A study by researchers from the University of Colorado, University of South Florida, San Diego State University and Duke University has shown that the amount of unknown microbes in soil has far exceeded the expectations of the current opinions of scientists. The study utilized metagenomic analysis on microbial diversity, examining samples from a range of ecosystems for the richness of bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses. The sites were specifically targeted for a representation of globally dominated ecosystem types and had shown that unique fungal and archaeal units rival or even exceed bacterial units, effectively suggesting the possibility that non-bacterial species are ecologically more significant.

A highly sensitive measurement technique has allowed researchers at the University of Illinois to observe clear evidence showing a lead-specific DNAzyme uses the “lock and key” reactionary mechanism. The DNAzymes are DNA molecules which can also act as enzymes, and the lead-specific DNAzyme appears to be prearranged to accept lead for activity. By understanding the relationship between conformational changes and reaction, researchers are anticipating the possibility of making a selective and sensitive sensor.