The world, the universe and us Weekly: First brain engineering in a mammal; landmark in fossil fuel lawsuits, the legacy of Pope Francis
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Apr 25, 2025 James Dinneen, a climate scientist, discusses groundbreaking research linking emissions from major fossil fuel companies to significant economic damages caused by climate change. He reveals how recent advancements allow scientists to pinpoint the exact financial impact these companies have had on the planet. The conversation also touches on the first successful genetic engineering of mammal brain synapses, promising potential mental health benefits, and reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis as a climate advocate, questioning how his views will influence future leaders.
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Engineering Electrical Synapses
- Scientists engineered electrical synapses from fish proteins into mice brains, bypassing chemical signals.
- This changed mouse behaviors, increasing sociability and reducing anxiety and OCD-like symptoms.
Electrical Synapse Permanence
- Electrical synapses are simpler and more hardwired than chemical synapses, potentially making brain edits less reversible.
- Permanent changes could help debilitating conditions but require caution due to long-term risks.
Attributing Climate Damage Legally
- New research links fossil fuel company emissions directly to economic losses caused by heatwaves.
- Top five companies caused each over $1 trillion in damages from 1991-2020, aiding climate lawsuits.