Why did magic mushrooms evolve? We may finally have the answer 23. January 2026 (09:00) Many species of fungus across the world produce psilocybin, a chemical with psychedelic effects in humans, but its evolutionary purpose may be to deter mushroom-munching insects(New Scientist)
Ancient bacterium discovery rewrites the origins of syphilis 22. January 2026 (20:00) A 5500-year-old genome recovered from human skeletal remains in Colombia may give insights into the early evolution of syphilis and its relatives(New Scientist)
Our oral microbiome could hold the key to preventing obesity 22. January 2026 (17:00) A distinct set of microbes has been identified in people with obesity, which might help spot and treat the condition early – but whether it is a cause or effect of the condition isn’t known(New Scientist)
Strips of dried placenta help wounds heal with less scarring 22. January 2026 (11:00) Donated placentas can be processed into thin, sterilised sheets that are packed with natural healing substances and reduce scarring when applied to wounds(New Scientist)
Piercing crocodile close-up wins ecology photo competition 22. January 2026 (01:01) A striking shot of biting flies on the head of a crocodile is among the winning entries in the British Ecological Society’s annual Capturing Ecology photography competition(New Scientist)
Natural ovulation the best option before an IVF frozen embryo transfer 22. January 2026 (00:30) Women using frozen embryos as part of their IVF treatment can either choose to use a medicated cycle or their natural one to prepare their uterus for a pregnancy. Now, scientists have found that the latter option seems to carry fewer risks(New Scientist)
We were wrong about being able to 'nudge' people to improve the world 21. January 2026 (19:00) We thought we could address big social problems by steering individual behaviour. But "nudging" people doesn't work, say behavioural scientists Nick Chater and George Loewenstein(New Scientist)
