Zinc-infused proteins are the secret that allows scorpions, spiders and ants to puncture tough skin

Many small animals make their teeth and claws from a smooth blend of proteins and heavy elements. These materials can form very sharp tools that make it possible to cut tough substances using tiny muscles.

Robert Schofield, Research Professor in Physics, University of Oregon • conversation
Sept. 1, 2021 • ~5 min

The truth about tooth decay

Cavity-free teeth depend on many factors, and heredity may not be the most important.

Jeffrey Ebersole, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas • conversation
May 18, 2021 • ~8 min

Teeth of fallen soldiers hold evidence that foreigners fought alongside ancient Greeks, challenging millennia of military history

Are the descriptions of war passed down by ancient historians accurate? A site in Sicily provided a rare chance to fact-check stories told about two battles from more than 2,400 years ago.

Katherine Reinberger, Ph.D. Candidate in Anthropology, University of Georgia • conversation
May 12, 2021 • ~10 min

Evolution of a smile: 400 million year old spiny fish overturns shark theory of tooth origins

Scientists have long believed that sharks were the first vertebrates to evolve teeth. Our new study reveals a more complex history.

Philip C J Donoghue, Professor of Palaeobiology, University of Bristol • conversation
May 12, 2021 • ~6 min

Is seltzer water healthy?

Bubbly waters are becoming increasingly popular. While these carbonated, sometimes flavored beverages might cause slight harm to teeth, they are far better than soda. They might even be good for you.

Rahel Mathews, Assistant Professor, Nutrition, Mississippi State University • conversation
May 7, 2020 • ~6 min

Humans domesticated horses – new tech could help archaeologists figure out where and when

Archaeologists have long argued over when and how people first domesticated horses. A decade ago, new techniques appeared to have provided answers – but further discoveries change the story again.

William Taylor, Assistant Professor and Curator of Archaeology, University of Colorado Boulder • conversation
March 2, 2020 • ~10 min

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