Revista de divulgación científica iBIO

Peroxiredoxins: antioxidant enzymes and their importance in the cardiovascular model

Pablo Diaz-Hernandez — 2025-08-23

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) are key antioxidant enzymes that regulate oxidative stress in the cell, a downregulation is implicated in cardiovascular, degenerative diseases and cancer. Their action mechanism is based in the reduction of peroxides by a conserved redox mechanism and are grouped into three subfamilies according to their cysteine residues: Typical 2-Cys, Atypical 2-Cys and 1-Cys. In addition to their function as peroxidases, Prxs modulate redox signalling and programmed cell death. This article reviews the Prdxs classification, mechanisms and research relevance, with an emphasis on the cardiovascular system.

The powers of green coffee: Chlorogenic acids in green coffee and their health effects

José M. Luzania-Barradas — 2025-09-05

Green coffee, the unroasted coffee bean, has gained popularity because of its high content of chlorogenic acids (CGA), which are primarily responsible for its health benefits. During the roasting process, these compounds are partially degraded, which have sparked interest in research focused on the positive effects of green coffee on metabolic and cardiovascular health. This trend toward functional products makes green coffee an attractive option for consumers. Furthermore, due to its favorable climatic conditions for cultivation, Mexico plays a significant role in this growing market.

Oral microbiota: the hidden key to brain health

Gabriela Cutiva-Daza — 2025-09-01

The human oral microbiota harbours a great diversity of microorganisms that can interact with each other and with the host to maintain a symbiotic balance. However, various factors can alter its composition, leading to dysbiosis, a process in which potentially pathogenic species proliferate and affect oral health, triggering a variety of oral diseases. In addition, dysbiosis has been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases due to proinflammatory mechanisms caused by the colonization of the brain by oral bacteria through various pathways. It is therefore essential to maintain good oral hygiene and monitor oral health.

Urban wildlife as biosensors for health?

Francisca Villanueva-Flores — 2025-09-04

Did you know that some urban animals, such as rats, pose a public health risk? Researchers at the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) utilize advanced technologies, such as genomic analyses and portable sensors, to facilitate the early detection of zoonotic diseases and environmental pollution. With these innovative methods, animals traditionally considered pests become valuable “natural biosensors” for monitoring well-being, the ecological well-being of humans, animals, and the environment. This integrative approach, known as “One Health,” promotes collaboration among scientists, authorities, and communities, offering concrete solutions to prevent disease and improve urban quality of life.

Nanobiotechnology and aging: a promising solution?

Oscar Fabián Osuna-Fonseca — 2025-08-12

Aging is the cause of various diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, and heart disease), and the risk of suffering from these diseases can increase or decrease depending on habits and exposure to various factors. However, nanobiotechnological tools can efficiently and precisely treat these conditions. Although these techniques have not yet been perfected, they hold great promise for the future, with the hope that they will be available to all sectors of the population in the future.

When every minute counts, science accelerates dengue diagnosis

Francisca Villanueva-Flores — 2025-08-12

Dengue is becoming increasingly common in Mexico. We typically perform tests that detect antibodies or directly identify the virus in the blood to diagnose it. However, these traditional tests take too long because antibodies appear days after the illness has begun. Fortunately, faster methods are now available, such as Multiplex PCR, which quickly identifies the presence of dengue and its specific serotypes. Innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and CRISPR can detect the virus directly without requiring specialized laboratories. These advances enable faster, more straightforward, and more accessible diagnoses, even in remote areas with limited healthcare services.

How to know if you are an academic hermit?

Jessica Sánchez-Vargas — 2025-07-25

The daily tasks of researchers can be overwhelming and not much importance is given to activities related to science communication. By limiting activities of scientific dissemination and outreach, many serious consequences can arise in the academic development and the impact of the research work made. Therefore, it is important to discuss about the role of scientific dissemination and outreach in the generation of knowledge, its application and its impact on society. In this way, the reader can reflect about the role played in the dissemination and outreach of science and on whether they are academically isolated.

DNA methylation in cancer and its diagnosis

Erick Natividad De la Cruz-Hernández — 2025-08-08

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that modifies gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. It is a reversible process resulting from the interaction of various factors, such as age, diet, environment, and genetic makeup. Under normal conditions, it participates in the regulation of genomic imprinting and the maintenance of DNA integrity. However, tumor development involves changes in the level and pattern of methylation in specific regions, which can be used for early cancer diagnosis.

Biofuels: classification and national situation

Pierre-Louis Gorry — 2025-07-10

The increasing fuel demand and its environmental effects have driven the development of biofuels. These fuels are derived from renewable organic sources, and offer a better carbon dioxide emission balance compared to fossil fuels. They are classified into generations based on their origin: food crops (1st), agricultural and forestry residues (2nd), and microalgae (3rd). Mexico has potential for their production but faces barriers such as poor infrastructure and low social acceptance. Their development requires investment, public policies, and technological advancements, which would strengthen energy security and serve as a useful alternative to mitigate climate change.

An invisible world in our monuments: Microcolonial fungi, challenges and opportunities

Isys Nayeli Álvarez Lázaro — 2025-06-30

When we admire a historic monument, we rarely think about the tiny enemies that threaten it. Among them, microcolonial fungi stand out for their incredible adaptability. These organisms colonize stone surfaces, forming dark stains and weakening the structure from within by penetrating pores and cracks, where they secrete acids that dissolve minerals. Although biocide treatments exist to combat them, their resistance remains a challenge. Here, we invite you to explore the world of these microorganisms and how their persistence poses a challenge to the conservation of our cultural heritage.

From myth to algorithm: The voice of science

Francisca Villanueva-Flores — 2025-07-14

This text metaphorically narrates, in the first person, the evolution of science through its forms of expression: from myth to algorithm. Using symbolic terms such as Homo
narrativus, Homo algorithmicus among others, it reflects on how human curiosity shapes science and how science, in turn, transforms its voice, means, and challenges. In a world dominated by technological advances, the essay argues that the essence of science remains rooted in humanity’s capacity for wonder, playfulness, and the ongoing pursuit of meaning. This essay is intended for readers interested in engaging, creative reflections on scientific topics.