Categories
Biochemistry C&EN

Liquid assets: How mucus, tears and saliva protect us from infection – in C&EN

Snot, tears, and spit might sound unpleasant, but all three are an important part of our immune systems. In the latest edition of Periodic Graphics in Chemical and Engineering News, we compare them and look at their components’ role in protecting us from infections. View the full graphic on the C&EN site.

Categories
C&EN Medicinal Chemistry Uncategorized

The chemistry of acne treatments – in C&EN

Acne is the bane of teenagers, but it also affects adults. In the latest edition of Periodic Graphics in Chemical & Engineering News, we look at the causes of acne and some medications used to treat it. Click here to view the full graphic.

Categories
Biochemistry

Dandelion chemistry: Diuretics and the tyres of the future

Dandelions: Loved by children, loathed by (most) gardeners. Often dismissed as a weed, dandelions lend themselves to several uses — and might be the solution to making more sustainable car tyres.

Categories
Biochemistry

Crocus chemistry: Saffron, colours, and poisonous imposters

Did you know that saffron is obtained from a type of crocus? This is a fact that had somehow escaped me, and which I only discovered when wondering why saffron contains a compound called ‘crocin’. Turns out that, yes, there is a connection!

Categories
C&EN Medicinal Chemistry

A short history of antiviral drugs – in C&EN

COVID has generated unprecedented levels of interest in antiviral medicines, but they’re just the latest in a long line of antivirals going back almost 70 years. The latest edition of Periodic Graphics in Chemical & Engineering News looks at some of the key drugs, from the first antiviral to be approved to antivirals for HIV […]

Categories
Food Chemistry

How do plant milks compare to cow’s milk?

For plant milk manufacturers, business is booming. In 2021, 32% of British people surveyed drank plant-based milk as part of their diet, compared to 25% in 2020. How are these milks made, and how do they compare to cow’s milk when it comes to their environmental impact and nutritional value? This graphic takes a look.