New Scientist Weekly
Most Amazing Science Stories of 2024 | Live at the Science Museum
Dec 20, 2024
Catherine de Lange, Editor of New Scientist, is joined by Sam Wong and Madeleine Cuff, both key players in science journalism. They explore mind-boggling scientific discoveries, like the finding of preserved brains and metallic nodules on the ocean floor acting as geobatteries. They dive into cosmic questions regarding alien life and celebrate unique cultural highlights from the year. Listeners are treated to a fun quiz on food and animal behavior while enjoying quirky facts, such as the world's largest coral reef and antifungal hospitals for frogs.
45:12
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Quick takeaways
- Research on preserved brains could unveil new insights into aging and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting preservation may be more frequent than expected.
- The discovery of metallic nodules on the ocean floor as sources of oxygen challenges our understanding of deep-sea ecosystems and mining impact.
Deep dives
The Mystery of Preserved Brains
Research reveals that after death, while most soft tissues decompose, some brains can remain intact under certain conditions. A study analyzed over 4,000 cases of preserved brains, identifying instances where the brain survived while all other tissue had decomposed, leading scientists to hypothesize potential mechanisms for this preservation. For instance, findings indicated that elements like iron might create stable molecular structures that resist decomposition, drawing parallels with neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. Understanding this could provide insights into aging and brain health, suggesting that preserved brains may be more common than previously thought, pending further exploration.
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