Engineered Bacterium Could Shield People from Mercury Toxicity
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 1 May 2025
UC San Diego and UCLA scientists engineered a probiotic bacterium that removes toxic methylmercury from seafood in mice, offering hope for a therapy to protect humans—especially pregnant women—from mercury-related health risks
Keywords: methylmercury, engineered bacteria, UC San Diego, UCLA, seafood safety, probiotic therapy, public health
Elephant Tragedy Prompts Scientists to Probe Viral Secrets of Botswana Water Pans
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 7 May 2025
UC San Diego researchers studying Botswana’s 2020 elephant die-off found diverse microbes and viruses, including EEHVs, in water pans. Their work highlights the need for monitoring wildlife water sources to prevent future health crises.
Keywords: elephants, Botswana die-off, UC San Diego, cyanobacteria, viruses, wildlife health, conservation
Pollution From the Tijuana River Affects Air Quality in San Diego
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 29 May 2025
UC San Diego researchers found sewage from the Tijuana River aerosolizes, spreading drugs, chemicals, and pollutants into coastal air. The study warns of long-term health risks, urging infrastructure fixes and cross-border cooperation.
Keywords: Tijuana River, wastewater, aerosols, UC San Diego, pollution, public health, cross-border crisis
