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Nerd Safari #2
From Naked Mole Rats to Mission Impossible
Welcome to this today’s edition of Nerd Safari, keeping you informed about the tech and trends you need to keep an eye on for the future.
In this issue:
More immersive but less intrusive AR
Battery life and signal interference have been two of the larger obstacles in realizing the potential of smart contact lenses. Now, researchers are exploring the use of radio frequency (RFID) tags embedded within the lenses to track eye movements. RFID’s, the same chips in your credit card, are inherently secure, lightweight, yet require no power.
Groundbreaking Gene Discovery and Transfer Could Extend Human Lifespan
Scientists may have unlocked a key to human longevity with the discovery of a gene that could significantly extend lifespan. Critically, researchers have also successfully transferred this gene from naked mole rats, known for their exceptional lifespans, into mice, resulting in a 4.4% increase in median lifespan of the mice.
The gene in question is responsible for the production of hyaluronic acid, a substance that helps protect cells from damage. Scientists believe that by increasing the amount of hyaluronic acid in humans, they may be able to achieve similar life-extending effects.
Space Research Benefits for Healthcare
Space exploration isn't just about venturing beyond our planet; it's also about improving life back on Earth. Space research is playing a crucial role in advancements in healthcare, with some surprising applications.
One area of focus is studying the effects of space travel on human cells. The microgravity environment of space accelerates the aging process of immune system cells. By studying these cells, specifically liver cells which are known to regenerate, researchers can gain valuable insights into the mechanisms of aging on Earth. This also has the potential to lead to new treatments for diseases caused by a weakened immune system, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV).
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