A controversial study about a microscopic life form using arsenic, a toxic element poisonous to life as we know it, has been retracted by the journal Science. The discovery, which sparked debate and controversy over a decade ago, suggested that life could exist on Earth or other worlds.
Researchers initially found evidence of bacteria using arsenic to grow, but subsequent experiments failed to replicate the results. Some scientists questioned the validity of the findings due to potential contamination, leading to suggestions that the data may have been skewed.
However, the researchers disagree with the journal’s decision and stand by their data. Science Editor Holden Thorp stated that retraction was considered when the editors determined that the reported experiments did not support the key conclusions. This raises questions about the criteria for retraction and whether controversies over interpretations should be a reason to retract papers.
NASA, which funded the original work, has expressed its disagreement with the retraction, encouraging Science to reconsider. The journal’s decision highlights the complexities of scientific research and the challenges of verifying findings in high-stakes fields like astrobiology.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/arsenic-alien-life-mono-lake-nasa-bacteria-eb6b70b302457e4066006a17257d536b