Seven Breakthroughs That Reshaped Humanity
PCR from Yellowstone’s hot springs What began as curiosity about heat-loving microbes led to the discovery of Taq polymerase. This enzyme enabled the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), revolutionizing DNA analysis, medical diagnostics, and forensic science.
MRI from nuclear spin research Esoteric physics experiments on atomic nuclei in the 1930s eventually gave rise to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Today, MRI scans are indispensable for non-invasive medical imaging and brain research.
Liquid crystals from carrot roots A quirky observation of cholesteryl benzoate in carrots revealed the existence of liquid crystals. Once dismissed as useless, they became the foundation of flat-screen TVs, smartphones, and advanced optics.
CRISPR from microbial defense systems Studies of strange repeating DNA sequences in salt-loving microbes uncovered CRISPR, nature’s bacterial immune system. This discovery evolved into gene editing technology, now curing genetic diseases and transforming biotechnology.
GLP-1 drugs from Gila monster venom Research into venom peptides of the Gila monster led to the development of GLP-1-based drugs like Ozempic. These medications are now central to treating diabetes and obesity, impacting millions worldwide.
DNA forensics from basic enzymology The ability to replicate DNA fragments through PCR opened the door to DNA fingerprinting. This breakthrough reshaped criminal justice, ancestry tracing, and organ donor matching.
Fundamental physics to everyday medicine Work on nuclear magnetic resonance and particle spin, once considered “blue-sky” science, became the backbone of modern medical imaging and chemistry tools, proving that curiosity-driven research fuels practical innovation.