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US scientists score Nobel Prize for groundbreaking chilli sensory discovery

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US researchers David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian score the top prize for their “profound discovery” on receptors and touch.

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to two US researchers working on the discovery of a lifetime.

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded for the discovery of receptors for temperature and touch.

The two winners, US scientists David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian were announced on Monday by the secretary-general of the Nobel committee.

Julius, born on November 4, 1955 is in affiliation with the University of California, San Francisco while Beirut-born researcher Patapoutian is an affiliate of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in California.

The researches used chilli to identify the nerve sensors responsible for the skin responding to heat while other pressure-sensitive sensors were found that react to mechanical stimulation.

Such discoveries launched intense research into how heat, cold, and mechanical stimuli is sensed by the human nervous system.

Additionally, it’s helped enhance scientific understanding into the complex relationship between human senses and the environment.

Decades in the making

David Julius has been working on this research alongside his co-workers since the late 1990s.

Since then, he’s been trying to understand how the chemical compound capsaicin causes the burning sensation felt when coming into contact with chili peppers.

As part of the research, Julius and his fellow co-workers came up with a library of DNA fragments which matched to genes that are expressed in the sensory neurons.

A long, laborious search followed until a single gene that made cells capsaicin-sensitive was identified.  

Julius and Patapoutian then underwent further research, contributing to the groundbreaking discoveries they’ve made today.

A discovery “crucial for survival”.

The Nobel committee says it’s a “profound discovery” that is “crucial for our survival”.

Their research is helping other researchers develop treatments for a wide range of disease conditions, including chronic pain.

The scientists were awarded a gold medal and more than 10 million Swedish kronor.

It’s the first Nobel prize this year, with more to come over the next week.

Written by Rebecca Borg

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Money

Federal Reserve lowers rates amid eased job market

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The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by a quarter-point, bringing the benchmark rate to a range of 4.5% to 4.75%, as economic growth continues but job gains slow.

The Fed noted that labour market conditions have “generally eased,” even with low unemployment, signalling a more cautious approach amid a stable economic expansion.

The statement marks a shift in Fed language, now saying inflation has “made progress” toward the 2% goal instead of the prior “further progress.”

With inflation holding steady around 2.6%, policymakers aim to keep economic risks balanced, despite pressures from slower job growth.

This rate cut reflects a strategic move to sustain economic momentum while cautiously watching inflation’s gradual trend toward the Fed’s target.

The decision was unanimous, aligning Fed priorities with a balanced approach to support both employment and price stability.

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Money

Trump victory sparks market surge as Wall Street soars

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Donald Trump’s election victory has sparked a massive rally in the stock market.

Banks and industrial companies led the surge as investors bet that Trump’s plans for deregulation and tax cuts will boost economic growth.

Shares of big banks, like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, soared as investors predicted fewer regulatory restrictions.

Meanwhile, industrial giants such as Caterpillar and steelmakers like Nucor also hit record highs, reflecting optimism about U.S. manufacturing.

In contrast, clean-energy stocks took a hit, as Trump’s policies are expected to favour traditional energy sectors.

This surge comes amid rising Treasury yields and falling gold prices as investors gain confidence in the transition to a Trump administration.

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Money

Australian Treasurer and RBA chief clash over economy

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A rare dispute has emerged between Australia’s Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock over the nation’s economic trajectory.

Governor Bullock argues the economy remains overheated, even as growth data shows recent slowdowns.

Treasurer Chalmers, however, warns that sustained high interest rates are “smashing the economy.”

This debate is critical for Australians, as it will influence the future of interest rates and inflation.

Data shows a mixed economic picture: while inflation is down, it’s still above target, and the jobs market remains historically strong.

Ultimately, deciding who’s right may come down to theory and perspective on economic health.

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