Why AI systems are most useful as designers of new scientific tools

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02529-xHistory shows that breakthroughs are often sparked by innovative instruments, and AI’s ability to help design them might be its most important scientific contribut…

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02529-x

History shows that breakthroughs are often sparked by innovative instruments, and AI’s ability to help design them might be its most important scientific contribution.

Daily briefing: Narcolepsy drug could kick off an Ozempic-style moment for the brain

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02589-zEmerging treatments known as orexin agonists show wide-ranging promise similar to that of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Plus, postdocs protest in Argentina and the high…

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02589-z

Emerging treatments known as orexin agonists show wide-ranging promise similar to that of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Plus, postdocs protest in Argentina and the highest-resolution image ever of the Sun’s photosphere.

Too hot to sleep? How heatwaves at night affect our health

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02532-2As climate change ramps up, scientists must urgently understand how night-time heat makes it harder for our bodies to rest and recover.

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02532-2

As climate change ramps up, scientists must urgently understand how night-time heat makes it harder for our bodies to rest and recover.

How the story of life and our planet unfolded — together

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02530-4Earth’s four-billion-year-long conversation with its resident life forms has shaped our world, and holds lessons for our future.

Nature, Published online: 17 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02530-4

Earth’s four-billion-year-long conversation with its resident life forms has shaped our world, and holds lessons for our future.