The truth is out there. But the path to reach it often has all the twists and turns of a question mark.

Sometimes researchers don’t have the key piece of data or technology needed to solve a mystery. Or they may interpret facts differently—and disagree about them for centuries. Newly discovered evidence also can prompt the reevaluation of everything that came before.

While the search for answers may not be smooth and tidy, it’s also an irresistible force that inspires a drive to discover in UAB’s labs and classrooms. Read on for a glimpse of knowledge in progress—a look at eight enigmas in science and the arts that have challenged experts at UAB and around the world, and brought us a little closer to the truth.