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.
A preliminary study conducted at São Paulo State University in Brazil shows that the approach is safe, does not affect sleep, and helps regulate inflammation markers.
Vaccines
2026-10-28
Brazilian vaccine against vivax malaria receives approval for human trials
Developed at the University of São Paulo in partnership with the Federal University of Minas Gerais and the company Cristália, the formulation could be the world’s first to target this strain of the disease. A Phase 1 clinical trial will evaluate its safety and the immune response it induces.
Precision Agriculture
2026-10-28
Molecular architecture determines tomato plant resistance to its main pest
Study reveals that replacing just four amino acids alters the three-dimensional shape of a plant’s defense molecule. This finding paves the way for creating more resistant commercial cultivars.
Innovation
2026-10-28
Offshore Technology Innovation Center opens headquarters and new laboratories
With an investment of BRL 165 million, OTIC brings together FAPESP, Shell Brasil, USP, and IPT to develop technologies focused on operational efficiency and low carbon emissions.
Innovation
2026-10-28
Drops of blood may serve as an early warning sign for cancer
The method analyzes biological fluids in search of specific molecules produced by tumor cells or by the body itself in response to the tumor.
Forest restoration
2026-10-22
Natural forest regeneration helps curb spread of invasive species
International study reveals that the maturation of secondary forests naturally reduces the density of non-native trees and restores ecosystems.
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.
