TSU Foundation

09/05/2026

09/05/2026

Experts found Asian DNA from an unknown population in Native Americans.

A newly discovered "ghost" population in the DNA of Indigenous Americans is rewriting the history of migration across the continent.

Modern DNA technology has uncovered a hidden chapter in the history of the Americas, revealing a "ghost" population that left its mark on Indigenous ancestry roughly 1,300 years ago. By sequencing the genomes of nearly 200 individuals, including members of Andean communities like the Quechua, researchers identified a distinct genetic signal that does not match any known ancient group.

This discovery suggests that a previously undocumented wave of people arrived from Asia and integrated into existing South American societies, rather than replacing them. Because no physical remains of this specific group have been found, their existence is known solely through the persistent genetic legacy they left behind in modern populations.

This finding challenges the long-held "first-in" model of American migration, which traditionally focused on a limited number of early waves crossing from Asia into North America. Instead, the evidence points to a much more dynamic and continuous "web" of human movement that lasted for millennia. These later interactions and migrations highlight the incredible resilience and complexity of Indigenous history, proving that ancient lineages often blended together in ways that archaeological records alone cannot capture. As genomic science advances, it continues to reveal how lost populations helped shape the diverse genetic landscape of the modern world.

source: Nature. The evolutionary history and unique genetic diversity of Indigenous Americans. Nature.

10/03/2026

10/03/2026

Scientists just confirmed that that long-term cannabis use does NOT increase cognitive decline.

New 44-year study debunks the myth that cannabis causes permanent IQ loss, showing users may actually experience less cognitive decline than non-users.

New research is shattering the long-held myth that cannabis use leads to permanent cognitive decline. A landmark 2024 study tracking over 5,000 Danish men for more than four decades found no evidence that cannabis use accelerates brain aging or drains intelligence. Remarkably, the data revealed that cannabis users actually experienced slightly less IQ decline over the 44-year period than those who never used the drug. These findings suggest that adult cognitive health is far more resilient than previously assumed, while separate research even indicates that low-dose THC may help reverse signs of brain aging by restoring vital neural connections.

However, medical experts caution that while IQ scores may remain stable, high-potency and heavy use carry significant biological trade-offs. Frequent consumption has been linked to DNA alterations affecting immune function and energy production, alongside physical risks like cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Mental health also remains a critical factor, as high-potency products can increase the risk of paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis in susceptible individuals. The takeaway is clear: while cannabis may not make you permanently "stupid," the frequency and intensity of use remain the primary drivers of its overall impact on your health and well-being.

source: Høeg, K. M., Frodegaard, R. L., Grønkjær, M., Osler, M., Mortensen, E. L., Flensborg-Madsen, T., & Okholm, G. T. Cannabis use and age-related changes in cognitive function from early adulthood to late midlife in 5162 Danish men. Brain and Behavior.

08/08/2025

Scientists found a brand new gene — and it may be the secret to stopping cancer.

A newly discovered gene may hold the key to both fighting cancer and enhancing overall health by controlling how the body processes vitamin D.

In a recent study, scientists identified a gene called SDR42E1 as a critical player in absorbing and metabolizing vitamin D—a hormone essential not only for strong bones and muscle function but also for immune defense and cell regulation.

When researchers used CRISPR technology to switch off SDR42E1 in colorectal cancer cells, tumor growth stopped entirely. The gene appears to control thousands of downstream genetic processes tied to cell survival, many of which are directly involved in cancer progression.

What makes this discovery especially compelling is its dual potential. While blocking SDR42E1 could help selectively destroy cancer cells, boosting its function might improve outcomes in conditions tied to vitamin D deficiency, such as autoimmune diseases and metabolic disorders. The gene’s central role in producing calcitriol—the active form of vitamin D—positions it as both a potential target for precision oncology and a tool for enhancing health in other medical contexts. As researchers look toward future therapies, they caution that any treatment involving SDR42E1 will require careful balance to avoid disrupting the body’s vitamin D equilibrium.

Source: Hendi, N. N., & Nemer, G. (2025). SDR42E1 modulates vitamin D absorption and cancer pathogenesis: insights from an in vitro model. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 27 May 2025.

29/07/2025

🌍 Earth's magnetic North Pole is moving. This image shows how its shifted over the last 400 years.

The pole doesn’t just inch forward. It can drift tens of kilometers a year.

To this end, the North Magnetic Pole has been on the move for centuries — and it is moving fast enough now to raise eyebrows.

This historical mapping from 1640 to 2020 illustrates how the pole has shifted dramatically from Canada toward Siberia, especially in the past 100 years. The change isn’t just a curiosity for cartographers. It’s a window into the churning dynamics of Earth’s molten iron core, which drives the magnetic field.

What makes this even more fascinating is how scientists have tracked the pole’s location over four centuries. They've relied on everything from sailors’ compass logs and volcanic rocks to modern satellite data.

Unlike the fixed geographic North Pole, the magnetic one is dynamic, shifting daily within an oval-shaped zone due to natural magnetic fluctuations. These shifts have practical implications, affecting navigation systems, migratory animals, and even technology that relies on precise geomagnetic positioning.

Source: Nature

29/07/2025

🚨 France made it illegal for grocery stores to throw out edible food. It has to be donated.

And research shows the law is working.

In France, a groundbreaking law has taken aim at the global crisis of food waste by targeting one of its most visible culprits: large grocery stores.

Since 2016, French supermarkets have been banned from discarding edible food, instead requiring them to donate near-expiration goods to charities.

The law has already led to a 20% rise in food donations, rescuing over 46,000 tons annually and turning waste into meals for people in need. Stores also benefit from tax incentives, making the program appealing from both a humanitarian and business perspective. The law is credited with raising public awareness and inspiring food-saving apps like Too Good To Go, allowing consumers to purchase discounted surplus food from local businesses.

However, critics argue the law only scratches the surface. Grocery stores account for just 14% of food waste in France, with agriculture, processing, and consumers making up the bulk.

NGOs have voiced concerns about receiving unusable donations, prompting calls for better regulation and broader accountability.

Despite these shortcomings, France’s food waste law is a world first and is drawing attention globally from countries like Peru, Malaysia, and Finland. While the law isn’t perfect, it’s a bold step in reshaping how nations confront food waste—both by changing business practices and redefining social responsibility.

Source:
Saltzman, M. (2019, August 31). “Is France’s groundbreaking food-waste law working?” PBS NewsHour.