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Scientists Turn Methane into Medicine in a Breakthrough

Published on June 24, 2026, 10:20 p.m.
Scientists Turn Methane into Medicine in a Breakthrough

Topic: Research News

A team of researchers has developed a new method to convert methane into useful chemicals. They used this technique to create a medicine for hormone therapy.

Methane is a common energy source, but it's not very useful on its own. Scientists have been trying to find ways to turn it into other important chemicals. A team led by Martín Fañanás at the University of Santiago de Compostela has made a big breakthrough in this area.

The researchers used a process called allylation to attach a special group to methane molecules. This allowed them to create complex medicines like dimestrol, which is used in hormone therapy. What's impressive about this discovery is that it shows how methane can be turned into valuable chemicals, reducing our reliance on other resources and minimizing waste.

The team also developed a special catalyst that helps control the reaction and prevent unwanted side effects. This breakthrough could lead to new ways of producing important medicines and industrial chemicals.

Implications

A team of researchers has developed a new method to convert methane into useful chemicals. They used this technique to create a medicine for hormone therapy.


Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260227071916.htm

Journal Reference:

  1. Andrés M. Álvarez-Constantino, Pol Martínez-Balart, Sergio Barbeira-Arán, Álvaro Velasco-Rubio, Martín Fañanás-Mastral. Attenuated LMCT photocatalysis enables C─H allylation of methane and other gaseous alkanes. Science Advances, 2025; 11 (45) DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aea0783

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