When a cell protector collaborates with a killer
New research reveals what it takes for a protein that is best known for protecting cells against death to take on the opposite role.
Department
Biology
Killing the messenger
A newly characterized anti-viral defense system in bacteria aborts infection through a novel mechanism by chemically altering mRNA.
MIT Schwarzman College of Computing launches postdoctoral program to advance AI across disciplines
The new Tayebati Postdoctoral Fellowship Program will support leading postdocs to bring cutting-edge AI to bear on research in scientific discovery or music.
Mixing joy and resolve, event celebrates women in science and addresses persistent inequalities
The Kuggie Vallee Distinguished Lectures and Workshops presented inspiring examples of success, even as the event evoked frank discussions of the barriers that still hinder many women in science.
Cancer biologists discover a new mechanism for an old drug
Study reveals the drug, 5-fluorouracil, acts differently in different types of cancer — a finding that could help researchers design better drug combinations.
Victor Ambros ’75, PhD ’79 and Gary Ruvkun share Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
The scientists, who worked together as postdocs at MIT, are honored for their discovery of microRNA — a class of molecules that are critical for gene regulation.
Translating MIT research into real-world results
MIT’s innovation and entrepreneurship system helps launch water, food, and ag startups with social and economic benefits.
Improving biology education here, there, and everywhere
At the cutting edge of pedagogy, Mary Ellen Wiltrout has shaped blended and online learning at MIT and beyond.
No detail too small
For Sarah Sterling, the new director of the Cryo-Electron Microscopy facility at MIT.nano, better planning and more communication leads to better science.
Study assesses seizure risk from stimulating the thalamus
In animal models, even low stimulation currents can sometimes still cause electrographic seizures, researchers found.
Engineering proteins to treat cancer
PhD student Oscar Molina seeks new ways to assemble proteins into targeted cancer therapies, while also encouraging his fellow first-generation graduate students.
Pursuing the secrets of a stealthy parasite
By unraveling the genetic pathways that help Toxoplasma gondii persist in human cells, Sebastian Lourido hopes to find new ways to treat toxoplasmosis.
Uphill battles: Across the country in 75 days
Amulya Aluru ’23, MEng ’24 and the MIT Spokes have spent the summer spreading science, over 3,000 miles on two wheels.
Study reveals the benefits and downside of fasting
Fasting helps intestinal stem cells regenerate and heal injuries but also leads to a higher risk of cancer in mice, MIT researchers report.
Empowering the next generation of scientists in Africa
The Future African Scientist organization was sparked by a connection between two students from different walks of life during an MIT program in South Africa.