What’s missing from the White House plan for the future of US science

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02384-wTo realize ‘a new golden age for science’, the United States needs open borders and must properly fund studies in the social sciences, public health and the humani…

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02384-w

To realize ‘a new golden age for science’, the United States needs open borders and must properly fund studies in the social sciences, public health and the humanities — not just research in technology and engineering.

‘Television’? The word will never catch on!

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02379-7One reader proposes an alternative to the word ‘television’, and another is enthralled by a meteor, in our weekly dip into Nature’s archive.

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02379-7

One reader proposes an alternative to the word ‘television’, and another is enthralled by a meteor, in our weekly dip into Nature’s archive.

Engineered yeast that make cancer drugs could spare a rare flower

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02428-1Modified baker’s yeast can produce a precursor for a drug that is usually derived from an endangered plant and its relatives.

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02428-1

Modified baker’s yeast can produce a precursor for a drug that is usually derived from an endangered plant and its relatives.

Could mending damaged DNA prolong life?

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02385-9Inspired by long-lived animals — and human centenarians — researchers are hunting for ways to enhance DNA repair and extend healthspan.

Nature, Published online: 04 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02385-9

Inspired by long-lived animals — and human centenarians — researchers are hunting for ways to enhance DNA repair and extend healthspan.