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  • Cells use sugars to communicate at the molecular level

    A recent study reveals the chemistry behind cellular communication using a new method that holds promise for future applications ranging from materials science to nanomedicine.
    Cell morphology illustration
    Using atomic force microscopy images that were fast fourier-transformed, Percec’s group found that sugars on the surface of synthetic cells organize themselves automatically into thin lamellar layered (left) and hexagonal (right) patterns. The shapes that the sugar molecules form allows the synthetic cells to be recognized by other cells and also enhances their reactivity with proteins (Photo: Virgil Percec).

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  • From a desert to an oasis: Penn engages in ambitious greening effort in the Sahel
    People gather around a large map placed on the floor.

    In Senegal, the ambitious Dakar Greenbelt project seeks to create an extensive network of ecological infrastructure in and around the city to sustainably address environmental concerns and enhance urban life. With support from David Gouverneur and Ellen Neises, Ph.D. candidate Rob Levinthal in the Weitzman School of Design led two courses that included a field trip to Dakar, that culminated in students presenting their visions for parts of the Greenbelt.

    (Image: Courtesy of Chaowu Li)

    From a desert to an oasis: Penn engages in ambitious greening effort in the Sahel

    Students from the Weitzman School of Design journeyed to Senegal to help with a massive ecological and infrastructural greening effort as part of their coursework. The Dakar Greenbelt aims to combat desertification and promote sustainable urban growth.

    Jan 31, 2025

    An illuminating celebration to a brighter, greener future
    The exterior of the Vagelos building lit up with dramatic lighting.

    The new Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology boasts adaptable laboratory spaces to support the dynamic needs of pioneering research.

    nocred

    An illuminating celebration to a brighter, greener future

    Members of the Penn community celebrated an energy research milestone: the unveiling of the new Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology.

    Dec 12, 2024