Sign up to save tools and stay up to date with the latest in AI
bg
bg
1

The Download: weight-loss drugs, and the future of offshore wind

Jan 10, 2024 - technologyreview.com
The newsletter discusses breakthroughs in weight-loss drugs, the future of offshore wind power, and the end of online anonymity in China. It highlights the potential of anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro, which were initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes, to address the obesity crisis in the US. However, the long-term impacts of these treatments are still unknown. The newsletter also discusses the challenges facing offshore wind power due to skyrocketing costs and supply chain disruptions. In China, the mandatory real-name rule on social media platforms is leading to more strict and expansive restrictions, although users are finding workarounds to stay anonymous.

In other news, the SEC's X account was hacked to promote Bitcoin, and the first babies conceived with a sperm-injecting robot have been born. The robot, developed by startup Overture Life, is seen as a step towards automating IVF and potentially making the procedure less expensive and more common. The newsletter also covers various other tech-related stories, including AI's role in drug discovery, the link between mood and gut health, and the use of AI in voiceover deals.

Key takeaways:

  • Anti-obesity drugs, including Wegovy and Mounjaro, are showing promise in addressing the obesity crisis in the US. These drugs, which were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, help people lose weight by suppressing their appetite.
  • Offshore wind power is facing challenges with projects being delayed or canceled due to skyrocketing costs and supply chain disruptions. These setbacks could impact efforts to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.
  • Online anonymity in China has been significantly reduced with social media platforms now requiring users with large followings to display their legal names. This move is expected to lead to more strict and expansive restrictions.
  • The first babies conceived with a sperm-injecting robot have been born. The startup behind the robot, Overture Life, sees this as a step towards automating IVF and potentially making the procedure less expensive and more common.
View Full Article

Comments (0)

Be the first to comment!