Chemistry vs. bacteria, #46. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. III: cholesterol
The development of cholesterol lowering medicines is dominated by theory. Once more, the leading thought is that people can unlearn bad habits, and that we can cure all diseases with
Microbes that eat plastic pollution
Plastic pollution is everywhere nowadays. Even in the remotest places on earth. A problem that we need to address urgently. But nature may be working hard to help us solve
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 45. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. II: the empty promises of biotech
In the period 1980-2000, pharmaceutical research needs new impulses. The 1950 guidelines are brought to mind again: – we can cure diseases using the proper medicines – we can unlearn
The forest as a source of conflict
This month, Science magazine devoted a long article to the ‘forest fight’ that rages in Germany. The debate on how the nation should manage its trees. Storms and drought played
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 44. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. I: 1980-2000
Thirty years after pharma found the way ahead, around 1980 its motor suddenly starts to falter. Interest in the medical profession comes to a low end in a number of
Solar parks, opportunities and problems
Solar energy is making a breakthrough. Solar panels become cheaper all the time. Therefore, structural problems, like their diluted electricity production, become less important. Even in a country with little
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 43. Veterinary use
Veterinary use of antibiotics has become a major source of concern and annoyance. And this doesn’t even concern the use as a medicine. For that is dwarfed by the application
The myth of pristine nature
We often assume that ecosystems existed in a pristine state when Western researchers first encountered them. But new research now undermines this concept of pristine nature. Ever since mankind existed,
on: 10 December 2021