In the very first episode of Science Refresh, Grace, Meg and Dom each share a science story that caught their eye in the month of May.

Grace talks about a new study published in the prestigious Science journal that looks at an oral nanomedicine that could be used to treat colitis, a chronic inflammation of the gut. The drug impacts the gut-brain axis and we explore more about the fascinating way in which bacteria in the gut can be linked with our moods.

Dom shares a setback in the hunt for a special type of quasiparticle in quantum computing. Known as a Majorana particle, the exotic particle would have had major implications for tackling errors in quantum computing. Now, researchers at the University of Basel have thrown cold water on Microsoft’s claim to have found robust qubits.

Finally, Meg shares the quirky story of the flexitarian plant Triphyopyllum peltatum, affectionately called “snacky P”! This rare find off the west coast of Africa feeds both off photosynthesis and insects.

But what about you? What science stories caught your eye last month? Let us know on our socials: Twitter (@SciRefreshPod), Instagram (sciencerefreshpodcast) and TikTok. You can also email us at sciencerefreshpod@gmail.com.

Presented by Grace Tyrrell, Dominic Sorrell and Megan Thomas.

Edited by Grace Tyrrell.

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