Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a novel method to produce trans-cinnamic acid (tCA) using engineered cyanobacteria. This technology offers a renewable and scalable alternative to fossil fuel-derived or plant-extracted tCA. Utilizing a rhamnose-inducible system, the engineered strain demonstrates up to a four-fold increase in tCA production. It advances sustainable bioproduction, addressing the growing demand for bioactive compounds in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and materials science.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a customizable material network that easily shifts between a liquid and a solid. This specialized plastic alternative bonds tightly using water but can completely rebuild its internal structure when moisture is introduced. The technology is highly adaptable and can be dried into diverse forms like films, powders, and porous foams. It offers a versatile, eco-friendly framework capable of self-repairing regular wear and tear.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a clever shoe design that can change sizes while keeping a sleek, high-quality look. This technology uses hidden, interlocking parts in the sole to expand or shrink the shoe based on the wearer’s needs. Whether it is for a growing child or an adult experiencing foot swelling, these shoes offer a custom fit without looking like medical equipment. By lasting through multiple size changes, this footwear helps consumers save money and reduces environmental waste
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a second generation of universal dynamic crosslinkers (UDCs) that enable the transformation of incompatible mixed plastic waste into strong, flexible, and reprocessable materials. By creating star-like polymers in situ during a reactive extrusion process in the presence of a small of a UDC, the UDC eliminates the phase separation typically seen in mixed plastic blends. The innovation allows for the creation of new materials from recycling of plastic mixtures with reprocessability and properties that can be adjusted for different applications, from stiff, thermoset-like materials to flexible, thermoplastic-like materials.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed an enhanced tissue-staining technique called Amplified Immunohistochemistry (AMP-IHC) that reveals hidden disease-causing prions while preserving clear cellular structures. By combining standard antibody staining with catalytic signal amplification, AMP-IHC drastically improves visual signal intensity in low-burden tissue samples. This increased sensitivity enhances detection of prions within lymphoid follicles, allowing diagnosticians to identify and quantify infected follicles more effectively, particularly in tissues with minimal prion accumulation or during early stages of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The technique also enabled scientists to detect CWD prions within uterine glands at the maternal-fetal interface, providing direct visual evidence that the disease can be transmitted in utero from mother to offspring. Because AMP-IHC integrates seamlessly into existing diagnostic laboratory workflows, it has the potential to strengthen CWD surveillance, improve diagnostic confidence, and advance research into disease pathogenesis and transmission.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed an advanced AI software tool, FREE-Graze™, that automatically builds optimized seasonal grazing plans for livestock. By combining satellite imaging, climate data, and plant biomass metrics, the system predicts where forage is most nutritious while accounting for critical ranch needs like terrain, water access, and protected areas. An evolutionary algorithm compares thousands of pasture shapes, rotation dates, and herd sizes to ensure animals receive top-tier nutrition without damaging the land. These dynamic boundaries and adaptive schedules can then be transmitted directly to GPS-enabled virtual fencing collars worn by the herd.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a proprietary algorithmic method to identify specific molecular inhibitors that prevent crude oil from clogging pipelines. Asphaltene buildup currently threatens more than 72,000 miles of U.S. pipelines, causing massive economic losses and environmental risks during cleanup. Unlike traditional methods that only clean up existing blocks, this technology targets the root cause by stopping oil molecules from sticking together in the first place. By finding the perfect natural or synthetic inhibitor for specific oil types, this tool keeps pipelines operating safely and efficiently.
Researchers at Colorado State University, University of Colorado Boulder, and University of Michigan have developed a system and method to find and fix hidden performance flaws in next-generation, ultra-thin semiconductor materials. A hyperspectral imaging unit paired with an optical microscope can show how electrical charges alter the material’s underlying energy levels. The results can pinpoint exact spots where the material’s electrical flow is weak or uneven, allowing for a precise, targeted treatment to those flawed areas, and ensuring the entire microchip operates smoothly and reliably.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a hybrid power generation system that combines fuel cells and traditional engines to produce highly efficient electricity. The system features a built-in carbon capture unit that removes greenhouse gases directly from the fuel cell’s exhaust. By stripping away carbon dioxide and water vapor, it creates a clean, hydrogen-rich gas to power an internal combustion engine. This integrated approach allows the engine to run cleanly while generating extra electricity to power the carbon capture process itself.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a way to build stronger and more versatile hydrogels; flexible materials used in advanced medical treatments. By clustering chemical “anchors” closely together at the ends of polymer chains, this technique mimics binding tricks found in nature. This arrangement allows the material to become tougher and more heat-resistant. This innovation opens the door to highly customizable materials that can mimic and adapt to the human body or changing temperatures.
Researchers at CSU and University of Minnesota have developed a DNA genotyping assay that identifies the presence of Palmer amaranth seeds in a mixture of seeds, for the purpose of detecting noxious weed seed contamination. The test can be used by seed producers to determine if their seed may be sold in locations were Palmer amaranth (Ameranthus palmeri) is a prohibited noxious weed, and they must certify their clean seed.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a newly identified genetic trait that allows plants to resist widely used auxin herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba. This trait works by altering how plants detect and respond to these chemicals, allowing them to survive treatment. The mutation has been shown to function in multiple plant species without harming growth or health. It can also be introduced into crops using gene editing without creating transgenic plants. This discovery creates a new path for improving weed control while protecting crop yields.