Chemistry World Blog

12 February 2012: Have something to say about an article you’ve read on Chemistry World this week? Leave your comments below…

EU innovation position slipping
The growth of innovation in the EU is slowing, making it more difficult for the EU to compete internationally

DNA nanorobots seek and destroy disease
DNA-based robots can perform simple computation to detect cell type, then offload cargo, say US researchers

Making crisps healthier
Less salt may not necessarily mean less flavour, according to new crisp research. It’s all in the way the salt is released into the mouth

‘Proton grease’ speeds up molecular rotor
Lubricating protons put a new spin on molecular machine research

Consistent Avogadro number a step nearer
Chemical metrologists in Canada have made the most accurate measurement of silicon’s atomic weight to date

Branched organic nanowire heterojunctions
Chinese researchers have combined two organic materials to create a tree-like structure that emits various wavelengths

FDA proposes biosimilars approval pathway
US biotechnology industry cautiously welcomes FDA’s draft guidance to facilitate biosimilars’ development and approval

Protocells called thermal springs home
Cells’ ionic composition suggests life may have originated in thermal springs rather than deep sea vents

Interview: Building a nation of scientists
Goverdhan Mehta talks to Sheena Elliott and Elinor Richards about the progress of science in India and the challenges scientists face

Thermal imaging on the wing
Butterfly wings have been turned into infrared detectors by covering them in carbon nanotubes

Nanoparticles slow iron absorption in the gut
Study shows even ‘safe’ nanoparticles can have physiological consequences, say US researchers