biology Archives - The Oxford Scientist

Oxytocin linked to dog-human bonding

Bramman RajkumarNovember 30, 2017August 2, 201902 mins

Oxytocin’s role in human bonding is well-known – so well-known that the first hormone ever to be sequenced is now the go-to science jewellery gift for geeks everywhere. Its role in childbirth and mother-child bonding was first elucidated at the dawn of the 20th century, and since then its profile in popular culture has grown…

Using CRISPR to create gluten-free wheat

Anna BythellOctober 12, 2017August 2, 201903 mins

To most people going gluten-free is a health fad, like acai berries and kale smoothies – but for some it is a necessity. 1 in every 100 people in the UK have coeliac disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the gut. The body’s immune system identifies gluten as a threat and attacks, damaging the small…