Toxicology

By Michael Haederle, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center February 27, 2024Researchers at the University of New Mexico have discovered microplastics in all tested human placenta samples, revealing a concerning presence of these particles in the human body.Microplastics detected in all examined human placentas point to significant environmental contamination and health risks, with future research needed to understand the full implications.A flurry of recent studies has found that microplastics are present in…

Therapeutic antibody may enhance snake venom toxicity, test shows after DTU researchers slightly changed how they tested an antibody that had previously shown promise as an antidote to snake venom from Bothrops Asper. Credit: Andrew DuBoisA promising antibody failed testing. This is good news for developing a broad-spectrum antidote against the world’s most dangerous snake venoms.What makes a soldier switch sides? That is a really good question. Especially when the soldier is an antibody that is supposed to defend the…

A legal battle over how death row prisoners in Alabama can be killed has reached a critical point. On Wednesday, a federal judge ruled that the state can proceed with its planned execution of inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen gas. The execution is scheduled for later this month and would be the first ever to implement the colorless and odorless gas. But Smith’s lawyers have condemned the method as untested and potentially cruel and will likely appeal the decision.Are You Rich Enough to Buy This Folding TV?The…

We’re still waiting for the official cause of death for Matthew Perry, who was famous for starring in “Friends” and struggling mightily with substance abuse. Even in the addiction recovery world, I’ve heard people suggest Perry’s legacy depends on whether the pending toxicology reports show he suffered a relapse. They couldn’t be more wrong.Yes, Perry died of still unknown causes. More important, he changed the conversation about addiction in our country. More people will get help because of his bravery. Fewer people…

A team of scientists may have just found an antidote to one of the most infamous natural poisons in the world: the death cap mushroom. In a new study, they detail experiments showing that a common medical dye can counteract the fungi’s deadly effects in mice. Given its already approved uses, the team believes that the dye could save plenty of human lives in the near future.Little Mermaid Director Rob Marshall on Handling the Music of a Disney Legend | io9 InterviewDelicious and useful as many mushrooms are, some species…

Cosmetics and personal care products enhance the way we look and feel. During the pandemic, I started a self-care facial routine.It helped me cope with lockdown orders, while simultaneously adjusting to my new identity as a mom. I applied toner, serum, and cream to brighten mornings and relax evenings.But many of these products contain chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals'. They are used as ingredients that can make products waterproof, long-lasting and help them…

Last Friday, Anne Heche was hospitalized after being involved in two car crashes, the latter of which started a fire and left her severely burned. A few days later, Heche’s representatives shared that the actress was in “critical condition” and had not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident. Now reported details have come in about Heche’s toxicology report, but the findings are complicated.TMZ has heard from unnamed law enforcement sources that Anne Heche was not under the influence of alcohol during her…