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Supernova Sparks Surge in Virus Diversity, Study Reveals

2/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from UC Santa Cruz reveals that a supernova explosion 2.5 million years ago may have sparked a surge in virus diversity in Lake Tanganyika. Cosmic rays from the explosion likely damaged DNA, fueling mutations. Led by Caitlyn Nojiri, this research uncovers the profound impact of cosmic events on Earth's evolution.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from UC Santa Cruz reveals that a supernova explosion 2.5 million years ago may have sparked a surge in virus diversity in Lake Tanganyika. Cosmic rays from the explosion likely damaged DNA, fueling mutations. Led by Caitlyn Nojiri, this research uncovers the profound impact of cosmic events on Earth's evolution.