Articles for category: Biology & Genetics, Disease & Medicine

a palm tree sitting on top of a sandy beach

The Strange Case of the Coconut Yellowing Disease

Maria Faith Saligumba

In the world of lush tropical landscapes and swaying palm trees, the coconut holds a special place. Known for its versatility and numerous uses, the coconut tree is a beloved symbol of island life. However, lurking within this paradise is a mysterious affliction known as Coconut Yellowing Disease. This condition, which causes the vibrant green ...

Looking up through the dense green canopy in a vibrant forest, showcasing nature's beauty.

What If Every Species Suddenly Stopped Reproducing?

Maria Faith Saligumba

Imagine waking up tomorrow to discover that not a single animal, plant, or microorganism on Earth could reproduce anymore. No birds laying eggs, no flowers producing seeds, no bacteria dividing. This isn’t science fiction – it’s a thought experiment that reveals the intricate web of life that keeps our planet functioning. While such a scenario ...

Alzheimers

Could Psychedelics Treat Alzheimer’s? The Surprising Connection Between Brain Plasticity and Psychedelic Drugs

Annette Uy

In recent years, the conversation around psychedelics has shifted dramatically from taboo to tantalizing, especially in the realm of mental health and neurological research. While once associated primarily with counterculture movements, these substances are now being explored for their potential to unlock new pathways in the brain, particularly in relation to diseases like Alzheimer’s. The ...

Birds of the Night: Owls and Other Flyers

Owls Can Rotate Their Heads 270° — Here’s How They Don’t Die Doing It

Trizzy Orozco

Picture this: you’re walking through a moonlit forest when suddenly, a pair of glowing eyes locks onto yours. As you move to get a better look, the creature’s head swivels around in what seems like an impossible arc, never breaking eye contact. This isn’t science fiction—it’s the remarkable reality of owl anatomy. These silent hunters ...

brown tree bark

From Leaf to Pill: How Willow Trees Gave Us Aspirin

Maria Faith Saligumba

Every morning, millions of people reach for a small white pill that traces its origins back to the ancient bark of willow trees. What seems like a simple act of modern medicine actually represents one of humanity’s most remarkable journeys from nature’s pharmacy to synthetic chemistry. The story of aspirin isn’t just about a drug; ...

brown and black abstract painting

This Worm Grows a New Head Every Time It Loses One

Maria Faith Saligumba

Imagine slicing a worm in half and watching both pieces grow into completely new, fully functional organisms. While this might sound like science fiction, it’s actually the daily reality for one of nature’s most remarkable creatures—the planarian flatworm. These tiny aquatic animals possess what scientists call “biological immortality,” a superpower that allows them to regenerate ...

A woman displaying weight loss by wearing oversized pants and crop top, showing tattoos.

What’s the Point of Belly Buttons?

Maria Faith Saligumba

Every morning, millions of people glance down at their stomachs while getting dressed, catching sight of that curious little dimple or protrusion right in the center of their abdomen. Most barely give it a second thought, yet this tiny feature holds one of the most profound stories in human biology. Your belly button isn’t just ...