Advertisement

If you have an ACS member number, please enter it here so we can link this account to your membership. (optional)

ACS values your privacy. By submitting your information, you are gaining access to C&EN and subscribing to our weekly newsletter. We use the information you provide to make your reading experience better, and we will never sell your data to third party members.

ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCES TO C&EN

Everything we know about the covid-19 coronavirus

At the end of December 2019, scientists discovered the virus that came to be known as SARS-CoV-2—the pathogen behind the COVID-19 pandemic. C&EN has covered all aspects of COVID-19, including the science of the virus, drug and vaccine development, and diagnostics; mask materials and disinfectant chemicals; and its effects on other scientific endeavors, education, and the economy.

Debate over COVID-19 product IP flares up again

Debate over COVID-19 product IP flares up again

In June, a waiver was granted for vaccines. Will therapeutics and diagnostics be next?
October 13, 2022

How COVID-19 stole our sense of smell

SARS-CoV-2 has left thousands with a distorted or lost sense of smell. This population is helping researchers identify what happens when smell goes wrong and what might help
September 26, 2022
Pharma companies race to develop mRNA vaccines for influenza

Pharma companies race to develop mRNA vaccines for influenza

Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna move ahead with Phase 3 clinical trials
September 22, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
China approves the first inhalable COVID-19 vaccine

China approves the first inhalable COVID-19 vaccine

CanSino reported that its aerosolized booster provides stronger immune protection than injected offerings
September 8, 2022
How long the coronavirus survives in air depends on relative humidity

How long the coronavirus survives in air depends on relative humidity

In exhaled aerosols, SARS-CoV-2’s infectivity can drop by 90% in 20 minutes depending on environmental conditions
July 7, 2022
Croda lands US funding for Pennsylvania lipids plant

Croda lands US funding for Pennsylvania lipids plant

Project follows UK firm’s 2020 acquisition of an Alabama producer
June 30, 2022
Chemists rethink work travel

Chemists rethink work travel

Has the pandemic changed what people are willing to leave home for?
June 17, 2022
Peptide from SARS-CoV-2 spike protein forms amyloids

Peptide from SARS-CoV-2 spike protein forms amyloids

In lab tests, immune cell enzyme cleaves spike protein to yield fibril-forming peptide
May 31, 2022
A fourth jab boosts immunity

A fourth jab boosts immunity

Researchers quantify the immune response to second booster shots of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines
May 14, 2022
COVID-19 put hand sanitizer—and Purell lead formulator Kayla Ivey—in the spotlight

COVID-19 put hand sanitizer—and Purell lead formulator Kayla Ivey—in the spotlight

Gojo Industries chemist says the pandemic made her a better bench chemist and gave her a Twitter platform
May 3, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
The next generation of COVID-19 antivirals

The next generation of COVID-19 antivirals

Several firms are developing follow-ups to the Pfizer and Merck pills
March 28, 2022
Quat disinfectants that swap nitrogen for phosphorus might stem antimicrobial resistance

Quat disinfectants that swap nitrogen for phosphorus might stem antimicrobial resistance

Extensive use of quaternary ammonium antiseptics during the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the spread of resistance. Researchers propose new chemicals to combat the problem
February 11, 2022
COVID-19 lockdowns prevented pollution-related deaths

COVID-19 lockdowns prevented pollution-related deaths

Lower emissions during European lockdowns in 2020 could suggest how to improve health in cities longer term
January 27, 2022
Cleaning changed during the pandemic, and it may not change back

Cleaning changed during the pandemic, and it may not change back

The cleaning product industry expects intense cleaning to be a long-term habit
January 24, 2022
Podcast: Jose-Luis Jimenez and Kimberly Prather on how public health history has influenced what we know about COVID-19 transmission and lessons for science communication

Podcast: Jose-Luis Jimenez and Kimberly Prather on how public health history has influenced what we know about COVID-19 transmission and lessons for science communication

Two atmospheric chemistry experts convene on Stereo Chemistry to discuss their frustration with public health officials and their work to understand and communicate how diseases spread through air
January 18, 2022
How Pfizer scientists transformed an old drug lead into a COVID-19 antiviral

How Pfizer scientists transformed an old drug lead into a COVID-19 antiviral

Behind the scenes of the medicinal chemistry campaign that led to the pill Paxlovid
January 14, 2022
4′-Fluorouridine fights respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, in animals

4′-Fluorouridine fights respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, in animals

If effective in humans, the oral antiviral could be dosed less frequently than antivirals currently seeking regulatory approval
December 9, 2021
Omicron puts scientists on red alert

Omicron puts scientists on red alert

Scientists and companies race to study the latest coronavirus variant and what it means for therapies and vaccines
December 2, 2021
How pregnancy affects COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness

How pregnancy affects COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness

After receiving both shots, pregnant and lactating people’s initially weaker immune response becomes as robust as the general populations’
October 30, 2021
Graphene transistor detects SARS-CoV-2 in less than a minute

Graphene transistor detects SARS-CoV-2 in less than a minute

Device uses DNA probes to identify COVID-19 virus RNA with speed and high sensitivity
October 26, 2021
Women submitted fewer papers during the start of COVID-19

Women submitted fewer papers during the start of COVID-19

The finding spanned all research areas in a study of Elsevier journals
October 20, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Moderna announces plans to manufacture vaccines in Africa

Moderna announces plans to manufacture vaccines in Africa

The $500 million project targets mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 and other viral infections
October 8, 2021
New over-the-counter COVID-19 test authorized by the FDA

New over-the-counter COVID-19 test authorized by the FDA

The test is expected to help with a shortage of at-home testing kits
October 5, 2021
Molnupiravir reduces risk of hospitalization and death in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19

Molnupiravir reduces risk of hospitalization and death in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19

The antiviral’s developer, Merck & Co., says it will apply to the US FDA for Emergency Use Authorization
October 1, 2021
Flu shots or COVID-19 boosters: which should you get first?

Flu shots or COVID-19 boosters: which should you get first?

Experts say the order doesn’t matter, and getting them both at once is preferred
September 30, 2021
In preclinical tests, Merck’s COVID-19 antiviral seems to work against variants

In preclinical tests, Merck’s COVID-19 antiviral seems to work against variants

Molnupiravir, now in Phase 3 testing, causes SARS-CoV-2 to make major mistakes while copying its genetic code
September 29, 2021
How do wind instruments spread aerosols indoors and out?

How do wind instruments spread aerosols indoors and out?

In the era of COVID-19, masking the ends of clarinets could help musicians safely attend practices and performances
September 28, 2021
How the drug services industry found itself prepared for a pandemic

How the drug services industry found itself prepared for a pandemic

Supply chain discipline has paid off for contract development and manufacturing organizations amid an ongoing crisis
September 26, 2021
Weighing wastewater’s worth as a COVID-19 monitoring tool

Weighing wastewater’s worth as a COVID-19 monitoring tool

More than a year into surveilling sewage for outbreaks, scientists have a better idea of what the approach can—and can’t—tell us about the health of communities
September 26, 2021
Aptamer-nanopore sensor detects only infectious viruses

Aptamer-nanopore sensor detects only infectious viruses

DNA-based device might offer rapid COVID-19 test that is not fooled by dead virus
September 22, 2021
Can breath tests sniff out COVID-19?

Can breath tests sniff out COVID-19?

Breath-based diagnostics may provide a quicker and cheaper way to diagnose SARS-CoV-2 infections
September 21, 2021
Two COVID-19 antiviral pills advance to late-stage trials

Two COVID-19 antiviral pills advance to late-stage trials

Merck’s and Ridgeback’s molnupiravir and Pfizer’s PF-07321332 could stop infection early enough to prevent hospitalization
September 7, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
How to interpret new studies on coronavirus variants

How to interpret new studies on coronavirus variants

As new variants continue to pop up around the globe, here’s how to understand what the emerging research means for public health
August 31, 2021
FDA approves the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine

FDA approves the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine

Drug agency’s green light opens the way to vaccination mandates, other mRNA treatments
August 23, 2021
Moderna partners with Canadian government on a vaccine plant

Moderna partners with Canadian government on a vaccine plant

The agreement is the first of several the vaccine maker plans with governments around the world
August 10, 2021
How worried should we be about the Lambda variant?

How worried should we be about the Lambda variant?

The variant now dominates in Peru, but people who are vaccinated shouldn’t panic
August 5, 2021
Air pollution disparities persisted during COVID-19 lockdowns

Air pollution disparities persisted during COVID-19 lockdowns

Even as average levels of NO2 fell, marginalized communities experienced relatively high levels of the pollutant
July 27, 2021
Single-use plastics have boomed during COVID-19. Joana Correia Prata wants to reverse the trend

Single-use plastics have boomed during COVID-19. Joana Correia Prata wants to reverse the trend

University of Aveiro microplastics researcher and veterinarian recommends policy priorities for dealing with plastic waste
July 26, 2021
A sigh of relief at small chemical makers

A sigh of relief at small chemical makers

Firms have weathered the pandemic, but supply-chain disruptions may be a lingering symptom as markets revive
July 26, 2021
Francis Collins on the urgent need for COVID-19 antivirals

Francis Collins on the urgent need for COVID-19 antivirals

The NIH director talks to C&EN about the sizable investment in small-molecule drugs for this pandemic and the ones to come
July 23, 2021
Computational scientists look for lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic

Computational scientists look for lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic

The pandemic changed these researchers’ methods and it showed them what works and what doesn’t during a global emergency
July 14, 2021
The antivirals that weren’t: drug repurposing for COVID-19 produced misleading results

The antivirals that weren’t: drug repurposing for COVID-19 produced misleading results

A common class of compounds disrupts the cell rather than stops the virus
June 29, 2021
Coronavirus epidemics are part of human history

Coronavirus epidemics are part of human history

Modern human DNA shows evidence of ancient epidemic
June 24, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparing how air purification technologies trap and attack viruses

Comparing how air purification technologies trap and attack viruses

Chemical educator and Compound Interest blogger Andy Brunning explains the science behind how various air purification methods remove viruses like SARS-CoV-2 from the air
June 20, 2021
Novavax vaccine shows strong protection against COVID-19

Novavax vaccine shows strong protection against COVID-19

The protein-based vaccine was more than 90% effective at preventing COVID-19 in a Phase 3 trial
June 17, 2021
COVID-19 test used in UK mass screening program receives stinging rebuke from FDA

COVID-19 test used in UK mass screening program receives stinging rebuke from FDA

US health agency’s warning for Innova raises fresh questions about efficacy of ‘Operation Moonshot’ antigen test
June 14, 2021
The global mass of SARS-CoV-2

The global mass of SARS-CoV-2

Worldwide, there are no more than 10 kg of the COVID-19-causing virus
June 10, 2021
Pandemic experiments prove CO₂ monitoring networks provide real-time emission information

Pandemic experiments prove CO₂ monitoring networks provide real-time emission information

Real-time monitoring shows emissions fell in the Los Angeles and DC-Baltimore areas
June 10, 2021
White House tackles persistent supply chain vulnerabilities

White House tackles persistent supply chain vulnerabilities

Biden’s focus on reshoring drug production carries forward the Trump administration’s pandemic response
June 9, 2021
Intranasal vaccines aim to stop COVID-19 where it starts

Intranasal vaccines aim to stop COVID-19 where it starts

Vaccines that are sprayed into the nose could induce mucosal immunity and help stop the spread of the coronavirus, if vaccine developers can prove that they work
June 6, 2021
Vir and GSK monoclonal antibody authorized for emergency use in COVID-19

Vir and GSK monoclonal antibody authorized for emergency use in COVID-19

Sotrovimab may protect against virus variants, although sales potential is uncertain
June 3, 2021
Over-the-counter COVID-19 tests make big promises. Do they deliver?

Over-the-counter COVID-19 tests make big promises. Do they deliver?

C&EN tries out the new batch of at-home COVID-19 tests promising quick results with minimal exposure, enabling some people to get back to school and back to work.
May 28, 2021
CEPI bets big on SK Bioscience COVID-19 vaccine

CEPI bets big on SK Bioscience COVID-19 vaccine

The South Korean company’s protein nanoparticle vaccine is based on University of Washington technology
May 27, 2021
To conquer COVID-19, create the perfect pill

To conquer COVID-19, create the perfect pill

Experts say oral antivirals, long out of reach, could play a critical role in extinguishing the current coronavirus pandemic and preventing others from emerging
May 20, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Why are antivirals so hard to develop?

Why are antivirals so hard to develop?

With few good targets and limited financial incentives, the field of antiviral drug discovery has lagged. The COVID-19 pandemic might be awakening the world to the problem
May 20, 2021
12-to-15-year-olds can now get Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

12-to-15-year-olds can now get Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

The FDA and the CDC’s vaccine advisory determined the mRNA vaccine is safe and effective for the age group
May 13, 2021
Asian scientists are rethinking the American dream

Asian scientists are rethinking the American dream

Long a cornerstone of US chemistry, Asian faculty and students are pondering their future in the US in the wake of physical and verbal attacks and government targeting of scientists who collaborate with China
May 7, 2021
Pause remains on J&J vaccine

Pause remains on J&J vaccine

CDC’s vaccine advisory committee will watch and wait before deciding on the J&J vaccine
April 16, 2021
Worrying levels of some impurities in hand sanitizers, chemists find

Worrying levels of some impurities in hand sanitizers, chemists find

High levels of acetaldehyde in some alcohol-based hand rubs exceed even relaxed regulations
April 15, 2021
Regeneron antibody cocktail could be used to prevent COVID-19

Regeneron antibody cocktail could be used to prevent COVID-19

The company is asking the FDA to permit preventative use after clinical trials show that it prevents SARS-CoV-2 spread within households
April 14, 2021
FDA recommends pause of J&J’s COVID-19 vaccine

FDA recommends pause of J&J’s COVID-19 vaccine

FDA and CDC are investigating rare blood clots and low platelet levels in 6 women who got the J&J shot
April 13, 2021
AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine-related woes grow

AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine-related woes grow

European regulators cite possible link between vaccine and rare blood clots
April 8, 2021
X-ray screening finds two drugs that could help treat COVID-19

X-ray screening finds two drugs that could help treat COVID-19

Structural biologists tested thousands of drugs against the main SARS-CoV-2 protease
April 8, 2021
UT Austin and Mount Sinai partner to create low-cost COVID-19 vaccine

UT Austin and Mount Sinai partner to create low-cost COVID-19 vaccine

Clinical trials begin with the second generation of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, called HexaPro
April 8, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Pfizer unveils its oral SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor

Pfizer unveils its oral SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor

The antiviral candidate is the first orally administered compound to enter clinical trials that targets the virus’s main protease
April 7, 2021
Coffee capsules put to use for coronavirus tests

Coffee capsules put to use for coronavirus tests

Low-cost device uses aluminum coffee pods to hold at-home RNA tests
March 26, 2021
Woes mount for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine

Woes mount for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine

Mixed messaging on the safety and efficacy of the shot threatens public confidence in the vaccine
March 25, 2021
Undergrads hit hard by pandemic navigate disruptions

Undergrads hit hard by pandemic navigate disruptions

Despite the hurdles, chemistry students are still determined to be scientists
March 21, 2021
COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids ramp up

COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids ramp up

Pfizer and Moderna are testing their COVID-19 vaccines in teens, children, and infants as young as 6 months
March 18, 2021
Which air purification technologies can tackle COVID-19?

Which air purification technologies can tackle COVID-19?

Air-cleaning devices that claim to remove SARS-CoV-2 have hit shelves, backed by varying levels of data
March 12, 2021
Without these lipid shells, there would be no mRNA vaccines for COVID-19

Without these lipid shells, there would be no mRNA vaccines for COVID-19

Fragile mRNA molecules used in COVID-19 vaccines can’t get into cells on their own. They owe their success to lipid nanoparticles that took decades to refine
March 6, 2021
The pandemic cut emissions, but did it help climate?

The pandemic cut emissions, but did it help climate?

Global average temperatures didn’t budge, but emission cuts likely caused some regional warming
March 5, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Lipids, the unsung COVID-19 vaccine component, get investment

Lipids, the unsung COVID-19 vaccine component, get investment

Several specialty chemical companies are adding capacity to supply Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech
February 12, 2021
200,000 and counting: how the UK has sequenced so many cases of coronavirus

200,000 and counting: how the UK has sequenced so many cases of coronavirus

C&EN talks with Sharon Peacock, the microbiologist in charge of the UK’s COVID-19 sequencing efforts, to learn more
February 3, 2021
Novavax and J&J COVID-19 vaccines are effective, but the virus variant from South Africa poses problems

Novavax and J&J COVID-19 vaccines are effective, but the virus variant from South Africa poses problems

Preliminary results from advanced studies of the vaccines are met with excitement as well as trepidation about emerging virus variants
January 29, 2021
COVID-19 vaccines tested against new virus variants

COVID-19 vaccines tested against new virus variants

Vaccines will likely protect against a variant first identified in the UK but may be less effective against the South African variant
January 28, 2021
Lilly’s COVID-19 antibody treatment reduces death, hospitalizations

Lilly’s COVID-19 antibody treatment reduces death, hospitalizations

Company officials hope clinical trial results will spur use of antibody products
January 28, 2021
Plitidepsin, a molecule from sea squirts, could be a COVID-19 antiviral

Plitidepsin, a molecule from sea squirts, could be a COVID-19 antiviral

The compound kills SARS-CoV-2 in cells by targeting host proteins instead of viral proteins
January 28, 2021
How the pandemic changed the industrial chemistry workplace

How the pandemic changed the industrial chemistry workplace

Whether employers like it or not, remote working and flexible hours are here to stay
January 27, 2021
A year in the COVID-19 pandemic

A year in the COVID-19 pandemic

In the span of a year, more than 60 COVID-19 vaccines were put into clinical studies, and several were authorized
January 25, 2021
8 tools that helped us tackle the coronavirus

8 tools that helped us tackle the coronavirus

In the past year, researchers worked at a breakneck pace to understand, diagnose, treat, and prevent COVID-19. These technologies were critical to their success
January 25, 2021
Is drug repurposing worth the effort?

Is drug repurposing worth the effort?

What the pandemic has shown us about how to redeploy our pharmaceutical arsenal
January 25, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
How COVID-19 has changed the culture of science

How COVID-19 has changed the culture of science

C&EN spoke to researchers and scientific leaders about the good, the bad, and the uncertain ways that life has changed because of the pandemic, in the lab and beyond
January 25, 2021
Will public trust in science survive the pandemic?

Will public trust in science survive the pandemic?

The confluence of rapidly evolving science, mixed messaging, misinformation, and flagrant politicization in the US is creating a perfect storm for eroding trust in science
January 25, 2021
Remembering the chemists we lost to COVID-19

Remembering the chemists we lost to COVID-19

The chemistry community shares memories of those we lost to COVID-19
January 25, 2021
COVID-19: Science’s greatest test

COVID-19: Science’s greatest test

A year of ingenuity, adaptation, perseverance, and incalculable loss put a spotlight on science and scientists. We examine what the process taught us and how it could affect science going forward
January 25, 2021
Surface swabbing helps researchers get a handle on COVID-19 cases

Surface swabbing helps researchers get a handle on COVID-19 cases

Monitoring SARS-CoV-2 on high-contact surfaces could enable community surveillance to preempt outbreaks
January 19, 2021
What to know as new SARS-CoV-2 strains gain ground worldwide

What to know as new SARS-CoV-2 strains gain ground worldwide

Variant first detected in the UK spreads to US states while another variant raises concern
January 11, 2021
Pandemic stress: The toll it’s taking on students

Pandemic stress: The toll it’s taking on students

Students describe the challenges of online classes, lost opportunities, and more
January 10, 2021
What’s next after mRNA vaccines?

What’s next after mRNA vaccines?

Adenoviral vector and inactivated-virus vaccines for COVID-19 developed in China, India, Russia, and the UK are authorized in those countries, and beyond
January 7, 2021
How are RNA vaccines made?

How are RNA vaccines made?

Chemical educator and Compound Interest blogger Andy Brunning outlines how companies make these COVID-19 vaccines
January 3, 2021
Pulse oximeters are less accurate for Black people

Pulse oximeters are less accurate for Black people

Common finger monitors often overestimate the blood oxygen levels of Black people with COVID-19
December 30, 2020
Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine to roll out across the US

Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine to roll out across the US

It’s the second mRNA vaccine for COVID-19 authorized for emergency use by the FDA
December 21, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine rolls out across the US

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine rolls out across the US

Vaccinations have begun, but there’s a long road ahead for this vaccine and others
December 17, 2020
Can the UK’s ambitious Operation Moonshot screening program for COVID-19 achieve liftoff?

Can the UK’s ambitious Operation Moonshot screening program for COVID-19 achieve liftoff?

Researchers question accuracy of rapid antigen tests and criticize government’s lack of transparency in multibillion-pound program
December 16, 2020
Homemade masks can protect wearers and those around them

Homemade masks can protect wearers and those around them

Researchers say 3-layer masks with a filter inside are best
December 5, 2020
Ginkgo to expand COVID-19 response with $1.1 billion US government loan

Ginkgo to expand COVID-19 response with $1.1 billion US government loan

Industrial biotech firm will expand facilities for optimizing biomaterials used in tests and vaccines
December 2, 2020
Pfizer, Moderna ready vaccine manufacturing networks

Pfizer, Moderna ready vaccine manufacturing networks

A mesh of contract services will be activated by both the big pharma and the smaller biotech
November 25, 2020
Adenoviral vector vaccine data both promising and perplexing

Adenoviral vector vaccine data both promising and perplexing

Preliminary results from AstraZeneca and Oxford’s Phase 3 trial of their COVID-19 vaccine suggest a smaller dose is better than a full dose
November 24, 2020
Merck & Co. to buy OncoImmune for $425 million

Merck & Co. to buy OncoImmune for $425 million

OncoImmune’s immune modulator is the third COVID-19 related acquisition for the pharma giant
November 23, 2020
Nanofibers put a new spin on COVID-19 masks

Nanofibers put a new spin on COVID-19 masks

Start-ups are using nanofibers created by electrospinning to make better face masks
November 22, 2020
Monitoring COVID-19 in sewage

Monitoring COVID-19 in sewage

Wastewater might predict SARS-CoV-2 spread before clinical testing
November 21, 2020
Short CO₂ supply may complicate COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Short CO₂ supply may complicate COVID-19 vaccine rollout

A lot more people will need to buy, handle, and store dry ice. The industry is moving quickly to get ready
November 19, 2020
FDA grants first emergency use ok for at-home COVID-19 test

FDA grants first emergency use ok for at-home COVID-19 test

The test, which detects SARS-CoV-2 in about 30 minutes, will not be widely available until 2021
November 18, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Combined COVID-19 and flu tests could help overwhelmed hospitals

Combined COVID-19 and flu tests could help overwhelmed hospitals

The tests are fast, are easy to perform, and require only one patient sample. But some hospitals are saying there are just not enough to go around
November 18, 2020
Lilly earns first authorization for novel antibody therapy for COVID-19

Lilly earns first authorization for novel antibody therapy for COVID-19

FDA granted an emergency use authorization for Lilly’s bamlanivimab to treat mild and moderate coronavirus infections
November 11, 2020
Biden-Harris priorities include areas important to chemists and chemistry

Biden-Harris priorities include areas important to chemists and chemistry

Revised policies planned to control the coronavirus, recover the economy, address inequity, and combat climate change
November 9, 2020
Pfizer and BioNTech say their COVID-19 vaccine is successful in late-stage trial

Pfizer and BioNTech say their COVID-19 vaccine is successful in late-stage trial

A preliminary analysis of the 43,500 person study found the firms’ jointly developed mRNA vaccine 90% effective compared to placebo
November 9, 2020
How one university built a COVID-19 screening system

How one university built a COVID-19 screening system

Campus testing at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign holds important lessons about the strengths and limitations of routine testing regimen
November 1, 2020
COVID-19 pandemic causes 6-month plunge in CO₂ emissions

COVID-19 pandemic causes 6-month plunge in CO₂ emissions

Emissions fell nearly 9% worldwide, mostly due to transportation slowdowns
October 22, 2020
Taking the temperature of pharmaceutical services at CPhI

Taking the temperature of pharmaceutical services at CPhI

An online alternative to the huge CPhI exhibition finds the sector focused on COVID-19
October 20, 2020
Characterizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies

Characterizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies

Neutralizing antibodies for the new coronavirus can be classified into 4 distinct groups to help treatment design, researchers say
October 15, 2020
AstraZeneca gets $486 million to test and manufacture COVID-19 antibody therapy

AstraZeneca gets $486 million to test and manufacture COVID-19 antibody therapy

The antibodies, discovered by Vanderbilt scientists, are modified for a long-lasting effect
October 15, 2020
Tests alone won’t stop COVID-19 from spreading

Tests alone won’t stop COVID-19 from spreading

Testing wasn’t enough to spare the White House and may not work in schools and other places
October 13, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Small molecule takes aim at the RNA of SARS-CoV-2

Small molecule takes aim at the RNA of SARS-CoV-2

Though far from the clinic, a two-part compound tags viral RNA for destruction by enzymes
October 7, 2020
Trump is getting multiple COVID-19 treatments. It will be a while before the public has the same access.

Trump is getting multiple COVID-19 treatments. It will be a while before the public has the same access.

Critical care expert Ali Raja weighs in on the several therapeutic strategies the president’s medical team is trying
October 5, 2020
Can you get COVID-19 in the bathroom?

Can you get COVID-19 in the bathroom?

Scientists have been studying how toilet flushes spread viruses like SARS-CoV-2 for decades, and they still don’t have clear answers
October 4, 2020
Regeneron offers early look at COVID-19 antibody cocktail data

Regeneron offers early look at COVID-19 antibody cocktail data

The drug appears to lower viral load in a subset of patients, but its use could be limited
September 30, 2020
The tiny tweak behind COVID-19 vaccines

The tiny tweak behind COVID-19 vaccines

Prepandemic coronavirus research by Jason McLellan and Barney Graham led to a trick for stabilizing the prefusion form of spike proteins
September 29, 2020
Coronavirus concerns dampen chemists’ economic outlook

Coronavirus concerns dampen chemists’ economic outlook

ACS survey shows members are more concerned about the overall economy than the chemical enterprise, but hardships are already hitting younger respondents and those of color
September 28, 2020
COVID-19 lockdowns had strange effects on air pollution across the globe

COVID-19 lockdowns had strange effects on air pollution across the globe

Unusually low emissions earlier this year are providing chemists with a unique opportunity to study the atmosphere, and they’re discovering new complexities
September 25, 2020
Glycans on SARS-CoV-2 may help the virus infect cells

Glycans on SARS-CoV-2 may help the virus infect cells

Atomic-resolution simulations combined with experiments show sugars’ role in shielding the virus and helping it to attack cells
September 23, 2020
Vials vital for COVID-19 vaccine

Vials vital for COVID-19 vaccine

Tiny bottles with special properties are essential for distribution
September 22, 2020
Valneva wins UK contract for inactivated coronavirus vaccine

Valneva wins UK contract for inactivated coronavirus vaccine

It’s the first major deal for an inactivated virus vaccine outside China
September 19, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
COVID-19 vaccine makers sign safety and efficacy pledge

COVID-19 vaccine makers sign safety and efficacy pledge

Nine companies vow to wait for Phase III clinical trial data before seeking vaccine approvals
September 10, 2020
Stable SARS-CoV-2 genome is good news for vaccine developers

Stable SARS-CoV-2 genome is good news for vaccine developers

Scientists find that there is not a lot of genetic diversity for the novel coronaviruses spreading across the globe
September 4, 2020
BARDA funds patch- and pill-based vaccine technology for COVID-19

BARDA funds patch- and pill-based vaccine technology for COVID-19

The minor funding for 4 groups could provide an alternative to needles
September 3, 2020
COVID-19 antigen assay set to triple US testing capacity

COVID-19 antigen assay set to triple US testing capacity

Abbott aims to produce 50 million of the 15-minute, $5 tests per month
September 3, 2020
How do viruses leap from animals to people and spark pandemics?

How do viruses leap from animals to people and spark pandemics?

Scientists want to understand how viruses like SARS-CoV-2 make these so-called zoonotic jumps to help spot the next big outbreak
August 30, 2020
FDA grants emergency use authorization for convalescent plasma in COVID-19

FDA grants emergency use authorization for convalescent plasma in COVID-19

Move widens access to a therapy that many feel has modest efficacy at best
August 27, 2020
Recent studies show no link between COVID-19 severity and blood group

Recent studies show no link between COVID-19 severity and blood group

New work suggests that previous studies connecting blood type and COVID-19 risk didn’t compare relevant patient sets
August 24, 2020
Saliva tests show promise for widespread COVID-19 surveillance at universities and workplaces

Saliva tests show promise for widespread COVID-19 surveillance at universities and workplaces

Protocols developed at University of Illinois and Yale School of Public Health join growing list of spit-and-test diagnostics
August 21, 2020
What is oleandrin, the compound touted as a possible COVID-19 treatment?

What is oleandrin, the compound touted as a possible COVID-19 treatment?

Scientists warn that the botanical natural product is unproven and could have lethal side effects
August 20, 2020
Artificial intelligence finds alternative routes to COVID-19 drug candidates

Artificial intelligence finds alternative routes to COVID-19 drug candidates

If drug-repurposing studies hit pay dirt, backup recipes could help antiviral manufacturers avoid supply chain problems
August 14, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
COVID-19 pandemic has spurred materials researchers to develop antiviral masks

COVID-19 pandemic has spurred materials researchers to develop antiviral masks

Scientists around the world are developing a new breed of masks that can both trap and destroy viruses
August 12, 2020
Electron microscopy reveals coronavirus replication structure

Electron microscopy reveals coronavirus replication structure

Membrane-spanning protein complex may provide important exit route for replicated viral RNA
August 12, 2020
Rapid COVID-19 testing breaks free from the lab

Rapid COVID-19 testing breaks free from the lab

Fast, portable systems could help to deliver routine infection screening as countries ease lockdowns
August 10, 2020
More chemical companies post slumping earnings

More chemical companies post slumping earnings

Firms post sharp declines during the COVID-19-impacted quarter
August 5, 2020
Do we know enough about the safety of quat disinfectants?

Do we know enough about the safety of quat disinfectants?

Quaternary ammonium compounds have been widely used as disinfectants for decades. But some scientists think we need more data on their safety in people
August 2, 2020
Chemical earnings crater in the second quarter

Chemical earnings crater in the second quarter

Companies selling into automotive and aerospace markets were hit the hardest
July 30, 2020
First US Phase III trial of a COVID-19 vaccine begins

First US Phase III trial of a COVID-19 vaccine begins

Data from the 30,000-person trial of Moderna’s vaccine could be available as early as November
July 27, 2020
COVID-19 is probably more deadly to men than women, but scientists still aren’t sure why

COVID-19 is probably more deadly to men than women, but scientists still aren’t sure why

Most available data suggest men may be more likely to die from coronavirus infections, but the reason why could be complicated
July 27, 2020
Starting a science business during a pandemic

Starting a science business during a pandemic

3 chemistry start-ups cope with COVID-19 chaos
July 27, 2020
Science money slashed during long European Union negotiations

Science money slashed during long European Union negotiations

Research funding becomes a victim of €1.8 trillion budget deal
July 23, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
GSK and CureVac sign mRNA vaccine and therapy deal

GSK and CureVac sign mRNA vaccine and therapy deal

Investment of about $300 million up front is latest vote of confidence in mRNA technology
July 23, 2020
Dow plans layoffs as COVID-19 bites into earnings

Dow plans layoffs as COVID-19 bites into earnings

The company is planning a 6% reduction of its workforce as second-quarter sales plummet 24%
July 23, 2020
Four COVID-19 vaccine candidates induce immune responses in preliminary studies, but questions remain

Four COVID-19 vaccine candidates induce immune responses in preliminary studies, but questions remain

CanSino, Moderna, Oxford, and Pfizer publish results from early clinical trials that show the vaccines may be safe and induce moderate antibody responses
July 22, 2020
Postdocs ponder missed opportunities caused by the coronavirus pandemic

Postdocs ponder missed opportunities caused by the coronavirus pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to derail scientists at a critical point in their careers
July 19, 2020
How ACS programs are adapting to the pandemic

How ACS programs are adapting to the pandemic

Society continues to serve the chemistry community in new and creative ways
July 18, 2020
What will it take to make an effective vaccine for COVID-19?

What will it take to make an effective vaccine for COVID-19?

Scientists are optimistic about our chance of success, but with a wide range of technologies and strategies in play, not all vaccines are alike
July 17, 2020
Adimab spin-off Adagio launches with $50 million to make pan-coronavirus antibody therapies

Adimab spin-off Adagio launches with $50 million to make pan-coronavirus antibody therapies

The start-up is the first coronavirus-focused firm to launch during the pandemic
July 16, 2020
Trump administration reverses move to send international students home

Trump administration reverses move to send international students home

Students from abroad will be able to take classes online only
July 15, 2020
Chemical companies preview second-quarter COVID-19 impact

Chemical companies preview second-quarter COVID-19 impact

Sales to the auto industry plummeted, but other sectors held up
July 15, 2020
Communicating in the socially-distanced workplace

Communicating in the socially-distanced workplace

How will we talk to one another once we’re all back in the office?
July 14, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
International students in US cannot take classes online only

International students in US cannot take classes online only

Trump administration says students must take some classes in person, reversing pandemic-era exception
July 9, 2020
US preorders COVID-19 vaccine and antibody therapy

US preorders COVID-19 vaccine and antibody therapy

Novavax will earn $1.6 billion for its vaccine and Regeneron $450 million for its antibodies
July 9, 2020
Pacifichem rescheduled for 2021

Pacifichem rescheduled for 2021

Meeting of Pacific Basin chemical societies will be held in Honolulu on Dec. 16–21, 2021
July 8, 2020
COVID-19 shakes up summer internship and research opportunities

COVID-19 shakes up summer internship and research opportunities

How companies, research experiences, and undergraduate students are adapting
July 6, 2020
Block plan compresses one class into a few weeks for deeper learning

Block plan compresses one class into a few weeks for deeper learning

Schools are adopting the 50-year-old strategy to curtail COVID-19 disruptions
July 3, 2020
FDA outlines criteria for COVID-19 vaccine approvals

FDA outlines criteria for COVID-19 vaccine approvals

Clinical trials must prove a vaccine can prevent infections
July 2, 2020
CO₂ market seeks its balance as the US economy starts back up

CO₂ market seeks its balance as the US economy starts back up

Meatpacking and stadium shutdowns blunted a supply crisis, but the return to normal brings its own risks
July 1, 2020
COVID-19 has disrupted fieldwork. Here’s how environmental chemists are coping

COVID-19 has disrupted fieldwork. Here’s how environmental chemists are coping

The pandemic has delayed environmental monitoring, but some scientists are finding ways to pivot
June 29, 2020
Pandemic strands graduate students and postdocs away from their labs

Pandemic strands graduate students and postdocs away from their labs

Hundreds of young scientists are stuck in their home countries because of canceled flights or closed embassies. The delays will affect the trainees, their labs, and chemistry departments worldwide
June 29, 2020
Accuracy of COVID-19 antibody tests questioned

Accuracy of COVID-19 antibody tests questioned

Systematic review finds that the quality of diagnostic results strongly depends on when patient samples were taken.
June 26, 2020
Developing countries face diagnostic challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic surges

Developing countries face diagnostic challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic surges

The Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics is at the forefront of efforts to expand testing in low- and middle-income countries
June 26, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
A guide to COVID-19 testing

A guide to COVID-19 testing

Chemical educator and Compound Interest blogger Andy Brunning captures the current state of diagnostics for novel coronavirus infection.
June 25, 2020
Scientists take a closer look at materials for homemade masks

Scientists take a closer look at materials for homemade masks

Study examines fabric pore size and the effects of static electricity on filtering tiny aerosol particles
June 24, 2020
Sanofi invests $425 million in Translate Bio’s mRNA vaccines

Sanofi invests $425 million in Translate Bio’s mRNA vaccines

The companies are making vaccines for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
June 23, 2020
Plastics during the pandemic

Plastics during the pandemic

COVID-19 has meant a shift in plastics markets, and polymer makers are hustling to keep up
June 22, 2020
COVID-19 vaccines and antibodies advance even faster than expected

COVID-19 vaccines and antibodies advance even faster than expected

With large vaccine trials planned and monoclonal antibody trials underway, efficacy data could come this fall or winter
June 19, 2020
Dexamethasone appears to help severe cases of COVID-19

Dexamethasone appears to help severe cases of COVID-19

The inexpensive, well-studied steroid could give doctors another tool in the coronavirus pandemic
June 17, 2020
Turmoil continues for hydroxychloroquine

Turmoil continues for hydroxychloroquine

While negative clinical trial results lead some researchers to cancel studies, other will push ahead
June 16, 2020
What you need to know to get back to the lab amid the COVID-19 pandemic

What you need to know to get back to the lab amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Managing expectations will be key, says Jen Heemstra
June 16, 2020
Can Pepcid treat COVID-19?

Can Pepcid treat COVID-19?

With clinical trials ongoing, doctors try to unravel how famotidine could be working to fight the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2
June 15, 2020
Convalescent plasma data trickle out from COVID-19 studies, but scientists wonder if results will come too late

Convalescent plasma data trickle out from COVID-19 studies, but scientists wonder if results will come too late

Scientists face logistical and technical hurdles in trying to prove that the experimental treatment saves lives
June 11, 2020
Genetic study suggests that people’s blood type may affect their COVID-19 risk

Genetic study suggests that people’s blood type may affect their COVID-19 risk

People with type A blood may have higher risk of severe illness, while those with type O may have lower risk
June 11, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Pandemic puts preprints first

Pandemic puts preprints first

As scientists attempt to speed up COVID-19 research, attention by the public and media has changed the way preprint servers and journals handle those papers
June 7, 2020
Remembering the chemists we lost to COVID-19

Remembering the chemists we lost to COVID-19

Educators, industrial chemists, and volunteers made a difference in their communities
June 6, 2020
Funding and deals fly for COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing

Funding and deals fly for COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing

Emergent lands $628 million government contract as Novavax acquires a European firm
June 3, 2020
COVID-19 antibody tests are raising as many questions as they answer

COVID-19 antibody tests are raising as many questions as they answer

As stay-at-home orders expire, some are turning to the tests to reopen society safely. It may be too much to ask
June 3, 2020
COVID-19 antigen tests have landed in the US, but not everyone is rushing out to get them

COVID-19 antigen tests have landed in the US, but not everyone is rushing out to get them

The tests are less reliable than other diagnostics, and some large labs say they won’t offer them right away
June 2, 2020
Lilly begins first clinical trial of antibody that targets SARS-CoV-2

Lilly begins first clinical trial of antibody that targets SARS-CoV-2

The antibody, isolated by the Canadian start-up AbCellera, was discovered and developed in just 3 months
June 1, 2020
Tick tock. Should we stop the tenure clock?

Tick tock. Should we stop the tenure clock?

The COVID-19 pandemic exposes the need for more flexibility and support for junior faculty
June 1, 2020
Tenure during a time of crisis

Tenure during a time of crisis

What we can learn now to make the tenure system more equitable in the future
June 1, 2020
Chemist-turned-intelligence expert Rod Schoonover on climate change and COVID-19

Chemist-turned-intelligence expert Rod Schoonover on climate change and COVID-19

He resigned from the State Department after the White House withheld his science-based testimony from Congress
May 31, 2020
Alfred Viola dies of COVID-19

Alfred Viola dies of COVID-19

Northeastern University professor established a scholarship for undergraduate chemistry majors
May 29, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
US universities release research restart plans

US universities release research restart plans

Strategies prioritize health and safety of researchers and support staff
May 28, 2020
CanSino publishes first COVID-19 vaccine data to muted response

CanSino publishes first COVID-19 vaccine data to muted response

The Chinese vaccine company is pushing ahead with clinical trials in China and Canada, despite mixed results from its Phase I study
May 28, 2020
Podcast: What we still don’t know about the chemical culprit in vaping illnesses

Podcast: What we still don’t know about the chemical culprit in vaping illnesses

Stereo Chemistry explores new leads to determine whether chief suspect vitamin E acetate was acting alone
May 27, 2020
Artemisinin raises hopes and fears amid COVID-19

Artemisinin raises hopes and fears amid COVID-19

Researchers test Artemisia annua extracts against the novel coronavirus, while the WHO cautions that herbal remedies made from the plant could boost malaria resistance
May 27, 2020
Merck & Co. joins race for COVID-19 vaccines and therapies

Merck & Co. joins race for COVID-19 vaccines and therapies

The firm will develop viral vector vaccines from IAVI and Themis Bioscience, and the experimental EIDD-2801 antiviral compound developed by Ridgeback Biotherapeutics
May 26, 2020
Rethinking the role of blood pressure drugs in COVID-19

Rethinking the role of blood pressure drugs in COVID-19

Once thought to boost levels of ACE2, the novel coronavirus’s doorway into human cells, these widely used medicines are now contenders to treat the respiratory disease
May 22, 2020
CO₂ emissions have declined sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic

CO₂ emissions have declined sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic

Global daily emissions fell 17% in early April
May 21, 2020
Multiple clinical trials test whether NO gas can treat and prevent COVID-19

Multiple clinical trials test whether NO gas can treat and prevent COVID-19

The gas is known to improve lung function, but can it also kill the virus?
May 20, 2020
US signs huge COVID-19 drug contract with a start-up

US signs huge COVID-19 drug contract with a start-up

New Virginia firm partners with a pharmaceutical chemical maker in its made-in-America gambit
May 19, 2020
The city of Bristol needed hand sanitizer. How one university stepped up

The city of Bristol needed hand sanitizer. How one university stepped up

University of Bristol chemists have made 2,500 L of hand sanitizer for local hospitals, elder centers, and community workers
May 18, 2020
COVID-19 could take a toll on CO₂-reduction efforts

COVID-19 could take a toll on CO₂-reduction efforts

Companies serious about cutting carbon emissions face spending issues and other new market realities
May 17, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
How we'll get back to the lab during COVID-19

How we'll get back to the lab during COVID-19

Careful planning and lots of distancing are critical for R&D labs that have stayed open and those looking to restart
May 15, 2020
Drug and chemical firms relax patent controls for COVID-19 response

Drug and chemical firms relax patent controls for COVID-19 response

Gilead offers royalty-free licenses on remdesivir, consortium pledges not to prosecute IP violations done to fight the pandemic
May 15, 2020
Ronei Poppi dies of suspected COVID-19

Ronei Poppi dies of suspected COVID-19

Analytical chemist was known for his contributions to the development of chemometrics in Brazil
May 13, 2020
COVID-19 claims the life of Daniel S. Kemp

COVID-19 claims the life of Daniel S. Kemp

A ‘giant of chemistry and teaching,’ MIT chemistry professor contributed to the understanding of protein folding
May 12, 2020
Amid COVID-19, chemical dealmaking slows

Amid COVID-19, chemical dealmaking slows

Uncertainty is making industry executives cautious about mergers and acquisitions
May 12, 2020
The race to pick the best medicines to try against coronavirus

The race to pick the best medicines to try against coronavirus

Medicinal chemist Derek Lowe and NCATS repurposing expert Matthew Hall weigh in on current efforts to repurpose existing drugs for COVID-19
May 12, 2020
Adenoviral vectors are the new COVID-19 vaccine front-runners. Can they overcome their checkered past?

Adenoviral vectors are the new COVID-19 vaccine front-runners. Can they overcome their checkered past?

CanSino Biologics, Johnson & Johnson, and the University of Oxford are all using genetically engineered common cold viruses to make COVID-19 vaccines. The technology is more than 30 years in the making, but it’s yet to yield an effective vaccine for humans
May 12, 2020
CEPI commits $384 million to Novavax’s nanoparticle-based COVID-19 vaccine

CEPI commits $384 million to Novavax’s nanoparticle-based COVID-19 vaccine

It’s the biggest financial commitment yet from the vaccine nonprofit
May 12, 2020

Coronavirus dims chemistry job market prospects

Experts fear that the COVID-19 pandemic will yield a tough employment outlook for chemical professionals
May 10, 2020
Want a faculty position? Get ready to wait

Want a faculty position? Get ready to wait

Use this time to prepare for when the academic job market comes back
May 10, 2020
Questioning the value of general chemistry labs

Questioning the value of general chemistry labs

Citing costs and a lack of evidence that traditional labs increase student learning, experts say instructors need to make improvements
May 10, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
What fabrics make the most effective homemade masks?

What fabrics make the most effective homemade masks?

Scientists test various kinds of cloth for their ability to filter aerosols
May 9, 2020
How remdesivir blocks SARS-CoV-2’s polymerase

How remdesivir blocks SARS-CoV-2’s polymerase

Researchers use cryo-EM to show how the drug stops RNA replication
May 9, 2020
Pandemic hits first-quarter chemical earnings

Pandemic hits first-quarter chemical earnings

Many results are down, and executives with US firms see the impact from COVID-19 growing
May 7, 2020
A COVID-19 diagnostic that uses CRISPR gets a nod from the FDA

A COVID-19 diagnostic that uses CRISPR gets a nod from the FDA

Sherlock Biosciences’ test becomes the first FDA-authorized CRISPR technology on the market
May 7, 2020
Lieng-Huang Lee dies of COVID-19

Lieng-Huang Lee dies of COVID-19

Industrial chemist was an ACS member for 66 years
May 7, 2020
Students will take the Advanced Placement chemistry exam in a modified format

Students will take the Advanced Placement chemistry exam in a modified format

Decision to move forward during COVID-19 pandemic relieves some but also raises concerns about cheating
May 7, 2020
Styrene leak in India kills at least 13

Styrene leak in India kills at least 13

Plant was starting up after being closed in compliance with government measures to control COVID-19
May 7, 2020
Evonik to boost drug actives capacity in Germany

Evonik to boost drug actives capacity in Germany

Project joins a steady flow of investment boosted by heightened supply chain concerns
May 6, 2020
An emerging antiviral takes aim at COVID-19

An emerging antiviral takes aim at COVID-19

EIDD-2801 wasn’t designed to fight the novel coronavirus, but its chemistry might make it an ideal weapon in this pandemic and the next
May 5, 2020
How structural biologists revealed the new coronavirus’s structure so quickly

How structural biologists revealed the new coronavirus’s structure so quickly

Scientists detail the steps they took to determine the structures of SARS-CoV-2’s proteins and the next steps toward COVID-19 treatments
May 2, 2020
Cell studies suggest some repurposed drugs could block replication of SARS-CoV-2

Cell studies suggest some repurposed drugs could block replication of SARS-CoV-2

The experiments follow up on an earlier study that identified 69 compounds that could disrupt possible interactions between viral and human proteins
May 1, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
How big pharma firms are quietly collaborating on new coronavirus antivirals

How big pharma firms are quietly collaborating on new coronavirus antivirals

Behind the scenes, companies including Novartis, Takeda, and Gilead are collaborating in a loose alliance. Their work might not be done in time to stop COVID-19, but they hope it can prevent the next pandemic
May 1, 2020
Moderna picks Lonza to make 1 billion doses of its coronavirus vaccine

Moderna picks Lonza to make 1 billion doses of its coronavirus vaccine

Program boosts effort by the mRNA therapy pioneer to be first with a coronavirus vaccine
May 1, 2020
Podcast: Diagnose, treat, vaccinate—beating a killer coronavirus

Podcast: Diagnose, treat, vaccinate—beating a killer coronavirus

Stereo Chemistry looks at lessons learned from previous epidemics and the global effort underway to stop this new microscopic foe
May 1, 2020
A chemist’s guide to disinfectants

A chemist’s guide to disinfectants

Has your local store run out of sanitizing wipes? This cheat sheet can help you find and understand alternatives
May 1, 2020
BASF and Dow see early coronavirus impacts in first-quarter earnings

BASF and Dow see early coronavirus impacts in first-quarter earnings

Manufacturing shutdowns and oil prices were a drag on results
April 30, 2020
US national labs offer royalty-free patent licenses

US national labs offer royalty-free patent licenses

The nonexclusive licenses, available on more than 1,000 technologies, will expire at the end of 2020
April 30, 2020
Ying Kao Lee dies of COVID-19

Ying Kao Lee dies of COVID-19

DuPont chemist invented a high-quality coating that kept automotive paints from fading
April 30, 2020
Finding what cells the coronavirus can enter could help explain why it spreads so well

Finding what cells the coronavirus can enter could help explain why it spreads so well

Two studies pinpoint nasal cells and others that express the molecules the virus uses to get inside
April 30, 2020
Gilead's remdesivir gets emergency use authorization based on preliminary data in COVID-19

Gilead's remdesivir gets emergency use authorization based on preliminary data in COVID-19

Limited results from a NIAID study suggest the drug helps people with COVID-19 recover faster
April 29, 2020
As they scramble to shore up supplies, small firms brace for a recession

As they scramble to shore up supplies, small firms brace for a recession

Early signs of a downturn in demand herald a season of unprecedented uncertainty
April 29, 2020
ACS Exams Institute offers ‘nonsecure’ versions of its general and organic chemistry exams

ACS Exams Institute offers ‘nonsecure’ versions of its general and organic chemistry exams

One-time tests can be taken by students learning remotely during the coronavirus pandemic
April 29, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Does the FDA’s authorization for chloroquine impede clinical trials for COVID-19 drugs?

Does the FDA’s authorization for chloroquine impede clinical trials for COVID-19 drugs?

Despite the hype, support for the use of chloroquine and its relative hydroxychloroquine outside a clinical trial remains mixed
April 28, 2020
During the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals have taken unprecedented steps to disinfect N95 face masks

During the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals have taken unprecedented steps to disinfect N95 face masks

With protective equipment in short supply, health-care facilities are decontaminating and reusing items designed to be disposable
April 27, 2020
COVID-19 is reshaping the pharmaceutical supply chain

COVID-19 is reshaping the pharmaceutical supply chain

The coronavirus pandemic may mark a rebalancing of where drugs are made as nations recognize a security imperative
April 27, 2020
How ACS local sections are supporting their communities during COVID-19

How ACS local sections are supporting their communities during COVID-19

ACS local sections and members are gathering lab equipment, making chemistry-themed face masks, and more to pitch in during the pandemic
April 25, 2020
<i>Science</i> editor in chief Holden Thorp on the role of science during the COVID-19 pandemic

Science editor in chief Holden Thorp on the role of science during the COVID-19 pandemic

The chemist and former university administrator uses editorials to speak up for science during an ‘extraordinary’ time
April 25, 2020
Clinical trials planned to put hydroxychloroquine to the test for COVID-19

Clinical trials planned to put hydroxychloroquine to the test for COVID-19

The antimalaria drug will be tested for treating or preventing the disease in thousands of people worldwide
April 23, 2020
Bill Suits dies of COVID-19 complications

Bill Suits dies of COVID-19 complications

ACS volunteer was passionate about mentoring students and helping chemists find jobs
April 23, 2020
Adding the missing sugars to coronavirus protein structures

Adding the missing sugars to coronavirus protein structures

Most of the recently reported viral structures have left out the carbohydrate decorations that help mask the proteins from our immune system
April 22, 2020
Drop in driving endangers CO₂ supply

Drop in driving endangers CO₂ supply

Gasoline demand is half of normal, idling ethanol plants and cutting off the CO2 they produce
April 22, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
How does immunity work?

How does immunity work?

Chemical educator and Compound Interest blogger Andy Brunning explains how our bodies fight foreign invaders like coronaviruses
April 21, 2020
US chemical output to drop this year

US chemical output to drop this year

Novel coronavirus shutdown is choking demand for chemicals as well as investment, key trade group says
April 21, 2020
Scaling up remdesivir amid the coronavirus crisis

Scaling up remdesivir amid the coronavirus crisis

Manufacturing experts weigh in on Gilead’s challenge in making its potential COVID-19 treatment
April 20, 2020
NIH unveils consortium to tackle COVID-19 research

NIH unveils consortium to tackle COVID-19 research

Multiple government agencies and pharma companies join the effort to develop therapeutics and vaccines
April 20, 2020
COVID-19 claims the life of beloved chemistry professor

COVID-19 claims the life of beloved chemistry professor

Dennis Peters of Indiana University dies from complications of COVID-19
April 20, 2020
Consortia lend their supercomputers to fight COVID-19

Consortia lend their supercomputers to fight COVID-19

National labs, universities, and companies around the world are fast-tracking proposals to use their high-performance computer resources against the novel coronavirus
April 17, 2020
How industrial gas firms are meeting demand for medical oxygen for COVID-19 patients

How industrial gas firms are meeting demand for medical oxygen for COVID-19 patients

COVID-19 is driving a fivefold or greater increase in demand
April 16, 2020
Novel coronavirus found in surprisingly high levels in sewage

Novel coronavirus found in surprisingly high levels in sewage

Viral levels higher than expected based on confirmed COVID-19 cases
April 16, 2020
COVID-19 vaccines are moving toward clinical trials

COVID-19 vaccines are moving toward clinical trials

Tests of 10 or more novel vaccines could be underway by mid-May
April 16, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Chemical outlook post COVID-19 is bleak

Chemical outlook post COVID-19 is bleak

Early earnings figures from chemical makers are down
April 16, 2020
Disinfectant demand from coronavirus concerns challenges specialty chemical supply chain

Disinfectant demand from coronavirus concerns challenges specialty chemical supply chain

As wipes and sprays sell out, quaternary ammonium compound makers try to keep up
April 15, 2020
Structure of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase published

Structure of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase published

Researchers use cryo-EM to image the viral protein that remdesivir targets
April 15, 2020
What explains the non-respiratory symptoms seen in some COVID-19 patients?

What explains the non-respiratory symptoms seen in some COVID-19 patients?

Some patients experience neurological, cardiovascular, and intestinal symptoms after infection with SARS-CoV-2
April 14, 2020
How susceptible is your cat or dog to the novel coronavirus?

How susceptible is your cat or dog to the novel coronavirus?

Cats can transmit SARS-CoV-2 to one another, but the virus replicates poorly in dogs, pigs, chickens, and ducks, study finds
April 10, 2020
Merdad Parsey on building a case for remdesivir amid the coronavirus pandemic

Merdad Parsey on building a case for remdesivir amid the coronavirus pandemic

Gilead’s Chief Medical Officer talks about the challenges of clinical design in the time of COVID-19
April 10, 2020
Get ready for a potential chemistry job crisis

Get ready for a potential chemistry job crisis

Whatever COVID-19 does to chemical employment, it’s wise to start preparing your career emergency kit
April 10, 2020
Virus weakens markets for renewable energy

Virus weakens markets for renewable energy

Industries press pause on steep growth trajectory
April 9, 2020
Coronavirus puts science to the test

Coronavirus puts science to the test

A new generation of technologies being used for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of COVID-19 will be pressure tested amid a pandemic
April 9, 2020
US EPA advances rollbacks while coronavirus pandemic rages

US EPA advances rollbacks while coronavirus pandemic rages

Work continues on chemical risks, climate, and what data regulators may consider
April 9, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
How a SARS patient’s antibody binds to the COVID-19 virus

How a SARS patient’s antibody binds to the COVID-19 virus

Structural data on the complex could guide drug and vaccine design
April 8, 2020
India partially lifts drug export ban on hydroxychloroquine and acetaminophen

India partially lifts drug export ban on hydroxychloroquine and acetaminophen

Country will now allow exports if domestic needs are met to treat COVID-19
April 8, 2020
European Research Council president resigns amid dispute over coronavirus response

European Research Council president resigns amid dispute over coronavirus response

Mauro Ferrari quits after three months at the helm
April 8, 2020
Why the best material for a homemade coronavirus face mask is hard to identify

Why the best material for a homemade coronavirus face mask is hard to identify

Variables in fabrics, fit, and user behavior can influence how well a mask might block the virus’s spread
April 7, 2020
Searching for a coronavirus cure in the blood

Searching for a coronavirus cure in the blood

Scientists look to convalescent plasma, hyperimmune therapy, and monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19
April 7, 2020
How the coronavirus will transform science

How the coronavirus will transform science

Thought leaders in life sciences weigh in on lessons learned amid the COVID-19 pandemic
April 7, 2020
Clinical trial for ruxolitinib planned in fight against COVID-19

Clinical trial for ruxolitinib planned in fight against COVID-19

Treatment for rare blood cancers could temper cytokine storm in people with severe forms of the disease
April 7, 2020
Plastic bag bans rolled back for COVID-19

Plastic bag bans rolled back for COVID-19

Regulators are restricting reusable bags over worries they might harbor virus
April 7, 2020
Chemistry faculty cope with coronavirus shutdowns

Chemistry faculty cope with coronavirus shutdowns

With university labs shuttered by COVID-19, chemistry faculty are getting a crash course in how to stay productive
April 6, 2020
Grad students tell of the coronavirus’s impact

Grad students tell of the coronavirus’s impact

Delayed postdoc opportunities. Canceled commencement. Graduate students in chemistry describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their work and lives
April 6, 2020
Meet Sheng Ding, who is tackling COVID-19 as director of China’s Global Health Drug Discovery Institute

Meet Sheng Ding, who is tackling COVID-19 as director of China’s Global Health Drug Discovery Institute

The chemist wants the Gates Foundation–backed institute to share its expertise during the coronavirus pandemic and advocate for public health
April 5, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Will the coronavirus help mRNA and DNA vaccines prove their worth?

Will the coronavirus help mRNA and DNA vaccines prove their worth?

As gene-based vaccines are being designed and tested at unprecedented speeds to fight COVID-19, scientists wonder if this will be the technology’s make-or-break moment.
April 3, 2020
Novel coronavirus thought to have jumped to humans via pangolins

Novel coronavirus thought to have jumped to humans via pangolins

Trafficked scaly anteaters found to carry coronaviruses related to SARS-CoV-2
April 3, 2020
CAS curates dataset of antiviral compound leads with potential activity against COVID-19

CAS curates dataset of antiviral compound leads with potential activity against COVID-19

Open-access collection contains nearly 50,000 chemical compounds from the CAS Registry
April 3, 2020
Journal publishers promote flexibility during COVID-19 pandemic

Journal publishers promote flexibility during COVID-19 pandemic

Editors in Europe and the US plan to work with authors whose lives and labs have been disrupted by the novel coronavirus
April 2, 2020
COVID-19 to delay clinical trials

COVID-19 to delay clinical trials

Drugmakers want to keep trials going but acknowledge that medical resources are strained
April 1, 2020
What do we know about the novel coronavirus’s 29 proteins?

What do we know about the novel coronavirus’s 29 proteins?

These biomolecules could hold clues to why the virus is so infectious and to how to stop it
April 1, 2020
Coronavirus starts to weigh on industry

Coronavirus starts to weigh on industry

Auto manufacturing is the first sector to halt demand for chemicals
April 1, 2020
Jen Heemstra on building your resilience

Jen Heemstra on building your resilience

C&EN advice columnist offers 4 tips on adapting to times of uncertainty
April 1, 2020
Companies are racing to develop COVID-19 tests for the US. Will they help?

Companies are racing to develop COVID-19 tests for the US. Will they help?

With a diagnostic backlog hampering disease control efforts, scientists are turning to CRISPR and other technologies to bridge the gap
April 1, 2020
COVID-19 mostly behind it, China’s chemical industry struggles to rev up

COVID-19 mostly behind it, China’s chemical industry struggles to rev up

Lingering logistic problems and a sputtering economy mean hard times for companies
March 30, 2020
Chemical industry welcomes leniency from US EPA during coronavirus response

Chemical industry welcomes leniency from US EPA during coronavirus response

Activists say broad lack of enforcement threatens safety
March 30, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
US stimulus bill includes funding for coronavirus research

US stimulus bill includes funding for coronavirus research

The National Institutes of Health receives the vast majority of the support
March 27, 2020
What can initial remdesivir data tell us about tackling COVID-19?

What can initial remdesivir data tell us about tackling COVID-19?

Gilead Sciences’ antiviral is in multiple late-stage trials to treat coronavirus infections. Don’t expect a home run, say infectious disease experts
March 27, 2020
Emory-discovered antiviral is poised for COVID-19 clinical trials

Emory-discovered antiviral is poised for COVID-19 clinical trials

The nucleoside inhibitor has advantages over Gilead’s remdesivir but has yet to be tested in humans
March 26, 2020
Chloroquine’s use to treat COVID-19 is backed by US government, but many questions remain

Chloroquine’s use to treat COVID-19 is backed by US government, but many questions remain

Old anti-malarial drugs have shown mixed results in the small clinical trials conducted so far
March 26, 2020
Tension but also harmony over COVID-19 in Europe’s chemical industry

Tension but also harmony over COVID-19 in Europe’s chemical industry

Italian workers threaten to strike, but German, UK companies and workers pull together
March 26, 2020
Protein mapping finds 69 potential treatments for COVID-19

Protein mapping finds 69 potential treatments for COVID-19

Many are FDA-approved drugs that could be repurposed
March 26, 2020
China’s contract research firms rebound after coronavirus

China’s contract research firms rebound after coronavirus

Chemistry CROs are back in business as rest of world starts to lock down
March 25, 2020
Chemical firms say they want to keep going

Chemical firms say they want to keep going

Industry is deemed essential critical infrastructure by federal and state governments
March 24, 2020
Crystal structures of the novel coronavirus protease guide drug development

Crystal structures of the novel coronavirus protease guide drug development

Medicinal chemists focus on the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 to develop antiviral treatments for the virus causing COVID-19
March 24, 2020
3-D printing firms rise to coronavirus challenge

3-D printing firms rise to coronavirus challenge

Companies are making their machines and expertise available to hospitals in need of parts
March 24, 2020
What is hand sanitizer, and does it keep your hands germ-free?

What is hand sanitizer, and does it keep your hands germ-free?

Useful when you don’t have access to a sink and some soap, hand sanitizers have become a hot commodity in the face of COVID-19
March 23, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Ginkgo opens facilities to help COVID-19 coronavirus response

Ginkgo opens facilities to help COVID-19 coronavirus response

Boston biotech firm is making its discovery and production service available to firms working on diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines
March 20, 2020
No evidence to support link between ibuprofen and COVID-19, experts say

No evidence to support link between ibuprofen and COVID-19, experts say

WHO does not recommend against taking the drug for fever caused by novel coronavirus infection
March 19, 2020
Tips for teaching in the time of coronavirus

Tips for teaching in the time of coronavirus

Veterans of teaching chemistry online offer advice for professors challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic
March 19, 2020
Stepping up to the hand sanitizer shortage

Stepping up to the hand sanitizer shortage

Chemical companies, breweries, and perfumeries take to making and donating a vital commodity in short supply
March 19, 2020
Chemistry departments deal with coronavirus closures

Chemistry departments deal with coronavirus closures

Amid university shutdowns worldwide, professors and students adjust what social distancing means for lab scientists
March 19, 2020
Shortage of RNA extraction kits hampers efforts to ramp up COVID-19 coronavirus testing

Shortage of RNA extraction kits hampers efforts to ramp up COVID-19 coronavirus testing

Qiagen vows to ramp up production of kits as scientists turn to social media to plea for donations
March 19, 2020
Sanofi, Regeneron test arthritis drug against COVID-19

Sanofi, Regeneron test arthritis drug against COVID-19

New study explores whether dampening IL-6 could address serious coronavirus infections
March 18, 2020
BioNTech joins coronavirus vaccine race

BioNTech joins coronavirus vaccine race

The German firm will work with Fosun Pharma and Pfizer to develop an mRNA vaccine for COVID-19
March 18, 2020
COVID-19 coronavirus weighs on economy, chemicals

COVID-19 coronavirus weighs on economy, chemicals

Chemical makers and oil producers are pulling back on production, reconsidering investments
March 18, 2020
How small chemical company leaders are dealing with the coronavirus

How small chemical company leaders are dealing with the coronavirus

Specialty chemical CEOs are rolling with the punches to keep their firms going
March 17, 2020
How we know disinfectants should kill the COVID-19 coronavirus

How we know disinfectants should kill the COVID-19 coronavirus

The novel virus is one of the easiest virus types to deactivate, though SARS-CoV-2–specific data are lacking
March 13, 2020
ADVERTISEMENT
Coronavirus hits Europe

Coronavirus hits Europe

Chemical makers brace for a slowdown on the continent
March 12, 2020
Podcast: How the coronavirus could disrupt the drug supply

Podcast: How the coronavirus could disrupt the drug supply

Hear what C&EN’s pharmaceutical editors have learned about how the coronavirus is affecting drug production in China and across the globe
March 10, 2020
Coronavirus forces cancellations of scientific meetings

Coronavirus forces cancellations of scientific meetings

Spring lineup of conferences and events frequented by chemists is slashed
March 9, 2020
Chemists work around coronavirus restrictions

Chemists work around coronavirus restrictions

C&EN looks at how scientists are adapting to travel restrictions and working from home
March 9, 2020
ACS cancels spring national meeting in Philadelphia

ACS cancels spring national meeting in Philadelphia

Concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus leads to decision
March 9, 2020
Researchers in China report structure of the novel coronavirus bound to its human target

Researchers in China report structure of the novel coronavirus bound to its human target

The structure shows the first steps of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and could help in drug discovery
March 6, 2020
$8.3 billion allocated for US coronavirus response

$8.3 billion allocated for US coronavirus response

Congress opts for open-ended support for federal and local agencies
March 6, 2020
Coronavirus cancels chemical events

Coronavirus cancels chemical events

Petrochemical and pharma meeting organizers say travel was becoming too difficult; ACS spring meeting is still on
March 2, 2020
China’s new place on the front lines of diagnosing and treating coronavirus disease

China’s new place on the front lines of diagnosing and treating coronavirus disease

Industry watchers say the effort is unprecedented and would not have been possible during the last SARS outbreak
February 28, 2020
Gilead and Moderna lead on coronavirus treatments

Gilead and Moderna lead on coronavirus treatments

Gilead has a head start on an antiviral, while Moderna is pursuing a novel mRNA vaccine
February 27, 2020
Chemical firms see light at end of coronavirus tunnel

Chemical firms see light at end of coronavirus tunnel

Facilities are reopening in China but spread of virus outside China is raising concerns
February 25, 2020
Diagnosing the novel coronavirus leads to trade offs

Diagnosing the novel coronavirus leads to trade offs

Medical workers in China weigh the advantages and disadvantages of nucleic acid lab tests and CT lung scans
February 20, 2020
Structure of novel coronavirus spike protein solved in just weeks

Structure of novel coronavirus spike protein solved in just weeks

Cryo-EM structure of key coronavirus protein could help develop vaccines against the virus
February 19, 2020
Biotech firms consider contingency plans as the coronavirus outbreak hits CROs

Biotech firms consider contingency plans as the coronavirus outbreak hits CROs

The industry’s reliance on China-based firms for chemistry services is in the spotlight
February 12, 2020
Coronavirus shadows China’s chemical industry

Coronavirus shadows China’s chemical industry

Executives in China and the US see a manageable crisis but also many unknowns
February 5, 2020
Two groups use artificial intelligence to find compounds that could fight the novel coronavirus

Two groups use artificial intelligence to find compounds that could fight the novel coronavirus

One group identifies an existing drug, the other finds 6 novel molecules, but the consequences of reporting possibly helpful molecules are unclear
February 4, 2020
Novel coronavirus puts drug chemical industry on alert

Novel coronavirus puts drug chemical industry on alert

Firms signal preparedness, but warn that prolonged plant closures and travel restrictions may cause significant disruptions
February 4, 2020
What we do and don't know about the novel coronavirus

What we do and don't know about the novel coronavirus

Scientists race to characterize, build vaccines and treatments for the virus as thousands fall ill
January 31, 2020
Podcast: Why do I have to get a flu shot every year?

Podcast: Why do I have to get a flu shot every year?

Influenza evolution experts tell Stereo Chemistry what makes the virus so good at evading our immune system
January 31, 2020
Drug firms mobilize to combat novel coronavirus outbreak

Drug firms mobilize to combat novel coronavirus outbreak

Development of diagnostics, vaccines, and treatments is underway
January 30, 2020
Biotech firms to tackle coronavirus

Biotech firms to tackle coronavirus

Companies are quick to announce plans to diagnose or treat the novel coronavirus
January 23, 2020