Daily briefing: People older than 100 have more cancer-killing cells

People who reach the age of 110 years and beyond possess a significant number of a rare type of immune cell capable of eliminating cancer. These specialized T cells may contribute to longevity by combating cancer, although this connection has not been substantiated. Dr. Kosuke Hashimoto, a co-author of the research, notes that while most studies on immune aging have focused on decline, this investigation indicates that even at extreme old age, the immune system can adapt selectivity.

Researchers at the quantum-computing start-up company Pasqal in Paris have created an artificial intelligence tool that converts English-language prompts into quantum-computing code, capable of autonomously running on a quantum computer with occasional human assistance. This development could potentially democratize quantum programming, which traditionally demands advanced expertise.

In a lab setting, scientists have successfully developed the longest-living artificial organs to date: brain organoids that replicate human brain development and have continued to evolve for over five years. These organoids continued to undergo developmental and maturation changes akin to those seen in fetal and newborn brains. Furthermore, cells from 'older' organoids mixed with a new batch maintained a 'memory' of their age and functionality, making them appropriate for an older brain rather than their new environment.

Efforts to screen newborns for genetic variants linked to diseases have gained traction, but the process remains expensive, challenging to implement, and raises ethical concerns about privacy and potential discrimination by insurance companies. In northern Mexico, a few female jaguars have been observed near the territory of the solitary male jaguar named Cinco, which could potentially lead to the reestablishment of the US jaguar population.

However, the construction of a border wall and fencing by the US government obstructs crucial wildlife corridors, posing a significant threat to biodiversity. According to biologist Kinley Ragan, the impact on wildlife would be devastating. Networking with a prospective employer or colleague can be an invaluable way to convey one's personality and work ethic beyond the confines of a job interview, as highlighted by career coach Alaina Levine.

Honesty and authenticity during these interactions can benefit both parties. The winning photograph of BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology's 2026 joint photo competition is "Window to the Wetlands," a captivating image of an orange-tailed marsh dart damselfly (Ceriagrion cerinorubellum) captured by photographer Sritam Kumar Sethy. This photograph showcases the often-ignored aspect of freshwater biodiversity.