Human urine can turn into this useful material. See what is it and how do scientists make this science wonder happen
can now be transformed into
hydroxyapatite
, a mineral found in bones and teeth as scientists have come up with a method. Funded by DARPA, this research uses genetically modified yeast to carry out the conversion. The process is efficient, environmentally useful, and could offer cost-effective materials for medical and industrial use.
Human Urine Transforms into Bone-Like Material
Researchers funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) have turned human urine into hydroxyapatite. This mineral is a key component of bones and teeth. The work was published in Nature Communications on May 6.
Play Video
Pause
Skip Backward
Skip Forward
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
0:00
Loaded
:
0%
0:00
Stream Type
LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
1x
Playback Rate
Chapters
Chapters
Descriptions
descriptions off
, selected
Captions
captions settings
, opens captions settings dialog
captions off
, selected
Audio Track
default
, selected
Picture-in-Picture
Fullscreen
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text
Color
White
Black
Red
Green
Blue
Yellow
Magenta
Cyan
Opacity
Opaque
Semi-Transparent
Text Background
Color
Black
White
Red
Green
Blue
Yellow
Magenta
Cyan
Opacity
Opaque
Semi-Transparent
Transparent
Caption Area Background
Color
Black
White
Red
Green
Blue
Yellow
Magenta
Cyan
Opacity
Transparent
Semi-Transparent
Opaque
Font Size
50%
75%
100%
125%
150%
175%
200%
300%
400%
Text Edge Style
None
Raised
Depressed
Uniform
Drop shadow
Font Family
Proportional Sans-Serif
Monospace Sans-Serif
Proportional Serif
Monospace Serif
Casual
Script
Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values
Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Hydroxyapatite is useful in
medical implants
because it is naturally found in the body. It is not usually rejected by the immune system. However, producing it in the lab is often costly and may involve toxic chemicals.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Llegan a RD cursos gratuitos para aprender a invertir en la bolsa de valores
Clases de Economía
Undo
Also Read:
Is Starbucks open or closed today on 4th of July? Check timings of stores on US Independence Day
What Makes Human Urine Transformation Happen?
Scientists used a yeast species called Saccharomyces boulardii. This yeast is usually found on the skin of tropical fruits and is used as a probiotic.
Live Events
The team genetically altered the yeast to break down urea from urine. Urea is a waste product formed when the body breaks down protein. The yeast, now called "osteoyeast," can turn the urea into hydroxyapatite.
One liter of urine can produce about one gram of the mineral. This conversion happens in less than one day.
Environmental and Commercial Benefits
According to co-author David Kisailus from the University of California, Irvine, the process solves two problems. It removes urine from wastewater, helping the environment. It also creates a useful material.
Hydroxyapatite made this way can be used in bone and dental implants. It may also serve other industries. These include archaeological restoration, biodegradable plastic alternatives, and construction materials.
Also Read:
NYT Mini Crossword Hints Today, July 4 2025: Answers, clues and tips to help save your winning streak
Scalable and Low-Cost Production
The process is simple and does not need advanced infrastructure. The yeast grows at low temperatures in large vats, similar to beer fermentation. This makes the method cheap and scalable. It can be used even in developing countries.
The researchers are working on ways to expand the method. They want to use it to 3D print hydroxyapatite materials. These could be applied in implants, buildings, and other areas.
Future Plans and Applications
With the method now tested, scientists plan to scale it up. They aim to apply it in multiple industries. The team is looking into making energy-efficient, cost-effective materials that are also biodegradable.
This discovery could help both the environment and industries that rely on strong, natural materials. It could also open new paths for medical and manufacturing advances.
FAQs
How does yeast convert urine into bone mineral?
Yeast breaks down urea from urine and releases hydroxyapatite, the same mineral found in human bones and teeth.
What are the uses of hydroxyapatite made from urine?
It can be used for implants, biodegradable plastics, archaeological restoration, and eco-friendly construction materials.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
8 master's programs that welcome students from any undergraduate discipline
8 master's programs that welcome students from any undergraduate discipline Not everyone picks the "right" undergraduate major—and that's perfectly okay. In today's flexible academic landscape, students are no longer confined by their first degree. Whether you studied literature, physics, or sociology, there are graduate programs that welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. These programs focus more on intellectual curiosity, transferable skills, and future potential than on your undergrad transcript. For students looking to pivot into new fields—whether it's business, public health, or data—this could be the perfect opportunity to realign with their passions. Here's a look at eight such graduate programs that typically do not require a specific undergraduate major and offer a wide doorway to new careers and academic journeys. Master of Business Administration (MBA) Arguably the most popular graduate pivot path, MBA programs are intentionally multidisciplinary. Business schools around the world invite students from varied academic backgrounds—ranging from engineering and humanities to law and science. While some quantitative skills are expected, most programs offer pre-MBA coursework or foundation modules. What matters most is your leadership potential, clarity of goals, and work experience. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Khám phá nhà tiền chế giá rẻ tại Đường Tôn Đức Thắng Nomad's Notebook Nhấp vào đây Undo Whether you've been working in a nonprofit, coding in a tech startup, or teaching, the MBA helps translate that experience into business impact. Master of Public Health (MPH) Public health is a rapidly expanding global field, and MPH programs value interdisciplinary input. Students from biology, economics, sociology, political science, and even journalism can enter this space. These programs focus on real-world problems—like disease prevention, healthcare policy, and social determinants of health—making room for voices from across academic lines. While certain tracks may benefit from a science background, most schools offer foundational courses to bring all students up to speed. Law (JD or LLB, depending on region) In countries like the United States and Canada, law is a graduate-level degree that doesn't require a prior legal education. Applicants to Juris Doctor (JD) programs come from disciplines as diverse as literature, psychology, economics, and even mathematics. Law schools look for analytical ability, writing skills, and a strong sense of justice or civic engagement. Even in countries where the LLB is undergraduate-level, several graduate-entry law pathways exist for students from other fields. Data Science and Analytics You don't need a computer science or math degree to break into data science. Many MSc programs in data science, business analytics, and artificial intelligence accept candidates from economics, physics, linguistics, or even philosophy. What's important is a demonstrated interest in data, comfort with logic, and a willingness to learn coding and statistics. These programs often include introductory courses in Python, R, and linear algebra to bring everyone to the same starting line. International Relations and Development Studies Fields like international relations, public policy, and development studies are open to students from practically any discipline. Whether you studied history, engineering, or media, your academic background can be an asset when viewed through a global lens. These programs value critical thinking, writing skills, and a deep curiosity about global affairs. They're ideal for students interested in diplomacy, NGOs, think tanks, or international law, and may not require technical expertise, just a global perspective. Education and Teaching ( MA in Education) If you're drawn to education—whether teaching, policy-making, or curriculum design—you don't need a prior degree in education. Many graduate teaching programs welcome students from all streams, especially those with work or volunteer experience in youth mentorship, tutoring, or community work. Modern programs also offer specialisations in EdTech, leadership, and inclusive education, expanding options for students from technology, management, or arts backgrounds. Psychology (Non-Clinical and Research Tracks) While clinical psychology often requires a prior degree in psychology or a related field, many universities offer non-clinical psychology or cognitive science programs for graduates from different disciplines. These are ideal for students interested in research, UX, behavioral science, or human-centered design. If you have a background in social sciences, biology, linguistics, or even computer science, you may find yourself eligible for research-based psychology master's programs with minimal prerequisites. Communication and Media Studies Graduate programs in journalism, media studies, or strategic communication often seek diversity in student profiles. Whether you're coming from political science, engineering, literature, or business, what matters is your ability to communicate clearly, think critically, and engage with modern media ecosystems. Some programs may ask for writing samples or a portfolio, but prior formal media training is rarely a must. Graduate education is no longer about fitting into a mold—it's about carving your own path. These programs are designed to help students explore new disciplines, realign their career trajectories, and make meaningful contributions in fields they're genuinely passionate about. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
Scientists confirm adult human brain continues to generate new neurons
Swedish researchers have found that even as people age, the hippocampus , the part of the brain responsible for memory, continues to produce new cells. The team identified the early-stage cells that eventually develop into neurons by analyzing brain samples from individuals of all ages using sophisticated instruments. These discoveries support the idea that our brains are still more flexible than previously thought, which may lead to new therapies for conditions affecting the brain and memory loss. The journal Science has published the study. It offers strong new evidence that neurons in the hippocampus, the brain's memory center, continue to develop well into late adulthood. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Sensação de queimação nos pés? Insira essa receita ao acordar G!Saú Undo Scientists from Sweden's Karolinska Institutet conducted the study. One area of the brain that is crucial for memory and learning as well as emotion control is the hippocampus. In a well-known study conducted back in 2013, Jonas Frisen's team at Karolinska Institute shown that mature humans' hippocampal regions are capable of producing new neurons . The time at which the cells were generated was subsequently ascertained by the researchers by measuring the amount of carbon-14 in DNA extracted from brain tissue. Identifying cells of origin The scope and importance of this neurogenesis—the creation of new neurons—are still up for discussion, though. The existence and division of neural progenitor cells—the cells that come before new neurons—in adult humans has not been conclusively demonstrated. "We have now been able to identify these cells of origin, which confirms that there is an ongoing formation of neurons in the hippocampus of the adult brain ," says the study's lead researcher, Jonas Frisen, a professor of stem cell research at the Karolinska Institute's Department of Cell and Molecular Biology. From 0 to 78 years of age In the new study, the researchers used a variety of cutting-edge techniques to analyze brain tissue from international biobanks belonging to individuals ranging in age from 0 to 78. They employed flow cytometry to examine cell characteristics and single-nucleus RNA sequencing, which examines gene activity in individual cell nuclei. They were able to distinguish between several stages of neuronal development—from stem cells to immature neurons, many of which were in the division phase—by fusing this with machine learning. The researchers employed RNAscope and Xenium, two tools that indicate the location of active genes in tissue, to locate these cells. These techniques verified that the newly generated cells were situated in the dentate gyrus, a particular region of the hippocampal region. Learning, memory development , and cognitive flexibility all depend on this region. The findings indicate that while adult neurons' progenitors resemble those of mice, pigs, and monkeys, there are some variations in the genes that are active. Individual differences were also significant; although some adult people had a high number of brain progenitor cells, others had almost none.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Is a common worm medication the cure for aggressive cancer?
Researchers at the University of Arizona Cancer Center find a possible new treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma. This aggressive skin cancer may respond to pyrvinium pamoate. The Food and Drug Administration approved this drug in 1955 for pinworm infections. Lab tests show the medication can stop cancer cell growth. It also reverses the cancer's neuroendocrine features. Cancer treatment has come a long way. From therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, targeted drugs, and immunotherapy, modern medicine offers different treatment options that can significantly improve survival rates and also the quality of life for many patients. Yet, for some rare and aggressive cancers, effective treatments remain limited. A medication originally developed to treat pinworm infections could offer a new line of defense against one of the aggressive cancers, according to a study. A new study led by University of Arizona Cancer Center researchers found that pinworm medication has the potential to treat aggressive skin cancer. The findings are published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation . Pinworm medication to treat skin cancer Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer. It is a rare but fast-growing neuroendocrine cancer that is three to five times more likely than melanoma to be deadly. Response rates to current therapies such as surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy are limited, resulting in a need for effective and broadly applicable therapeutics. 'Merkel cell carcinoma is increasing in incidence. Even though it's a rare cancer type, it mimics a lot of properties that other cancers have,' senior author Megha Padi, PhD, a U of A Cancer Center member and an assistant professor in the U of A College of Science, said in a statement. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One plan. Total peace of mind. ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo The researchers found that a common pinworm medication may stop and reverse cancer growth in Merkel cell carcinoma. The medication is pyrvinium pamoate, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1955 to treat pinworms. This drug has been shown to have antitumor potential in several different cancers, including breast, colorectal, pancreatic, and bladder cancers. However, this is the first time it has been studied in models of Merkel cell carcinoma. The study (Pic courtesy: iStock) To understand if the pinworm medication is effective in treating Merkel cell carcinoma, the researchers tested it in laboratory models. They found that pyrvinium pamoate inhibited cancer cell growth and reversed the cancer's neuroendocrine features. This medication helped to reduce tumour growth in mouse models of Merkel cell carcinoma. Top Supplements for Men's Health Over 30 'This is a hypothesis, but some people think the reason an antiparasitic agent could be effective against cancers is because tumors are a little bit like parasites in our body. Parasites and tumors must develop ways to use scarce resources in their host to feed themselves and allow for unlimited multiplication. If the pathways that they have hijacked to feed themselves are the same, then you get lucky, and you have a tumor type that could be amenable to killing by these antiparasitic drugs,' Padi said. The researchers decided to test pyrvinium pamoate after discovering the Wnt signaling pathway as one of the molecular mechanisms that drives the transition of normal cells into Merkel cell carcinoma. Pyrvinium pamoate is a known Wnt pathway inhibitor. While the pinworm medication has shown promise in treating aggressive forms of cancer, the researchers added that further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols for the development of pyrvinium pamoate as a clinically useful medication for Merkel cell carcinoma.
