Climate change
2026-10-21
Wildfires cause Amazon to emit 1.17 billion more metric tons of carbon than it absorbs
A study published on October 21 in Nature reveals that deforestation and wildfires reversed the forest’s CO2 balance between 2010 and 2024, nullifying its ability to sequester greenhouse gases.
Bioenergy
2026-10-21
Enzyme found in sugarcane roots increases sugar production from bagasse sixfold
Scientists at the University of São Paulo isolated the molecule while studying aerenchyma, structures the plant creates to form air channels in its roots. The discovery could increase the production of second-generation ethanol.
Climate change
2026-10-14
Extreme drought and heat from the last El Niño signal a “new normal” for tropical forests
An international study reveals that the unprecedented heat stress of 2023–2024 will likely recur in the coming decades unless emissions are reduced. The Amazon is the most vulnerable region.
International study reveals that the maturation of secondary forests naturally reduces the density of non-native trees and restores ecosystems.
Conservation
2026-10-21
Forensic genetics uncovers international trafficking of marine life
Through a partnership with IBAMA, researchers from São Paulo State University used DNA analysis to identify species in shipments of sea cucumbers and swim bladders of fish from the Amazon coast that were seized at Guarulhos Airport, Brazil’s largest airport.
Health
2026-10-21
‘Digital twin’ of the chest simulates application of light for treatment of pneumonia
A computational model predicts the path of light radiation within the body to tailor noninvasive therapies to each patient’s anatomy.
Precision medicine
2026-10-21
Brazilian biobank may help personalize cancer prevention in the public health system
An initiative developed at Hospital de Amor in São Paulo state cross-references genetic and epidemiological data to create risk assessment tools tailored to the Brazilian population’s diversity.
Computing
2026-10-21
Supercurrent enables the reading of quantum information without destroying it
The theoretical proposal eliminates the need for auxiliary circuits to “eavesdrop” on quantum bits by transforming the system’s own electric current into a mirror of the information.
inclusion
2026-10-21
Research aims to expand access to Paralympic sports and cultural spaces for people with disabilities
FAPESP launches four new Science Centers for Development focused on accessibility and inclusion.
Virology
2026-10-14
Survey of 102 cities reveals more than 40,000 new viruses
A study involving Brazilian researchers analyzed samples from subway stations, hospitals, bank branches, soil, and sewage in 31 countries. The researchers used genetic screening with a tool developed at the University of São Paulo.
Energy transition
2026-10-14
Perovskite solar cells generate electricity from artificial light indoors
The study was conducted by scientists at the Center for Innovation in New Energies – one of FAPESP’s Applied Research Centers –, in collaboration with researchers from Italy.
