DNA Detectives: How scientists are using DNA from the environment to see the unseen

by Sanjana Kulkarnifigures by Swathy Karamchedu Forensic DNA testing has become crucial in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. DNA has linked people to crime scenes using hair or blood and exonerated wrongfully convicted individuals. This type of DNA is called environmental DNA (eDNA) because it is collected from the environment, rather than from a person. Scientists have also begun analyzing eDNA from non-human organisms. All … Continue reading DNA Detectives: How scientists are using DNA from the environment to see the unseen

The Cat’s Out of the Bag! The biological reason why cats can’t get enough of catnip

by Whitney Liebermanfigures by Allie Elchert If you’re a feline enthusiast, you’ve almost certainly noticed the unusual behavior of cats in the presence of catnip. This plant, a member of the mint family, can be purchased at your local pet store or grown in your backyard. A sprinkle of catnip sends most cats into a frenzy characterized by behaviors such as chewing, rolling, and head-rubbing. … Continue reading The Cat’s Out of the Bag! The biological reason why cats can’t get enough of catnip