A 2010 paper claiming to have discovered a bacterium that could substitute arsenic for phosphorus in its chemical makeup is under consideration for retraction by the journal Science. The paper, led by Felisa Wolfe-Simon, had garnered intense scrutiny and criticism after its initial publication. In 2012, David Sanders called for the article’s retraction due to numerous technical comments and failed replications.
Science initially published a set of technical comments but did not retract the paper at that time. However, as the paper continues to be discussed prominently, Science is now considering retraction in light of new information and discussions with the authors.
The journal’s editor-in-chief, Holden Thorp, stated that Science has had a change of heart regarding the article’s retraction. The journal is working with the authors to ensure they understand its position on retracting the paper.
Wolfe-Simon recently withdrew from science and public life following intense criticism but has since returned to research. She received a NASA exobiology grant in 2024.
Source: https://retractionwatch.com/2025/02/12/icymi-science-considering-retraction-arsenic-life