Smithsonian Magazine: 7 scientific discoveries of 2023 that will lead to new named inventions

 Breakthroughs and Discoveries in Scientific Research

 Redefining the Future of Science

We have often heard that scientific papers conclude with phrases like "In the future, scientists will..." usually without specifying a timeline for this future, and some studies continue for decades. However, this does not diminish the importance of the breakthroughs that have occurred in the field of science. Here's how the discoveries of this year could lead to new developments.

Caterpillar of the Megalopyge Moth Family Pierces Holes in Cell Walls

The delicate larvae of Megalopyge opercularis, measuring no more than 3 cm in length, are capable of biting a person to the extent that hospitalization may be necessary. After studying the effects of the potent caterpillar venom, scientists found that it contains an unusually shape-shifting protein. In the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers described this transformation: when the protein reaches the outer surface of the cell, it takes on a donut shape and then pierces a hole in the cell wall. Scientists believe that by mimicking the caterpillar protein's punch, they can develop new strategies for drug delivery—targeting cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Researchers caution that such work will take at least 20 years.

Bears Do Not Form Blood Clots During Hibernation

Despite the fact that bears lie motionless for several months in hibernation, they do not suffer from blood clots during this time. As reported by scientists in the journal Science, it all comes down to the protein HSP47, which shows significant seasonal changes: in summer, it is present in the bear's body in large quantities, and in winter, it almost disappears. Building on previous research, scientists realized that HSP47 helps blood platelets bind to white blood cells to fight infections. Thus, by lowering protein levels during hibernation, bears have created protection against blood clot formation. When researchers conducted a 27-day bed rest experiment on humans, they found that HSP47 behaves in exactly the same way. With this discovery, scientists hope to understand who is most at risk of clotting and open up opportunities for preventive treatment for individuals at risk of blood clots.

The Glowing Eyes Help Crustaceans Hide from Predators

Some underwater inhabitants, such as glass squids, are transparent, which helps them to hide from predators. However, there is one drawback - their eyes reflect light and shine, which can give away their location. At the same time, some shrimp larvae have learned to overcome this annoyance: their eyes are hidden by a plate controlled by light, which effectively changes the shine of the eyes depending on the color of the surrounding water. This way, the small crustaceans can become invisible. As scientists reported in the journal Science, the "cups" of the shrimp are made up of microscopic balls that reflect light like mini disco balls, forming an irregular matrix with spaces between them, so the crustaceans can still see. This glass shield can reflect different colors of light, from dark blue to yellow and green, depending on the animal's camouflage needs. This discovery will help scientists find ways to improve light control techniques in solar panels, remote sensing, and communications.

In addition, since the small glass balls create a uniform color, these structures can inspire environmentally friendly paints or even nail polish.

Spots on Wings Give Monarch Butterflies an Extra Lift

Monarchs are the only butterflies that migrate to warmer climates in the winter and return to the north when temperatures rise. They cover a great distance, and in order to save energy, they often fly in air currents. Additionally, as researchers reported in the journal PLOS One, the pattern of dark and light-colored wings can give them an extra boost. Because dark areas are warmer and light areas are cooler, small pockets of air can form around the spots, which can provide an extra lift for the monarchs and reduce drag on their wings. The researchers say that simulating the white spots of the monarchs can help engineers create more efficient drones - so they can carry a larger payload.

The Moisture Absorption of Desert Plants with the Assistance of Salt

Desert plants have evolved remarkable strategies to acquire moisture from the air with the assistance of salt. While most plants develop longer roots in dry conditions, halophytes have chosen a different approach: they draw saline water from the soil and extract salt from their leaves. Additionally, they collect water from the air at night in the form of crystallized moisture. In a research paper published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, scientists stated that this discovery could aid engineers in improving methods for extracting moisture from the air in water-scarce regions.

Insects excrete urine to conserve energy

Insects, specifically the glassy-winged sharpshooter (Homalodisca vitripennis), have been found to utilize urine as a means of conserving energy. Researchers observed that this insect creates a droplet of urine on a flexible appendage called the anal tube, which rotates at a joint, allowing the urine to spread rapidly. According to scientists in the journal Nature Communications, the droplets moved through the air 40% faster than the tube. This phenomenon, known as "accelerated launch," could potentially be employed to create more efficient methods for removing water from electronic devices. For example, a smartwatch could expel liquid by vibrating its speaker. Furthermore, the high-speed movement could inspire the development of techniques to prevent glasses from fogging due to vibration.

Whales with Curved Heads Have the Ability to Repair DNA, Leading to Enhanced Cancer Resistance

Beaked whales have been discovered to possess proteins that may be linked to DNA repair and increased cancer resistance. In 2023, researchers found that beaked whales are more likely to have proteins known as CIRBP and RPA2, which play a role in gene repair. As reported by researchers in the journal bioRxiv preprint, regulating such proteins in the human body could mitigate DNA damage. Evolutionary ecologists suggest that the solution to cancer may be within reach if we earnestly pursue it.

 conclusion

 these  scientific findings shed light on the extraordinary adaptations and potential benefits found in nature. From the resourceful strategies of  in understanding the behavior of caterpillar venom and the seasonal changes in bear physiology  insights for. desert plants to the energy-saving mechanisms of insects and the potential cancer resistance of beaked whales, these discoveries offer valuable insights that could inspire technological advancements and medical breakthroughs. These discoveries not only expand our knowledge of the natural world but also pave the way for innovative approaches in drug delivery and preventive medicine. As we look to the future, it is clear that these breakthroughs will continue to shape the trajectory of scientific research and medical progress for years to come.