Scientific Discoveries of 2024

HIV Prevention Breakthrough

Lenacapavir, a drug initially approved in 2022, has achieved astounding success rates in preventing HIV/AIDS.

Administered via a subcutaneous shot every six months, it targets HIV's capsid protein, offering a promising alternative to daily pills.

The Fruit Fly's Connectome Unveiled

Over ten years of collaboration produced a comprehensive map of the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) brain.

This "connectome" contains 140,000 neurons and millions of synaptic connections, providing insights into how our own minds function.

Super-Earth Discovery in Habitable Zone

NASA announced the exciting discovery of TOI-715 b, a "super-Earth" located within a "habitable zone" that could potentially sustain life.

Timeline Pinpoints Neanderthal-Human Interbreeding

New analysis reveals that Homo sapiens and Neanderthals lived together in Eurasia for approximately 7,000 years, from 50,500 years to 43,500 years ago.

CRISPR Meets AI Innovation

Researchers are harnessing AI to enhance the accuracy and safety of CRISPR gene editing technology, using large language models to develop a new open-source tool, OpenCRISPR-1.

Alzheimer's Detection Through Blood Test

A breakthrough blood test, PrecivityAD2, has shown high accuracy in detecting Alzheimer's disease, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Fossilized Reptile Skin Discovery

The oldest known reptile skin, believed to be from Captorhinus aguti, has been uncovered, offering insights into the evolution of reptile scales.

New Moons of Neptune and Uranus Discovered

Astronomers have spotted three additional moons orbiting Neptune and Uranus, expanding the known count of moons around these ice giants.

Ancient Cave Art in Patagonia

A vast collection of cave paintings, dating back over 10,000 years, has been found in Cueva Huenul 1 in Patagonia, providing a glimpse into the cultural life of early human ancestors.