Slipping in extra benzene rings creates a broader DNA double helix that is similar to, but different from, natural DNA. Importantly, it can encode more genetic information — and that could have wide implications.

Intermediate compounds are often produced during a chemical reaction, but they are too short-lived to be easily observed. It seems that a molecular pyramid can persuade them to stick around for a little longer.

Tiny metal resonators can be used to create a material with tunable responses to an applied voltage. Combined with a semiconductor substrate, they can be used to control technologically promising terahertz radiation.