Scientists discover melanoma stem cells

In the world of cancer research, there's growing evidence for cancer stem cells – rogue stem cells that fuel the growth of tumours. And now researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine in the US have found them in melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

Genes for centenarians

Scientists have identified a series of genetic markers capable of predicting, with 77% certainty, who will live to more than 100.

Never arm-wrestle a sabre-toothed tiger

Far from being cute kitties, sabre-toothed tigers were lethal hunters, roaming North and South American until around 10,000 years ago, searching for bisons, camels and other unfortunate animals. Today we know them for their super-sized teeth – they had exceptionally large canines for biting their pr...

Oldest evidence for multi-celled life discovered

Scientists working in West Africa have uncovered an incredible clutch of fossils that appear to represent the earliest ever remains of complex life.

Coring an Atom with an X-Ray Laser

Researchers in America have used a very powerful x-ray laser to strip away the electrons from an atom of neon. But they also have been able to very carefully strip away only those electrons which are closest to the atom’s centre, creating the atomic equivalent of a cored apple......