate developmental stages typical of the third and…

Microplastics have been found in our blood, lungs, guts – even our brains. Scientists estimate the average person may carry around 5g inside their body. Austrian researchers recently discovered that exposure to microplastics changes gut bacteria, producing chemical patterns linked to depression and cancer. “Reducing exposure is a wise precaution,” said Dr Christian Pacher-Deutsch. These particles come from packaging, clothing, cosmetics and tyres. They can slip into organs and even cells. “We’re finding them in almost every tissue,” said Dr Jaime Ross from the University of Rhode Island. Her mouse studies showed behavioural changes and signs of brain damage after…

A group of younger Members of the European Parliament is pushing for reforms to make EU parliamentary debates more engaging. The initiative aims to make discussions more dynamic and accessible, encouraging public interest in the legislative process. The MEPs argue that current debates can be formal and slow, making it difficult for citizens to follow or engage with EU policymaking. By introducing new formats and interactive elements, the reforms hope to create a more lively environment where ideas are clearly communicated and discussed. The proposed changes include shorter speeches, more interactive sessions, and the use of digital tools to allow…

Scientists have developed a new molecule that could stop Parkinson’s progression. The molecule is a peptide designed to prevent alpha-synuclein, a key protein, from misfolding. Misfolded alpha-synuclein is known to drive the development of Parkinson’s disease. In laboratory and animal studies, the peptide stabilized the protein and prevented further damage to brain cells. This breakthrough provides hope for future treatments that target the root cause of the disease. Alpha-synuclein naturally occurs in the brain and helps regulate nerve cell function. In Parkinson’s disease, this protein clumps together, forming toxic aggregates. These aggregates damage neurons and cause the motor symptoms associated…

AstraZeneca has reached an agreement with Donald Trump’s administration to lower prescription drug prices in exchange for tariff relief. The British-based drugmaker will offer discounted prices for several medicines under Medicaid, the US health plan for low-income citizens. In return, the company will avoid steep tariffs threatened by Trump earlier this year. “This is a most-favored-nation pricing model,” Trump said during an Oval Office announcement. “Americans have paid the highest drug prices in the world, but that’s going to change.” AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot, who joined Trump for the event, said negotiations were “tough” and had “kept me up at…

Kylie Jenner is stepping into the acting world with her first major film role in “The Moment,” a new project created by pop star Charli XCX. The announcement marks a turning point for Jenner, who has spent years building her brand in reality television, fashion, and business. “The Moment” is set to be produced by A24, the studio known for its acclaimed and unconventional films. A24 has a reputation for producing movies that attract critical praise and offer unique storytelling, making this project an exciting entry for Jenner into Hollywood cinema. This move comes as Jenner continues to expand her…

Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese imports starting 1 November, accusing Beijing of “very hostile” moves to restrict rare-earth exports. The warning reignites fears of a new trade war between the world’s two largest economies, sending Wall Street sharply lower on Friday. Relations between Washington and Beijing had recently improved, with both sides cutting tariffs after summer negotiations. But Trump’s latest statement reverses course, pledging to “massively increase” duties and introduce export controls on “critical software.” “I never thought it would come to this,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “It will be painful, but good in…

Researchers say they’ve developed the world’s first reliable blood test for myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The test, created by scientists at the University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics, identifies unique DNA-folding patterns linked to the condition. In trials with 47 ME/CFS patients and 61 healthy people, the test showed 92% sensitivity and 98% specificity. Lead researcher Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy said it could “transform how we diagnose and manage this complex disease.” Currently, ME/CFS is diagnosed only through symptoms, often leading to years of misdiagnosis or dismissal. Experts welcomed the breakthrough but urged caution. “The claims are…

New research shows that 90% of marine fish sold by major US retailers come from wild populations, not farms. The study, led by Dr Bing Lin of the University of Sydney, found most fish are caught in the western Pacific and Indian oceans. About 55 million marine animals are sold each year worldwide, with the trade worth more than US$2 billion. “The supply chain is opaque all the way from reef to retail,” Lin said. Among the species sold were 45 listed as threatened, including the Banggai cardinalfish and clarion angelfish. Many endangered fish slip through international trade rules, worsening…

Jaguar Land Rover has started a phased restart of production after a major cyber-attack halted operations for more than a month. The British carmaker said the hack on 31 August forced it to shut factories and retail systems worldwide. “Tomorrow marks an important moment,” said CEO Adrian Mardell. “Our recovery is firmly under way.” Production will resume across key UK sites, including Wolverhampton, Hams Hall, Solihull, Halewood, and Castle Bromwich, with Slovakia’s Nitra plant to follow soon. JLR also launched a financing scheme to speed up payments to struggling suppliers, offering early prepayments during the restart. Retail sales fell 17%…