Mani Sarathy, an associate professor of chemical engineering, has been appointed Associate Director of the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) at KAUST. Sarathy is part of the University’s Physical Science and Engineering Division. The announcement did not detail specific research directions. Why it matters: This signals KAUST's continued investment in and focus on clean combustion research.
KAUST researchers, in collaboration with the Salk Institute and Altos Labs, have identified a class of RNA (LINE-1) that, when compromised, leads to accelerated aging, as seen in progeria. They devised an antisense RNA strategy to block the aberrant function of L1 RNA, reversing the disease in mice and patient-derived cells. Published in Science Translational Medicine, the research suggests that targeting LINE-1 RNA could treat progeroid syndromes and other age-related diseases. Why it matters: This RNA-based approach provides a potential therapeutic avenue for treating premature aging diseases and extending human health span in the region and globally.
KAUST researchers, in collaboration with KACST, discovered that dissolving nylon in battery electrolytes improves the performance of lithium-metal batteries. The nylon additive resulted in more efficient batteries with longer lifespans and fewer unwanted reactions. The research was published in ACS Energy Letters and Energy Environmental Science. Why it matters: This promises cheaper, safer, and more powerful lithium batteries for applications in electric vehicles and aviation, supporting Saudi Arabia's renewable energy goals.
KAUST startup Wayakit has inaugurated its first production pilot plant in Saudi Arabia, with a capacity of up to 20,000 liters of cleaning and disinfection bio-formulations per day. The plant aims to satisfy national demand for cleaning and disinfection products. Wayakit's products tackle the transmission of communicable diseases, contributing to both the national economy and the health of citizens. Why it matters: This pilot plant supports Saudi Vision 2030's National Industrial Strategy by building a sustainable facility for environmentally friendly cleaning products.
A KAUST scientist led a global call for climate solutions, published simultaneously by 14 academic journals and released at COP29. The publication, prepared by 18 scientists, urges international governments to deploy microbial 'vaccines' against climate change. Six simple 'vaccine' examples are outlined, including carbon sequestration boosters and methane busters. Why it matters: This coordinated effort highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and KAUST's leading role in microbial solutions.