Animal research are notoriously unhealthy at figuring out human remedies. Round 95% of the medicine developed by way of animal analysis fail in folks, however till not too long ago there was no different possibility.
Now organs on chips, also called microphysiological techniques, could supply a very viable various. They’re triumphs of bioengineering, intricate constructions furrowed with tiny channels which can be lined with residing human tissues that increase and contract with the circulate of fluid and air, mimicking key organ features like respiration, blood circulate, and peristalsis, the muscular contractions of the digestive system.
It’s solely early days, but when they work as hoped, organs on chips might resolve one of many greatest issues in drugs at this time. Learn the total story.
—Harriet Brown
This story is from the forthcoming print subject of MIT Expertise Evaluate, which explores the theme of Play. It’s set to go dwell on Wednesday June 26, so if you happen to don’t already, subscribe now to get a replica when it lands.
How underwater drones might form a possible Taiwan-China battle
A possible future battle between Taiwan and China could be formed by novel strategies of drone warfare involving superior underwater drones and elevated ranges of autonomy, in response to a brand new war-gaming experiment by the suppose tank Middle for a New American Safety (CNAS).
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, drones have been aiding in what navy consultants describe as the primary three steps of the “kill chain”—discovering, focusing on, and monitoring a goal—in addition to in delivering explosives. Drones like these could be far much less helpful in a doable invasion of Taiwan. As an alternative, a battle with Taiwan would probably make use of undersea and maritime drones to scout for submarines. Learn the total story.