Subscribe now

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

NICO is a charming and sociable teenager from Argentina who loves fencing, singing in his school choir, and drawing cartoons. He rushes, smiling, to kiss my cheek whenever we meet, chatting animatedly about the drawings he has brought me. A few years older, Brooke is a friendly and witty young man who radiates positivity. He settles comfortably into a chair in my office, leisurely sipping a Coke and ready to try my latest battery of tests. He recently graduated from high school, and enjoys his job bagging groceries at a local supermarket.

They both look like ordinary teenagers, but peer…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop