Better catalysts, made-to-order

Utah chemists captured enough data on the crucial steps in a reaction to accurately predict the structures of the most efficient catalysts, those that would speed the process with the least amount of unwanted byproducts. The new approach could help chemists design entirely new catalysts. With a clearer understanding of the forces at play as molecules cling and shape-shift together, chemists might be able to take advantage of interactions now regarded as unimportant or impossible to control.

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Utah team gets $1.4M for bionic hand research

University of Utah researchers have received $1.4 million to further develop an implantable neural interface for thought-controlled prosthetic hands that convey feelings of touch and movement.

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Predatory sea snails produce weaponized insulin

The venom of a tropical cone snail contains large amounts of specialized insulin that rapidly disables fish. Discoverers at the University of Utah say this stripped down version of the hormone may prove useful in studying insulin function and energy metabolism in people.

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It’s game on for air quality

A new web-based action video game uncovers the forces behind the air pollution that plagues the Salt Lake Valley during the winter months. University of Utah developers say the goal is to help students think critically about the science and politics of air quality along the Wasatch Front.

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