April 25, 2024

Touchpoint 1
Cells may possess hidden communication system

What is it?
Scientists have believed for a long time that DNA and genes control cells. But it turns out, cells may have a separate information processing system outside of DNA. Scientists now believe there is a coating on the outside of the cell that is constantly monitoring the environment so the cell can adapt rapidly.

Potential message to students:
Does it make sense to you that a cell would almost need to monitor the environment outside the cell in order to function properly? Do you think DNA defines the cell type, but once the cell is functioning it has its own communication systems?

Touchpoint 2
How Do Birds Flock? Researchers Do the Math to Reveal Previously Unknown Aerodynamic Phenomenon

What is it?
Flocks of birds are organized in very precise ways. Many believe this is due to aerodynamics, so birds in the back of the flock do not have to work so hard. Scientists have tried to emulate this bird flapping to show how air flows around bird wings make it easier or harder to fly.

Potential message to students:
Scientists have believed for decades that aerodynamics are the reason for patterns of bird flocks. But do you think it’s cool that someone finally tested this theory? Do you wonder why it took until 2024 to really test this using fake wings and motors?

Touchpoint 3
Discovering cancers of epigenetic origin without DNA mutation

What is it?
For 30+ years, scientists believed that cancer is caused by genetic mutations. DNA makes all sorts of cell types, like skin. But when the DNA gets messed up, it can make cancer. Now, scientists believe you can get cancer without a genetic mutation.

Potential message to students:
Do you believe something scientists have thought for 30+ years may be wrong? Do you think this is going to change the way we research cancers? Do you think this is going to impact the way new treatments are developed?

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