Methanol News and Research

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This edible flower could do more than brighten a plate

A review of 76 publications finds that pot marigold contains more than 500 reported secondary metabolites, along with natural pigments, antioxidants, and substantial dietary fiber. Early food studies report promising results in yogurt, bread, pasta, and edible oils, but limited product trials and no clinical evidence currently prevent human health claims.

28 Jul 2026

New laser technology detects counterfeit alcohol through sealed bottles

A laser-based technology being developed at Adelaide University could soon help authorities detect deadly counterfeit alcohol, expose wine fraud and even identify dangerous chemicals inside sealed bottles – all without opening them.

17 Jul 2026

Alcohol consumption plays a major role in India’s mouth cancer burden

Even a low daily intake of alcohol--just 9 g or around one standard drink-is linked to a 50% heightened risk of mouth (buccal mucosa) cancer in India, with the greatest risk associated with locally brewed alcohol, finds a large comparative study, published online in the open access journal BMJ Global Health.

23 Dec 2025

Scientists identify Bidara leaf extracts as the most effective natural antimicrobial source

Researchers tested methanolic extracts from the leaves, bark, roots, stems, and fruits of Ziziphus mauritiana (Bidara) and found the leaves had the strongest antibacterial and antifungal effects. The study highlights the plant’s antimicrobial potential while emphasizing the need for further bioactive compound identification and toxicity testing.

22 Oct 2025

Citrus flavonoid hesperidin lowers oxidative damage in cell experiments

Researchers tested hesperidin extracted from citrus peels and found it reduced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in cultured immune cells. The findings highlight hesperidin’s strong in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, warranting further in vivo research.

11 Sep 2025

How dietary formaldehyde links to worsening diabetes and memory loss

A new review reveals how everyday foods and hidden exposures to formaldehyde may fuel insulin resistance and chip away at memory, but also points to dietary patterns and emerging therapies that could help reduce the risk.

20 Aug 2025

Nudibranchs (sea slugs) emerge as a promising source of cancer drugs

Researchers reviewed the antitumor potential of bioactive compounds from nudibranchs, marine mollusks that acquire or synthesize potent chemical defenses. These compounds, often sourced from their diet, show promising cancer-fighting activity through mechanisms like DNA damage, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

12 Aug 2025

Researchers find indoor air teeming with invisible microplastics

A groundbreaking study reveals that invisible microplastics in homes and cars may be entering our lungs by the tens of thousands each day, underscoring a hidden risk of modern indoor life.

31 Jul 2025

Acorn-based coffee boosts antioxidants with minimal health risk

Oak acorns processed into coffee-like beverages are rich in antioxidants and safe, positioning them as a sustainable superfood for health-conscious individuals.

18 Jul 2025

Is aspartame safe for blood sugar? Study answers the big question

A major systematic review and meta-analysis found that aspartame has little to no effect on blood glucose, insulin, or appetite-regulating hormones in humans. Evidence certainty is very low, with no significant long-term metabolic impact identified.

25 Jun 2025

Novel sensor quickly detects small amounts of methanol in breath

Breathalyzers are a frequently used tool to measure the amount of ethanol in someone's breath, which relates to their blood alcohol content. However, alcoholic beverages contaminated by methanol (sometimes called wood alcohol) are hard to identify and toxic if ingested.

11 Jun 2025

Leveraging the Radian ASAP in standard casework

Explore how the Radian ASAP mass spectrometer is being used to streamline and enhance seized drug screening.

From Waters Advanced Diagnostics 30 Apr 2025

Apple peels beat some diabetes drugs at blocking blood sugar spikes

Researchers found that apple peels from local and commercial varieties are rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. The local cultivar Amarilla de Octubre showed the highest bioactivity, suggesting potential for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

12 Mar 2025

Engineered TIMPs show promise in fighting glioblastoma invasion

A new research paper was published in Oncotarget, Volume 16, on February 28, 2025, titled "Effect of TIMPs and their minimally engineered variants in blocking invasion and migration of brain cancer cells."

3 Mar 2025

Scientists develop fenugreek-based nanoparticles to enhance diabetes drug effectiveness

Researchers explored L-arginine-loaded lipid nanoparticles from fenugreek seed oil, finding they enhance drug stability and bioavailability, showing promise for diabetes treatment.

2 Mar 2025

Annona squamosa extracts show promise in treating pain and arthritis

In Brazil, researchers have identified substances with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperalgesic (against persistent pain) and anti-arthritic activity in the leaves of Annona squamosa, a tree popularly known in the country as fruta-do-conde or pinha.

20 Dec 2024