Research into the retina and optic nerve using stem-cell models has unveiled specific genetic markers of glaucoma—the world’s leading cause of permanent blindness— possibly opening up new treatments for the condition. Glaucoma is a blanket term describing a group of eye conditions that do damage to the retinal ganglion cells—neurons near the inner eye— that…

Researchers from the University of Melbourne have discovered that current understandings of evolution may not be correct after a study on an ancient Australian grasshopper species revealed new insights into the animal kingdom. The researchers found that W. virgo, which employs parthenogenetic reproduction—a form of reproduction by females of a species that can develop eggs…

Researchers from Flinders University have detected microplastics in South Australian beach waters and mussels, warning that microplastics are potentially entering the human food chain. “By investigating microplastic load in the mussel, we call attention to the implications of microplastic pollution on South Australia’s unique marine ecosystems and on the local human food chain,” said Janet…