Scientists from CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR) and Babu Banarasi Das University in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh have been studying the properties and behaviour Methylparaben, a commonly used preservative, under various circumstances. Their study reveals that, when exposed to Ultraviolet (UV) light, the molecule, not just loses it ability to effectively perform as a preservative, but also could damage human skin cells.
The study from IISc found a previously unidentified yeast-like symbiont inside the lac insect Kerria lacca, which gives the insect its distinctive red colour and, may also provide other nutrients in return for shelter.