News Archive
Monday, August 9 2021
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Corn’s genetic diversity displayed in new genome study
A new study details the genomes of 26 lines of corn from across the globe. The genomes can help scientists piece together the puzzle of corn genetics. Using these new genomes as references, plant scientists can better select for genes likely to lead to better crop yields or stress tolerance.
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Change Agent: Aaron Sadow, finding the chemistry to add value, utility to plastic waste
With the support of a four-year, $12.8 million grant from a U.S. Department of Energy program to establish Energy Frontier Research Centers, Aaron Sadow and his colleagues are building a multi-member Institute for Cooperative Upcycling of Plastics (iCOUP) based at the Ames Laboratory. Their mission: work together with their various scientific backgrounds to find ways to transform plastic waste into renewable resources.
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New study details enzyme that allows coronavirus to resist antiviral medications
A new study details the structure of a critical enzyme present in SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This enzyme removes nucleoside antiviral medications from the virus’s RNA, rendering many treatments ineffective. Scientists could use data uncovered in the new study to find ways to inhibit the enzyme, possibly leading to more effective treatments.
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George Washington Carver to be built of LEGO bricks throughout Iowa State Fair at ISU exhibit
This year’s ISU exhibit at the Iowa State Fair – “Ignite Innovation Showcase On the Road” – will be in the Varied Industries building Aug. 12-22. An ISU graduate will build a life-sized LEGO version of one of the university’s most widely-recognized innovative graduates: George Washington Carver. Colleges and units will demonstrate innovation happening in their areas, and ISU and high school teams will compete in a daily LEGO building challenge.
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$20 million federal grant launches AI institute for better crops, agricultural production
The researchers behind a new artificial intelligence institute say their work can accelerate the productivity and sustainability of agriculture. The National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture are supporting the researchers’ idea with a five-year, $20 million grant to establish an AI Institute for Resilient Agriculture based at Iowa State.
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New study sheds light on function of sex chromosomes in turtles
A new study led by an Iowa State University scientist sheds light on how organisms have evolved to address imbalances in sex chromosomes. The study looks at a species of softshell turtle, but the results could help to illuminate an important evolutionary process in many species. The research centers on a process known as sex chromosome dosage compensation.
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A wild hair: Using hair to gauge stress response in pigs
Researchers at Iowa State University aim to use hair samples from pigs to identify genetics related to stress response. The effort could help produce pigs that lead less stressful lives and are more productive. And it all starts with a quick haircut.
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Iowa State sets $559.1 million external funding record, including federal COVID aid
Iowa State University attracted a record $559.1 million in external funding for fiscal year 2021, including $231.1 million in sponsored research funding and $90.2 million in federal COVID-19 relief funding. Research projects winning support last fiscal year included studies of rural broadband, ultra-precision agriculture, coronavirus testing and technology for individualized cancer treatments.
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Postcard from Campus: Summer Vacation
Though many students are away for the summer, Iowa State's campus continues to shine.